In this episode of the ‘HIGHSTREET’ podcast, recent Testing Lab winner MC Flava opened up about his remarkable journey as an emerging artist in the music industry. The conversation highlighted his roots, his relentless drive, and the experiences that have shaped him into the artist he is today.
Originally from Florida, Flava moved to Boston to pursue his dreams. Reflecting on his transition, he shared insights into the challenges he faced as an up-and-coming artist in a new city. One of the pivotal moments in his journey came during his first performance at the “Testing Lab” event, where he battled self-doubt and nervousness. Throughout his career, Flava has collaborated with various producers and engineers, noting how these partnerships have helped him grow. He specifically mentioned DVo, a producer who played a crucial role in boosting his confidence. “Working with the right people can change everything,” he said, underscoring the significance of mentorship in the industry.
Flava also candidly shared an incident that temporarily shook his confidence. In a recording studio, he faced criticism about his style, which initially discouraged him. However, rather than allowing it to deter him, he used that experience as motivation to improve his craft. “It’s all part of the journey,” he reflected, highlighting the resilience required in the face of criticism.
The conversation took a deeper turn as Flava discussed his Haitian background and its impact on his music. He emphasized how his heritage has allowed him to connect with other Haitian artists in the Boston scene. A humorous tangent about Haitian Mormons in Boston brought laughter to the discussion, illustrating the unexpected moments that often arise in life.
Flava also shared a personal story about his unexpected move to Boston, initially intending for it to be a short visit. However, after meeting someone special, he decided to stay, marking a significant turning point in his life. Throughout the episode, Flava stressed the importance of authenticity and finding one’s lane in the music industry. He underscored the value of community and support systems, particularly within the Haitian community, as essential elements of an artist’s journey.
In a separate story shared during the episode, Flava recounted a troubling incident involving an Uber driver that escalated into a three-hour standoff with police. The conflict arose when the driver refused to follow Flava’s suggested route, leading to a heated argument. After dropping him off, the driver falsely reported that Flava had a gun, prompting a swift police response.
As the situation escalated, police and SWAT teams surrounded Flava’s home while he remained inside, refusing to open the door. Eventually, detectives were allowed to search the premises, finding no weapon and raising concerns about the police’s handling of the situation. Flava expressed frustration with how the incident was managed, noting the lasting consequences, including a permanent ban from using Uber.
Amidst the challenges, Flava maintained a lighthearted approach, even joking about creating a diss track about the Uber driver, showcasing his ability to find humor in difficult situations.
