Today we’d like to introduce you to Mickey DAZE.
It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?
Thank you for taking the time out to speak to me! My name is Xavier Walker aka Mickey DAZE, I am originally from Beaufort, SC by the way of Washington Heights, NY. Hip Hop has been a vital part of my story since I’ve rode with my dad as a jit, listening to Wu-Tang, Gangstarr, EPMD on cassette tapes; or with my mom, listening to Anita Bake Luther, Minnie Ripperton. From that point, I knew I wanted to be a rapper but given the circumstance, I had to put music on the back-burner. My mother, by far, was my biggest supporter when it came to music. After she passed, she (and most recently, my daughter) was/is my Y factor and that was my motivation to really put forth an effort to further my rap career.
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
Other than losing my mother, battling homelessness, being on the outs with my dad really did a number on me; emotionally. Still to this day, I have trouble dealing with the passing of my mother. Once I became a father, it kinda put a lot of things in my life in perspective. I was able to tap into who I was prior to my mother’s passing to be a good father to my beautiful daughter. The little girl that continues to amaze me every single day became my muse that I searched for.
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
Well, to be as modest as I can possibly be, I would describe my artistry as being a utility player for football or basketball. Someone who can play all positions and excel at each one. I am self-taught in Fruit Loops, Logic, Ableton and Garageband when it comes down to mixing and mastering my vocals; on top of the writing process. I do have awesome brothers who assists me with beats, or when I’m out of town, I have a reliable source to access a studio. My work ethic, especially with others, is phenomenal; but I always make sure that I am easy to work with. I never go out of my way to have an out of control ego, because that makes me unworkable.
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
To never give up, by any means necessary. Sometimes, your journey may be a solo one but that should never deter you from achieving any dreams or goals you set for yourself. Don’t be afraid to fail otherwise, how would you ever know if you never took a chance?
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
Success is whatever short-term and/or long term goals that you have set for yourself. Success isn’t measured by how much money is in your bank account or how many cars you have in your mansion; but by how you handle the paradigm shift.
What’s next for you?
Currently, I am working on my new project called “DAZEOFDOOM” or “DOD” for short and also a freestyle tape to round out the year.
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
I am active on the following social media platforms:
twitter.com/mickeydazehoe
facebook.com/mickeydazehoe
instagram.com/dodpart2
soundcloud.com/mickeydaze
music.apple.com/us/artist/mickey-daze
open.spotify.com/artist/mickey-daze
Snapchat: dazeofdoom
