MEET THE LEGEND: ABG Bari
An in depth conversation with ABG Bari
Lehigh Valley artist ABG Bari has been building up a nice buzz in recent months and we got an exclusive insight to the his creative life. He opened up about his growth as an artist and his plans for the future.
Q: Who are you?
A: "ABG Bari, ABG is an acronym for ‘All Bout Grindin’ an Independent label/brand established by myself, ABG Bari. And Bari is short for Tabari, my first name."
Q: What keeps you motivated?
A: "The struggle. The family. The people."
Q: What was it like growing up where you did and how did it influence you?
A: "Growing up in Newark, NJ was rough because the crime rate and drug abuse was high. As a kid that's hard to be surrounded by and have to adapt to. It influenced me to chose a better path and make sure my loved ones would never have to go through any of that. I found a powerful way to speak on the city’s behalf through the art of music and to inspire people to live life positively!"
Q: Any other creative outlets or hobbies?
A: I played sports growing up such as football and basketball. I'm also talented in graphic design, videography and photography!
Q: Who are some of your artistic influences and role models?
A: "My mother and my grandparents. As far as artists go, there's too many! Lil Wayne, 50 Cent, and Dipset to name a few."
Q: When did you start making music?
A: "I began writing music at age 8. I started taking it serious and recording around 10-11."
Q: How would you describe your sound and how has it evolved?
A: "I would describe my sound as one of a kind. I feel that over the 11 years of creating music I've improved so much and have developed my own sound."
Q: What’s your creative process?
A: "Observe. Examine. Create. Improve. Elevate. "
Q: What project are you working on right now? What makes it different from previous projects?
A: "I’m currently working on an EP with Philly artist/producer Nick Noizes. I’ve released 6 Independent mixtapes throughout my career. This is my first collaboration project with an artist outside of my label, which involves record sales and constructive criticism."
Q: Favorite career memory or moment?
A: "Getting paid to host an event at a NY strip club & meeting Lil Durk and Tony Yayo. Lil Durk and I were booked at the same strip club. At the time I was already a fan of his music and looked up to him as an artist. Having our music spun at the same club together was a great experience! Meeting Tony Yayo was dope too because I grew up listening to G-Unit. He actually complimented me on my work ethic!"
Q: What's something most people don’t know about you?
A: "Most people don't know I was born Muslim and I’m heavy on religion! Also when my oldest brother was killed in jail, it it impacted my life."
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A: "In 5 years I see myself settled comfortably. Perfecting my Investments and crafts. Family straight, homies straight. Being the voice of the people and a motivational speaker/ inspiration to all. Successful. And most importantly happy."
Q: What does your perfect day look like?
A: "The perfect day is working hard towards my goals. Making progress through connections and planning moves for the future. Being recognized and appreciated for inspiring others. The perfect day is filled with positivity and happiness. Also learning and being able to teach something new!"
Q: What do you think the secret to success is?
A: "Patience and hard work."
Q: Favorite works have changed your life?
A: "The secret."
Q: Any words of wisdom or anything you wanted to let people know?
A: Never doubt yourself. If you want something go get it! Remove yourself away from negativity and surround yourself with positivity. Don’t ever stop. Count your blessings and pray each and every day!
Soundcloud: ABG Bari
Twitter: @abgbari
Check out his latest video with LiveGuy Izz 'Mad At Me'
