March of the Tyrants: Dmize’s Visual Manifesto Against Urban Decay
In the heart of the Southwest, amidst the vibrant cultural tapestry of Santa Fe, New Mexico, there exists an enigmatic figure known as Dmize, a name shrouded in mystery, much like the vigilante Batman he often admires. Hailing from the sun-soaked streets of Santa Fe, Dmize is more than just a rapper; he’s a storyteller, a visionary, and a true pioneer of the genre.
From a young age, Dmize felt the pull of music as a beacon of solace in a tumultuous world. Raised by a single mother alongside three siblings, he found refuge in the melodies of the piano and the raw storytelling of rap music. Influenced by the golden era of hip-hop, where artists like NWA and Dr. Dre reigned supreme, Dmize’s musical palette expanded to encompass a diverse range of sounds, from the gritty realism of gangsta rap to the haunting intensity of death metal.
It was in the midst of this eclectic musical landscape that Dmize found his voice, both as an artist and as a storyteller. Alongside his childhood friends, he embarked on a musical journey that would shape the underground scene of Albuquerque and beyond. From forming groups like The Sediztik Jezterz to collaborating with fellow artists like IllNickell and Smallz One in The Morbid Elements, Dmize carved out a niche for himself in the ever-evolving tapestry of underground hip-hop.
But Dmize’s journey was not without its trials and tribulations. Faced with personal demons and the harsh realities of life on the streets, he channeled his struggles into his music, using it as a means of catharsis and self-expression. Through sheer determination and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Dmize rose above adversity to become a beacon of hope for aspiring artists in the New Mexico underground scene.
Today, Dmize stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring spirit of creativity. With a career spanning over two decades, he continues to push the boundaries of his artistry, blending elements of horrorcore rap with poignant social commentary to create a sound uniquely his own. As he prepares to release his latest project, “March of the Tyrants,” Dmize remains as passionate and driven as ever, a true pioneer of the underground hip-hop movement.
In this exclusive interview, we have the privilege of peeling back the layers of Dmize’s enigmatic persona to reveal the man behind the mask. From his early influences and creative process to his thoughts on the current state of hip-hop, Dmize bares his soul in a candid and introspective conversation that offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a true artist.
But this interview is more than just a glimpse into the life of a rapper; it’s a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the unyielding spirit of the human soul. As we delve deeper into Dmize’s world, we’re reminded of the power of music to transcend boundaries, unite communities, and inspire change.
So, join us on this journey through the underground as we pay homage to a true legend of the game. From the streets of Santa Fe to the stages of the world, Dmize has carved out a legacy that will stand the test of time. And for that, we can only offer our heartfelt thanks and appreciation.
Rox-Tv:
- What inspired the concept behind your latest video, “March of the Tyrants”? Watch Here
Dmize:
Ihonestly left that up to the videographers at Rox TV. I felt they could help make a visual statement that also had an effect to what the audio entails. being shot mostly in southwest Detroit city, no other place to show the unfortunate urban decay brought forth by absolute government corruption. we don’t have to get into the alphabet bois involvement. everyone already knows they were involved.
Rox-Tv:
2. How did the collaboration with Rox-Tv come about for filming and editing the video?
Dmize:
I knew Bobby and Carlito were filming videos for quite some time now. Carlito and his pops Rudy, es mi carnales. Unfortunately, being from the southwest part of the country it was hard to make things happen. but alas, we finally had the opportunity to work and this is the product.
Rox-Tv:
3. Can you tell us about the creative process behind the song itself?
Dmize:
it’s actually an older song of mine. a song from 2014. I released an album entitled “the revolutionist” and it’s from that disc. it’s kind of a political album In a sense but. as you know, power corrupts, and our elected public servants take advantage of their positions to benefit themselves and their coffers, making rules and laws that are “for thee but not for me.” they hate transparency and its time they’re all held accountable from the top, down. the want to end cronyism and endorse freedom from this rigged system ultimately inspired this song and the album as a whole. history is a great teacher if you pay attention to the actions taken by “leaders”, empires and nations that are thriving or have fallen.
Rox-Tv:
4. How do you feel your move from Albuquerque to Columbus has influenced your music?
Dmize:
honestly it hasn’t. not yet anyways. lol. having been from Albuquerque area and traveling a lot, a lot of places don’t really hold an effect on me. but the Caribbean? that area has influenced me A LOT lately.
Rox-Tv
why was the Caribbean such an influence?
Dmize:
It’s fucking BEAUTIFUL. It has a magic to it that keeps pulling me back. There’s something about that area that is just phenomenal. the sand. the beaches. the islands. the jungles. the sun. the music. the vibes. the cultures. when you finally get to go…. you will know what I’m talking about. like me, you will never want to leave.
Rox-Tv
5. As an underground rapper, what challenges do you face in getting your music heard by a wider audience?
Dmize:
promotion is the name of the game. you can’t grow if you don’t advertise. but finding effective ways to connect with actual listeners would ultimately be the biggest challenge, as social media is plagued with “algorithms” that hide and discredit the independent artist. your other option is in-person promotion the old school way.
Rox-Tv:
6. Are there any specific themes or messages you aim to convey through your music?
Dmize:
I started doing horrorcore rap only under this moniker back at the end of the 90s. and the word demise is essentially is the end. the omega. it’s all over. so I used to be all about death itself. life of course gave me different perspectives eventually but I eventually decided to just make music and what I feel instead of being solidified to one specific genre.
