Recently we had the chance to sit down with Texas artist Faustin Asaad. Coming off the release of his brand new EP Untitled 001, the young upstart looks to build off the momentum in a way that will catapult his career forward. In our latest conversation, we had the pleasure of discussing influences, his most personal song, Texas’ underground scene and much more. Check it out down below.
Where are you from? Have your surroundings shaped you in a creative sense, and in what way(s)?
I grew up in Cedar Creek, TX (Bastrop County), about 25 min. east of Austin. It’s quite rural, which catered to the introspective side of me. I developed an appreciation for the vibe in various cities/towns within Texas. Houston music has always been big here, especially with DJ Screw (RIP) being one of the OGs (born in Bastrop County).
What are some of the biggest mental tools you can obtain to be successful in this field?
I’m working towards building the right habits in diet, exercise, and meditation to improve my quality of life all around. Trying better myself as an artist and learn more about coding (among other things). I’d also like to start volunteering more.
Being from Texas, how is the underground music scene out there?
Outside of Houston and Dallas, I’ve watched the music scene in Austin, San Antonio and surrounding areas grow over the years. There’s plenty of talented artists and people trying to create resources. I respect the work people have put in over the years and am excited by the possibilities and developments.
Where does your influence come from?
As far as hip-hop: Scarface and OutKast are among my all-time favorites from the south. Aside from that, Jay Z, Tupac, Lauryn Hill, Kanye West, Lil Wayne… too many to name. That’s not even getting into Michael Jackson, Prince, and so forth
Do you have anyone that you consider your mentor? How has their help or advice shaped you?
I don’t particularly have a mentor, but I always try to learn from life and the people I interact with.
What do you hope listeners take away from your new EP Untitled 001?
With Untitled 001, I hope to spread good vibes heading into the Fall, provide an introduction (foundation), and give a preview of what’s to come.
Do you have a favorite musical project that you’ve worked on?
This has been my favorite project to work on. I hadn’t released music in so long it was like starting with a blank slate. I got to live, learn, and grow with the music in the process of making it— with very few restrictions.
What is your most personal song, and why?
My most personal song has yet to be released, saving that for my album.
If you were to describe your sound, how would you describe it?
I’d describe my sound as somewhere between Hip-Hop and Alternative/R&B/soul. I play with different sounds, with emphasis on quality and delivering the right messages. I might express myself though rapping, singing, or production depending on the project and how I’m feeling.
What is next for Faustin Asaad? What do you want your supporters to
know about you?
I plan to drop another EP/mixtape before my debut album and continue working on my home studio. One day at a time.