User talk:FLYTASTIK

Since its inception more than 30 years ago, high fashion and hip hop have gone hand in hand. From rocking furry Kangol hats to fresh Troop jumpsuits all the way down to shell toe Adidas in the early 80s, hip hop heads have always been known to create the latest fashion trends and influence popular culture.

Representing what he calls "Fear-Less Youth" entertainer with rhymes just as sharp as his discriminating taste in threads is 2O year-old, Atlanta-based, Crescent City transplant, FLYTASTIK. Born DeSean Anthony Simms, II aka DJ to his close friends and family, first started his musical career as a DJ. Known at the time as DJ DAS DUCE, he learned techniques behind the ones and twos from famed local record spinners DJ Captain Charles, Charles “Bam Bam” Belonge and DJ Raj Smooth. But although he was getting his tutelage from three of the best in the business, he was not totally content with his situation.

Hoping to expand on his talents, young DeSean began producing beats on FrootyLoops but quickly learned that being a producer was not his calling. “I always wanted to be able to construct a song in its entirety,” he confesses. “I wasn’t too good at that.” So after a year as a DJ/producer, he turned in his two turntables and beat making programs for a microphone. He would use his DJ equipment to record himself rapping over instrumentals of popular songs. “Eventually, I was like ‘why not?’ I got the swagger and the talent to do it,” he demands. “What am I holding back for?” Around this same time, however, New Orleans was devastated by the wrath of Hurricane Katrina so Desean and his mother relocated to Atlanta. With a fresh start and new surroundings, the eager musician went full force on his rapping career. “The culture in both cities really encourages my whole demeanor as far as music,” says Tastik. “In New Orleans, you can close your eyes at night and wake up in the morning to music. Some of my family and family friends belong to New Orleans most respected jazz musicians. Music has been in my veins. I just had to take advantage of the opportunity to lend my voice.He continues, “And with me coming to Atlanta, it was a culture shock but at the same time I learned a lot because it is definitely the new music mecca.” One of his lessons learned was the power of Internet promotion. He flooded Facebook, Twitter and every other social networking site with his music. Before long, he had acquired a steady cult-like online following. “I was one of those people who spam just to get heard and I still am,” he says. “I’veyet to get a negative reaction from the music.” “I try to make you feel involved in the music. It’s motivational music,” he explains. “I’m just here to make good music- whether you’re riding in your car feeling good or you’re having a bad day. I’m here to fill every void.” Flytastik.bandcamp.com