BlaKNMileZ: The Independent Force Behind #1 Aunt Bern Dukes and Beyond
In the world of independent hip-hop, few artists embody resilience and dedication quite like BlaKNMileZ. With a career spanning over 38 years, he has remained true to his craft, overcoming challenges and evolving with each project. His latest album, #1 Aunt Bern Dukes, is more than just music—it’s a heartfelt tribute to a woman who played a pivotal role in his life. In an exclusive interview with International Music Magazine, BlaKNMileZ opens up about his journey, mental health struggles, and what fans can expect from his upcoming album, BlaK Grizzly.
A Tribute to Aunt Bern Dukes
For BlaKNMileZ, #1 Aunt Bern Dukes is deeply personal. His Aunt Bern Dukes, whom he describes as a second mother, was a constant source of encouragement throughout his life. “She always motivated me to be the best version of myself. She believed in everything I did, including my music,” he shares. The album, built on countless hours of dedication, reflects both his gratitude and his artistic evolution. “She played a major part in my journey. It was only right to dedicate this album to her.”
The Growth of an Artist
Comparing this project to his earlier works, BlaKNMileZ acknowledges his growth as an artist. “I feel like I’m getting better with each project, and I’ve heard the same from numerous people,” he says. His commitment to a cleaner lifestyle—prioritizing mental health, faith, and discipline—has fueled his creative process. With his home studio, he has eliminated distractions and honed his craft, ensuring that each release showcases his best work.
The Road to Millions of Streams
Despite being a professional artist for just over two years, BlaKNMileZ has amassed more than 10 million streams across various platforms. “It feels great. I’m humbled and grateful, but not surprised,” he admits. His experience, spanning nearly four decades, has prepared him for this moment. “I’ve been doing music for a long time. I write, produce, record, mix, and master everything myself. I release my own music. I’m my own boss.”
The Making of Sports Pack and Gretzky
BlaKNMileZ’s album Sports Pack and its standout track Gretzky have resonated strongly with listeners. He attributes this success to the project’s unique concept. “Each song was based on an athlete’s personality, with boom-bap beats, dark bass lines, and sheer aggression,” he explains. The track Gretzky, in particular, continues to trend upward. “The flow, lyrics, and uptempo beat keep people hyped. I layered multiple vocal and instrumental samples, making it both catchy and different.”
A Versatile Discography
BlaKNMileZ ensures that each album offers a distinct experience. His projects showcase a variety of styles, making every release feel fresh and unique:
- Half Century: A nod to hip-hop’s golden age, introducing him to the music audience.
- Son of Sarah: A tribute to his late mother, featuring vintage boombap sounds inspired by her taste in music.
- Sports Pack: A concept album aligning each track with an athlete’s personality, a project that took 12-hour workdays to complete.
- #1 Aunt Bern Dukes: A soulful tribute incorporating diverse sounds, including Euro funk and Hispanic influences.
Mental Health and Deep Shadows
In Deep Shadows, BlaKNMileZ addresses the often-overlooked issue of mental health. His decision to open up came after years of personal struggles. “My life was spiraling out of control, but God is good,” he says. Seeking therapy for PTSD, anxiety, and depression was a turning point. “For years, I thought I was too tough to seek help, but I’ve learned that real strength is embracing the challenge and helping others.”
The Industry’s Role in Mental Health
When asked if the music industry does enough to support artists dealing with mental health struggles, BlaKNMileZ is blunt. “No, the industry is all about money. There are so many artists suffering in silence.” His advice to them? “Get help. Don’t let pride and ego stand in the way.”
What to Expect from BlaK Grizzly
Fans eagerly awaiting his next project, BlaK Grizzly, can expect an entirely different experience. “This one’s for my underground hardcore fans,” he reveals. “It’s gritty, dark, and full of boom-bap beats to get you hyped. No slow songs—just raw energy.” True to his promise to his late mother, he maintains his signature style of creating hardcore music without cursing. “I made that promise in 1998, and I’ve kept it.”
The Independent Hustle
Being a fully independent artist comes with both challenges and rewards. “The biggest challenge is staying afloat. But I dictate my own pace, and that’s the beauty of it,” he explains. While independence has cost him friendships, he remains focused on his craft and faith. “I love my music, and I love God. The best is yet to come.”
Advice for Independent Artists
For aspiring independent artists, BlaKNMileZ offers simple yet powerful advice: “Stay focused, hone your craft, and leave nothing off the table. There’s no pressure when you’re the boss. Know when to say no, and don’t depend on anyone.”
Final Thoughts
BlaKNMileZ’s journey is a testament to perseverance, faith, and self-belief. Whether through his heartfelt tributes, genre-defying sound, or commitment to mental health awareness, he continues to carve out a space in hip-hop on his own terms. With BlaK Grizzly on the horizon, the best is yet to come for this unstoppable independent force.
