Maya Angelou once said, “you can’t know where you are going until you know where you have been,” and for Chicago rapper WARHOL, this is essential. Through drawing inspiration from past music, television, film, fashion, and art, each of these components has played a role in shaping him into the creative he is today and influencing the way he approaches creative decisions. WARHOL’s name alone was thoroughly thought out and carried purpose, as he drew inspiration from his grandfather, who had heavy roots in the art industry, which ultimately
sparked his interest in artist and filmmaker Andy Warhol.
“I was always into art, my grandfather was heavy into the art world. He [has] a lot of art in the Vietnam vet art museum,’ said the 28-year-old rapper.
He continued, “Basquiat was one of my favorite artists so then when I [learned] about WARHOL and how he discovered Basquiat, and how pretty much he had his hands in so many different things aside from just art– It’s like you couldn’t compartmentalize him into one thing, and so I felt like I resonated with that.”
When it comes to WARHOL’s latest project, Studio 54—WARHOL made it clear that the title was intentional. Studio 54 was one of New York City’s most popular nightclubs in the 1970s, known for A-list celebrities frequently visiting, one of which was Andy Warhol. The rapper revealed that his thought process behind the project was to create a night at Studio 54 through his music.
“I was [trying] to make it a night in Studio 54 with WARHOL. But not Andy Warhol, WARHOL is me, if I was to be there, or if I was to leave my mark on Studio 54,” said the rapper. He continued, “I thought it would be a cool concept to bring to light because I know a lot of people don’t know what that is, let alone who Andy Warhol is.”
It was important for WARHOL to express to his fans and showcase the significance of history, and for him, Studio 54 was his way of doing it. He also paid homage through his project’s cover art. The cover showcases pops of color, creative bold lettering, as well as the incorporation of a Studio 54-inspired logo.
“If I’m using the name, let me at least shed some light on the history of what’s really going on,” said WARHOL.
The concept of the project held deep purpose and meaning, and the message behind it resonated just as deeply. Studio 54’s sound is soothing, melodic, and vibey, but what WARHOL is trying to relay to his audience is to express oneself—and do it with deep intention. He is also encouraging creatives to think on a deeper level while creating. Oftentimes, individuals can unconsciously think at a surface level; however, if we just push ourselves a bit harder, the concepts, ideas, results, and self-discovery are endless.
“My message through [this project] is when you express yourself, express yourself deeply. Don’t think [that] surface expression is going to truly show or tell who you are. So, you kind of have to think deeper when you’re putting together projects,” said the Chicago rapper.
“I hope people just start thinking deeper and just [start] putting more effort into their projects. I feel like there’s much less thought and effort put into projects,” he revealed.
Overall, WARHOL hopes his project motivates listeners to push boundaries, and it looks like Studio 54 is just the beginning of that conversation.
“If I can inspire at least one person to think deeper,” he said confidently.
As far as his legacy, he revealed that he wants to be known as an ambitious artist who pushed for his desires in life. He strives to continue to evolve through his artistry and creativity.
“I really want to be [known] be an artist that just strives to be the best everyday at whatever he [does]. I truly know that when it’s all said and done I [would have done] so much more in this than just the rapping part of it, or the making the music, or the silent directing a video, or the silent executive producing an album, or stuff like that. I feel like I might leave a Quincy Jones effect on the world if I do everything I have in my head,’ said the rapper.
“I just want to truly make an impact on music because music is a part of me.” he concluded.
