[FEATURE] MEET THE PRODUCERS: BLACK NOI$E

Responsible for some of the best beats coming out of Detroit, Black Noi$e production has laced albums by Danny Brown, Earl Sweatshirt and other cult MCs. Viper get to know him with an interview for our Meet The Producers segment…

Firstly, briefly introduce yourself: 

My name is Rob aka Black Noi$e, I currently stay in Detroit, Michigan. My production style is a reflection of the things I see and feel day to day.

What would you say are the most popular beats you’ve created?

I can’t tell you my most popular beat but I can definitely tell you how I felt.

What is your favourite song that you’ve worked on and why?

My favourite song I’ve worked on would have to be one that I felt connected to in any certain way. You can tell how I felt by the way it sounds.

Do you think that production software becoming more accessible is a positive or negative thing for music? 

Access to programs can never be a bad thing. I’m sure we are all aware of what a lack of resources looks like at this point. And anything that can let people express themselves – illegally downloaded or not – is a blessing.

Who influences you as a producer?

All of my people influence me daily. Be on the look out for Raphy.

What inspires you to create instrumentals?

My inspiration to create comes from everyday life. Internal struggles. External struggles. The fight to keep a level head everyday and be present.

How did you begin making music? Was it a particular influence or circumstance?

I began making music on illegally downloaded software. It was all I had at the time and definitely all I could afford. I had to make music, just had to find a way to do it.

Were you ever involved in any other musical projects besides the ones you are doing now?

I’ve been in and out of bands since 2005. And I’ve been DJing for a long time as well. Just trying to figure out ways to continue to stay connected to the music.

What, for you, is the perfect beat?

The perfect beat makes me feel something. Preferably something I can’t describe, I just know it feels like something I haven’t felt before.

Can you tell us about any projects coming up?

For projects coming up, I’m trying to dive deeper into the sounds. Trying to expand on the ideas I’ve had but couldn’t communicate properly. Trying to keep pushing myself forward and never fall into one thing for too long.