Outside of 10 plus previous years of hosting experience, DēP has shared the stage with and worked alongside some of the best of the best in music from Beyonce’ to Kanye West, Chance The Rapper, Brandy, Jill Scott and more.  One of his recent ventures is being in the Kayne West Sunday Service Sunrise Choir as one of “The Samples”.  With this, he has been able to experience Coachella as an artist and not just an attendee.  DeP’s song was chosen to be the theme song for the new hour-long podcast, HBCUbiquity, hosted by Tom Joyner, Jr. president, and CEO of the 22-year-old Tom Joyner Foundation.  He has also made cameo appearances in several music videos including “Matrimony” (Wale ft. Usher), “Bang Bang” (Jessie J ft. Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj), and “So In Love” (Jill Scott ft. Anthony Hamilton) to name a few also flexing his acting muscles in commercials (Dos Equis & Beats By Dre), TV (Gloryland, We Thee People w Gloria Alred, Grammy Awards, etc) and film (This Side Up, Black Gold, The Preachers Son, etc.)

When did you start making music?

I’ve been singing since the age of six, but I actually didn’t start writing and creating music until I was about 15 years old.  I did it for gospel conventions back in Houston, Texas, my hometown.

How would you describe your musical style?

Funny, it used to be stereotypical R&B.  For this new project, Edibles & Elevation, it’s a sonic representation of my experiences, that has a broad sound that can’t be defined by genre alone. It’s freer, much more authentic and honest.  This project is going to be separated by three moods.. Sativa, Indica and Hybrid.  The music under each mood will reflect the energy of that mood.

Who are your musical icons/influences?

Donny Hathaway, Tank, Missy Elliott, Yolanda Adams, Prince and Southeast Inspirational Choir have been icons and inspirations for years.  Lately it’s the new young artist out that have helped make it okay to not be boxed in and get back to creativity before branding.

What is your creative process like?

To LIVE! I believe that experiences are the secret ingredients to creativity.  After that, being honest with the experience when sharing it.  Sometimes I write without a beat, that happens most times during a flight and so I sing the melodies or concepts into my voice note.  Funny as hell to watch, I’m sure cause i try not to disturb the other passengers.  Other times, I have worked with producers that have some production already in the works that connect and vibe with.  It varies.

 

How long have you been acting for and how did you get involved in acting?

I have been acting since the age of 13.  I went to performing arts schools and joined the young performers at the Ensemble Theater at that time.  I got my start doing stage plays and had an opportunity to do some commercials.  It wasn’t until my twenties though, after moving to LA that I really started doing more acting.  I wanted a break from the business of music and acting embraced me.  It helped respark my creativity all around which was pretty dope.

Any upcoming projects coming up that you would like to share with readers?

Yes, a couple.  I’m about to release a single, Fallback, which is a prelude to my first book, Fallback To Step Up.  Both are coming out soon to be followed up with my LP, Edibles & Elevation.

What is something you will never do again?

Compromise myself for someone else to make them happy or comfortable, while ignoring the signs of me doing so.

The song that gets the most play on your iTunes playlist?

HA! “Booty” Blac Youngsta ft Chris Brown.

What song on your iPod would surprise people?

Motherf*cker Got F*cked UP by Folk Uke, lol.  I know I know, smh.  It’s a funny song!

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

I have a high school age son.

What memory do you just keep going back to?

Currently, a recent break up.  Shaking that though, so that’ll change soon.

How can everyone keep in contact with you on social media?

Everyone can check me out at @Thinkdep on all social media platforms or my official website is ThinkDeP.com .  Remember Nothing Is Happenstance!!! Thanks for having me.