Introducing #APBStyle: Kiyana
With melodic wordplay, Slim Dev cultivates a unique sound that blurs the line between hip-hop and R&B. Hailing from Hickory Grove, SC, representing the 803, Dev's musical journey began in a family of musicians, making his debut at the age of 11.
Following his performance, we had the chance to sit down with Slim Dev to discuss what style means to him, how he defines success, and what's coming in the future.
WHAT INSPIRED YOUR ENTRANCE INTO MUSIC?
Dev: My older brother, cousins and my dad all used to make music.
HOW OLD WERE YOU WHEN YOU RECORDED YOUR FIRST TRACK, AND WHEN DID YOU FEEL CONFIDENT TO SHARE YOUR MUSIC?
Dev: I was featured on my cousin's song, which was released when I was 11.
WHAT DOES STYLE MEAN TO YOU?
Dev: Style is everything, the clothes I have on and the way I present myself are just as important as my lyrics and beat selection.
HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS?
Dev: Constant progression towards the ultimate goal, which is creating generational wealth through my music.
IF YOU COULD GET A FEATURE WITH ANY ARTIST WHO WOULD IT BE AND WHY
Dev: Drake. Any song with him on it has the potential to go number 1.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR MUSIC?
Dev: It's a blend of melodic wordplay with elements of both Hip-Hop and R&B.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU?
Dev: I'm currently working on a 10-12 song project. I'm trying to capitalize off the traction I gained earlier this year when I went viral on TikTok through an open verse challenge on Toosii's 'Favorite Song,' earning 1 million views and 24k followers.
Watch Slim Dev’s electric performance of "Tattoos", "Focus", and "All I Need" on the #APBMusic stage.
Stay connected with Slim Dev on IG, and listen to more of his music on all streaming platforms. Catch his full debut live performance on our YouTube channel.