INTERVIEW WITH RODNEY HAZARD

Rodney Hazard is a director, designer, and filmmaker based in Brooklyn, NY that boasts an impressive repertoire of musical and visual art collaborations. With his lucid, emotive production, he's worked with artists including multi-platinum recording artist Bipolar Sunshine, members of the A$AP Mob, Nessly, Meyhem Lauren, AZ, Lais, Joe Budden and more. Drawing from a deep well of inspiration, Rodney's work is a product of his unconventional creative approach.

As the co-founder and headlining DJ of the New York City Resident Party, NVRSleep, he's on a unique mission to blend his love of design and passion for music to empower creatives. As a musician and DJ, he has performed across the country and in Canada, opening for Future, Run The Jewels, Alchemist, Buddy, Mannie Fresh, and DJ Craze. Rodney facilitates a variety of audiovisual experiences across the nation, fostering a sense inclusivity amongst his audiences.

Also an art director, filmmaker, and designer, some of Rodney’s past clients include VICE, Samsung, AT&T, Diageo, Bacardi, Under Armour, and more. Rodney Hazard is a well-rounded virtuoso of creativity with a concentration in music and art direction. Rodney is currently an independent artist

Pm: What’s the career highlight you’re most proud of at this very point?

Rodney Hazard: Probably the fact that I’m an independent artist that has toured in other countries.

Pm: Let's talk about " Emergency “ . What vibe were you going for with this project?

Rodney Hazard: Emergency was definitely somewhat a loose commentary on the world as I saw it in the middle of the pandemic. Also it was me stepping into a new realm as a musician and artist.

Pm: Did you feel like you accomplished that?

Rodney Hazard: Definitely. I feel like I’m getting better everyday.

Pm: What did you enjoy the most creating this project?

Rodney Hazard: Creating it of course. There are literally almost no samples on the entire project so I’m very proud of everything I’ve been playing.

Pm: What do you remember the most about creating your first project?

Rodney Hazard: I try to remember the process. The fact that I make things out of love of the craft. Not for a manager, clout, money, or anything. I make music because it fulfills my spirit.

Pm: What originally got you interested in music?

Rodney Hazard: I was always interested in music in one way shape or form. I’m very grateful to be able to identity with multiple cultures and that has definitely influenced me as an artist.

Pm: I can't even front I listen to “Emergency”while working “Rhinestone" is my go to vibe lol , How was the transition from Hip Hop to Instrumental /Electronica?

Rodney Hazard: Nice! That’s one of my favorites as well. I would say it wasn’t too crazy of a transition at all. I’ve always been into eclectic sounds and different genres. Hip Hop is definitely the essence and always will be.

Pm: Would you say your family influences any of your music?

Rodney Hazard: Definitely. On one side of my family I grew up with Kompa (Haitian) music, on the other end I was always listening to rap, r&b, Sade, etc.

Pm: What’s the best piece of advice a family member has given you?

Rodney Hazard: The best advice I’ve gotten from a family member came from my mother for sure. She said life is like an elevator…you need to drop people off on certain floors.

Pm: What is your definition of success?

Rodney Hazard: Traveling the world, Continuing to create for a living and live a peaceful life while doing it.

Pm: What makes you feel at peace?

Rodney Hazard: Traveling, good music, a good workout, going to museums, meditating, and performing.

Pm: Do you live by any piece of advice or motto?

Rodney Hazard: Art is never done.

Pm: Not sure if you have kids but , If you could only teach one thing to your (future) child, what would it be?

Rodney Hazard: Be yourself. There’s only one you.

Pm: What is your favorite song in the whole world?

Rodney Hazard: Right now it’s Eclipses by HIRA but it changes all of the time!