Dru Yates

Magazine Review; July 2015 - Ace Entertainment Magazine

“YOU CAN’T MAKE IT” are words that ARE NOT in Ahmed “Dru” Yates vocabulary. Born in Germany in 1985, Dru is the son of a Military Service Member, who a few years after Dru’s birth, separated from Dru’s Mother and left her and her five children to fend for themselves. Relocating to New York in 1989, Young Dru quickly discovered a passion for music as an escape from the world around him and as a means to express himself through song.

Dru’s Mother began to notice her Sons’ desire to entertain and frequently began entering him in local “Star Search” style musical competitions. She also often had Dru perform for family and friends at social functions and gatherings to aid in developing his confidence and stage presence. In 1991, in an effort to shield Dru and her other children from the life of the City streets, Dru’s Mother relocated her and her children to Kansas. Though this was a major geographical change for the family, Dru continued to develop his craft, and immersed himself into his music. By the 8th grade, the desire to be a STAR overtook Dru completely.

Having done some major performances with his brothers, who were also aspiring rappers/entertainers, Dru had a taste of success and knew that he had what it took to make it in the music industry. He was on cloud 9 and ready to make major moves! But, in 2000, Dru’s world was shaken to the core, when his older brother was arrested and charged with attempted murder and sentenced to 42 years in prison. It was then that Dru’s passion for music changed. Overwhelmed over the physical loss of his brother, Dru decided to take a break from music.

After graduating from High School, Dru briefly attended College on a basketball scholarship; but after only one year of playing ball, Dru began to feel like he was missing his true calling. Reconnecting with his desire of making great music and performing, Dru decided to step into the booth one last time. It was as if Dru had never put down his mic; the rush that he got from recording solidified his life’s goals and aspirations of being a performer. Dru recommitted himself to the music game, and soon after became a member of the 2 man Hip-Hop/R&B group S.O. Allstars.

Dru and Redd had moderate success in the release of several S.O. Allstars mixtapes; However, creative differences and conflict of interest began to wear on the group, and both Dru and the other S.O. Allstars member, decided to go their separate ways and pursue their solo careers.

Today, Dru is grinding hard to continue what he started so many years ago. Recently completing his first solo album, The Cover Letter, Dru is moving forward with his musical aspirations and will stop at nothing to reach success. In honor of his brother, Dru not only wants to make music that the world will enjoy, but his life mission is to bring his brother home. - Jammerzine

Germany bred, military brat, Ahmed Andrew Yates, better known by his artist moniker, Dru Yates is well traveled and well learned. Currently residing in Austin, Texas, he recently unveiled his latest project, The Urban Resume. We caught up with the rising star to talk music, pursuing dreams and much more. Check out the full interview below.

Parlé Mag: Who are you influenced by?
Musically, I have been influenced by a lot of the great: Michael Jackson, Al Green, 2 Pac, Big L, Jay-Z, Biggie, OutKast & Jadakiss to name a few. I am drawn to amazing Hip Hop & R&B that is original, creative and can stand the test of time. I believe the sound of those that have inspired & influenced me resonates through my music through my own individual style and perception.

Parlé Mag: How would you describe your sound/style?
As an Artist, I think my sound/style is very different than what is dominating the airwaves today. I have a love and appreciation for the Hip Hop/R&B of the 80’s, 90’s & 2000’s because it is what I grew up listening to. I think the vibe of those eras can all be heard in my new album, The Urban Resume.



Parlé Mag: Why do you make music and how did you get started?
I make music because it’s what’s in my heart. I remember being young, about 6 years old, and my Mom started noticing that I liked to entertain/perform music. So she started putting me in local “Star Search” style musical competitions and things like that. She always had me performing for family and her friends at social functions and gatherings and even at that age I felt like music was what I was meant to do. I write all of my own music, so I was always writing and I still am. A lot of what I went through and a lot of what I am currently dealing with in my life inspires my songs. I am always in the studio because if I’m not recording music I just don’t feel right.

