I.Am.Tru.Starr: "Viva"

With an inexhaustible amount of creativity woven deep into the layers that make up the artist that is I.Am.Tru.Starr, his career, as a recording artist, is a testament to that of a dedicated craftsman’s. Making sure he was able to come correct with his talents, this Rochester-born musician is now stepping out amongst the shadows with a mission larger than an average vocalist’s.

Using his modest upstate roots as motivation for his own music, I.Am.Tru.Starr is working with the intention to lead by example, with a dedicated passion to show the next generation already looking up to him that beautiful things can grow out of what others consider a deadbeat town.

“Growing up in places like where I’m from, kids don’t get the chance to dream properly,” the emcee says, with bright eyes. “I’m chasing mine so they don’t ever have to be timid about chasing theirs.”

Channeling the spirit and sounds of the likes of D’Angelo, Fred Hammond, Andre 3000 and Donny Hathaway and more, I.Am.Tru.Starr’s current sound is film noir meets 2016. His ability to share his story with potent lyrics and lush melodies, carefully crafted into his own self-described sound of “Soul Hop,” allows him to both reach - and captivate - a varied audience. Taking elements of hip-hop, R&B, funk, gospel and alt-soul, I.Am.Tru.Starr’s battle cry is emotional yet fearless.

We had the pleasure of checking in with I.Am.Tru.Starr and he was kind enough to respond to a few interview questions.

Hi I.Am.Tru.Starr! Thanks for being here today!

All love!...thanks for having me. 

What has been the biggest "pinch me" moment in your career thus far?

Meeting Stevie Wonder was a wow moment for real. I’ve developed a relationship with my songwriting idol. Literally talked to him a few days ago. Oh..and one time at this festival “AFROPUNK” one of my favorite singers at the time was flirting with me really hard like she actually wanted me lol. I thought I was tripping and I have a girlfriend so I didn’t pursue it, just kept extra flirty and cordial. I recently posted a picture we took that night and she was giving me all the heart eye emojis and stuff so I obviously wasn’t tripping lol. Shout out to her tho. 

Is there a song you would like to cover? If so, what song? 

“Wonderwall” by Oasis. I love that song and I know me and my band would flip that into something so soulful and amazing. 

Top 3 things on your bucket list...

This list will obviously evolve as I accomplish different things on it but as it stands I just want to retire my parents and buy them a big house on some acres. Set my kids up for life. I have simple human goals on my bucket list. Plus I’ve already been to Paris twice. 

Is there a hit song you wish you could have written?

Lol yeah...every single in "Thriller". Quincy and I could’ve made some bops if I was alive back then. 

What is the best advice you've ever received? 

Life’s a movie that you better enjoy because nobody makes it out alive anyway. 

If you could be next-door neighbors with anybody, who would it be and why?

Willie Nelson. Me and the OG would be big chilling every day. 

What is inspiring you right now? 

My son. He’s everything to me. I’m a family man. All about them and the team. They’re what keeps me inspired and focused. 

Please tell our readers how to stay up to date with you and your latest releases!

New album out right now called “VIVA” available everywhere. 

Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, etc. I’ve also got a clothing/merch line VIVA co. and you can check out the line on my website www.iamtrustarr.com and of course, you can hmu on IG (@IamTruStarr) or Twitter (@IamTruStarr).