$leepy.blvd is an emerging independent singer, songwriter, rapper and producer debuting a new project in 2023. Formerly known as Sleepyhead. (the period is intentional), they got their feet wet with three solo projects and some Soundcloud collaborations. With the new name comes a new commitment to the music.
Born and raised in the the DMV, $leepy.blvd grew up in a musical family. Inspired by their parents’ jazz and soul records, the young artist learned to play guitar and write songs. Inspired by pop, hip-hop, r&b, jazz and rock artists, the eclectic artist cites a wide range of influences, including artists like Michael Jackson, Odd Future and Paramore.
“FEEL A WAY.” is the brand new single from $leepy.blvd, released worldwide via all major streaming services on January 6, 2023. A melancholy piano opens the track. Soulful vocal harmonies paint the edges of the mix as the rapper steps to the mic for a heartbroken lyrical freestyle. Soon the beat drops on a chill laidback jazz-hop groove as strings and keys add to the smooth soul vibe.
Check out “FEEL A WAY.” below. You can also hear the song on the Deep Indie Beat playlist, or listen on your favorite streaming service. We had the chance to chat with the artist. Check out their answers to our 8 questions below. Follow the links at the end of this article to connect with $leepy.blvd. Get on their socials and get in the loop.
8 Questions with $leepy.blvd
Where are you from?
Montgomery Village, MD
How long have you been making music?
I’ve pretty much been making music ever since I could remember. I started out free styling over my parents’ Coltrane, Norman Brown and Brian Culbertson albums. That’s when I realized how much I loved to do this. At 15, I had to sneak to get my hands on a guitar and my brother had an acoustic one that he never touched and I would practice on that and become guitarist for a cover band. A few years later, I picked up piano and then I started producing while attending Full Sail and began writing more songs and taking music a bit more seriously.
Who are the musicians involved in your project?
I got the beat for free from a youtuber who goes by NOSALEZ. Other than that, I worked on this project by myself.
Who are your biggest musical influences?
I was heavily influenced by Michael Jackson and Lil Bow Wow growing up. My father was a singer as well and he opened up for bands like War and seeing how passionate he is about music influenced me to be passionate about it as well. Jazz and R&B music has also played a huge role in my life.
What is your greatest non-musical influence?
Art and emotion. I’ve always been somewhat of a loner and I feel I’m really only good at expressing my emotions through my music.
What inspired you to create this project?
This project was inspired by an ex. Like I said before, I’m not good at articulating my feelings through speech. I didn’t know how to let her down easy, because she genuinely was an amazing person. She just wasn’t right for me.
What are your plans for the future (musically)?
I plan to work with big artists and develop my sound and hopefully take my music global.
Is there anything else you would like to say?
I’m genuinely a lover of music. I love all genres. I just love the sounds and I want to convey that feeling through my music.