SXVXNT - Chatting with an impactful Lowcountry Rap musician and promoter

  We had a great time discussing  SXVXNT’s journey from the west side of Chicago through four years in the Army, studying at DePaul, and grinding the open‑mic circuit in Los Angeles. He explains why he stylized his name S‑X‑V‑X‑N‑T, the move from L.A. to the Southeast to be closer to family, and how remote work during COVID gave him the chance to build his own recording setup. The conversation highlights his deep musical roots: a father who played piano and sang, early training on piano and trumpet, ongoing jazz chops, and surprising classical influences (including Alexander Goedicke). SXVXNT names Nas, Prince, Mos Def (Yasiin Bey), Lupe Fiasco, Phonte and others as key inspirations that shaped his lyricism and songwriting. We discuss his creative process — from tinkering and multi‑year revisions to freestyling that became finished tracks (notably on the Wayfair project and the freestyled “Kobenhaven 0400”). He also recounts early performances (first Chicago gig at Reggie’s, opening for Planet Asia in LA), industry experiences (label offers and the pressure for visuals), and the practical realities of producing and mixing his own work. On the local front SXVXNT explains the Rap‑A‑Lot series — an ongoing effort to put Charleston rappers on bigger stages — and his vision for stronger venues and mixed‑genre bills. He talks memorable shows (including opening for D Smoke)  and winning Rapper of the Year. We also discuss the challenges and camaraderie within the Lowcountry scene, and his preference for music as an auditory art even as he accepts the need for visuals. What to expect from this episode: personal stories, performance anecdotes, the mechanics of freestyling and songwriting, gig life across L.A., Chicago, Atlanta and New York, and SXVXNT’s plans for future shows. Find his music and updates at soundofkanai.com and on Instagram @sxvxntsoc — tune in to hear a musician who blends classical training, jazz instrumentation, and hip‑hop hustle into a distinct Charleston voice. Music | Sound Of Cannae