What’s up Sam Lachow? Tell us about your movement.

Waddup! I am a producer, songwriter, rapper, videographer, director, and editor of video and music. I collaborate with a variety of musicians from all over the country to combine the different skill sets and talents of different artists into full-bodied projects. I just released my first solo project titled Brand New Bike, in which I produced all of the beats on the album using all live music with no samples.

I personally think my music is better performed live than it is on mp3 because the recording process sometimes loses the energy that I originally had in mind for a certain song. When I perform it live, I am performing the song the way I had always intended it to sound. My music is fun, catchy, and unique, and I when people get a taste, they always want to hear more. That is why performing in front of a live audience is one of the best ways to spread my music.

Brand New Bike is your debut solo album. Talk about what went into the making of that project?

This project is not just a collection of songs…it is a full and complete album. Each track sounds very different than the rest and has its own creative qualities. I produced every beat on the album using live music with no samples which gives the album it’s own unique sound. The musicians I used (trumpet players, piano players, singers, guitarists, etc.) are all extremely talented and they all have their own style. It is a hip hop album with influence from all types of genres and styles.

You started your musical career as part of a group called Shankbone. How and when did you make the transition into a solo artist?

During the Shankbone days, I still produced and wrote all of the songs, so it was not a very difficult transition. I still work with the Shankbone dudes whenever I can, but it’s not always easy to get everyone together. Maybe one day we will record another album together.

You also produce, write, shoot and direct music and film videos, and more. Where does all that creative juice come from? Are you more passionate about one medium over any others?

Art runs in my blood. It’s something I can’t escape. I started rapping in about 5th grade. I began producing beats in 6th grade. Around the same time I began putting together short films with my friends and developing a knack for editing and directing. It started as simply an interest in all types of media. I loved it all and felt equally capable in each aspect. Over time this became a sort of marketing approach. I want my new raps to be as equally anticipated as my new videos and new instrumentals.

Are you still attending school? How do you find the time to fit everything in?

It’s definitely a grind. I do my school work at home, write my lyrics on the A train on my way to City College, book studio for after school, and pay for studio time by making music videos for local artists. I wish music and video production was my full time job, but I still have learning to do.

What are some of your marketing strategies as far as getting your name out as an independent artist?

I have been able to build a small, yet solid, fan base through things like Facebook and Twitter. I also give out a lot of music for free and hope it spreads. Word of mouth has been my best friend so far. Performing in front of live audiences and giving out free album samplers at my shows has also been a big help.

What’s up next for Sam Lachow?

More videos, more music, more shows. No sign of stopping.

Where can we find you online?

www.samlachow.com Twitter @samlachow
www.facebook.com/samlachow