SXSW Pop: What inspired you to start making music, and how has your creative process evolved over time?
Louis Davis Jr.: I started out making music really young. whether I was just tapping pencils on the table in class or singing in the church choir as a kid. My dad used to have a bunch of drum sets, organs and pianos around the house And after he got rid of all of those I would still turn over empty paint buckets and make beats. My uncle played trombone at Grambling. My cousin was Michael Jackson's lead bass guitarist. My mother sang solos every Sunday morning. I was born into the music scene. All my friends made music as well.
My creative process involves a lot of research. Things that I talk about, you won't necessarily hear within an ordinary song. I stretch limits. I have yet to hear another person who sounds like me. I am inspired to keep making music because I am the only one of my kind.
Cliche to say last of a dying breed but instead of die - hopefully I can multiply more individuals with a sophisticated taste. I literally invented a new way to compose.
There are a lot of undiscovered fans out there who are not impressed with the heavily distributed poop....so they turn their nose....I don't blame them....who wants to listen to a diuretic FM station?
That is until Unconventional Loui french kisses their eardrum with a wet decibel like it's the first time they've heard music underwater
SXSW Pop: Can you tell us about your song "Outrageous"? What's the inspiration behind it, and what do you hope listeners take away from it?
Louis Davis Jr.: Outside of music I'm big on working out....keeping fit....staying in shape. I wanted to make something for the gym rats. the folks who like to look good. I got Stunnaman02 on there and that man is a genius. real blessing to be apart of something so creative. longevity is crucial so why not focus on living longer? in order to do so - you literally have to be outrageous. Invest in yourself...."I went to invest in the ground, even though I got my paper back - I still got a hard copy" - Unconventional Loui
SXSW Pop: How do you approach songwriting, and what do you think sets your songs apart from others in your genre?
Louis Davis Jr.: I approach song writing as if no one in the entire world will have a better verse than me. There are so many good songs out there And yet I still make music that I have never heard before.
I'm a cocky writer because I know I'm the best at it. My writing skills are so much more advanced it's not even fair..... sometimes I feel like I have to dumb myself down just to fit in. Just listen to me n tell me what you think.
SXSW Pop: Who are some of your biggest influences, and how have they shaped your sound and style?
Louis Davis Jr.: All S.F. Bay area rappers. everybody from my section is litty. But I love East Coast hip hop, punk rock/ Rock and roll, reggae, rnb, gospel, oldies... everything. I was even influenced by the sound of the rock that hit my windshield from driving behind a truck carrying a bunch of debris the other day. being a fan of so much music And having so many influences required me to be different.
SXSW Pop: What's been the most rewarding experience in your career so far, and what's been the most challenging?
Louis Davis Jr.: It's rewarding when people stick but it's challenging for people to sift through the garbage before they actually hear something they like.
SXSW Pop: How do you balance your creative vision with the demands of the music industry? Do you have any advice for artists who are just starting out?
Louis Davis Jr.: I honestly just keep creating..... and my advice to other artists is to keep creating...it's fun
SXSW Pop: Can you tell us about your live show experience? What can fans expect when they come to see you perform?
Louis Davis Jr.: Everyone always has the same thing to say about my performance. I'm highly energetic. I will literally wake you up. A lot different than anyone else that has either gone before me or will go after me.
SXSW Pop: What do you think is the most important thing for artists to focus on in today's music industry?
Louis Davis Jr.: The music.
SXSW Pop: How do you stay connected with your fans, and what kind of fan engagement do you prioritize?
Louis Davis Jr.: I consistently make and release music. after all, that's how we are connected. So it is my duty to keep them guessing. I prioritize those who exclaim.
SXSW Pop: What's next for you in terms of new music, tours, or other projects? Can you give us a sneak peek into what's coming up?
Louis Davis Jr.: I recently just released "Move"
I also just recently released "Decisions"
I also just released "Heterologous POTUS"
I also just released "Me Gusta Bailar"
I am a part of a duo called SOAPBOYZ
soap stands for SHARE OPPORTUNITIES AMONGST PEOPLE... we believe that's the only way to get fresh. we will be dropping an EP within this next month or so.
I'm also about to drop a huge album with King Lung and I am also about to drop Unconventional Loui 3.5
Plus many more.... it never stops. I literally make 2-3 songs a day... and I make all my own beats. I'm infinite