OkDeazy is Chicago’s Diamond in the Rough
Photography by Amy Schwartz
As the #NewChicago movement grows more and more widespread, there is still a prominent voice in the underground waiting to emerge into a more nationwide audience. Okdeazy, throughout his career, has been a clear example of versatility and consistent within the scene. From songs like “TREASON” and “Derrick Rose” to his remixes of mainstream songs like “One Beer” and “Went Legit”, he has not only shown us that he is here to stay, but he is headed for the crown.
Hey Deazy, thank you for connecting with us. To start off, where are you from?
North Side Of Chicago, Cabrini Green Area but I spent a great portion of my life in Naperville
How does living and growing up in that area shape your art and your sound?
Being able to pick from my environment and make stories out of real life experiences made my sound authentically me
How did you first get into music, and what made you take it seriously?
Both My parents do music so it came Naturally
Is there anyone or anything that inspires your work?
GOD, my life, my family, and my puppy MJ
What’s your favorite thing about the Chicago music scene at this moment?
The teamwork honestly, for the first time we have a scene that is working together in a positive way to bring light to the city
What’s your thoughts on the current #NewChicago movement?
It’s the present, past and future all in one, it’s a reawakening of Chicago Music. Music in general.
What does the average studio session look like for you?
Usually I record myself so I’d say me, my laptop, headphones, a blunt and a Star Wars movie on in the background. Preferably Revenge of the Sith
Who are some artists within the scene that you look forward to working with?
I can’t lie I’ve pretty much worked with everyone that I could imagine working with in the scene but if I had to name drop I’d say, Adamn Killa, MOYANA, Recoechi, and SONNY
What’s some of the challenges you’ve faced on your artistic journey, and how have you overcome them?
Procrastination, really that’s just my biggest challenge in life, getting in my own way. Just realized I need to focus on me and stop putting off, stop saying “I can do it later” cause what if later never comes?
What’s the first three songs you would recommend to someone who hasn’t heard your music yet?
Pe$o$., HOCO, & Last Time
What’s a bit of advice you would tell a new artist entering the Chicago music scene?
Don’t follow, lead. Don’t let anyone tell you can’t be what you wanna be just stay dedicated, loss is apart of the journey.