Artist Showcase: Dfflictim

Dfflicitm is a Chicago based multi-genre artist who's been doing a lot of filming of local Chicago hip-hop artists' music videos. But not only does this talented artist film other artists, but he also creates music of his own along with other types of art. Get to know him and check out some of his dope artwork.

1. Introduce Yourself!

My name is Dfflictim, pronounced (Dee-FlikT-em). I'm 21 from the south side of Chicago.

2. You partake in a few genres of art. Tell us more about them and what inspired you to get into the arts. Do you have a favorite genre that you partake in?

I do graphic arts, music (play a few instruments like bass, guitar, drums, keyboard), cinematography, and a bit of photography. I got started doing all of this through my father because he would get a lot of art and music programs for free, and just let me play on his computer to get a feel for each of them. I have yet to find a single favorite genre of work because I see the beauty in all of them, and like to diversify myself.

3. Why does your artistry and brand stand out from other artists'?

I believe my brand stands out from other artists because I have so many skills that I incorporate in my work for myself as well as others that your average creator doesn't have access to. Also I am strict with with my creating process, like as soon as I get started working, theres no getting up, texting, using social media etc... I allow no distractions.

4. Your artist name is really bold and unique. What does it mean and what's the story behind why you chose it to be your artist name.

Thank you. It means to create from a deep/real place, internally and externally. I got it from a Kid Cudi song titled "Efflictim", which was deep expressing how he felt and how I felt at the time it released. The whole album (WZRD) I felt like is something I would've done because it was a blend of genres which expressed his taste in rock, soul, and r&b music, which no other artist was doing and seemed like they were scared to do.

5. What has been your favorite project you've created so far and why?

I'd say my last project "Sample Based". for this one I took a step back from doing a lot of producing, and just sampled and chose my favorite beats from past hits from my favorite artists and musicians like, Nas, Damian Marley, Debarge, Smokey Robinson, and more. I just had fun with the songs and worked at my leisure.

6. What's the best thing about being, not only an artist, but also a business owner? What's the most challenging?

The best thing about being that is being able to express yourself, and get paid from it. You literally are getting paid to be you while having fun. Unlike working a job and running on someone else's time. The most challenging part so far is just getting my name out to the world for clientele, but that is a common thing business owners deal with and get through.

7. Who are some artists you want to collaborate with?

Kid Cudi, 2 Chainz, Kendrick Lamar, Common,Snoop Dogg, Phil Collins, Damien Marley, A$AP Rocky & Ferg, Daft Punk, Nas, Childish Gambino, Outkast, Phillip Glass, SZA, Eminem, Bone Thugs n Harmony, Ty Dola Sign, GLC, Wu Tang Clan, Schoolboy Q, Vic Mensa, Corrine Bailey Rae, Nickelback, Little Richard, Santana, Tech N9ne, JMSN, Cam'ron, Denzel Curry.

8. How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by doing the things I love and surrounding myself with others like me that do things I do, who promote growth and positivity, so I don't end up steering towards a wrong path.