Emerging hip-hop duo 2nd Cousins (Tyrone Tisdale and Sham Sterling) released their highly anticipated album, “1413” at the beginning of January 2025. Available on all major platforms, this album blends timeless Southern rap influences with fresh, contemporary sounds, showcasing their growth and dedication as artists. Drawing inspiration from legends like the Isley Brothers, Zapp and Roger, Outkast, and UGK, 2nd Cousins infuse their music with authenticity, storytelling, and the vibrant spirit of family and resilience. From humble beginnings recording mixtapes at Sham’s mother’s house to becoming label mates and collaborators, their journey embodies their message: “Family is very important. Live, enjoy life, and get money!” With every track written by the duo themselves, “1413” offers a dynamic listening experience that captures their unique sound and dedication to the craft. In an exclusive interview 2nd Cousins explain the workings of their music machine and the album.
- 1413 is a rich blend of Southern rap and contemporary sounds. What inspired the title of the album, and how does it reflect the themes within?
2nd Cousins: The title “1413” was inspired by the address of the neighborhood where we grew up, representing our roots and influences. The album combines Southern rap with contemporary sounds to showcase our journey and struggles in that environment. Themes of resilience, ambition, and overcoming obstacles are reflected in the music, highlighting the blend of traditional and modern elements in our life and music.
- Can you walk us through the creative process behind this album? Did you approach it differently compared to your earlier projects?
2nd Cousins: This album’s creative process was heavily collaborative. Unlike previous solo efforts, we worked extensively with other each other bouncing ideas and jamming organically. This fostered a more spontaneous and experimental sound. We focused less on pre-planned structures and more on capturing the energy of the moment in the studio. The lyrical themes emerged from shared experiences and conversations, resulting in a more unified and cohesive narrative than we expected, more introspective work. We just got to it!
- The album features 18 tracks. How did you decide on the final tracklist, and were there any songs left on the cutting room floor?
2nd Cousins: We decided on the final tracklist by considering the flow of the album and ensuring a balance of different styles and moods. Some songs didn’t make the cut because they didn’t fit cohesively with the overall theme or sound of the album. It was a tough decision, but ultimately we chose the tracks that best represented our vision for the project.
- Storytelling is a big part of your music. Which track on 1413 do you feel tells the most personal or compelling story, and why?
2nd Cousins: On the album 1413, the track “Only us” resonates the most with personal storytelling. It takes the listeners into our lives and behind the vail of “1413”. The lyrics delve into moments of vulnerability while celebrating the journey towards authenticity. The emotional depth and melodic structure enhance the narrative, inviting listeners to connect with their own experiences. It’s a heartfelt reminder that we all have a story worth sharing.
- “Sham and Tee Dee” is the opening track on the album. It was also the album’s lead-up single, released in October 2024. Was that a pondered choice to introduce the album, or just a casual occurrence?
2nd Cousins: The decision to make “Sham and Tee Dee” the opening track and lead-up single for the album was a carefully considered choice. Introducing the album with a strong and impactful track, that also introduces who we are, we knew would set the tone for the rest of the music and generate excitement among listeners.
- The album features diverse artists. How did these collaborations come about, and what was the energy like working with them?
2nd Cousins: The collaborations were largely organic; some artists were long-time friends, others were family members who’s styles complemented the album’s vision. The energy in the studio was electric; it felt like a creative melting pot.
- Are there any standout moments or surprising ideas that came from your collaborators during the production of 1413?
2nd Cousins: (Tee Dee) the more we worked on the Album the Idea of family started to give me a vision for the cover and the outro to the album. So I reached out to my graphic design artist and we went from there. He just told me think of it I’ll bring it to life. If you study the Album art work you will uncover so many layers. Also I reached out to very prominent figure in our community to come up with the outro and again the idea just came from recording songs for the album. I could just here her voice, so I reached out and she gave her blessing. Thank you Yolanda Denson!
- If you could highlight one song on 1413 that pushed your creativity to new heights, which would it be and why?
2nd Cousins: (Tee Dee) for me Track 13 Temptations my solo song, I was really able to go off on a story telling mission and get very creative with it.
- Many listeners find themselves captivated by the beats in your songs. Did live instrumentation or sampling play any in role shaping the album’s sound?
2nd Cousins: (Sham) Yes, the producers we worked with believe that there’s something truly magical about live instruments—they bring an energy and warmth that sampling just can’t replicate.
- Are the beats on this album handled by one producer or are there diverse produces featured on each song.
2nd Cousins: Diverse producers on this album. It worked perfectly because the sound of the album is still cohesive.
- Your journey began in Sham’s mother’s house recording mixtapes. How does it feel to look back at those humble beginnings now that you’ve released 1413?
2nd Cousins: (Tee Dee) Looking back at those early days in Sham’s mother’s house, recording mixtapes feels absolutely incredible! It’s like a nostalgic trip down memory lane, filled with excitement and raw passion. Those humble beginnings were the foundation of my journey, where every beat, every lyric, and every moment was crafted with love and determination. Now, having released 1413, we can’t help but feel a surge of gratitude and pride. It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come from those simple recordings to now sharing our music on such a larger scale. Each step along the way has been an adventure, and those early experiences shaped who I am as an artist today. It reminds me that with hard work and dedication, dreams can truly become a reality! Here’s to the journey and all the amazing moments that lie ahead!
- What lessons from your early days as artists shaped how you approached this album?
