Choppin it up with one of ATL's fastest rising producers
Merlex Skate is next up
Everybody know’s that Atlanta has the music industry on lock all across the board. You got Migos, Lil Yatchy, 2 Chainz, Gucci Mane, Mike WiLL, Southside, Metro, London and if I named any more, you'd prolly end up reading a book. ATL's musical bench is so deep, that you’ll never see who coming up next. That’s why we took some time out to chop it up with the 20 year-old rising producer, Merlex Skate before he takes off!
How did you begin producing?
I started when I was 14 but I been playing drums since I was 2, so it was going to happen eventually. I was introduced to it by the homies and my guy Khalil Nova gave me the full FL so I just been going ever since. I didn’t really take seriously until I came to Howard and realized “I gotta capitalize on this.”
Where did the name merlexskate come from?
Lmao no funny shit, this girl gave it to me but folks had already been calling me Skate forever cause I always had a board with me growing up until I went to college. Skateboarding culture also has always had a huge influence on who I am today so I stuck with it. You can call me by my name (Merle) or Skate. I’ll answer to either.
With the beats you have in the vault right now, what Hip Hop artist could you see hopping on them & blowing then up & why??
I have a versatile sound within my style so it’s hard to chose. I got beats that could work for anybody honestly.
The hardest thing you face as a rising producer?
Hardest thing? All the bs that comes with industry shit. Everyday folks tryna get free beats or get over on you.
"I started when I was 14 but I been playing drums since I was 2, so it was going to happen eventually."
What methods do you use to stay on top of your game?
Methods? I have several approaches so I wouldn’t say there is a specific method to my compositions.
Top5 producer on ya list?
Tough but I’ll name a few....Most of the 808Mafia for sure. CardoGotWings, KeyWayne, Zaytoven, Metro.
Your biggest lesson you’ve learned from producing?
1. I learned to never delete anything because you’ll never know what somebody is going to like so keep everything.
2. Find your style and stay consistent. It’ll fasho help you stick out and separate yourself from the regular.
3. Confidence is key.
"I got beats that could work for anybody honestly."
What should merlexskates fan expect in the future?
A whole lot of music haha. I’m just getting started.