Using his Xperience or “XP” moniker, Seattle-based artist Tyler Andrews is making a name for himself touring the world with Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, while consistingly pushing his solo material. His new album,Chasing Grace, takes “a little bit church, a little bit gangsta, and a little bit of conscious [hip-hop],” and weaves them into one, cohesive fabric. The first single, “Not Today,” has received a warm reception from fans and critics alike. As he continues pushing Chasing Grace and performing, he was able to take a few moments to discuss the origin of his name, growing up in the Midwest, and what he’s learned from the “Thrift Store” rapper. Visit www.xpmusic.rocks for more information.
RAPstation (Kyle Eustice): Where did your stage name come from?
Tyler “XP” Andrews: Back in the day, when I was trying to find my identity, I wanted a name that was different but meant something to me. I came up with "The Xperience” I told the homie and he was like, "I don't know about the "The" though." [Laughs] So I looked up the word experience in the dictionary. I was sold. [An experience is the act of living through an event. Anything or everything observed or lived through. Personal participation, knowledge or skill resulting from this.] People started calling me XP for short. There were other obvious cliche reasons like "experience is the best teacher" and what not.
How did the environment you grew up in shape your musical style?
I grew up in the Midwest—East Chicago, Gary, Indiana, Hammond, so the environment was pretty messed up. There was a lot of gang violence, drugs, murders—you name it. We were listening to Grind Family [local group from East Chicago], Twista, Crucial Conflict, Bone Thugs, Sauve House, No Limit. My mother tried to keep me away from all that. She kept me in church, where I eventually became the drummer and sang lead on a couple songs. When I came to the Northwest, I was introduced to Souls of Mischief, Dead Prez, older Wu, Hiero, Atmosphere, Kool Keith, and I was blown away. “The Wake Up Show” was the greatest thing that ever happened to me. So my style is a mix of all that—a little bit of gangsta, a little bit of church, and a little bit of what they call conscious.
What have you learned from touring with Macklemore?
I've learned a lot. I've learned how to structure a song better overall. I've learned rapping fresh is great, but what you do and say in-between songs is just as important. Just working with Mack and Ryan [Lewis] in the studio is a learning experience itself. My ear has gotten sharper. Ive learned to appreciate every single fan you get and be as personable as possible. I've learned when crowd surfing not to jump out ass first [laughs]. Also, his hustle and business savvy is on point. There's a lot of do's and don’ts, so his advice is very important to me.
How does it feel to have your new material out in the world?
I feel good. I think this is some of my best work yet. This song "Not Today" is really getting good feedback. At the shows, no one had ever heard it before. But by the end, everyone would be singing it. The video is crazy, too. I'm really excited for people to hear the album as a whole. There's something on there for everybody. It's a three-part album, so I tried to connect them with a little audio movie. Hope you all like it.
What are you currently working on?
Right now we are just working on getting Chasing Grace to as many people as possible. I'm ready to get back on the road and tour again. I've already started working on a new project, just writing here and there. I also recently did an R&B feature for the homies Oliver Chang & Evan James new project “Tides," so check that out. I'm always working on music so stay tuned.
If no one has ever heard your music, how would you describe it to them?
I would describe it as neo-soul, gangsta, gospel, trap, at times emo, jazz, bap, revolutionary minded rap, funk, alternative R&B, and rock, mixed with midwest, down south, east coast, west coast influences with a sprinkle of Motown and Temptations dust, slathered with some Isley Brother and D'angelo sauce with a side of chopping and bars.
Who are some of your musical heroes?
I have so many, but here's a few. Marvin Gaye—his voice control was crazy. Whitney Houston—I think she was one of the greatest singers of our time. Her vocal skills were insane. Believe it or not, I feel the same about Chris Brown. Back in the day, the church folk called it riffing. That dude is on a whole other level with it. Beyonce, too. But my #1 hero has to be Bilal. His range is alien. He can sing any kind of song from opera to jazz. His style is unlike any other and he's an amazing writer. I also love Janelle Monae—she speaks for herself. Andre 3000 is one of my favorite rappers. Pharaoh Monch is
“Thee Rapper.” The G.O.A.T. in my opinion. is Pac, of course. I have a lot of heroes.
What does the music you make mean to you on a personal level?
My music is everything. It's how I heal. I believe it's my purpose—why I am here. I must shed as much light as I can because the world is dark. I must save myself and find a way out, and hopefully help others find a way, too. My songs are my freedom. Through them I speak to God, and God speaks to me and through me. My songs are my salvation, saving me from whatever other bullshit I could be doing to get myself killed or locked up. My songs are me, for you. They are war cries, and cries for help. They are my help. It's everything to me. Ok, I'm back now.
Where can people find your music?
www.districtlines.com/
iTunes, Spotify and all other publications
Instagram, Twitter, Facebook @Xperiencexp
Snapchat @Xperience