Parlé Mag: One thing you want your listeners to know about you?
I want my listeners to know that I do this for real. This isn’t a hobby for me, this is MY DREAM. I have lost friends and relationships because of my music. Some people don’t understand the amount of work/time it takes to create a quality musical project. My music comes right behind God and my family in matter of importance. If those that are in my life can’t respect WHY I make the sacrifices I do to pursue this dream of mine then they can’t be in my life. I want my listeners to know that I do this for myself, but I also do it for THEM. Their support pushes me, even when sometimes I feel like this shit might be too hard, knowing that I got some people that REALLY believe in me motivates me to keep doing what I know I was destined to do.

Dru Yates
Parlé Mag: Talk to me about your latest release The Urban Resume.
I just released my new album, “The Urban Resume” on June 15, 2018 and so far, the feedback has been amazing and more than I could have asked for so I really appreciate that.

Parlé Mag: What would say is your best song?
I don’t believe that I’ve written my BEST song yet! As an artist, I am always pushing myself to grow and become better. I am my own toughest critic, so until I write a track that I am 100% satisfied with from the lyrics, beat, production everything, and I can tell myself, “Man you couldn’t have done that no better” than I’m just going to keep pushing myself to get that BEST SONG. I just don’t have it YET.

Parlé Mag: What is your favorite thing about being an up & coming artist?
My favorite thing is seeing my personal growth and the progression that I’m making in my music. I get to be as creative as I want to be and play with different sounds and styles while I’m perfecting my craft. Of course, there is pressure to make a great album because the people have got to like it, but I also like to be true to who I am and make music that represents me and not just make some shit that sounds like everybody else because that’s not me. That’s not my style.

Parlé Mag: What are your goals for your career?
I’m just trying to stay the course and pave my own lane. I don’t want to lose who I am. I want to always remain humble and be myself. In the process, I want to make some great projects that will appeal to the masses.

Parlé Mag: What is your message for your listeners?
Just that I appreciate their support and their feedback. It makes me better as an artist and it helps me to grow. So I am very grateful to my listeners and those that support me.

Parlé Mag: If you could collab with 1 person, who would it be?
Of course, I’m going to say it would be one of the artist that have inspired me along the way that I mentioned earlier. But, honestly if I had to really just pick one… I’d have to say Jadakiss. He is and will always be one of the best in my book.

Parlé Mag: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Still writing, still working in the music industry in some capacity. I want to mentor other artists, write for other artist, but of course I’d still like to be performing my own music as well because like I said, this is my dream. I don’t need to be Jay Z famous, but I just want to make my mark. I want to accomplish what I set out to do and that is to make DRU YATES a name that is known & respected in the industry.

Parlé Mag: Coolest thing you’ve done so far with music/coolest accomplishment?
I would have to say it would be kickin’ it in the studio with DJ Khaled, Ace Hood & T-Pain during the creative process of Kiss the Ring. These are artists that also inspire me and that I look up to, so I would love to have many more opportunities to be around creative geniuses such as themselves.

Parlé Mag: What’s next for you?
I’ve got plans of doing some touring in the next few months and also some opening performances for major headliners coming soon as well. Like I said, I’m always writing, so I’m already recording music for my next album as well. - PArle Magazine

GETTING TO KNOW ANDREW YATES
by Jacqueline Jax host of A.V.A Live Radio

FINE

It’s simply me…like in my own zone, right,
but, at the same time peepin’ how everybody is reacting to me, or the lack of them reacting to me, you know what I’m sayin’? For example, people I consider friends, who if I don’t see them, I don’t hear from them….they are like distant relatives to me at this point…I only hear from these types of people when I’m making moves or being “brought up” when someone else is on the phone with me or discussing me-you feel me?-That’s when they want to ask about me, like they give a shit about my well-being-but it’s really out of sight out of mind kind of shit. So, if someone I deal with is asked about me by one of these types of characters, I just want them to keep it simple…just tell them that I’m doing FINE! Don’t go into detail,. There’s no need to explain nothin’, you know what I mean?! Don’t try to speak on me now that you hear about me doing good or making these music moves.



So, yeah, definitely a back story; it’s about a friend
that I considered close to me as we grew up, they were like family. But just as time changes all things, people change too. So, in this case, it was my right hand, my dude, shit I considered him to be a brother. I mean, I’m not going to speak on his name, but at one point we were rocking tough. Then one day everything shifted and not on my part…the nigga just changed up on me, if that makes sense? Only when I’m speaking to people that like I said I communicate with or keep in contact with me and they’re around this particular person that I used to rock with, it’s only then that they ask about me like “What’s up with Dru? How’s that nigga doing? Like they’re inquiring and shit! So basically, I got to be real at the end of the day. There’s no love lost, but you ain’t got to ask the next nigga how I’m doing, you feel me? Just know I’m doing fine and you ain’t even much got to worry about it. But on top of that, I also want to emphasize, that I’ve been doing this music, I’m going to continue doing this music, and I’m going to put the City of Junction on for it. So, this is really just a direct reflection of who I am and what I do.

