Proximity Playlist

On this episode of The Proximity Playlist… Get ready to meet YP Epik, talented artist from Eastdale who’s been making waves in Chattanooga’s hip-hop community.

With a focus on authenticity and positivity, YP Epik’s music is more than just beats and rhymes—it’s a message of hope, realness, and staying true to oneself.

Though he’s still in the process of crafting his album, his singles have already begun to resonate with those who appreciate his honest approach and dedication to spreading good vibes.

In this interview with Gino D, Epik opens up about his roots, what drives his creative passion, and the importance of staying genuine in an ever-changing industry. This conversation offers insight into a artist committed to making meaningful music and inspiring others along the way.

Press play below and tune in to learn more about YP Epik—listen to his music, and hear his stories and future plans…

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Join Gino D on The Proximity Playlist as he sits down with Jack Tatum, a talented singer-songwriter whose soulful sound and heartfelt lyrics are capturing attention both locally and beyond.

Raised in a musical family with roots spanning recording studios, live bands, and gospel choirs, Jack’s journey into music has been deeply personal and driven by a genuine passion for self-expression.

From his early days learning guitar and piano to his breakout moments performing in dark rooms and on stages, Jack’s artistry is shaped by influences like Frank Ocean and The Weeknd—artists whose work has inspired him to craft emotionally resonant music exploring themes of love, resilience, and the underdog spirit.

In this interview, Jack shares insights into his creative process, his connection to the Chattanooga scene, and his ambitious future plans—including dropping new music regularly, chasing a Grammy, and making an impact through his art.

Press play and get to know Jack Tatum—the artist with a heartfelt voice and bold vision.

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Get ready for a fresh episode of The Proximity Playlist with Gino D, where we shine a spotlight on the talented musicians shaping Chattanooga’s vibrant music scene.

In this episode, Gino D sits down with local rapper Dylan Ireland, a native of Chattanooga whose passion for music has been burning since childhood. From his early days rapping with friends in elementary school to releasing multiple EPs and singles, Dylan’s journey exemplifies dedication, creativity, and a deep love for his craft.

Throughout the conversation, Dylan shares insights into his musical influences—ranging from Southern rap legends like OutKast and Lil Wayne to contemporary artists like Kendrick Lamar—and discusses how his personal experiences and hometown have influenced his sound. He also talks about his creative process, collaborations, and his ambitions for the future.

Dylan’s story is a testament to the power of passion and staying true to yourself. So, tune in to hear his story, his energy, and get a taste of his latest music. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss!

Follow Dylan Ireland on all Social Media!

Get ready to dive into the inspiring story of BIAS, a rising star from Little Rock, Arkansas who calls Chattanooga home.

His soulful country melodies and heartfelt lyrics have touched audiences across the nation. From his early days to the bright lights of NBC’s The Voice, where he earned a top-nine spot and the nickname “Country Soul Preacher,” BIAS’s journey is one of passion, perseverance, and authentic artistry.

Get ready to tune in as Gino D welcomes one the rising stars of Running of the Chihuahuas 16, coming up on Saturday, May 3^rd… Lilac Line!

Hailing from Chattanooga, this dynamic trio formed in the midst of 2020, bringing together the creative talents of Trent Walliser, Cameron Webb, and Jonah Brantley. With their unique blend of classic rock influences and contemporary sounds, Lilac Line is crafting a fresh musical identity that captivates audiences.

In this interview, Gino D dives deep into the band’s evolution, exploring the diverse inspirations that range from iconic legends to modern-day favorites. Lilac Line shares the highs and lows of their musical journey, the collaborative spirit that drives their creativity, and their exciting plans for the future.

Don’t miss your chance to hear about their creative process, local music scene reflections, and the passionate messages they aim to convey through their songs. Tune in and get ready to rock with Lilac Line!

Join us as Gino D sits down with Swayyvo, a talented hip-hop artist from Chattanooga, Tennessee, whose unique sound is reshaping the local music landscape.

Swayyvo merges elements of jazz, neo-soul, and 90s hip-hop to create a distinctive musical style that resonates with listeners.

In this interview, Swayyvo shares his journey into music, discussing the pivotal moments and influences that have shaped his career. He opens up about his creative process, and how the vibrant Chattanooga music scene has impacted his work.

The Proximity Playlist with Gino D is the Hits 96 podcast where we sit down with local Chattanooga artists who are shaking up the music scene and help tell their story.

On the most recent episode, Gino D welcomed CoRnBRED to the studio, a talented local musician from Rossville, Georgia, who’s been making waves with his unique blend of country, hip-hop, rock, and more.

