Today we’d like to introduce you to Toxic Reign/Jessica DeClou.
Thanks for sharing your story with us. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
When I was younger in elementary school through middle school, I’d always write books upon books of poetry. When I got to high school, it really sparked me putting my poetry to music hence the rapping. I did my first performance live at the Black History Show my senior year. Once I saw how people really liked my rap and were feeling the music, I realized I wanted to take this seriously. I started posting songs on Soundcloud my first semester of college since I finally had the resource of a recording booth on my campus. A lot of people were reposting my song on various social media and I figured out on my own, doing my research how to distribute my music on all platforms. My most recent performance was a talent show at NSU where I rapped with one of my colleagues (Tripple C) and remixed an original song that was running up numbers. I want to thank my friends and artists I’ve met and that continue to support me. I’ve always been big on supporting who supports you so I hope to spread that message and continue to inspire people.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It hasn’t been a smooth road for me. My family wants me to focus on the medical career that I originally went to school for on a scholarship. However, I continue to push through and follow both of my passions, I’m inspired by the musical artists who have degrees such as Ludacris and Lil Wayne. People are surprised most of the time when I say I rap because they are expecting me to talk about shallow things that most female rappers are talking about these days until they hear it and say “You actually rap.” The one thing that I’ve heard a lot of people say about my rap before they hear it is that it’s “regular.” One thing I will never be is regular; I have my EP called “rEgUlAr” dropping June 22, 2019, on all platforms.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
When I sit down to write sometimes, I think about whatever is on my mind and fit it into things I can compare. I think, as an artist, one of the things I’m good at is fitting metaphors and similies together in my raps and making them relatable. One thing I’m proud of is the growth and exposure I’m getting through my performances and social media. Sometimes, people, I don’t even know, see me around campus or at the store and compliment my music. Another thing I’m proud of is my song “Sugar” on SoundCloud that ironically showcases me singing and rapping (even though I don’t sing that much) doing the highest numbers (168k plays).
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I think the quality that is most important to my success is dedication/perseverance. If I don’t push myself to be better each project, who will? Especially in my situation with my family and school, I manage my time and write every chance I get to be efficient.
Pricing:
- My song “Cappin” is on iTunes for only 99 cents!
Contact Info:
- Phone: 954-298-9912
- Email: toxicreign2022@outlook.com
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/toxic_reign
- Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/toxic_reign
- Other: http://www.soundcloud.com/theylovetoxicreign
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