You can expect my music to be 100% different,
because it’s 100% me and I ain’t trying to be like nobody else. What I’m doing is telling stories about me and my life-things that I’ve personally endured or things that I’ve seen people close to me go through that impacted my life-I felt their pain-their excitement-whatever it was, I felt it. Their story became a part of me. Usually now-a-days people have these songs that they want to make you snap your fingers to and make you dance to and shit-That’s cool, but I want to paint pictures with my tracks-and it’s cool if sometimes those pictures will make you dance and snap your fingers, you know what I mean?! (Dru laughing) So, like any complete project, there is going to be a beginning, a middle and an end. In this case, the Cover Letter is the beginning. This is my first solo album-an introduction to me, Dru Yates. I’ve got so much music written, and I want the world to hear what I have to say without giving it all away at one time. There’s no gimmicks though. For those that know me-already know-and for those that don’t know me yet, they’ll know soon enough. As an Artist I’m versatile. I don’t do the same two steps through every track. I’m not trying to blend or be like the next guy. I’m just trying to share my stories-my life with the world…and hopefully, they vibe with me!

magazine-2

I currently live in the great State of Texas in ATX,
also known as Austin Texas, but I claim Kansas as my stomping grounds because that’s where I grew as an artist and a man. The music vibe out here in Austin is cool though-the only thing is that it’s more catered to live “bands” – more like country music to be honest. If you’re a country band in Texas, then you’re pretty much guaranteed a spot to perform. But, if you’re a Hip Hop artist like myself, then usually it’s a little more difficult to get a spot to perform. Unless you have a large following or some type of celebrity status, a lot of these spots are going to turn you away. A lot of rap is a bunch of cursing and talking about drugs and killing this and killing that- you know Hood music, trap music-or whatever they call it. These places around here ain’t really feeling that type of vibe. I mean, that’s Austin in a nutshell-there’s a bunch of music here, but it’s definitely hard for an independent Hip Hop artist to be allotted the opportunity to make real moves and perform.

It really just depends on what kind of music you’re into
for one-whatever the mood then there is a spot for that. Me, myself, I don’t really go out and do the party scene too much, because I’ve been solely focused on getting my music project, the Cover Letter completed. But, if and when I do step out, there are two spots I like to check out downtown on 6th street. Clearport and Voodoo are where you’ll find me at. If I’m in Voodoo – I’m solo-I’m drinking-I’m not much of a drinker, but I tend to get a little sloppier then I’d like to admit when I’m there! (Dru laughing) Because usually when I’m there, people are buying my drinks trying to get to know me and who I am – I guess I just give off that type of energy. But most of the people at Voodoo are there to party and have a good time, you know what I mean?! I kind of feel like that’s there’s a persona I need to present when I’m there because it’s a party spot. Clearport is more laid back- like a venue spot-a place to go to check out some live music and a bunch of pretty women that are just trying to vibe and have a few drinks. It’s a dope chill spot for sure. I hear good things about a spot called Madison, so I’m gonna need to add that to my list of places to check out the next time I’m Downtown.

I mean, I feel great about the music business,
because I’m into the music scene as an artist and a fan. As far as the business side of it though, I’m not too familiar with it; that’s what I have my team for-they help me stay on track and I’m learning more as I go along on this music journey. I know things have changed – the way we get our music and hear our music today is totally different from how it was even just 10 years ago. Like, 10 years ago, you were really only hearing from the Artists that had a message in their songs. People listened. Now a days, it’s all about the beat…can you dance to it? Can people create a dance to go to your track? Honestly, I find it funny how a lot of people be saying shit in their rhymes, but don’t nobody know what they be sayin’ though! (Dru laughing) But you can dance to it so it’s cool though??! I’m just getting my feet wet in this industry, so I’ve got to accept that every artist style is different-not everybody is going to vibe to what I’m saying or my style. But, now a days it’s all about the “TURN UP” which is cool I guess – but it all sounds the same to me. Like, that’s not the vision I have for my music-I’m not hatin’ on nobody’s style, it’s just not my style or my preference.

