If there is one thing that music fans seek among today’s rising music artists, it is their commitment to remain authentic to their own brand of music, refusing to be consumed by the overwhelming pop culture. Rising hip-hop artist Inky is prioritizing the authenticity of his music, knowing that standing out amid the sea of talents necessitates being distinct and not being afraid to be one.
Born Sharn Forrest on July 21, 1990, in Jamaica, Inky is a talented music producer, songwriter, and rapper whose love for music was set ablaze when he was 14 years old and moved to the island of St. Maarten. Formerly known as Young S, Inky’s music began to attract various independent artists, and it paved the way for promising collaborations. He established his own music label called Ink Gang as he progressed, realizing that making songs is something that he sees himself doing long-term. His Caribbean influence gives his songs a distinct vibe, much to the delight of his fans.
Building his personal brand was inspired by his desire to offer a genuine kind of music to hip-hop fans from all over the world. He has seen how other big names in the industry have overcome the challenges of the business, and he wants to be able to do the same. Seeing the likes of Dame Dash, Jay-Z, and Kanye West become respectable artists and entrepreneurs at the same time gives him the confidence boost he needs to pursue the same path. Inky wants to build an authentic and unique brand that will stand out from the rest. He sees this brand attacking billion-dollar investors and large companies that he can collaborate with. Through his brand, he would like to initiate advocacies that will benefit communities greatly.
“I make timeless music and I’m really here to stay, unlike my other peers who are just in it for the monetary gains,” Inky shared. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m going to still make sure I’m straight and also take good care of my people along with the community. But I won’t be going anywhere. I’m like a solid foundation placed in the center of the cultures. That’s how I want to be cemented and I do know that will take a lot of work. However, I already started to apply pressure, and I won’t let up,” he added.
Inky envisions a bright future ahead of him in the hip-hop industry, knowing that he will be pouring all his energy into making a name for himself in the next five years. He sees himself reaching the height of his music career and slowly transitioning into becoming the CEO of his own music label. In the next few years, he wants to start focusing on the business side of the music industry and help aspiring new music artists make a name for themselves. He looks forward to becoming a supportive mentor to new artists and helping them avoid the same mistakes he experienced in the past.
As people look at his personal journey as a music artist, Inky hopes for nothing but for them to be inspired by his incredible experience. Life was not always easy for him, but he has proven time and time again that having grit and determination help a lot. Understanding that there are so many others like him out there who are trying to pursue their dreams, he wants to be their source of motivation and see his life as a concrete example of what happens when somebody does not give up on his dreams. Just as he has started making a mark on the music industry, they, too, will be able to establish themselves successfully so long as they fix their eyes on the goal.
Follow Inky on Instagram for updates on his latest projects.