With a sound that’s both deeply rooted in the heartland and unapologetically his, CoRnBRED is an artist who’s not afraid to tackle tough topics and tell the stories that need to be told. From his experiences growing up in the South to his thoughts on patriotism and community, CornBred’s music is a reflection of his values and his passion for performing.

CoRnBRED talks about his journey as an artist, his creative process, and what drives him to keep pushing the boundaries of what music can be.

Welcome to The Proximity Playlist with Gino D, where we shine a spotlight on the incredible talent coming out of Chattanooga and its surrounding area.

Get ready to dive into the world of Zan Dretti, an innovative musician, producer, and podcaster from Chattanooga. With a decade of experience under his belt, Zan is known for his unique blend of Hip Hop, R&B, Country, and Alternative/Rock music, all infused with raw emotion and storytelling that speaks to the heart.

In this episode of The Proximity Playlist with Gino D, Zan shares his journey from a hesitant rapper to a seasoned artist who thrives on spontaneity, creating music that resonates deeply with his audience. He discusses his upcoming project, “It’s Never Enough,” and reveals how diverse influences have shaped his sound. Plus, talks about his upcoming event in Atlanta and his podcast, The BIG Diamond Show.

Moreover, Zan emphasizes the importance of showcasing how artists can impact their surroundings positively. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the conversation with the inspiring Zan Dretti.

Chattanooga’s music scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse sounds and stories, and this week, The Proximity Playlist shines a spotlight on another of its most promising voices: PG Woods.

In this interview with host Gino D, PG Woods takes listeners on a journey through his musical evolution, from his roots in a large, musically-inclined family to his current status as a rising artist with a unique perspective.

More than just a collection of  tunes, PG Woods’ music is a reflection of his experiences, his struggles, and his triumphs. He blends raw emotion with skillfully crafted melodies, creating songs that resonate with authenticity and depth.  PG shares his insights on songwriting, his artistic influences, and his aspirations for the future.

The Proximity Playlist isn’t just an interview; it’s an exploration of the creative process, the power of music to connect us, and the unwavering spirit of a local artists making their mark. Prepare to be inspired as PG Woods shares his story and offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of his music.

Welcome to The Proximity Playlist, where we explore the stories behind the local music from the Chattanooga area.

Today, we invite you to join us for a conversation between Gino D and the remarkable artist… Kindora.

Kindora is not just an artist; she’s a beacon of creativity hailing from Chattanooga. For over 11 years, she’s been weaving her life experiences into captivating pop melodies that resonate deeply with her audience. Known for her unique sound that blends elements of early 2000’s pop and emo, she’s a breath of fresh air in today’s music landscape.

In this interview, you’ll hear Kindora discuss her musical journey, the challenges she’s faced, and her heartfelt approach to songwriting. With accolades including features with Hello Kitty, Fortnite, and HBO, Kindora’s story is one of not only talent, but passion for her craft.

So prepare to be inspired as Gino D and Kindora dive into all things music, creativity, and the powerful effects of songwriting!

Welcome back to The Proximity Playlist!

We have a special treat for you as we kick off Season 2! Today we dive into an illuminating conversation with the talented Afro-Appalachian Folk artist, Mon Rovîa. Hailing from Liberia and now based in Chattanooga, Mon’s music is a heartfelt exploration of themes such as redemption, transformation, and the healing power of love.

In our interview, we discuss his latest EP, Act 4: Atonement, and the personal journey that inspired it. Mon shares insights into his creative process, the significance of vulnerability in his work, and the bright future ahead of him as an artist.

Get ready to discover the soulful sounds of Yassriyah, an emerging singer-songwriter with deep roots in the Chattanooga community. Born in Chattanooga and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Yassriyah has carved out her artistic identity in the heart of East Brainerd.

As the eldest in a large family with 11 siblings, she brings a rich tapestry of experiences to her music, drawing inspiration from both personal struggles and the world around her. Yassriyah’s musical journey began in her childhood, where she found solace in writing and singing at church.

After navigating a tumultuous relationship with music throughout her life, she has now embraced her passion wholeheartedly. Her new EP, I Am Yassriyah, showcases her evolution as an artist and features songs that resonate with themes of love, pain, and the grace she finds in life.

Although she is still gaining a foothold in the local music scene, Yassriyah has already performed at notable venues such as Barrelhouse Ballroom. She believes in the transformative power of music and hopes to offer her audience an experience filled with love, comfort, and a sense of freedom in their own journeys.

Join us in this episode of The Proximity Playlist as we delve into Yassriyah’s journey, her creative process grounded in prayer and honesty, and her ambitions for the future. Listen in as she shares her story and music.