Rox-Tv:
7. What’s next for you after the release of “March of the Tyrants”?
Dmize:
I have a new album actually in the works. I can’t disclose any info on that just yet other than 2 singles have been released. “IJMFSYB” and “Medium Rare”. all I can tell you is “Every skull has a tale”.
Rox-Tv:
8. How do you balance staying true to your underground roots while also striving for mainstream success?
Dmize:
the music game is not for the weak! people been at this for years like me and never go anywhere really. but you must invest in yourself. I’m still a nobody, but imma bet my dollars on myself. how else are you gonna grow? most importantly, don’t forget where you came from, and make sure the right people get the love they deserve. the people who said “don’t forget me when you make it” were also the first to forget to support you to help you make it. don’t forget who these people are and stay away from them.
Rox-Tv:
9. Are there any particular artists or musicians who have had a significant influence on your style?
Dmize:
I’ve been making rap music for going on 24-25 years. have influences over a major spectrum of music. I like many different genres and if you listen to my entire catalog you can hear those influences. but death metal, 90s rap, Method Man and Redman, DMX, ICP and Esham would probably have the utmost core influence on me. but I try and incorporate all my influences beyond them.
Rox-Tv:
10. Can you share any behind-the-scenes anecdotes or interesting moments from the making of the video?
Dmize:
it was my birthday when we shot this. the plan was to get it done, then go watch wrestlemania night 1 at Lito’s house. Santana (DJ CiscoKid) is the real star. mad love to the homie for the hard work he put in. idk if he was hot in that costume or not. I appreciate you ese!
Rox-Tv:
11. What do you think sets underground rap apart from mainstream hip-hop, and how do you navigate between the two worlds?
Dmize:
it literally feels like the equivalent of the Berlin Wall metaphorically. everyone just wants the same musical freedom, but the industry won’t let you, so they drive a wedge down the middle to divide. hip-hop has drastically changed throughout the years. it has this weird evolution to it and you have to find the wave you’re best equipped to ride. otherwise, you’ll sink unless you can swim.
Rox-Tv:
12. How do you approach songwriting? Do you have a specific process or routine?
Dmize:
It happens for me, one of two ways. 1. I hear a beat and jot down ideas. I try to come up with the chorus first. then the verses. 2. I write lyrics down and then try and find a beat for the song. hoping to match the energy or emotion I want to express. I then fine-tune the lyrics to fit the instrumental.
Rox-Tv:
13. In what ways do you incorporate your personal experiences and background into your music?
Dmize:
It really depends on the song I guess. I’m proud of who I am as a person and what I know of my heritage, so I represent that on occasion along with those experiences. I do write a lot of fiction. but I use experiences I learned from others as well.
Rox-Tv:
14. How do you see the role of social media and online platforms in promoting your music and connecting with your fans?
Dmize:
depends on the platform really…. you can have 5000 friends on FB and only 60 people will see your posts. you can sort of make an impact if you put in work and actually promote. but you’re bound by algorithms and rules that sometimes do not work in your favor.. so with them, it’s limited… but it’s a tool that helps. and any promotion is better than no promotion.
Rox-Tv:
15. As an independent artist, what strategies do you use to fund and distribute your music projects?
Dmize:
I recycle any money I earn and put it right back. it also helps to work a job that pays salary and commissions. I’m able to invest in myself and my leisure, while not having the same vices that cost people thousands a year like smoking cigarettes. you gotta spend money to make money. and sometimes. that ROI isn’t what it’s all cracked up to be. but the strong keep truckin and the bucks keep fuckin. you win some, you lose some. shit when I smoked, I was dead broken all the time with a job. now I travel the world n shit since I quit.
Rox-Tv:
16. Can you share any advice for aspiring underground rappers who are looking to make a name for themselves in the industry?
Dmize:
it’s easy to get caught up in what’s trendy or what’s hot, but if you are trying to stand out from everyone, it sums down to two words. BE. YOU.
Rox-Tv:
17. What do you hope listeners take away from your music, particularly from “March of the Tyrants”?
Dmize:
I really don’t want to make this interview political, but let’s just say in our nation we have elected public servants from the top to the bottom that consistently try to give themselves more power than their positions afforded through lobbyists and cronyism. and without these in check, we get complete and udder misery. just look at southwest Detroit where the video was shot! the urban decay here is still felt after the government fucked this city and its people over, combined with the alphabet bois inducing crack epidemic upon said people. damn it. we had to get into it.
Rox-Tv:
18. Are there any upcoming collaborations or projects you’re particularly excited about?
Dmize:
my next album has some good stuff on it and some good special guests. I’m trying to make a front-to-back slapper. I wish I can share more details, but it must be known that “Every skull has a tale”.
Rox-Tv:
19. How do you stay motivated and inspired in an industry that can be challenging and competitive?
Dmize:
don’t let the fun of making music be taken from you. there are and will be points that you will feel like giving up. don’t. lastly. take your time. magic takes patience to craft.
Rox-Tv:
20. Lastly, what do you enjoy most about being an underground rapper, and what keeps you passionate about creating music?
Dmize:
the music itself. it’s my outlet. it’s how I’m able to express myself. if I didn’t even have a single listener. I would still do it because it’s literally my therapy.
As our exploration of Dmize’s world comes to a close, we’re struck by the depth of his journey and the richness of his artistry. Throughout the interview, Dmize candidly shared insights into his creative process, drawing from a diverse range of influences including gangsta rap icons like NWA and Dr. Dre, as well as the raw intensity of death metal. His ability to blend these disparate elements into a cohesive and compelling sound speaks to his versatility as an artist and his unwavering commitment to his craft.
