ClassiK

What did Norco Music mean to you?

Norco Music, to me, means family. Although we’ve all moved on, we’ll always be connected by the memories and the music we created together.

Favorite memory from your time there?

The intimate sessions we had in the music and rehearsal rooms. We got the chance to hear each other’s stories and backgrounds, and from that, we were able to create the most authentic music.

What are you doing now?

I’m now a full-time open-format DJ and audio engineer. I apply everything I learned at Norco Music to every event I perform at.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced?

Making ends meet during the COVID pandemic. On top of that, my son was born that same year, so I had to take a break from school to prioritize providing for my family. It was a tough and stressful decision—but God came through in the end.

Was there a moment you knew you were on the right path?

When I began bonding with my peers. My classmates and professors started to feel like family. As an older student, the younger guys began leaning on me for guidance and encouragement. That’s when I realized I was exactly where I needed to be. I met so many great and amazing people.

What project are you most proud of?

Definitely my song called “Don’t Give In” featuring singer-songwriter Coryn Cahill. I wanted to shine a light on suicide awareness and encourage people to always remain hopeful—to never give in to darkness and hardship. We need to be there for one another and lift each other up. Less fighting, more uniting. We can all win.

How do you stay inspired?

I stay inspired by surrounding myself with other creatives and like-minded people. Sometimes just one interaction can spark an entire project. Collaborate with anyone and everyone—let’s make art together!

What advice would you give current Norco Music students?

Stay inspired. Stay positive. Stay humble. Every creator hits a block at some point, but if you stay focused, you’ll eventually get over that hump. Every small break comes with an even bigger comeback.

Record your process—whether audibly or visually. Watch and listen to your work, just like athletes watch footage of their games. You’ll learn, adjust, and grow into the best version of yourself.

Lastly—don’t wait. Put your art and music out there for the world to experience!