In this latest episode of The Franchise Report, DJ Franchise welcomes Emdog, a 22-year-old artist hailing from Providence, Rhode Island, who’s making waves not only in music but also in the event promotion scene. Starting his musical journey at the age of 15, Emdog has spent the past several years refining his craft while also becoming a significant figure in organizing and promoting shows in Rhode Island.
Emdog is reshaping the way events are promoted. While traditional flyers once dominated the scene, the young artist has turned to social media as a powerful tool for getting the word out. “Social media has become the go-to for everything now. It’s how I promote my events,” he says, recognizing the massive shift in the industry’s promotional tactics.
Growing up in a musically rich environment, Emdog’s influences span a wide range of genres. His father’s love for hip-hop was counterbalanced by his mother’s R&B and rock preferences, resulting in a diverse musical foundation. “Music was always in the air at home,” he shares, noting that his brother, based in New Jersey, has also played a key role in his musical development. “He helps with making beats and audio engineering.”
As Emdog prepares for the release of his highly anticipated third album, I Am Me, dropping on April 18, 2025, the artist reveals that the project will showcase his versatility. Unlike his previous work, I Am Me will blend elements of hip-hop, rock, and R&B, signaling a shift from his traditional hip-hop roots. “I’m exploring different sounds and pushing the limits,” he says, aiming to appeal to a wider audience and break free from genre constraints.
Emdog’s influences are reflected in the diversity of his musical style. Drawing inspiration from the likes of A$AP Rocky, XXXTentacion, Eminem, Bob Marley, and Michael Jackson, he acknowledges how their music shaped his approach to both production and performance. However, despite his openness to experimenting with various genres, he admits that staying true to himself is a challenge. “Hip-hop will always be my first love, but I’m trying to figure out where I fit in this game,” he explains.
During the episode, Emdog gives fans a preview of his upcoming album, sharing an unreleased track that highlights his evolving sound. With heavy bass and an unmistakable energy, the track hints at the direction he’s heading with I Am Me. “I can’t wait for people to hear it,” he says, his excitement palpable.
Looking ahead, Emdog is focused on his dual passions: continuing to create music that pushes boundaries and organizing events that bring people together. As he wraps up the interview, it’s clear that his dedication to both his artistry and his community is only growing stronger.
With I Am Me on the horizon and more performances lined up, Emdog is ready to leave his mark. His story is one of evolution, determination, and the relentless pursuit of a sound that is uniquely his.
