By Johnny Tee | HODB Mag & Media Some artists chase trends. Others chase longevity.Playboy Payso is chasing something much deeper—a legacy built on authenticity, resilience, and representing Brooklyn with every verse.In this exclusive HODB Mag & Media interview, the Brooklyn lyricist opens up about growing up in the Brevoort Houses, discovering hip-hop through his older brother, balancing responsibility at an early age, and why his greatest goal isn't fame—it's earning respect through consistency.His story is one of perseverance, family, and refusing to be counted out.
Raised in Brooklyn, Built by Responsibility
For Playboy Payso, everything begins at 274 Ralph Avenue in Brooklyn's Brevoort Houses.Growing up as the middle child in a single-parent household meant childhood looked different from many of his peers. While other kids focused on simply being kids, Payso was helping hold the household together, caring for his younger siblings while his mother worked."It makes you grow up faster than you're supposed to," he explains.Those experiences became the foundation of the work ethic that defines him today.
Before Music, There Was Art
Long before recording records, Playboy Payso was an artist in another way.He loved reading.He loved expanding his vocabulary.And he loved drawing.Looking back, he realizes creativity had always been part of who he was—it simply evolved into music.That transition happened largely because of his older brother, whose mixtapes introduced him to hip-hop during one of the genre's most influential eras.The music became more than entertainment.It became inspiration.
Consistency Changed Everything
Like many artists, Payso didn't receive immediate praise.Early on, people told him to keep writing.Keep practicing.Keep improving.Instead of becoming discouraged, he used those moments as motivation.He credits one lesson from 50 Cent that stayed with him throughout his career:Consistency wins.That mindset eventually transformed rejection into progress.
The Song That Changed His Confidence
Although he had been recording for years, Payso points to one record as the turning point in believing in himself.His 2020 single, "About You," became the first song he felt was ready for the world.Working closely with an engineer who understood his vision, he finally heard everything come together—from the verses to the hooks.For the first time, he wasn't second-guessing his music.He was proud of it.That confidence became the beginning of a new chapter.
Nine Projects. One Mission.
Since 2020, Playboy Payso has released an impressive catalog of nine projects, each showcasing different sides of his artistry.His newest collaboration, New Angelus, bridges two iconic music cities—New York and Los Angeles.Produced alongside California producer Reasonable, the project also features contributions from producers across the globe, including collaborators from Italy and Oakland.The title reflects exactly what Payso represents:Connecting worlds through music.
Versatility Is His Greatest Strength
One thing quickly becomes clear during the conversation:Playboy Payso refuses to be boxed into one style.Boom bap.Drill.Records for the ladies.Street records.Melodic tracks.His goal is simple:Create music for every listener without sacrificing authenticity."I try to be adaptable," he says. "If you don't like one style, I probably have another one you'll connect with."
Business Before Buzz
If he could restart his career today, he wouldn't change his talent.He would change his strategy.Instead of releasing music first, Payso says he'd focus on building the business foundation before putting out a single record.That means:
- Registering publishing.
- Setting up SoundExchange.
- Organizing royalties.
- Creating a long-term release plan.
His advice reflects a lesson many independent artists learn too late:Treat your music like a business from day one.
Inspiration Comes From Real Life
Unlike artists who rely on studio sessions for inspiration, Payso's writing begins wherever life happens.Whether spending time with his daughter, walking through Brooklyn, or simply observing everyday moments, ideas arrive unexpectedly.When they do, he immediately writes them into his phone.By the time he reaches the studio, the work is already done.The studio isn't where he creates.It's where he executes.
More Than Streaming Numbers
Ask Playboy Payso what success means, and you won't hear him mention charts or follower counts.His answer is surprisingly simple.Peace.Success means providing for his family.Success means having freedom.Success means waking up with purpose.For him, music is simply one vehicle toward that life.
Carrying the Ones He Lost
Perhaps the most emotional moment of the interview comes when discussing why he continues making music.Over the years, Payso has lost many of the people closest to him.Friends.Collaborators.Brothers.Those losses fuel every record he creates."I do this for my people," he shares.Rather than allowing grief to stop him, he channels it into determination.That emotion is present throughout his catalog, giving his music both intensity and sincerity.
Looking Ahead
Playboy Payso has no plans to slow down.Following the release of New Angelus, he intends to shift toward a more direct-to-fan business model while continuing to perform, collaborate internationally, and expand beyond music into hosting, fashion, and creative partnerships.His message to supporters is simple:Stay connected.Because what's coming next may be his biggest chapter yet.
Final Thoughts
Playboy Payso represents a generation of independent artists who understand that success isn't handed out—it is built one decision, one record, and one opportunity at a time.His journey from Brooklyn's Brevoort Houses to building a catalog of independent releases reflects the resilience of artists who refuse to wait for permission.Through authenticity, versatility, and relentless determination, he's proving that the strongest careers aren't built overnight.They're built through consistency.
Key Takeaways
- Your environment can shape you without defining your future.
- Consistency is more valuable than instant success.
- Creativity often begins long before a career does.
- Independent artists should build their business alongside their music.
- Versatility expands opportunities without sacrificing authenticity.
- Real-life experiences create the most meaningful art.
- Success is measured by peace, purpose, and the ability to provide for those you love.
Quote of the Interview
"Success is peace. If I can move how I want, provide for my family, and stay true to myself—that's success."
About HODB Mag & MediaHODB Mag & Media shines a spotlight on the entrepreneurs, artists, and culture builders shaping the future. Through exclusive interviews, HODB Weekly, HODB Magazine, and original editorial features, we tell the stories behind the people creating impact through vision, resilience, and purpose.
