Blake Parker is a multi-hypenate artist based in New York City who joins the pod in a wide-ranging conversation about his journey and creative process (2:56). He cites early influences in his Soundcloud journey such as Hannah Diamond’s work, and his favorite rappers. Blake shares his critique of so-called corny/cheesy rap, citing specific artists who are corny, and those who get a pass. They then discuss how Blake’s first album Cairo comes together, when he knows a project is complete, and how he navigates streaming services with analog forms of distribution (13:33). He talks about thinking about content creation as an art, reframing it to navigate its opportunities as well as its challenges. Blake shares about his listening practice (38:23), which includes listening to music videos for music, and amplifying platforms like Soul Seek. They wrap up the conversation with Blake sharing his perspective on living in the Socialist Republic of New York City under the reign of Zohran Mamdani (45:43), and his creative influences beyond music.
Find Blake on Instagam @earnestblackmale
Notes
Amazing Spider-Man: Beyond
Baltasar Kormakur, 2 Guns
Deelodoitall, Born Ignorant (TELL THE CANDY LADY I GOT 75 CENTS)
Jean Baudrillard, Simulacra and Simulation
Scott Snyder, Absolute Batman #5