It would have to be Quincy Mutha Fuckin’ Jones! And I say that with all due respect!
I mean, from Ray Charles to Michal Jackson-two legends that completely changed the sense of music – timeless music. Quincy had his hand in that-his influences-that’s his work as well as the artists’ work. He played a part in all of that. I would love to sit down with him and pick his brain. If you’re in music and you don’t know who Quincy Jones is, there’s a problem. You’re disconnected. If you’re in the music game, you’ve got to know who Quincy Jones is! I just want to ask him what gave him his passion for music-what was the driving force that pushed him to become one of the biggest legends that the music industry has ever seen or will ever see. I want to know what motivated him to keep going – because I know it had to be hard. Quincy Jones worked with different artist from all kinds of genres and helped them to become the successes that they were or are today. He saw that “it” factor in all of them. I’ve seen greatness in regards to creating music-and I know Quincy Jones influence had a lot to do with that. I honestly believe that if I got the chance to have 5 minutes alone with Mr. Jones, that he would see greatness in me too. - A.V.A. Live Radio

https://issuu.com/makinitmag/docs/makin__it_magazine_-_issue_31__digi - Makin' It Magazine #31

https://radiopublic.com/indie-music-plus-8XA9eV - Indie Music Live #99

https://youtu.be/q2jB-YdxL0k - FGM ENT

DRU YATES (@DRU_DO) – SIDE PIECE (SHE AIN’T EVEN REALLY MY GIRL)
POSTED IN MUSIC ON DEMAND
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This is a song meant to empower the idea that there is no shame in not being a man’s “main girl” but instead celebrate the idea that a man and woman can have fun together, have mad love and respect for one another and there be no “strings” attached. It’s meant to take the stigma away from the slang of a woman being a man’s “side piece” and instead flip it like, “Yeah, I’m his side piece and I love it!”

Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedruyates
Artist Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therealdruyates/?fref=ts
Instagram: dru_yates - ByVIPPlay

http://indiesound.com/u/druyates - Indie Sound

Dru Yates (Austin, TX)

With a signature Texas laid back style and a healthy amount of swagger, Austin rapper Dru Yates brings a unique story to his sound. The son of a military father and originally born in Germany, Yates relocated to New York, then Kansas, and ultimately Texas for reprieve from the street life with a single mother and four siblings. A performer since a young age, Yates developed a passion for music and stage presence throughout his life. After a hiatus from the microphone to play college basketball, and later being part of a duo that eventually split, Dru has had to persevere though adversity frequently. However, he continues to create, working on his debut solo album, and could not have picked a more fitting track to submit than his single, “Me, Myself, and I”. Check it out below: - Allen Halas

When we say be on the look out we mean it with Dru Yates. A Lot of Trap and and a lot of songs with no substance came in, on the list this is one of few that sticks out to us. This has the chorus to bring you in and the verse to captivate you and pull you in. Dru shows off his vocals between rapping and singing, when hes rapping you can feel his presence and when hes singing you can feel that energy, this artist doesn't need a feature he is it, were definitely looking out for more and would recommend checking out his sophomore album “The Urban Resume”. click the link below to hear "Headphones" by Dru Yates.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWMVDoKSBxY&feature=youtu.be - WELCOME TO THE SESSIONS Underground & Unsigned

Daily Dose: Dru Yates – Playin’ Victim
JAMMERZINE on July 13, 2017 at 12:00 am

“YOU CAN’T MAKE IT” are words that ARE NOT in Ahmed “Dru” Yates vocabulary. Born in Germany in 1985, Dru is the son of a Military Service Member, who a few years after Dru’s birth, separated from Dru’s Mother and left her and her five children to fend for themselves. Relocating to New York in 1989, Young Dru quickly discovered a passion for music as an escape from the world around him and as a means to express himself through song.

Dru’s Mother began to notice her Sons’ desire to entertain and frequently began entering him in local “Star Search” style musical competitions. She also often had Dru perform for family and friends at social functions and gatherings to aid in developing his confidence and stage presence. In 1991, in an effort to shield Dru and her other children from the life of the City streets, Dru’s Mother relocated her and her children to Kansas. Though this was a major geographical change for the family, Dru continued to develop his craft, and immersed himself into his music. By the 8th grade, the desire to be a STAR overtook Dru completely.

