Based on current listings and the local Chicago music scene, Forever Band is a Chicago-based Hip-Hop and Rap artist (or collective) known for a gritty, authentic sound that blends contemporary trap beats with storytelling lyrics.
While the name implies a group, they often operate as a singular creative force in the Chicago underground scene, collaborating with notable local figures such as Adamn Killa, Taylor Bennet,Joey Purp.
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Q&A WITH FOREVER BAND (May 2025)
- When you started your music journey, what was your confidence level?
- I felt like my confidence was always high.
- Who was your biggest inspiration while growing up?
- Kanye West and Michael Jackson.
- Did you ever want to give up during the process?
- Yeah, definitely. There were many times.
- What would you say is something you need to work on as an artist?
- That’s a good question. I think I just need to put in more hours—more hours on everything. I feel like I’m naturally talented, which carries me quite a bit, but I need to focus on putting in more work.
- At what point did you decide to take your musical career seriously?
- I’d say I’ve taken it seriously about five times. Most recently, I decided to be serious about it again, probably about three months ago.
- Where do you see yourself in the future?
- I envision myself being very similar to Kanye West. I’m involved in film, cinematography, and creative direction for other artists. I produce and make music myself, and I have a passion for fashion. I attend Fashion Week. Overall, I aspire to be more than just a musical artist; I want to pursue various ventures.
- Are you seeking to secure a record deal or remain independent? Why?
- I prefer to remain independent. I’ve watched my best friend, Chance the Rapper, build his career from the ground up. I was the first person to ever listen to his mixtape, “Ten Day,” which launched his career. He has won three Grammys without being signed to a record label. He has shared his insights about the entire process, including what to expect during meetings with record labels. He took meetings with multiple labels just to hear what they had to say. Knowing all of this has influenced my decision to choose the independent route. I have much more control over my own work, and I feel empowered by that. Additionally, if I achieve success, I will reap the financial rewards.
- What was the process of creating your last project?
- For my last project, I focused on a hip-hop sound. People recognize me for various styles, including punk rock, rap, and hip-hop. In this project, I wanted to showcase my songwriting skills.
- What are your favorite visuals that you have created and why?
- My favorite visuals are actually the music videos I’ve directed for other artists. I frequently work on music videos for Taylor Bennett. One of his recent videos, “The Pope,” is particularly memorable. We set it in a wedding theme, with a comedic twist reminiscent of “Wedding Crashers.” The idea was creative, and our execution turned out really well.
- What is a highlight moment in your career that encouraged you to pursue music?
- Meeting my idol and working with Kanye West was a significant highlight. I had the opportunity to work on Donda 2 as one of his engineers while he was in Italy. Being around someone I looked up to and witnessing his creative process helped me realize that I could do this, too.
- Do you write your music?
- Yes, I do.
- Do you think having a ghostwriter is beneficial for artists?
- It depends. If an artist has the right look and image but struggles with writing, then hiring a ghostwriter makes sense. It’s similar to having a stylist—if you don’t have a good sense of style, it’s reasonable to get one. If you’re not a good rapper but have the right vibe and support around you, then working with a writer can be a good move. I don’t judge artists who take that route. Some of the greats have used ghostwriters.
- Would you be interested in collaborating with other artists? If so, who would it be?
- Yes, I am interested in collaborating, and one artist I’d love to work with is FKA Twigs. In Chicago, I would like to collaborate with every female artist. I believe women are taking over the rap game, and I want to feature as many of them as possible. My dream collaboration, though, would be an actual song with Kanye West.
- What is your favorite thing about being an artist?
- I love the energy that comes with being an artist. I often have a lot of energy inside me, and being able to express it feels fulfilling. It’s similar to the satisfaction people get from working out or other forms of release. Being an artist gives me a sense of life satisfaction.
- What is a guilty pleasure of yours?
- A guilty pleasure of mine is getting my nails and toes done.
- What never fails to make you smile?
- A nice smoothie, especially one with Boboa in it. A mango-peach smoothie from Chinatown always makes me smile.
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HIGHLIGHTS SINCE MAKING THE ARTIST TO WATCHLIST
- Solo artist making noise across Chicago’s underground scene.
- Built a strong following through viral skits and entertaining content, successfully blending music + personality, helping him stand out.
- Consistently dropping music while leveraging social media virality, gaining recognition for turning comedy and creativity into real buzz.
- Achieved One Million Followers On Instagram
- Went Viral After Being Featured IShowSpeed’s Stream
