Savon-M Interview

Some artists carve their names into the culture with a chisel, etching their influence into stone through sheer will and repetition. Others, like Savon-M, let the music itself do the carving—flowing like water, shaping the landscape without force, moving with intention. His journey through sound has been one of evolution, from early inspirations steeped in both the sacred and the secular to a refined voice that now carries the weight of purpose. A voice that does not shout for attention, but one that calls listeners to something deeper.https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/2X526GbcXSRMt5fzEJlQqA

Savon-M is no stranger to the industry’s ever-changing tides. He’s seen the currents pull artists toward fame, drag others into obscurity, and twist the meaning of what hip-hop, rap, and artistry itself can be. Yet, through the years, his own path has remained unwavering. There was a time when music sat in the shadows of his passions—when football, commentary, and life’s responsibilities called louder. But the pull of melody and message never fully loosened its grip. And now, he’s back in the booth, not just to make music, but to make meaning.

Central to this resurgence is his collaboration with The Messengers, a group that stands as a testament to unity in purpose and sound. Their latest offering, Spreading The Gospel, is more than an album; it’s a declaration. Each track weaves intricate narratives of faith, resilience, and hope, set against a backdrop of compelling beats and melodies. The album doesn’t merely invite listeners to hear the music but to experience the stories, to feel the convictions, and to join in the mission of spreading a message that transcends the confines of genre.

In this conversation, we delve into the moments that shaped Savon-M’s artistry, the lessons learned from both secular and gospel influences, and the discipline it takes to build a sound that is wholly your own. We explore the creation of Spreading The Gospel, the collaborative dynamics within The Messengers, and the vision that propels them forward. We discuss the industry’s shifting landscape, the tension between hip-hop and rap, and what it truly means to create music first for yourself.https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/51OevABd389STb9VA6fubG

But perhaps the most striking takeaway from Savon-M isn’t found in a bar, a beat, or even the stories he tells through his lyrics. It’s in his unwavering belief that legacy is not about being remembered—it’s about what you leave behind for others to carry forward.

Step into the mind of an artist who isn’t chasing charts but chasing truth. The interview begins now.

CCC: Reflecting on your upbringing, can you share which artists or genres left a significant impact on you during your formative years? How have these influences melded together to shape the unique sound you produce today?

SAVON-M: I would say it was a mixture of secular and gospel. My pops listened to Slick Rick, Big Daddy Kane, Uncle Luke, etc. Then you add Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, and John P. Kee. The mixture of it all birthed my hunger to create my own sound. This has been my objective since 2019; create my own sound of music.

CCC: Your journey into the music industry began quite early. Could you delve into the origins of your musical career, perhaps sharing anecdotes from your initial recording experiences? Additionally, what were some of the most formidable challenges you encountered as you navigated this path?https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/7MW2zqqU9FPpzLtvvvNbg5

SAVON-M: Man, my musical journey started in ‘05. I went by Italian Luigi (lol). Please, don’t ask. I recorded a song in my cousin’s friend’s closet. It wasn’t half bad. I go back and listen to it from time to time. I was heavily influenced by Lil Wayne at the time. The biggest challenges were consistency. Music has always been a hobby. There are so many artists who went all in; I never had the desire to do that. Football was my first love, and becoming a sports commentator was the next. Music has always been lurking in the shadows for me.

CCC: The creative process is often deeply personal and varies from artist to artist. Can you walk us through your approach to songwriting and production? How do external inspirations, such as other artists or life events, influence your work in the studio?

SAVON-M: Obviously, days are different in the studio. It depends if I’m going in with the objective of working on a project or if I need to vent and there’s something that transpires that is worthy of others to listen. My best work comes from when I am motivated by other artists. I can listen to a track and instantly say I need to work on music. The creative process always starts with sifting through beats. Next step is finding a harmony for the hook. I always start with the hook. If the hook isn’t good, I don’t go forward with the track.

CCC: Your recent endeavors with The Messengers have culminated in the upcoming EP centered on Christian rap. Could you shed light on the genesis of this project? What themes or messages are you aiming to convey through this collaboration?

