Dumb Blonde Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Throwback Thursday: Ekoh Music - Vegas Native Goes VIRAL
Host: Bunnie XO
Guest: Echo (Ekoh Music)
Release Date: [Assumed based on transcript]
Introduction
In this episode of the Dumb Blonde podcast, host Bunnie XO delves deep into the life and career of Echo, a rising music sensation hailing from Las Vegas. Titled "Throwback Thursday: Ekoh Music - Vegas Native Goes VIRAL," this episode explores Echo's journey through music, personal struggles, and the impact of social media on his burgeoning career.
Guest Introduction and Background [04:01 - 05:10]
The episode kicks off with hosts Bunnie XO and Jay welcoming their special guest, Echo, introducing him as a "Vegas native" who has recently gone viral in the music scene.
Jay:
"Welcome to another episode of Dumb Blonde. Today we have a sensation in our presence, Echo."
[04:01]
Echo shares his initial connection with the hosts and his roots in Las Vegas, highlighting his authentic ties to the city.
Musical Journey and Early Influences [05:10 - 07:13]
Echo provides an insightful look into his early relationship with music, revealing how his passion was ignited during his teenage years.
Echo:
"Pretty much, yeah. That's exactly how it happened. I've always loved just music in general."
[05:23]
He discusses his love for underground hip-hop, citing influences like Jedi Mind Tricks, Necro, and Atmosphere, alongside his appreciation for pop-punk and hardcore music. This blend of genres shaped his unique sound, allowing him to resonate with diverse audiences.
Overcoming Addiction and Mental Health [07:13 - 12:22]
One of the most poignant segments of the episode revolves around Echo's battle with addiction and his path to sobriety. Echo candidly shares his struggles with opiates, heroin, and cocaine, leading to a life-threatening juncture.
Echo:
"I was living on the street. I had an ultimatum. It was either go to jail or go to rehab."
[08:16]
He recounts his time in rehab at 18, where he began writing his first raps as a form of therapy. Echo emphasizes the importance of mental health, discussing how sobriety has been both a challenge and a triumph in his life.
Echo:
"Being sober... is not always easy. But if there's a chance that I end up back where I was, it's not worth it."
[10:52]
Echo and Jay delve into the complexities of maintaining mental health while pursuing a demanding career, touching on issues like anxiety and depression. They explore the paradox of improved self-awareness juxtaposed with heightened emotional challenges post-sobriety.
Role of Social Media in Career Growth [12:22 - 25:12]
Echo highlights the transformative role that social media, particularly TikTok, has played in his rise to fame. He contrasts the efficacy of platforms like TikTok with declining engagement on Instagram and other channels.
Echo:
"The algorithm they have makes people feel. If you put out something good, it could change your life."
[24:41]
He discusses the strategic use of TikTok to reach a broader audience, emphasizing the platform's potential to propel artists into the spotlight. Echo credits consistent content creation and authentic engagement as key factors in his viral success.
Challenges as a Vegas Native [25:12 - 27:24]
Echo sheds light on the unique challenges artists face coming from Las Vegas, a city not traditionally recognized for its local music scene.
Echo:
"Locally we don't care. So Vegas isn't known for... No national recognition."
[25:31]
He explains how the lack of a strong local support system in Vegas makes it difficult for artists to gain national attention, often necessitating relocation to music hubs like Nashville. Echo underscores the importance of community and grassroots support in sustaining an artist's growth.
Touring Experiences [27:24 - 38:07]
Echo recounts his experiences touring with notable artists like Webby, Mickey Avalon, and Dizzy, detailing both the highs and the logistical challenges of life on the road.
Echo:
"Webby and the three tours were like my real entrance into the touring world."
[36:57]
He shares anecdotes from tours, including memorable moments and the camaraderie with fellow artists. Echo also discusses his upcoming headlining shows, expressing both excitement and apprehension about carrying an entire tour as a solo act.
Future Projects and Album Release [38:07 - 47:55]
Looking ahead, Echo provides updates on his latest musical endeavors, including his upcoming album "Detour 3" set to release in July. He also touches upon the process of crafting his music, the pressures of chart success, and his aspirations for creative evolution.
Echo:
"The new album will come out in July... I've been putting something together."
[41:41]
He elaborates on the meticulous process of selecting tracks and ensuring quality, revealing the mental strain associated with producing cohesive and impactful work. Echo also discusses his reluctance to engage in traditional listening parties, highlighting his discomfort with direct feedback on his art.
Closing Remarks and Future Collaborations [47:55 - End]
As the episode draws to a close, Echo expresses his admiration for fellow artists and his commitment to supporting the Dumb Blonde community. The hosts encourage listeners to follow Echo's journey across social media platforms.
Echo:
"What you guys do and what you guys represent, both you and Jelly, that's something I really support."
[47:43]
Jay reaffirms his excitement for Echo's future, promising to feature him again as Echo's career continues to ascend.
Notable Quotes
-
Echo on Starting Music in Rehab:
"I wrote my first rap when I was in rehab. It was probably some super emo shit."
[17:24] -
Echo on Sobriety and Mental Health:
"Being sober... is not always easy. But if there's a chance that I end up back where I was, it's not worth it."
[10:52] -
Echo on Social Media's Impact:
"The algorithm they have makes people feel. If you put out something good, it could change your life."
[24:41] -
Echo on Challenges in Vegas:
"Locally we don't care. So Vegas isn't known for... No national recognition."
[25:31] -
Echo on Upcoming Album:
"The new album will come out in July... I've been putting something together."
[41:41]
Conclusion
This episode of Dumb Blonde offers an intimate glimpse into Echo's life, highlighting the intersection of personal resilience and professional ambition. Through his candid storytelling, Echo not only shares his triumphs and tribulations but also underscores the vital role of authenticity and community support in the music industry. Listeners gain valuable insights into the pressures faced by emerging artists and the strategies that can propel them to success in a digital age.
Connect with Echo:
- TikTok: @ekohmusic
- Instagram: @ekoh_music
- YouTube: Ekoh Music
Stay Tuned: Echo's album "Detour 3" releases in July, with upcoming headlining shows across various cities later in the year. Fans can expect a blend of heartfelt lyrics and dynamic performances as Echo continues to evolve his sound.