Interview: Rockville Based Rap Artist Brandon Barbaro Discusses His Upcoming EP "TwentyTwo"

Brandon Barbaro is a talented emcee out of Rockville, Maryland who will be dropping his new EP "TwentyTwo" on tomorrow, August 11th. We connected with Brandon for an exclusive interview to discuss the upcoming EP, his connection with producer BoneheadBob, his creative process and much more.

After reading this Q&A with Brandon, be sure to follow him on Instagram to stay up to date on all things Brandon Barbaro and be ready to stream/download the "TwentyTwo" EP as soon as it goes live tomorrow.

What part of Maryland are you from and how did you get interested in music, as well as start songwriting?

I was born and raised in Rockville, Maryland. I’ve always loved music, and I’ve actually been songwriting and making music since I was 13 years old. Music is a form of art, and a great way to express yourself. I used to write music — mostly to vent —  when I was younger. Later, I realized I could help others at the same time by sharing my personal experiences through music which leads to unity.

Congratulations on the completion of your upcoming EP "TwentyTwo". What are you most proud of with the EP and what message are you conveying through your music?

Thank you, I appreciate it! The amount of blood, sweat, and tears that went into the entire project was just insane. It’s completely organic. The whole process was just amazing. Each track has it’s own individual message. My music is so personal, I’m giving my listeners and fans, music and lyrics with messages from my heart that they can truly relate to. I want everyone to know, “you are not alone.” Let us all grow together. Unity is my message.

Cover graphic credit: Esther Yoo & BoneheadBob

How did you connect with producer Boneheadbob for the production of "TwentyTwo". Also, had you guys always intended to work on a collaborative project?

Well, I’ve actually known Bob since we were kids. We’ve worked on many songs here and there, but just recently, I called him up and was like “let’s make an organized project” and we got to work immediately. I wouldn’t say we always intended to work on a collaborative project, but it was really only a matter of time. 

Describe your creative process for us. Generally speaking, do you prefer to pick instrumentals and then write to them?

They say to “enjoy the process” so that’s exactly what I do. I have fun and I don’t look at what I do as “work;” it’s so much more colorful than that. I prefer to pick instrumentals and then write to them so its completely organic. Otherwise, it’s just not the same vibe.

How do you deal with writer's block? Is there a particular place that sparks your creativity? 

For me, I feel like I get writers block most of the time when I’m just not feeling inspired. What I do is I create that feeling of inspiration by listening to different music or maybe even a motivational speaker. I don’t like to force or rush anything. Again, I like to get things done, but done right as well. I like to be outside when I’m writing. I just like the outdoors, whether it’s a beautiful or rainy day; I’ll sit outside under the sun or an umbrella. 

What are your three favorite albums, regardless of genre? Why?

The Marshall Mathers LP (Eminem)
1999 (Joey Badass)
Born Sinner (J Cole)

I listen to all different types and genres of music, but these three are my favorite because they were the most influential for me and great productions overall.

What's the hardest part about working a 9 to 5 job and then trying to write, record, promote yourself, etc?

The hardest part is getting sleep. I know it’s important to get sleep, but there’s always something that needs to be done. I’m a workaholic; I like to get things done, and done right. I’m so grateful to say that I do what I love and love what I do, so it’s not hard for me to get lost in work. When it comes to writing and recording, though, I have to be mentally and physically present, so it gets hard. What I do is, I greatly value my time and form good habits to be productive and work hard. It all works out. 

Connect with Brandon Barbaro: Instagram