We sat down with the latest Underground Uprising "Artist of the Week", Cotes and asked him some questions to help us figure out who he is, where he is from and a glimpse into his story.
Where are you from? What was it like growing up there?
"Ogden, Utah. It was good, but diverse. A very two sided City with love from both ends."
How long have you been making music?
"8 Years"
Biggest influences?
"I'll give you 5. Mac Miller, Kendrick Lamar, Logic, Eminem, Jon Bellion."
Biggest challenge in your career so far?
"Lack of resources and income. I truly feel like my music is good enough, but my content(especially music videos and excluding the music) is where I lack, which in return makes it hard to keep a social media following. My streams are going up, but my engagement on social media has been decreasing as of lately."
What do you think of the current state of Hip Hop?
?I think we need to be less cool and be more real and conscience. We need to be more aware of the impact we have on people. I think artists should put the memey druggy bullshit aside and influence these kids to make a positive impact and change in the world."
Biggest mistake you’ve made so far?
"Not investing enough money/time into videos, plug ins, better equipment, etc... not Investing enough in myself in general."
Favorite Hobbies/Interests outside of music?
"Video Games, Gardening, Hiking, anything outdoors really, sports, design, writing, and much more. I think having several hobbies in important."
When was your first live performance? What was that like for you?
"It was 7 years ago. I remember I started rapping and I just looked up to see the entire room go quiet and look at me. Including the security guards. It was one of those moments that made me realize I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be."
Who would you like to work with in the future?
"I really want a collab with Jon Bellion. Kendrick Lamar would be crazy."
What’s the next move for Cotes?
"Music Videos, Tours, Merchandise, and much more music."
by: Steven Sandage