The Other Shade is a multifaceted artist in which he is known to be a talented R&B singer, a producer and owner of his own clothing brand. Pushing his artistry to become a notable powerhouse, the Virginia native is making a name for himself as he set the tone throughout the industry. Pyro Da Arsonist had the pleasure of interviewing him as you learn more on who is The Other Shade.
Pyro Da Arsonist: Please introduce yourself to our readers and tell us what do you do and where you are from.
T.O.S: Thank you for having me, I’m an R&B artist named T.O.S. Also known as The Other Shade. I own a clothing company called KALIFRAGALISTIC, and I also produce beats for movies and musical artists of different acclaimed levels.
Home used to be Fairfax, Virginia, in my early life I moved around different areas in the same county till I came to college in Morgantown at WVU.
Pyro Da Arsonist: Why did you choose The Other Shade as your stage name?
T.O.S: I remember I was making my first Instagram account in the middle of 7th grade and I wanted to make a name no one will think of but that represents me. To me the other shade offers colors and the shade between the lights of things. Basically I’m just always the other aspect.
Pyro Da Arsonist: What or who inspired you to become an artist?
T.O.S: Big L, Rick James, The Weeknd, Tupac, and Nas were the biggest influences when it comes to greats in music. I had two close friends that passed at the beginning and the end of 2020, those two were my most physical influences which is what pushed me to be the no look back artist I am today.
Pyro Da Arsonist: How would you describe yourself as an artist and describe your sound?
T.O.S: As an artist I see myself as very detailed and extremely personable. It’s always been hard to show my emotions but I found the easiest way to express is through music because I can only judge myself. The sound that comes out is very cinematic and has been compared to films more than day to day music.
Pyro Da Arsonist: What project are you currently working on and what kind of feedback have you received from your current single?
T.O.S: So I’m working on my studio album called “D’evils of beauty” that I’m recording at IMI studios throughout the month of April. My current single “All in Ones” will debut and mark the first release of the project. After submitting to music reviewers I’ve had nothing but positive feedback, the most negative comment was a better mix-down which IMI studios will undoubtedly take care of in April.
Pyro Da Arsonist: What is one of your most memorable performances and why?
T.O.S: I would say my very first one at 123 pleasant St. in Morgantown. It was a beat battle and we had a whole promo and everything for the area. It was my first taste of the life I always felt needed me.
Pyro Da Arsonist: Have you ever had a bad performance and if so how do you move past it without letting it affect your confidence?
T.O.S: My second beat battle had more of a randomness to it, my competitor had lost their father just a few days before so it kind of dulled the atmosphere. I noticed I felt sympathetic but I realized no matter what music is music and pushed forward.
Pyro Da Arsonist: In this age of social media what do you feel is more important in an artists success, talent, number of followers or an investor?
T.O.S: In this age I would say investors for sure, money makes the world work that much faster for you. Social media makes chances more available for the everyday artist but no matter what money comes into play at some point.
Pyro Da Arsonist: What words of wisdom would you give to those who want to start a career in music?
T.O.S: My best advice would be that if it’s been your gut feeling over multiple years and you keep ignoring it? Don’t. That’s how history gets lost. Those artist with a natural tug to them are the ones to watch out the most for because they’re usually behind the scenes till they realize they are the scene.Thank you for sitting down with The Artistry and we wish you lots of success in all you do.
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