Artist Spotlight: Da Nola Poboi

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Atlanta, G.A. – Da Nola Poboi, a former artist of Lil Jon & the Eastside Boyz. He is a talented independent artist hailing from New Orleans. He’s been in the game for about a decade but didn’t start taking music seriously until 4-6 years into his career. He started by dropping his first solo self-titled project ‘Nola PoBoi’ in late 2016. He worked with elite artists such as Lil Boosie, the Ying Yang Twins, and one of his biggest influences, Juvenile. From there his career took off and he gained much buzz. After almost losing his life in the streets, he almost gave up but quickly bounced back into the spotlight. After his 2019 debut EP ‘Protocol’ under his own label, he signed a deal with Derrick Johnson of Savage Life Entertainment. Da Nola Poboi has been making noise over the years in the music business. His time is now.

1. What inspired you to become an artist/rapper? Musical icons?

I used to beatbox on desks a lot when I was younger and I freestyled as a way of trying to express my feelings. It was my creative outlet. One of my biggest influences was the rapper Juvenile.

2. What projects are you working on right now?

Well, I just finished my mixtape titled ‘Won’t Be Denied” and my next album “Private Party” for the ladies. I also dropped the single ‘Build Up’ with Jody Breeze.

3. Do you have any suggestions for newcomers?

I always keep grinding. There’s a lot of agents who are looking for hungry artists! Make sure your paperwork is straight and always check over your contract. 

4. If you could pick ANY artist(s), What would be your dream collaboration?

My dream collaboration is with Kevin Gates. His style of music really compliments what I do.

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?

Make sure to keep positive people around you. Negative energy not only puts you in a bad mood, but bad moods can lead to distractions. It’s hard to make the right decisions when your distracted. I learned the hard way. A bad mood could cause me to sign a bad deal in an effort to separate from negative people. Get rid of the negative people first before doing anything.

6. If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

I would change who they allow in the music industry. They allow anybody into the music industry nowadays. They are basically  industry clones since everybody sounds the same. Authentic deliveries and well organized productions are highly valued by me. Nobody has that IT factor anymore, but I enjoy good music no matter the genre.

7. What’s next for you? 

Basically, get a heavy investment behind me. Paid opportunities help to build my funds up. I’m also looking into magazine and other PR opportunities.

8. Why is it important to learn, study & understand old music/samples)?

You gotta know your roots and pay homage to where you came from. If you do not know where you came from, you do not know where you are going.  

9.  Does your work comment on current political / social issues?

I can but… It’s folks watching. I’m still somewhat of a “new” artist in that many people don’t know me. I don’t wanna stain my brand or reputation. Cancel culture is real.  

10. Where can our loyal WQEB fans find you?

You can check me out at Danolapoboi on Instagram and Facebook.