In the latest episode of Highstreet, music producer Akachi made his return to the podcast, bringing along fellow Bink Boys members SonickaBoom and OnlyLah. Together, they discussed their rise in the music industry, their unique production techniques, and the story behind their collective, which has earned them placements with major artists like Lil Uzi Vert, Chief Keef, and Future.
The episode also marked a turning point for the podcast, as co-host Naughtyy announced her departure after a two-year run. In her farewell, she expressed gratitude for the journey, noting the show’s accomplishments, including a Boston Music Award. She revealed plans to launch her own podcast segment by the end of the year. Hosts Akachi and Jay now face the challenge of steering the show forward.
The Bink Boys’ collective began during their college years at Fairfield University, where they bonded over a shared passion for music production. Over time, their collaborative efforts evolved, leading to placements with industry heavyweights like Gucci Mane and Chief Keef.
The group attributes much of their success to an unorthodox approach to beat-making. They intentionally incorporate “wrong” elements into their tracks, creating distinctive beats that stand out in an oversaturated industry. “We add imperfections to give our beats character,” Akachi explained during the interview.
The Bink Boys also delved into the integration of AI tools in their work. Akachi described AI as a complementary tool, not a replacement for creativity. “We use AI to speed up the workflow—whether it’s finding samples, generating new ideas, or experimenting with unconventional sounds,” he explained. Tools like Splice and Spawn are part of their arsenal, allowing them to maintain their unorthodox approach while staying efficient.
SonickaBoom added, “AI helps with the groundwork, but the human element—the soul of the music—still has to come from us. It’s about enhancing creativity, not replacing it.”
Akachi shared insights into their networking strategies, emphasizing persistence. “I spent years reaching out to artists like Chief Keef,” he said, highlighting the importance of building connections through consistent effort.
The producers also detailed their in-studio process, describing how they balance creative spontaneity with constructive feedback. They stressed the importance of creating an environment that fosters genuine artistry, contrasting this with artists who prioritize a lifestyle image over musical growth.
The discussion expanded to include broader industry topics, such as the volatility of streaming platforms and the emergence of alternatives like the direct-to-fan platform “Even.” They also touched on the impact of TikTok and social media on music promotion.
Listeners were treated to an exclusive preview of an unreleased track by one of the hottest artists in the country, adding a special moment to an already insightful episode.
