KK: Tell us a lil ‘bout yourself & where you grew up at?

Coolest Nerd: Well I go by Ken “The Coolest Nerd” and I hail from Kinston, North Carolina. Kinston is a small town. It’s funny because whenever I try and explain to people where I’m from I always get the “huh” or the “I don’t know where that is “answer. I have to tell people it’s near Raleigh or Greenville for them to have an idea where Kinston is. Growing up in Kinston caused me to develop this anti-small town thinking mentality. I think and DREAM big. I was attending the Art Institute down in Atlanta for a while before Sallie Mae told me it was wrap! LOL I was 4 classes away from graduating. It wasn’t funny then but everything happens for a reason. If it wasn’t for that happening I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t be where I am now.

KK: How would you describe your sound of music & what makes you different then anyone else in this game?

Coolest Nerd: I like to describe my music as being mind fu*ked! I make music that helps you escape into a world where u can let go of your inhibitions. People make life hard from all psychological barriers they place on themselves. My music helps free you from those barriers. I can remember listening to Biggie and just being so engrossed in the music that I forgot where I was. Not too many artists are making music like that and that’s what I feel separates me from the next artist.

KK: Ken “The Coolest Nerd” how did you come up wit a name like that?

Coolest Nerd: I’ve always considered myself a Nerd. I was into a lot of things other kids weren’t into at my age I was heavy into computers, technology and hacking. But I was also able to function in any social setting. I guess u can say that’s where the cool came in. I’m almost like a walking contradiction because most people don’t consider nerds cool but I beg to differ. What’s uncool about using your mind? That’s SEXY!

KK: What are you working on currently right now? Were can your supporters cop your musik?

Coolest Nerd: I’m currently finishing up the NERD PRIDE EP along with the Cool Intentions 2 mixtape. The NERD PRIDE EP will be distributed through Bungalo/Universal and available online and through ITUNES, Amazon, rhapsody etc. So for all my Nerds out there you can preview the EP on rallnerdsascool.bandcamp.com. You can check out all of my other music there also.

KK: Favorite track (with the most buzz)? Whats going on with that right know?

Coolest Nerd: I would say it’s between “Bobble Head Effect” and “I’m Ready”. Those are fan favorites. I get a lot of compliments on that record. Big Shouts out to JEarly for producing that amazing record. The Bobble Head Effect record is an immediate crowd mover. I’ve performed it a lot over the past 6 months and it never fails to do its name. I’m in the process of shooting videos for both of those records.

KK: Who are some of your favorite artists you have worked with? Anyone you would like to work wit in the future?

Coolest Nerd: Many of the artists I’ve worked with have been in house artists. I’m always down for collabs though. My homie JEarly is a talented up and coming artist who I always enjoy working with. The “I’m Ready” record is like my favorite record to date. General Heat is another “dope spitter.” He reminds me of a young Eminem. Working with the Tripple Krown Muziik production team produces me good music. I’ve been trying to hunt down J.Davey! They’re dope! I would love to work with them. I mean I also have my dream roster of who I would like to work with. The Gorillaz, Jay-Z, N.E.R.D, Kanye West, Portishead, Pink Floyd just to name a few.

KK: This is a tough industry, what keeps you motivated to stay wit it?

Coolest Nerd: The more I began to understand that this is a business my perception of things changed. It is truly a tough industry but with the right drive and determination along with the right people around you, you can survive. Creativity is my motivation. I’m fueled by the ability to create. I have a lot to say and I command you all to listen!

KK: How do you feel ‘bout the musik industry today & where it’s goin’?

Coolest Nerd: I feel the music industry is definitely suffering from many different factors. One of the major issues is technology. The Music industry is steady trying to catch up with technology. Music is not selling like it used to which is causing budgets to be cut. Many record companies don’t want to spend any money anymore, especially in the Urban Music department. Artists are forced by the label to create music based on what’s in or “catchy”. Most labels don’t care about the music, it’s about the money. It’s tough out there for an artist. My suggestion is to go independent and have your record(s) distributed through a major label. You’ll get more money that way. Remember it’s a business!!!!

KK: What advice can you offer to aspiring artists?

Coolest Nerd: Believe in and stand behind your product. Don’t give the people something that you yourself wouldn’t spend money on. You have to prove to the fans that you are worth buying into. And keep at it, never get comfortable! There are literally millions of artists trying to take your spot. Surround yourself with people that have your best interest and you’ll get far!

KK: We wanna thank you Ken “The Coolest Kid” for linkin’ up wit Dreamsblend.com! Any shout outs?

No thank you Ms. Kane and Dreamsblend.com for allowing me this opportunity to speak my mind! I want to shout out the NERDS out there. Everybody who feels as if they’re an outcast and don’t belong. I’m here to tell you that it’s cool to be YOU! Don’t let society tell you how to be! NERD PRIDE! Big Shouts out to my manager and the staff over at Endless Muziik! Peace and Blessings!

Ken the Coolest Nerd from chris stallworth on Vimeo.