Having done some major performances with his brothers, who were also aspiring rappers/entertainers, Dru had a taste of success and knew that he had what it took to make it in the music industry. He was on cloud 9 and ready to make major moves! But, in 2000, Dru’s world was shaken to the core, when his older brother was arrested and charged with attempted murder and sentenced to 42 years in prison. It was then that Dru’s passion for music changed. Overwhelmed over the physical loss of his brother, Dru decided to take a break from music.

After graduating from High School, Dru briefly attended College on a basketball scholarship; but after only one year of playing ball, Dru began to feel like he was missing his true calling. Reconnecting with his desire of making great music and performing, Dru decided to step into the booth one last time. It was as if Dru had never put down his mic; the rush that he got from recording solidified his life’s goals and aspirations of being a performer. Dru recommitted himself to the music game, and soon after became a member of the 2 man Hip-Hop/R&B group S.O. Allstars.

Dru and Redd had moderate success in the release of several S.O. Allstars mixtapes; However, creative differences and conflict of interest began to wear on the group, and both Dru and the other S.O. Allstars member, decided to go their separate ways and pursue their solo careers.

Today, Dru is grinding hard to continue what he started so many years ago. Recently completing his first solo album, The Cover Letter, Dru is moving forward with his musical aspirations and will stop at nothing to reach success. In honor of his brother, Dru not only wants to make music that the world will enjoy, but his life mission is to bring his brother home.

SOURCE: Official Bio - Jammerzine

DJ - Music Review - QSJ Radio

Rising indie Hip Hop artist Dru Yates drops his latest single titled “Fine“. Off his upcoming album, The Cover Letter. - Indie Hip Hop

Just thought I would jam in a show … - Nick Tann's Independent Music Podcast

How are you today? Mad, sad, glad?

There’s a song for every emotion. Songs speak for us and to us. Sit back and listen.

For starters, take a look at our collection of new releases from ReverbNation artists. We’ve been busy thumbing through more than 1,200 submissions. (More releases will be added as they come in through the end of the week.)

Maybe you will find the right song to fit your mood.

“Now, on with the countdown …” - Pause & Play

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LMOUZUXRSc&t=4s - Volume TV

https://www.mixcloud.com/qsjradiopodcast/7262018-madluh-with-dru-yates-thedruyates/ - QSJ Radio

My track #stayfly was selected to be on the 1st Afton Summer Mixtape for Indie Artists - Afton

Check out "Best Kept Secret" every Monday from 7pm-9pm (ET) with Host DJ Ben Hop and Co-Host Shai Will. Showcasing Independent Artist from all over the world. Submit your music for airplay by going to www.excitementradio.com and click the "Submit Music" tab. For shout outs, call us at 305-749-6004. This week music from Rayze, Marissa Ilyse, DMoney Martinez, Dru Yates, Rob Hittz, Tangelia Dominae, SJ Apollo, Saint Villo DeVille, Brooklyn Boon, Anaiyah Sunshine, Dog Boy Sho, Mike Melinoe, 28, ShortCirkit, Deduck, Tha Third I, Xzavier Natt, Flo Easy, A.X. and Brady. Tune in and support new artist and new music. - Excitement Radio

Check out "Best Kept Secret" every Monday from 7pm-9pm (ET) with Host DJ Ben Hop and Co-Host Shai Will. Showcasing Independent Artist from all over the world. Submit your music for airplay by going to www.excitementradio.com and click the "Submit Music" tab. For shout outs, call us at 305-749-6004. This show features music from DMoney Martinez, Eddy Fish, Joey Capo, Dru Yates, Balistik, Dev AMIL, Marquest, Wild B, Tre$waii, Justo The MC & Maticulous, Will Ryte, Que Billionaire, PopBelli, MK Groove, Jimmy Allgood, Height Man, HGS Lyrical, Mack Memphis, Lorreta, Sultana, Jay Dub, Boom Sosa and Big Money Guwop. Tune in and support new artist and new music. - Excitement Radio 04/2019

Dru Music Review - Indie Rap Blog