On this episode of The Proximity Playlist with Gino D, we welcome the boundary-pushing artist Hippie Jacques, also known as the Haitian Zombie.

Emerging from New York City and now thriving in Chattanooga, Hippie Jacques brings a fresh perspective to the local music scene. As a bilingual artist, he weaves together diverse genres and influences, creating a sound that transcends traditional boundaries. A key figure within the independent collective Genesis, his mission is clear: to elevate and empower fellow musicians while cultivating a supportive creative community.

In the conversation, Hippie opens up about his journey, sharing the highs and lows of pursuing a musical career. His candid insights into the challenges faced by artists in Chattanooga highlight his commitment to fostering a more inclusive artistic environment.

With a penchant for spontaneity and freestyling, Hippie’s tracks are both powerful and deeply relatable. Each song offers listeners an intimate glimpse into his world, capturing the raw emotions that define his art.

Join us as we dive into the sounds of Hippie Jacques, exploring the music that inspires him and the impact he hopes to make on the community.

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Get ready to immerse yourself in the soulful world of LVNDR, a captivating neo-soul singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Chattanooga. In this episode of The Proximity Playlist, Gino D explores LVNDR’s unique artistry and the profound influences that have shaped her music.

Born to a classical music conductor, LVNDR was surrounded by rich musical traditions from an early age. Although her father’s strict guidelines meant her life revolved around piano practice, his passion ignited a fire within her that has led to her current success. With stories of harmonizing in the car and the memories of her father, LVNDR opens up about her journey as an artist and the depth of her emotional connection to music.

As LVNDR shares her experiences of collaborating with fellow musicians and her aspirations for the future, listeners will also discover the vibrant creative community thriving right here in Chattanooga. Join us for an inspiring conversation that showcases propelling local talent, as LVNDR reveals her vision and the innovative soundscape she’s bringing to life.

LVNDR will also be one of the many local performers for the Locals Only Music Festival on October 12th and 13th.

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This week's episode of The Proximity Playlist is a "Performance Bonus Episode" featuring the one and only... Knox, who is performing August 23rd in Chattanooga at the Barrelhouse Ballroom. 

Knox has been making waves since his first headline tour, I’m So Good At Being Alone, and Gino D caught up with him via ZOOM, as he prepares for his highly anticipated return to Chattanooga.

On this episode of The Proximity Playlist, Gino D gets to know Justice4000— a Chattanooga-based hip hop artist whose music defies expectations. Originally from East Lake and now rooted in East Ridge, Justice4000 is making waves with a sound that's truly his own. At just 26 years old, he’s crafted a musical universe where listeners can find everything from intense hard-hitting bars to emotional tracks that resonate deeply.

Justice4000’s journey began with a childhood passion for music, inspired by his uncle and a close circle of friends. Over the years, he’s grown from collaborating in groups to establishing his own brand, Badluk, and pushing the boundaries of his sound. His influences range from rap legends like 50 Cent and Tupac to pioneers like Tech N9ne and Three 6 Mafia, and his music reflects a blend of life experiences and creative expression.

In this podcast, you’ll hear about his upcoming album, Revenge Of The Rockstar, a project that marks the next phase in his musical evolution. Beyond the music, Justice4000 is deeply connected to the Chattanooga community.

On this episode of The Proximity Playlist, Gino D sits down with Jason Lyles.

Hailing from Orchard Knob, Jason brings an infectious positivity and a unique blend of genres to the music world. Growing up in North Georgia, Jason's love for music was sparked by cherished moments listening to vinyl records with his mom. This early exposure to diverse sounds has influenced his distinctive style, which fuses rock, pop, alternative, and Americana.

Jason’s journey from high school bands to solo acoustic performances in coffee houses has led to the release of six albums. Recently, he’s been rocking the stage with his full band at popular Chattanooga venues such as Puckett’s and Barrelhouse Ballroom.

His songs cover a wide range of themes, from relationships to societal issues, always aiming to inspire and entertain.

Kick back, relax, and enjoy the interview to learn more about his journey and to listen to a few of Jason's songs as well...

Before you dive into this episode of The Proximity Playlist with Gino D, let us introduce you to Finding Zero, a rising star in Chattanooga's hip hop scene. Known for his profound lyrics, Finding Zero brings a fresh perspective to the genre.

Growing up in Chattanooga, he has been immersed in a rich tapestry of musical influences that shaped his sound. His music isn't just about entertainment; it's a journey through self-discovery and resilience.

In this episode, you'll get to know the artist behind the music, hear about his creative process, and discover the stories that inspire his tracks, Come Find Me, Face The Throne, and Fade to Black. You're in for a treat as we explore the mind and music of Finding Zero.

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