SAVON-M: I’m back making music, but it’s Christian Rap. I was in a group in high school called the Messengers. We are cooking up some things to release an EP later this year. As Messengers, we are here to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are firm believers in this, and that will be the gist of the EP.

CCC: Collaboration often brings fresh perspectives and growth. Reflecting on your past partnerships, is there an artist, perhaps within or outside your genre, with whom you aspire to collaborate? What is it about their artistry that draws you to this potential partnership?https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/57Zmk8GxqCMIBRxS7iIp9f

SAVON-M: I have a trusted group of artists I collaborate with heavily. I am very selective about who I work with because of styles and chemistry. I believe those are two things you need to make a collaboration successful. My dream collab right now would be either Andy Mineo or Lecrae.

CCC: Artistic evolution is a testament to personal and professional growth. Since your inception into the music scene, how do you perceive your development as an artist? Are there pivotal moments or lessons that have significantly influenced your trajectory?

SAVON-M: Man, the progression from 2019, when I first started, to now, the growth is crazy. The way I attack songs, the way I write hooks/lyrics, the patience I have with the songs, you can tell I’ve become a student of music. The key lesson I learned was to make music for yourself first. I can say this boldly and carefree that I am my biggest fan.

Be yourself. Emulating another artist isn’t sustainable. You don’t stand out that way. Create your own sound and become your biggest fan.

CCC: The hip-hop and rap industry is in a constant state of flux, with new trends emerging regularly. From your perspective, how do you view the current landscape of the genre? Are there specific trends that excite you or aspects that raise concerns about the direction in which the industry is heading?

SAVON-M: Hip-hop has taken the back seat to Rap. The singing rap, trap rap, trap soul, etc. Hip-Hop was more than just emceeing with a mic. It was about community. Rap as a whole is… that’s the thing, I’m not sure if I can answer that anymore.

CCC: Engaging with your audience is crucial for any artist. How do you foster and maintain connections with your fans? In what ways does their feedback influence your creative decisions and overall artistic journey?

SAVON-M: Feedback is constructive to an artist’s growth, but I don’t crave it or become obsessed with it. Again, you want to make music for yourself because music is subjective. Staying connected to your fans or people who enjoy your music is important, especially if you’re all in as an artist. They fuel your journey as an artist.

CCC: Looking ahead, what can your audience anticipate from you in the near future? Are there specific projects, collaborations, or performances on the horizon that you’re particularly excited about?

SAVON-M: We’re working on releasing the EP with the Messengers later this year. There are also plans for more collaborations and possibly some live performances to promote the EP. Stay tuned!

CCC: For aspiring artists aiming to carve their niche in the music industry, what insights or advice would you offer based on your experiences?

SAVON-M: Be yourself. Emulating another artist isn’t sustainable. You don’t stand out that way. Create your own sound and become your biggest fan. Don’t try to sell yourself for anyone. The right fans or people who will enjoy your music will be evident.

CCC: Beyond your musical endeavors, are there other passions or hobbies that you pursue? How do these interests influence or complement your artistry?

SAVON-M: I have a passion for the next generation. My occupation is social work, so I am around kids all the time. They are heavily influenced by their environment. I want to help assist with instilling morals and principles. My non-profit, Community Uplift, engages with youths in the community to aid in academics, future goals, home life, etc.

I don’t want to be remembered. I want the message of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ to be remembered.

CCC: Artists often use their platforms to advocate for social causes. Are there particular issues or initiatives you support? How do you integrate these advocacies into your music and public persona?

SAVON-M: Absolutely. My work with Community Uplift is a big part of that. We focus on helping youth develop academically and personally. It’s about giving back and making a real difference in their lives.

CCC: Looking back on your journey so far, is there a particular moment that stands out as the most memorable of your career?

SAVON-M: Falling in love with my own music, honestly. Then, experiencing others liking your music. It’s weird. Every time someone comments or tells me in person about a particular song they like, I go listen to the song to experience it all over again.

CCC: Legacy is something many artists think about as they grow in their careers. When all is said and done, how do you want to be remembered in the music industry?

SAVON-M: I don’t want to be remembered. I want the message of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ to be remembered.