By Johnny Tee | HODB Mag & MediaSome artists chase trends. Others chase longevity.Playboy Payso is chasing something much deeper—a legacy built on authenticity, resilience, and representing Brooklyn with every verse.In this exclusive HODB Mag & Media interview, the Brooklyn lyricist opens up about growing up in the Brevoort Houses, discovering hip-hop through his older brother, balancing responsibility at an early age, and why his greatest goal isn't fame—it's earning respect through consistency.His story is one of perseverance, family, and refusing to be counted out.
Raised in Brooklyn, Built by Responsibility
For Playboy Payso, everything begins at 274 Ralph Avenue in Brooklyn's Brevoort Houses.Growing up as the middle child in a single-parent household meant childhood looked different from many of his peers. While other kids focused on simply being kids, Payso was helping hold the household together, caring for his younger siblings while his mother worked."It makes you grow up faster than you're supposed to," he explains.Those experiences became the foundation of the work ethic that defines him today.
Before Music, There Was Art
Long before recording records, Playboy Payso was an artist in another way.He loved reading.He loved expanding his vocabulary.And he loved drawing.Looking back, he realizes creativity had always been part of who he was—it simply evolved into music.That transition happened largely because of his older brother, whose mixtapes introduced him to hip-hop during one of the genre's most influential eras.The music became more than entertainment.It became inspiration.
Consistency Changed Everything
Like many artists, Payso didn't receive immediate praise.Early on, people told him to keep writing.Keep practicing.Keep improving.Instead of becoming discouraged, he used those moments as motivation.He credits one lesson from 50 Cent that stayed with him throughout his career:Consistency wins.That mindset eventually transformed rejection into progress.
The Song That Changed His Confidence
Although he had been recording for years, Payso points to one record as the turning point in believing in himself.His 2020 single, "About You," became the first song he felt was ready for the world.Working closely with an engineer who understood his vision, he finally heard everything come together—from the verses to the hooks.For the first time, he wasn't second-guessing his music.He was proud of it.That confidence became the beginning of a new chapter.
Nine Projects. One Mission.
Since 2020, Playboy Payso has released an impressive catalog of nine projects, each showcasing different sides of his artistry.His newest collaboration, New Angelus, bridges two iconic music cities—New York and Los Angeles.Produced alongside California producer Reasonable, the project also features contributions from producers across the globe, including collaborators from Italy and Oakland.The title reflects exactly what Payso represents:Connecting worlds through music.
Versatility Is His Greatest Strength
One thing quickly becomes clear during the conversation:Playboy Payso refuses to be boxed into one style.Boom bap.Drill.Records for the ladies.Street records.Melodic tracks.His goal is simple:Create music for every listener without sacrificing authenticity."I try to be adaptable," he says. "If you don't like one style, I probably have another one you'll connect with."
Business Before Buzz
If he could restart his career today, he wouldn't change his talent.He would change his strategy.Instead of releasing music first, Payso says he'd focus on building the business foundation before putting out a single record.That means:
- Registering publishing.
- Setting up SoundExchange.
- Organizing royalties.
- Creating a long-term release plan.
His advice reflects a lesson many independent artists learn too late:Treat your music like a business from day one.
Inspiration Comes From Real Life
Unlike artists who rely on studio sessions for inspiration, Payso's writing begins wherever life happens.Whether spending time with his daughter, walking through Brooklyn, or simply observing everyday moments, ideas arrive unexpectedly.When they do, he immediately writes them into his phone.By the time he reaches the studio, the work is already done.The studio isn't where he creates.It's where he executes.
More Than Streaming Numbers
Ask Playboy Payso what success means, and you won't hear him mention charts or follower counts.His answer is surprisingly simple.Peace.Success means providing for his family.Success means having freedom.Success means waking up with purpose.For him, music is simply one vehicle toward that life.
Carrying the Ones He Lost
Perhaps the most emotional moment of the interview comes when discussing why he continues making music.Over the years, Payso has lost many of the people closest to him.Friends.Collaborators.Brothers.Those losses fuel every record he creates."I do this for my people," he shares.Rather than allowing grief to stop him, he channels it into determination.That emotion is present throughout his catalog, giving his music both intensity and sincerity.
Looking Ahead
Playboy Payso has no plans to slow down.Following the release of New Angelus, he intends to shift toward a more direct-to-fan business model while continuing to perform, collaborate internationally, and expand beyond music into hosting, fashion, and creative partnerships.His message to supporters is simple:Stay connected.Because what's coming next may be his biggest chapter yet.
Final Thoughts
Playboy Payso represents a generation of independent artists who understand that success isn't handed out—it is built one decision, one record, and one opportunity at a time.His journey from Brooklyn's Brevoort Houses to building a catalog of independent releases reflects the resilience of artists who refuse to wait for permission.Through authenticity, versatility, and relentless determination, he's proving that the strongest careers aren't built overnight.They're built through consistency.
Key Takeaways
- Your environment can shape you without defining your future.
- Consistency is more valuable than instant success.
- Creativity often begins long before a career does.
- Independent artists should build their business alongside their music.
- Versatility expands opportunities without sacrificing authenticity.
- Real-life experiences create the most meaningful art.
- Success is measured by peace, purpose, and the ability to provide for those you love.
Quote of the Interview
"Success is peace. If I can move how I want, provide for my family, and stay true to myself—that's success."
About HODB Mag & MediaHODB Mag & Media shines a spotlight on the entrepreneurs, artists, and culture builders shaping the future. Through exclusive interviews, HODB Weekly, HODB Magazine, and original editorial features, we tell the stories behind the people creating impact through vision, resilience, and purpose.