Gerard Allen: Letting the World Know You Are Never 2 Old To Dream Big
It is said that age is just a number and with the rise of technology it is certainly the most accurate statement now more than ever. This is what New York music artist, Gerard “OGEE” Allen, is letting the world know through his music. Though Hip Hop has changed over the past decade, Gerard is choosing to stay true to himself and find a path of his own that gives his audience music to vibe high to.
In a quick sit down with Gerard Allen, I got to find out a little about the artist’s love of music; as well as get the details behind the music he makes. It was very enlightening and you will see why he lives the life he lives.
Thank you for taking the time to chat with me. Tell me about yourself and how it contributed to your love of music?
I fell in love with music from birth. Growing up in a household of six (6), my parents always played music & had company from there. I have always loved music. Being part of my childhood school concerts and being on the stage doing shows is what I felt I was made to do (even today). I have the same passion for music.
How old were you when you moved to the Bronx, and what was that transition like for you?
My family moved to the Bronx from Harlem when I was very young. We moved into the New York City Housing Authority (projects), where I began my journey into HipHop. I met a group of friends, and we formed a group and called ourselves The T.R. Nation (Talented Rascals), which include: Djing, Rapping, Break Dancing & Graffiti. Doing local shows also playing music in all the parks in the Bronx, getting a name for ourselves at that time. I became a father at the age of 16, and from there, I got my first job as a messenger in Manhattan, NY. I had to make money to take care of my son.
What inspired “Never 2 Old” and “More Weed?” Is there a significant message in either or both of these songs?
I just feel like you’re Never too old to do what you want to do, it’s never too late for you to follow your dream, and that’s why I titled my EP NEVER2Old. Since they legalized Marijuana, that’s what led up to me recording More Weed. I figured we needed an anthem to celebrate now that Marijuana is legal. It’s a good song with a nice vibe.
Hip Hop has changed a lot. How have you managed to evolve with it and all of the changes taking place in the industry?
Yes, HipHop has really changed from its birth. I just stay to myself and don’t try to copy others (it’s best to be original). HipHop went from fun music where everyone can come out & have a good time to now some people don’t like coming out because of the violence that is going on in the HipHop crowds, but I’m going to continue putting out good music so the people can have fun & enjoying listening to it
What do you have coming up over the next few months that ppl should know about?
I got a few shows lined up, I’m working on a new album after the holidays, but for right now, I’m traveling and performing More Weed, plus a few other songs that I‘ve recorded. It’s almost time for the holidays so that things will be slow soon. In August, I gave back to my community by giving out school supplies to the kids, Books, pencils, backpacks, folders, crayons, etc. I love doing what I do.
How can ppl connect with you?
My social media is @Ogee1523 (IG, Twitter & YouTube) FB- Gerard OGEE Allen.
