IYKYK with Shokanni leader of INI records from Queens, New York

photo credit @chopsueystudios

by YourInfoDaily 

We had the opportunity to catch up with Shokanni, founder of INI records, who recently dropped their new music video for 'Thai Fried Rice'.  

How did you get your start in the music/entertainment industry? What drew you to the music industry? 
I was Influenced by my older brothers and growing up in the culture. I started writing raps for fun and was good at it. Then I Started a group with my childhood friends Hollis boys and from there became really passionate about it. 

photo credit @chopsueystudios

What is your biggest accomplishment both personally and professionally?  
Personally coming home from prison with nothing and building a foundation of a real empire. Creating jobs and helping my friends/fam. Professionally building my clothing brand from a few T-shirts to a full clothing line. 

We know you have a label and a clothing brand and you hail from Queens, New York. What would people be surprised to know about you? 
I’ve been Vegan for two years and a workout junkie. Adamant reader.

​Do you have any organizations or personal causes you are passionate about? Have you ever participated in charity events?
Super passionate about the youth and giving guidance I didn’t have. Steering men and women home from prison guidance pursuing their dreams. Not involved in organization but definitely on my agenda. Willing and able to work with any charity that goes along those lines. 

photo credit @chopsueystudios

Being a new artist and collective have you identified who your fans are? Who is most vocal online?
I definitely identify my fans but don’t want to put a demographic on it. They are Cultural and identify with us. Fans are culturally authentic and real people that understand building something from nothing. Most vocal online are the real people.
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Your music reminds me of the LOX and nostalgic NYC hiphop energy, who are some of your favorite artists/inspirations? 
Definitely the Lox, but I’m just inspired by the whole culture as a whole and hip hop as a whole. Hip hop all together no artist in particular. ​
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Anything unique about your creative process/what happens in your day to day? 
One thing about me, about my creative process I just tune everything out and get into a zone just focused on what’s at hand whether it’s designing clothes or making records. I meditate everyday, to start off the day.

Where do you see INI and Vision Attire in 5 years? 
The number one independent record label in the world and the number one streetwear brand in the world simultaneously!

Click here to watch their latest music video 'Thai Fried Rice' and learn more about this duo.

Photo credit @chopsueystudios