YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — Youngstown-based recording artist BLackkIcedT is making his presence known with the release of his latest single, “Thinkin ’Bout You,” a heartfelt record aimed at listeners who have ever felt overlooked, underestimated, or told they were not enough.
At 26 years old, BLackkIcedT has been crafting his sound since the age of 12, drawing inspiration from the music his mother, grandmother, and father played throughout his childhood. It was that early exposure to a wide range of genres that ignited his passion for music and shaped the artist he is today.
“It’s OK to express yourself in any talent that you have,” BLackkIcedT said. “No matter if you feel like no one is listening or watching, there’s always gonna be someone listening and watching. You just have to be willing to put the work into it and stay consistent.”
Influenced by legends including Nas, The Notorious B.I.G., Scarface, Common, Missy Elliott, and Gregory Isaacs, BLackkIcedT developed a style rooted in authenticity. While the music industry often rewards imitation, he has always taken a different approach.
“Everybody wants to be like someone, but what makes people different is being yourself,” he said. “No matter how weird I am in my videos or on record, I’m just being myself — and that’s what draws people’s attention to your music.”
Building a Career on His Own Terms
BLackkIcedT began releasing music at 19 after learning how to distribute independently to streaming platforms. Since then, he has sat down with labels, written and produced music for other artists locally, and even auditioned for a national commercial — all while funding his career on his own terms.
Despite his progress, he acknowledges the internal battles that come with being an independent artist.
“Sometimes I write a song and I don’t think it’s good, but other people do,” he said. “I just have to tell myself no matter what, just release it and promote it. I have to keep going until I get the job done.”
A Voice for the Overlooked
Perhaps the most defining element of BLackkIcedT’s mission is the community he speaks for. Living with ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, and a learning disability, he was labeled “unteachable” as a child and told he would need to depend on others as an adult. His mother refused to accept that narrative — and so did he.
“I’m telling everyone out there who wants to do music and is told they’re not good enough or they can’t do it — you can do anything that you put your mind to,” he said. “Don’t let nobody tell you differently.”
His personal motto says it all: A.D.H. — All Dreams Happen.
Looking ahead, BLackkIcedT envisions leaving his nine-to-five behind and building music into a full-time career, with a goal of generating $5,000 to $10,000 or more per week from his brand. A music video for “Thinkin ’Bout You” is currently in the works.
“I know what I want in my life,” he said. “I just keep going with God by my side.”
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