Harlem-bred lyricist, AyeCee, is carving out a lane for himself in the music world as one of hip hop’s up-and-coming talents. After pivoting from a career headed toward professional basketballing, the rapper decided to focus his passion and abilities on a music career. In 2021, AyeCee completed his first EP, Badd Choices, Good Stories, a project that would find the rapper on the path to self-expression and great success.
“​​Once I was done with college, and my dreams of playing professional basketball didn’t work out, I figured I would focus on my other passion–music,” the rapper shared. “Badd Choices, Good Stories is a project inspired by me finally deciding to take music seriously. I wanted to show that I can put together a versatile and different project that is also relevant,” he added.
Each day, more than 60,000 new songs are uploaded to streaming platforms such as Spotify. For most artists, breaking through the noise is unlikely, but for AyeCee, whose project has garnered more than 200,000 streams on the platform, breaking through is his specialty.
“Right now, my biggest accomplishment is hitting 200,000+ streams on Spotify with Badd Choices, Good Stories, which is also doing well on all streaming platforms,” the Harlem rapper stated. “I also recently shot my first video, “Birdie,” with One Take from Visionary Visions, and it has gotten over 70,000 views on Youtube,” he added.
While fans are enjoying the UK-Drill-inspired sounds of tracks such as “Birdie,” plans for new videos and even bigger projects are currently in the works, according to the rapper.
Speaking exclusively with Remixd Magazine, AyeCee sat down to share his thoughts on his latest project and future career goals, while also leaving a message to his fans. Check out the interview below!
What city are you from and where are you based now?
I’m from Harlem, New York, but I currently live in Syracuse, New York.
What is your artist name? What is your real name? How did you get your artist name?
My real name is Andre Chambers. Originally I had A.C for my initials but added some sauce to my name and spelled it out–AyeCee.
At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music?
Once I was done with college and my dreams of playing professional basketball didn’t work out, I figured I would focus on my other passion; music.
Has your upbringing played a role in shaping who you are and defining your sound today? If so, how?
Yes, being from Harlem, New York in general, there’s a certain way you have to move. New York is fast paced, so you must think, react and adjust fast. My sound reflects that vibe. I also try to convey staying solid, standing on who you are, what you believe in, and being real.
How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?
My sound is basically a gumbo pot of all the artists who inspired me growing up, combined with my own unique creativity.
What ultimately inspired you to dedicate yourself to a music career?
When I was done playing college ball and responsibilities came into play, I decided to pursue a career in music because it is my second passion after hooping. Music is something I love to do and it’s a huge part of my life.
What’s one reason you are passionate about music and what inspires you?
Music is powerful. It allows me to express myself and it gets me through tough days and moments. Through my music, I’m inspired to be a better person every day, for myself and my kids.
Do you have any hobbies outside of music? What do you do to stay creative?
My hobbies are playing basketball, video games, and smoking Weed. To stay creative I watch shows, movies, and YouTube, where I find new music and videos.
What were you doing before music?
Before music, I was playing college ball, pursuing my degree, working, and dealing with a professional team offer.
Who are some of your main musical influences?
Lil Wayne, Drake, Tupac, Kanye, Cassidy, Fivio Foreign.
What are some of your music career goals for the future?
I’m looking to first earn a record deal, then I’m aiming to chart on Billboard and have a gold record or project.
Tell us the name of the project you are currently promoting? What inspired this project?
It’s called Badd Choices, Good Stories and it’s an EP. This project dropped on December 17, 2021, and it was inspired by me deciding to take music seriously. I wanted to show that I could put together a versatile and different project that was also relevant.
What is this project about in your own words?
The project is about establishing myself as an artist, adjusting to the new sound of hip hop, and testing myself as an artist, while also staying true to myself with the music.
Is there a specific song on this project that speaks to you most? If so, what’s It called and what’s it about?
Yes, “Birdie” is the first song I recorded once I took rap seriously. It’s basically me introducing myself to the world.
What’s one of your most proud moments of your music career so far?
Right now, my biggest accomplishment is hitting 200,000+ streams on Spotify. The project is also doing well on all streaming platforms. Also shooting my first video with One Take from Visionary Visions is a proud moment. The video is sitting at over 70,000 views right now.
What’s next for you? Are you working on any upcoming projects we should be on the lookout for?
I am currently working on another project and have a new single coming soon. I’m also deciding on the next video I’ll shoot.
What message do you hope fans take away from your music and from this project?
My goal is to show fans and artists that you can take what’s hot and transform it into something hotter, with time and dedication. You can make your own lane. Also, I want to inspire and encourage whoever I can chase your dreams and be yourself.
Where can we follow you on social media?
Instagram: @AyeCee150
Snapchat: AyeCee
