Interview: V Squad
V Squad just released his latest single and music video, titled 'Mission'. Inspired by what he describes as an intense love and passion for music, V Squad began to develop and hone his emcee skills at an early age. Louder Than The Music caught up with him to find out how it all began and what the story behind his latest music is.
For those who haven't heard of you before, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in making music?
I'm V Squad, born and raised in Houston, TX, the home of so many musical legends. Naturally, growing up you're surrounded by raw musically talented individuals, and "freestyle rap" became a HUGE part of Houston Hip Hop Culture. I started out just freestyle rapping with friends in the 5th and 6th grade, I gave my life to Christ at 16 years old and began rapping at my Church at the time Living Word Fellowship, and that's where it all began.
Tell us about your new single 'Mission' and what the inspiration behind it was?
Mission was inspired by a Church Sermon series titled "Be on Mission" at River Pointe Church where my wife and I attend. The message stuck with me when it emphasized how Paul was always "on mission", no matter what his circumstances were. The "mission" is to share the good news of the gospel and to make Christ known as the ONLY way to salvation. So we must be "on mission" when we're on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter, when we're out shopping, on vacation, etc. Being on mission is to readily available to share the gospel when the opportunity presents itself.
Do you have plans to release more music soon?
Absolutely! After this interview, I'm heading to the studio to polish up the next single title "Pray, Then Go Hard", as well as the 3rd single titled "Amen".
What message would you like people to take from your music?
That I'm a believer in Christ, exercising my freedoms in Christ with my talents, to live out our command to know God, and make God known, and to go out and make disciples. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the light and the ONLY source that leads to eternal salvation. This life that we live on earth in the flesh is temporary. Until we die to the flesh and be born again in Christ Jesus, who died for ALL, we can not be reconciled back to our Heavenly Father who desires a relationship with us.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
My style of music is transparent, it thrives off my convictions and is spirit-driven from daily communion with our Heavenly Father.
If you could work with any songwriter, who would it be and why?
There are so many for multiple reasons, for example; Kirk Franklin because his musical genius, songwriting, and arrangement is Quincy Jones level. Kanye West for the same reasons, but also because he's been one of my favorite producers for over 20 years. I love the young guys like 1k Phew and WhatupRG as well as the vets like Bizzle, Lecrae and Derek Minor. For amazing vocals, I'd love to have The Walls Group, as well as Tori Kelly, and Chloe x Halle. Kendric Lamar and J Cole have also been personal favorites for a very long time too.
How would you define success in your career as an artist?
My answer now is completely different than it would have been even just a few years ago. Now I define success is to allow God to order your steps and walking in His will, not your own self-driven ambitions. Success to me is never neglecting prayer time, family time (my wife and kids), being a provider as scripture tells us "if a man will not work, he shall not eat". Success to me is having the heart to serve, spirit living and being Kingdom-driven.
What is your favorite album of all time?
Prince - Purple Rain
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your phone. What track is it?
V Squad - Mission, STREAMING ON ALL MUSIC PLATFORMS! JUST KIDDING, JUST KIDDING! HAHAHA... This is tough, but I'm sure it would either be a song by Prince, Michael Jackson, or Anita Baker.
What does the next year hold for you?
Lord willingly, more music releases, playing shows and prayerfully touring and lots and lots of song placements! IN JESUS NAME!
