Features : Red fades to Blue for new Hip-Hop/Rap artist vibrant with versatility, talent

MOUNT UNION, PA – In two stark different expressions, SL33PY released two projects this fall that capture his raw talent, passion and versatile sound – first “Red,” then “Blue.”

These four-track mix tapes give Hip-Hop and Rap fans a range of emotion that tells a story of heartbreaking pain, choices and damaging effects, as well as hope and dreams for a better tomorrow.

“I’ve been through some things nobody should have to go through,” SL33PY said. “I’ve seen things and experienced a lot, but music was my way of expressing that. I pride myself on being versatile. With ‘Red,’ you feel the tough side, when I lived in the Bronx, Philly and Harrisburg – But with ‘Blue,’ these are four tracks of a kind of inner pain that everyone carries. In these songs, there’s something everyone can relate to and statements that you can feel.”

There is no doubt “Blue” holds some of SL33PY’s best work, but specifically the track “Barely Holdin’ On” represents a milestone of achievement for the young artist.

“I always felt like I was good at sitting down and writing a well-layered song, but my delivery was my biggest challenge,” he said. “You can write a beautiful song but if it’s not delivered with heart, nobody’s gonna hear it. I’ve matured a lot as a person and an artist, and ‘Barely Holdin’ On’ portrays it very well. Hands down, it’s my favorite song. It’s done with more passion unlike anything else I’ve ever done. I pray I’m capable to top it one day, but I set the bar pretty high on that one.”

The 23-year-old artist was born Zach Vaughn of Lewistown, Penn., and began his music career under the stage name “Th3 Pr0f1t.” A year ago, he switched to a more familiar nickname “SL33PY” – because his friends always said he looked tired. But the name itself holds a deeper meaning.

“The Angel Number 33 means balance, creativity, expression and building the life you want to live,” SL33PY said. “Not to dive into too many crazy details, but by the time I was 17 I had buried eight family members. Loss hits you different when you’re young because you don’t fully comprehend the concept of death. When you get older, you realize something you need isn’t there. Honestly, if I didn’t have music I don’t know where I’d be today. I was a troublesome child – and I’m not proud of it – but I started journaling and it turned to music about when I was 17.”

Life definitely threw some curves, and for the most part SL33PY said he did his best to “take it on the chin and keep pushing,” but in his lowest moment, he stepped away from music.

“I was dealing with a lot and it hit me hard,” SL33PY said. “If it wasn’t for my friends Tyler Metz, Mario Cabrera and Tyrik Hartley, I don’t think I would have made it back. These guys collectively pushed me, motivated me and didn’t take ‘No’ for an answer. They kept me locked in, and told me to never lose that passion.”

SL33PY’s next projects include hit singles, “Feel My Love,” followed by “Vengeful” later this month. He’s preparing for a live performance early next year, with more music just waiting to be released and shared with the world. Make sure to stay connected to SL33PY on all platforms for new music, videos, and social posts.

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