HIP-HOP/RAP, Interview, Music Reviews, New Fire Music, TRAP/HIP HOP
SleekoGotBars On New Single ‘Follow Code’, Coming From A Family Of Musicians, Dayton (Ohio) Music Scene & More
Mar
‘Follow Code’ Out Now!
We asked Dayton, Ohio artist SleekoGotBars everything about his new single ‘Follow Code’. SleekoGotBars has a hit on his hands and he knows it. Starting with the rollout strategy, ‘Follow Code’ has been different from other singles since the beginning. With a lot of positive feedback from fans, the Dayton artist believes this song will continue to stand alone with it’s own “mystique” for years to come. We learned more about the abundance of talent in Dayton, Ohio where SGB resides, but he also explains his reasons for making traveling a priority to get his name out there. One thing you will learn about SleekoGotBars is that he is not only very talented, but also 100% genuine. SGB is not in it for the gimmicks or clout, but simply for the love of music and the process of perfecting his craft. Coming from a family of musicians, it only makes sense for Sleeko to continue the legacy.
If you haven’t heard ‘Follow Code’ yet, give it a listen now (music video linked below). As soon as the beat starts, you know there’s something special here. The single checks off all boxes for the new wave sound Hip-Hop fans have grown to love. It is not often that we see someone who raps as well as SleekoGotBars match the energy with melodies and a perfect hook. SGB has all the tools at his disposal and we can’t wait to hear what’s next. Hit play to hear what Sleeko had to say about the new single.
How has the feedback been on ‘Follow Code’ so far?
Sleeko gets in to the positive feedback from fans so far. He highlights how he switched his rollout strategy for this song, shooting the music video before dropping the single on DSPs. He built up anticipation for the single using clips from the video, so by the time the single dropped fans were already tapped in!
What does it really mean to ‘follow code’?
Given the song title, we had to ask what following ‘code’ meant to SleekoGotBars. Family over everything, keeping food on the table, and being solid with the people around you. Wise words to live by from the Dayton, Ohio artist.
The instrumental has a horror movie feel to it, with some eerie samples behind some hard hitting drums. What drew you to the beat?
The ‘Follow Code’ beat is crazy. The first couple cords come with their own energy, and when Sleeko gets in to the hook, you just have to let the whole song rock. Sleeko mentioned that he was already in album mode, six or seven songs in to his studio session, when he came across this beat. Sleeko did what all great artists do when something is clicking; pace the room and start humming hooks immediately. Magic in action. From that moment to about an hour later, ‘Follow Code’ was born.
Tell us about the music scene in Dayton, Ohio?
Shoutout to the 937! Sleeko starts by shouting out all of the entrepreneurs in the city of Dayton from rappers, producers, clothing designers, and more. He takes pride in his city, but also mentions that there may be a lack of opportunity (but no lack of talent!). For that reason, Sleeko spends a lot of time on the road, but never forgets where home is. Like we’ve heard superstar Drake say, hardly home but always reppin’.
Going into 2021, why did you choose to lead with this single ‘Follow Code’?
SleekoGotBars highlighted the infectious beat on the song, the catchy hook, and the melodies bound to draw people in. Throwing all that in a mixing pot with great lyrics, this seemed like a pretty easy decision to make this track the first release of 2021.
What comes easiest to you: bars, flow, or melodies?
Like we always mention, the hip-hop genre has grown to more than just rapping. These days, the best performing songs contain unique cadences, sing a long melodies, and of course great lyrics. We asked Sleeko which came easiest to him. Hit the play button to hear his response.
What’s your favorite line from ‘Follow Code’ and why?
‘I jumped off the porch and I started a wave, ya’ll n*ggas was stuck in a fish tank‘. Dope metaphor with a deeper meaning. This was the very first line of verse one. Sleeko compares the confinement of a ‘fish tank’ to the close-minded nature of some people today, afraid to get out of their comfort zone and explore the world around them. Sleeko saying he jumped off the porch and started a wave stamps the fact that he was never afraid to get out of his comfort zone and move on his own accord. Hit play to hear SleekoGotBars describe his favorite line from ‘Follow Code’.
The music video for ‘Follow Code’ just dropped earlier this month. Did you enjoy the process of creating the visual?
SleekoGotBars locked back in with Cole Chase for the ‘Follow Code’ visual. Big shout out to the 23 year old videographer. Sleeko highlights the chemistry between the two and Cole Chase’s role as a perfectionist. ‘He ain’t just in it for a dollar, he’s actually in it for the creative process itself.’ Respect!
Check out the official music video for ‘Follow Code’ below.
How does ‘Follow Code’ compare to your other releases coming this year?
SGB believes ‘Follow Code’ will continue to stand alone as he releases more material. While we’re looking forward to more tracks from Sleeko this year, this song is definitely going to live for awhile.
What do you want new fans to know about you?
If you are a new supporter of SGB, the main thing the artist wants you to know is that everything is genuine. No cap, no gimmicks, and a real passion for music. We learn that music has been in Sleeko’s family for awhile, starting with his parents and even his grandfather all being musicians. It’s dope to see Sleeko continue the legacy and continue to perfect his craft.
What are you most excited about for 2021 music-wise?
‘Provide and Protect’ album coming soon! Aside from letting us know an album is coming (release date TBA), SGB is looking forward to traveling and telling his story. Pending all of the covid issues in the United States, looks like we’ll be seeing Sleeko a lot this year. Stay tuned!
Where can we follow you to keep up with the latest news?
Follow SGB on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube (especially YouTube). The artist has a ton of dope visuals out that you don’t want to miss. If you’re a fan of traditional hip-hop or trap music, check out ‘Follow Code’ now and the rest of Sleeko’s catalog. We can pretty much promise this won’t be the last time you hear the name. Simply type his name in to Google to check out more of his interviews.
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If you want to support an artist who does it all, look no further. SleekoGotBars has a crazy pen, great song making ability, a good ear for beats, and melodies to keep every song fresh. SGB is looking forward to putting Dayton, Ohio on the map and we’re excited to be a part of the story. With an album coming later this year, there is a lot of new music to look forward. Follow SGB where ever you can to keep up with the artist. He may pop up in a city near you. Shoutout to Sleeko for answering our questions! Follow New Fire Music on Instagram for more content.