Krooked Kriss

While perusing social media late one night, we came across the groovy tunes of Krooked Kriss.

We couldn't have found a more perfect artist to kick off our "On the Rise" blog with!

Besides being featured on our website for the month of May, you can find his toe-tapping, head-bobbing beats on SoundCloud.

Please support him by sharing his music, dropping a comment, and following him on Instagram!

Now, without further ado...meet Krooked Kriss!

How did you come up with your name?

My name, Krooked Kriss mostly came from the city where I grew up in - Corpus Christi. A nickname for the city is "Crooked Christi". I used Ks in the name because I am a Kappa. I wanted to portray a dj that doesn't always play a typical genre. In other words, not taking the straight path but taking the "Krooked" path. Something different.

How would you describe your music?

During quarantine, I started learning how to produce. The beats I am working on, in collaboration with other artists, are mostly experimental. I am still learning and discovering my sound. I love mixing different genres, from rap to underground music to top 40.

What inspired you to start and what inspires you today?

I randomly came across djing in college. At the time, I was thinking about getting into producing, and what I came to find is that there is a very steep learning curve. You have to be pretty focused and with my "ADD" I couldn't sit down and learn.

One day on eBay, I came across a $20 dj controller and just decided to buy it out of boredom. When the controller came in, I started learning on it and for the next couple nights I got absolutely no sleep. I was hooked!

My first real inspirations were Dj Jazzy Jeff, Dj Z Trip, and Dj Sleeper. They really opened my eyes to what could be possible as a dj in terms of evoking an emotion in a mix and setting a vibe.

What inspires me now would probably be any type of music I haven't heard before or stumbling across some obscure artists deep in SoundCloud. In general, artists doing their own thing; not really looking for fame but to express what they are feeling in the moment. That really inspires me.

What do you hope to accomplish with your music?

I hope to inspire someone or help someone's day be just a little bit better. There is some much going on in the world, especially now, and if my music could help someone escape or deal with the craziness, that's all I hope for.

What's one piece of advice you'd give to someone wanting to chase their dreams?

I would say there is no time like the present - just do it. It is easy to think you need money or special equipment to start, but it all starts with you speaking from experience. It's crazy how things will fall into place once you just start.

In order to run, you first have to walk. It all starts with that first step. You're going to fall; but before you know it, you will be walking, then running. It all starts with taking that first step.

Who's your favorite artist and why?

At the moment, one of my favorite known artists is Kojey Radical. I really like his sound, which is kind of a homage to classic artists like Al Green, Bootsy Collins, and Rick James.

What do you like to do during your free time?

I like to skate jamming out to music or go for runs. My turntables are always on so I'm always messing around with them. Haha

What's your favorite way to eat marshmallows?

I like marshmallows in s'mores but especially with Rice Krispies!!

Where can people find your music?

You can find my music on my SoundCloud and on Instagram @KrookedKriss. Also, I have a few mixes with Hyperrhythm.

How can people support?

Listen and if you like, share and drop a comment. I'm always open to feedback!

Anything else?

I am always open for collaboration! Feel free to reach out!!