2nd Cousins: Absolutely! Reflecting on our early days as an artist, there are several key lessons that significantly influenced the creation of this album. First and foremost, we learned the importance of authenticity. In the beginning, we were often pressured to conform to trends or expectations, but over time, we discovered that our unique voices and experiences were what truly resonated with people and we were on the right path by not conforming. This realization empowered us to embrace our individuality while working on this album, allowing us to express ourselves more freely than ever before. Another vital lesson was the value of collaboration. Lastly, perseverance played a massive role in shaping our approach. There were countless moments of doubt and frustration in my early career, but each challenge taught me resilience. This mindset helped us navigate the ups and downs during the album’s production process, reminding us to stay focused on the vision. Overall, these lessons from our formative years have been instrumental in crafting an album that feels genuine and vibrant. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!
- The themes of family and resilience run through your music. How do these themes evolve across the tracks on 1413?
2nd Cousins: The themes of family and resilience our my music are deeply personal and evolve perfectly across the tracks on “1413.” Each song tells a story, reflecting the strength found in familial bonds and the unwavering spirit that helps us overcome life’s challenges. As you listen through the album, you’ll notice how these themes intertwine—starting with the warmth of shared memories in tracks like “Sham and Tee Dee,” where I celebrate the love and support of family. This track serves as a reminder that no matter where life takes us, those connections remain our anchor. As the album progresses, songs like “My Letter” and “Only Us” delve into resilience. Here, I explore moments of struggle and how they shape us. The lyrics convey a message of hope, emphasizing that even in our darkest times, we can rise stronger than before.
- Since writing all the songs yourselves, how do you split the writing duties? Do you each bring something distinct to the table?
2nd Cousins: In our songwriting journey, we’ve discovered that each of us brings unique strengths and perspectives to the creative process. We believe that collaboration is at the heart of great music, and it’s this diversity that fuels our inspiration. Ultimately, it’s about celebrating our individuality while working towards a shared vision. Together, we transform our distinct talents into harmonious creations that inspire us and hopefully touch others as well.
- With 1413 now out, what message or emotions do you hope listeners take away from this album?
2nd Cousins: With the release of 1413, we truly hope listeners feel a sense of connection and understanding. This album is all about exploring the ups and downs of life, and we want people to resonate with the emotions captured in each track. Whether it’s joy, nostalgia, or even a little heartache, my goal is for listeners to find pieces of their own stories within the music. Ultimately, we hope they walk away feeling uplifted and inspired, knowing that they’re not alone in their experiences.
- Are there any plans for music videos, tours, or live performances to accompany the album release?
2nd Cousins: (Sham) Yes, there are exciting plans in the works for music videos, tours, and live performances to accompany the album release! We’re currently brainstorming creative concepts for the music videos that will visually bring the songs to life. As for touring, we have a team in the process of scheduling dates and locations, and we can’t wait to share those with you. Live performances are also on our agenda, and we’re looking forward to connecting with fans in person. Stay tuned for more updates!
- How do you see your sound evolving in future projects? Are there any new themes or styles you’re eager to explore?
2nd Cousins: We see ourselves going deeper into storytelling rabbit hole through music. Each project will be a narrative, exploring themes like resilience, connection, and the human experience in a digital age. We are fascinated by how sound can evoke emotions and memories, so we are keen to experiment with ambient textures and cinematic elements that transport listeners to different worlds.
- As label mates and collaborators, how do you manage to balance your individual voices with the cohesion of the duo?
2nd Cousins: Balancing our individual voices while maintaining the cohesion of our duo is all about communication and respect for each other’s artistry. We both bring our unique styles and ideas to the table, which is super important. When we write or create together, we make sure to listen actively to each other, blending our sounds without overshadowing one another. We have been collaborating as solo artist so this is like second nature.
- The music industry is ever-changing. What challenges have you faced as emerging artists, and how have you overcome them?
2nd Cousins: As emerging artists in the music industry, we’ve definitely faced our fair share of challenges. One major hurdle is getting noticed in a sea of talent. With so many artists out there, it can be tough to stand out. To tackle this, we focused on building our unique sound and brand, which helped us carve out a niche for ourselves. Another challenge is the constant shift in how music is consumed. Streaming platforms have changed the game, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the need to constantly produce content. We’ve overcome this by setting a realistic release schedule that allows us to maintain quality while still keeping our audience engaged. Networking is also crucial but can feel intimidating. We’ve learned to leverage social media to connect with other musicians and industry professionals, which has opened up opportunities for collaboration and exposure.
- Finally, what’s next for 2nd Cousins? Are there any exciting projects or goals you’re working toward in 2025?
2nd Cousins: Absolutely! We are thrilled about the future of 2nd Cousins and have some exciting projects lined up for 2025! First and foremost, we’re planning to expand our creative horizons by exploring new musical styles and collaborating with a variety of artists from different genres. This will not only enrich our sound but also allow us to connect with a broader audience. Additionally, we’re working on releasing a brand-new album that we believe will showcase our growth and evolution as a band. We’re pouring our hearts into this project, aiming for it to resonate deeply with our fans. Moreover, we are also looking at potential tours that will take us to places we’ve never played before! It’s all about sharing our music live and creating unforgettable experiences with our supporters. So, stay tuned because 2025 is going to be an incredible year for 2nd Cousins, and we can’t wait to share it all with you!
OFFICIAL LINKS: SPOTIFY – INSTAGRAM
Fans can also connect with 2nd Cousins on social media at @thereal2ndcousins, @only1biz, and @sham410.
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