What's the origin of your name, “S1?”
S1: The name “S1” is short for “Symbolyc One.” It represents not only my music, but me and my lifestyle as well. I'm a Christian, and I try to represent Christ in all that I do, so that name symbolizes just that.
What was your first introduction into the music industry?
S1: Well, I've been producing for about thirteen years total and about five years full-time as a career now. I built a pretty good following for myself in the underground scene through beat battles, showcases and working with a lot of known Indie artist like Little Brother, Rah Digga, Inspectah Deck and many others. I'm also producer/emcee of my group, Strange Fruit Project, which also has a pretty nice following.
How did you get the opportunity to work with Kanye? And how was your experience working with him?
S1: I was introduced to Kanye through Rhymefest (for whom I produced four tracks, including the first two singles on his album, El Che). Kanye really liked the “Power” beat that Fest played for him, and a couple days after he heard it, I was on a plane to Hawaii. Kanye has super energy in the studio. He's a genius! He took the foundation that I laid, added to it, and beefed the song up to its maximum potential. The end result was his creative vision.
What was your inspiration for “Power?”
S1: Just trying to make world music! When I first heard the vocal chants, I knew the beat and everything around it had to be BIG. So, I put the drums on it and a siren to give it more energy. Kanye and his team did the rest. He knew the potential of the track was big, so he really took his time on it to get it right.
How has your sound evolved, since you began producing?
S1: I've grown in so many areas since I first started producing. I would say my range, now, is pretty crazy in terms of the different genres that I produce. I have a great team around me as well, so that only adds to the greatness. I never get to the point where I think that I know it all, so I'm constantly learning and observing from everyone around me. I even learn from my 13 year-old son, VohnBeatz, who is also a dope producer.
Are you open to producing in different musical genres?
S1: Yes, I am. Hip-hop is just a very small portion of what I do. I produce quality R&B, Pop, and Alternative records, as well. I try to keep re-inventing myself, no matter what genre I'm focused on or the artist I'm working with.
What advice do you have for up-and-coming producers?
S1: Well, although it’s been a constant grind, you have to work like no one else. My formula is pretty simple:
- Always keep God, first.
- Make quality music.
- Put your music out there, so as many people can hear it as possible. Something is bound to happen. Just look at me.
