Today we’d like to introduce you to Neak Undefined.
Hi Neak, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I became interested in creating music during my late teen years; watching my brother create and produce music from afar. Watching him make beats on the MPC, write rhymes, and formulate songs, inspired me to create and express myself in rap. Ironically, I’ve always had a deep-rooted musical background as my Father, Robert Kelly, was part of a major R&B/Gospel group, “The Kelly Brothers,” and those musical roots came out through me as I grew up.
Doing my own research on the history of rap, I grew an affinity for great artists such as Nas, Kanye West, MF Doom, Yasiin Bey, Common, Dilla, and more. The art of rap was so intriguing to me. I fell in love with the sounds, the drums, the samples, etc. I began to expand and go out into the music scene of Chicago to network and build relationships to grow in my music career, and slowly over time, I was able to meet and build with amazing artists such as Rashid Hadee, GLC, Add-2, Slot-A, Rita J., and more.
While growing as an artist, I also became entrepreneurial in my approach; expanding into event curation, touring across the country, consulting (Neak Imprints LLC), and fashion (Thought Life Clothing). As I expand more into my talents, I find myself more curious about what else is inside of me as a creative, and I’m looking forward to what else God has in store for me and those around me that I help day-to-day through my art.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
The road definitely had its ups and downs. Some of my struggles along the way have been really figuring out new/supportive ways to attract and build out my fan base. With so many tools in our hands that are so beneficial to us as creatives, managing our fan base within the confines of the algorithm (social media) can come off as a daunting task.
I’ve worked to become more of a student towards the best ways to build and maintain a healthy relationship with fans–email marketing, superphone, etc. Acquiring more of a direct-to-fan relationship has been the biggest challenge as I continue to grow in my career.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a recording/performance artist, consultant, event curator, and fashion designer. I focus on how my artistic endeavors serve the individuals who experience them. It is important for me to know how my art translates, how people interact with them, and whether are people receiving the value from it that’s needed… My focus is on the value others receive.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Absolutely! Here are some of the most insightful books, podcasts, etc. that I would recommend:
Books:
“Boundaries” by Henry Cloud and John Townsend
“The Hidden Cost of Being African-American” by Thomas Shapiro
“Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself” by Dr. Joe Dispenza
Podcast:
“Creative Juice”
“Social Proof”
“Earn Your Leisure”
Contact Info:
- Website: Neak-co.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/neak_undefined/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neak84
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/Neak_Undefined
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/84Neak
Image Credits
Irv Vaz Photography
