For many artists, working alongside industry legends is a dream that often feels out of reach. But for Tha Nazdaq, collaborating with the likes of Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg, and Nipsey Hussle has been a career-defining experience. These partnerships have propelled him to new heights, expanding his fan base across the globe. Each moment spent with these titans of hip-hop served as a learning experience, further shaping his artistic evolution.
The Smile Mah Records Influence
Tha Nazdaq’s journey took a significant turn when he signed with Smile Mah Records, a move that he credits to his long-time friend and CEO of the label, Half Deezy. Having known each other since their teenage years, Half Deezy played a pivotal role in pushing Tha Nazdaq to pursue music seriously, even during moments of self-doubt.
“Since signing with Smile Mah Records, my career has bloomed significantly. I wouldn’t have had the collaborations I’ve had without the label’s support,” he reflects. The partnership has proven to be more than just a business move—it’s been a brotherhood that has helped him carve out a unique place in the industry.
Early in his career, Tha Nazdaq found himself struggling to balance creative authenticity with commercial appeal. Like many independent artists, he faced pressure from outsiders who claimed to know what was best for his career. This led to a period of creative disillusionment, where he felt disconnected from the very art that first inspired him.
After taking a hiatus, he made a personal vow to stay true to his own creative instincts. “I promised myself to write and create what I like and block out the opinions of those who don’t know how I got here in the first place,” he says. That commitment has since allowed him to produce music that is not only true to his vision but also resonates deeply with his audience.
Understanding the Business of Music
For aspiring independent artists, Tha Nazdaq offers a simple yet powerful piece of advice: understand the business. He acknowledges that while music can be an enjoyable pursuit, true success comes from learning how to invest wisely, remain consistent, and put in the necessary work.
“People will love you when you’re successful, but always remember those who stuck by you when you weren’t,” he cautions, highlighting the importance of perseverance and financial discipline in an industry that is as unpredictable as it is rewarding.
Creative Process and Influences
One of Tha Nazdaq’s most personal and powerful records is “Around My Way” featuring The Game, a song that is set to appear on his upcoming EP, “WELCOME TO NAZERATH.” The track delves into his childhood struggles with severe asthma and the multiple near-death experiences he faced, culminating in a traumatic car accident in 2017.
Beyond his personal experiences, Tha Nazdaq draws inspiration from a variety of musical genres. His versatility allows him to craft everything from raw, gritty hip-hop tracks to pop records with mainstream appeal. His songwriting approach is also deeply influenced by his childhood and early exposure to hip-hop. Nas’ “Nas Is Like” from the “I Am” album was a turning point for him, sparking his passion for lyricism and storytelling.
When asked about dream collaborations, he doesn’t hesitate to name 2Pac as his ultimate choice from the past. “The way Pac could touch your soul with his music is remarkable,” he says. In the present day, Nas and Joyner Lucas top his list for their ability to craft intricate, thought-provoking rhymes.
As an artist, Tha Nazdaq constantly pushes himself to improve. Each project serves as an opportunity for reinvention, while still maintaining the core elements that define his style. “I’m still me—just with a bunch of layers that I haven’t peeled back yet,” he explains. This philosophy allows him to grow musically without losing sight of the foundation that made him successful.
Despite moments when he considered walking away from music, the industry always called him back. “It’s embedded in my blood,” he says. The encouragement from long-time supporters and the deep personal connection he has with his craft keep him motivated to create.
The Power of Live Performances
When it comes to performing, Tha Nazdaq thrives on the energy of large festival stages. The rush of engaging with a massive crowd fuels his passion, creating an electric atmosphere that heightens the experience for both himself and his fans. His pre-show ritual is simple but effective: breathe in, breathe out, and pray.
One of the more unusual moments in his career came when a fan asked him to sign a hundred-dollar bill. “After being so broke on my first tour, I could have used that $100 bill!” he jokes, proving that even in the serious world of music, humor and humility still play a role.
Upcoming Album: “WELCOME TO NAZERATH”
Tha Nazdaq’s upcoming album, “WELCOME TO NAZERATH,” is a testament to his resilience. It tells the story of how far he has come, the obstacles he has faced, and his ability to rise time and time again. The project is set to be a deeply personal reflection of his journey, blending raw emotion with masterful lyricism.
Looking beyond music, Tha Nazdaq has ambitions of stepping into the world of acting. Having dabbled in commercials as a child, he believes he has the personality and creativity to develop compelling on-screen characters. Additionally, he sees himself mentoring young artists, guiding them through the same industry pitfalls he has navigated throughout his career.
When Tha Nazdaq’s career is one day looked back upon, he wants to be remembered as a kid from a small town with big dreams. His goal is to inspire those who feel like they have no way out, proving that success is achievable through dedication and passion.
“I want to be looked at like a hero to those same kids who felt the same way I did—coming from areas where people think they can’t make it out.”
With his unwavering determination, authenticity, and ever-evolving artistry, Tha Nazdaq is well on his way to cementing his legacy as one of hip-hop’s most compelling voices.
