After turning heads with his 2023 breakout single 'Grateful', which earned a coveted NFL sync, rising hip-hop artist Shawn Tuck is back with a smooth, confident new release 'Been A Vibe'.
Blending half-sung, half-rapped vocals over textured, R&B-infused production, the track captures the essence of an artist who’s found his lane and is accelerating fast.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with him to explore his journey from underdog to emerging force, and find out how he balances vulnerability, ambition, and real connection in his music as he continues his rise with Subtle Insight Entertainment.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I ever fell in love with was the drums—something about the rhythm just spoke to me. Not long after, I picked up the trumpet, and it quickly became another passion. Those two really laid the foundation for my love of music.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Growing up, I was into all kinds of music, everything from rock to soul, but rap was definitely what I had on repeat the most. Still, deep down, I always had a soft spot for R&B. I used to secretly sing when no one was around.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album I ever remember owning was Britney Spears’ …Baby One More Time. When I was about 8 years old, I was hooked. That CD lived in my little stereo for weeks. Funny how music can stick with you like that, no matter the genre or age, it leaves an impression.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
If there’s one song I wish I could’ve written, it’s definitely Human Nature by Michael Jackson. That record is just different. The emotion, the melodies, the feeling it gives you, it’s pure magic.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I don’t really have any rituals or routines when it comes to writing music. I just let it flow. Whatever I’m feeling in the moment is what ends up on the track. I’ve learned that the best stuff usually comes when I’m not forcing it, just being present and letting the vibe guide me.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
A few of my favourite artists I’m listening to right now are Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, LaRussell, JID… and Myself. Gotta give myself some credit too, I make music I actually enjoy, and that’s the whole point. All of those artists bring something real, and that’s what inspires me the most.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
If I could open a show for anyone in the world, it would definitely be Lil Wayne. When I first started out, I wanted to be just like Wayne. His wordplay, his style, his impact, he was that guy for me. It would be a full circle moment to share a stage with the artist who inspired me from the jump.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The best part about being a musician is seeing how people connect with your music. When someone knows your lyrics, sings along, or even tells you how a song made them feel..it hits different. Whether it’s a positive or even emotional reaction, just knowing your art moved someone is the most rewarding part of it all.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The most frustrating part of being a musician is definitely writer’s block, those moments when you feel something inside but just can’t seem to get it out. It’s like the creativity is there, but it’s stuck. That disconnect between your mind and the music can really mess with your rhythm, especially when you know you’ve got something to say.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
The best piece of advice I’ve received as an artist is to always remain yourself—humble and grounded—because this doesn’t last forever. The music industry moves fast, and it’s easy to get caught up in the highs. But staying true to who you are and keeping your feet on the ground is what gives your journey real longevity.
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Shawn Tuck's new single 'Been A Vibe' is out now. Check it out in the player below.