subject: Colby Bright: artistic ambitions [print this page] Music's an important part of hip-hop artist Colby Bright's history. Besides his mother Jamie and younger brother Justin, he said music has helped him survive personal hardship. The 24-year-old Montgomery, Texas artist said he's taking personal struggles and turning them into rhymes and rhythms. He said his style is motivationally driven and designed to inspire listeners.
Bright's artistic background began at an early age, but credits writing poetry as one of his first steps toward his musical goal. "I started writing poetry when I was 12 or 13 years old," he said. Bright said poetry writing allowed him to show inner emotions. "[It was] a creative way to vent," he said.
His interest in music grew as he aged. By 17, Bright began recording over beats and recording lyrics with friends. He said he felt motivated bypeople around him. Bright and friends ("6 Mill" and "Tha Street") formed the group Knuckle Up Records. According to Bright, recording with friends harnessed his dedication toward music. "I knew from then on that [music] was what I wanted to do in life," he said. "Make great music and be able to support my family financially doing what I love."
After he became serious about music, Bright began spreading his talent on multiple mixtapes. With Knuckle Up Records, he said he's appeared on 10-to-12 mixtapes. In addition to mixtapes, Bright's released his own music. His first mixtape "War Wounds" was his first solo project. "This was a tape I was very proud of, and it also featured 'Keep Reachin,' which was the first song I ever did," he said. "From there I went on to release 'Unforgettable' and 'A Day at the Lake.'" His mixtape "Renewed" and single "Streetlife" received positive feedback, gaining airplay on numerous internet radio stations. Bright said his upcoming mixtape "Ambitions" will be professionally recorded, feature video shoots and live shows. He said he's excited for its release.
He said his song "Keep Reachin'" reminds him of his first live show. He went to Houston to perform, but his original plan was scrapped when he realized the song he was supposed to perform never arrived. Instead of canceling his show, Bright performed his own song. "I blinded out the crowd and did it, not knowing what reaction [the song] would get," he said. "Later they asked me to perform again when the place got more packed. That was a great feeling to me." He said the feedback inspired his second performance.
Recording his music is something Bright said he treasures because, according to him, "You never know when you're going to get the chance to go back in [the studio]." He acknowledged his favorite recording session being when he was in New York. He was in a studio with promoter Mack Milly. "Sitting back, soaking up the game he was giving me on the industry side and music side was priceless," Bright said. Besides his time with Milly, Bright said he is thankful for the many times his KU family has been with him while recording.
When it comes to support, Bright said he appreciates his followers for their messages of hope. He said his mother is his biggest fan. "She's my biggest supporter and my motivation for everything," he said. "I just want to give her the world."
Bright said he hopes to continue his run in the music business for several years. He said he's thankful for the support he's received throughout his career and hopes to continue his goals. "The future ahead is very bright and the sky is the limit," he said. "936, Mongomery, Texas, let's go."
