Emerging from the streets of Compton, OTP.C4 is making waves in the West Coast music scene with his unique sound and powerful storytelling. After winning the spotlight on the Liq Podcast and securing a victory at an open mic night, the rapper-singer-songwriter is positioning himself to be the next big thing. In an exclusive interview with trapLA, OTP.C4 opens up about his musical beginnings, challenges as an independent artist, and the inspiration behind his hit track “Ball.”

Compton Roots and Musical Beginnings

When asked about his early inspiration, OTP.C4 reflects on the artists who sparked his passion for music, citing names like Chris Brown, Mario, and Usher. “What inspired me to get into music was listening to other big artists growing up at the time,” he says. While his Compton upbringing didn’t initially shape his artistry, it became a crucial influence as he grew older. “Compton didn’t really influence me as an artist until I got older, as far as my struggle and what I put into the music—my story.”

His journey from Compton to the stage has been anything but easy. Facing label fallouts and navigating life as an independent artist without management, OTP.C4 has had to grind and hustle his way to where he is today. “Some of the biggest challenges have been things like label fallouts, and now just maintaining myself independently… learning, and trying to stay consistent.”

The Rise of “Ball”

OTP.C4’s latest single, “Ball,” has been generating buzz, and for good reason. The track is an anthem for anyone who’s ever dreamed of leveling up. “‘I just wanna ball with my dawgs, I do. Wanna touch a hundred M’s with my dawgs, I do,’” he recites the lyrics, adding, “It gives inspiration and touches people to wanna get up and go get it. Coming out the hood, we lose people every day, so go get it before God pulls your card.”

The song captures the essence of ambition and resilience, a message deeply rooted in OTP.C4’s personal journey. It’s an anthem not just for the streets, but for anyone striving to rise above their circumstances and make something of themselves.

Fitting Into Compton’s Legacy

Coming from a city that birthed legends like Dr. Dre and Kendrick Lamar, OTP.C4 feels both the pressure and privilege of contributing to Compton’s rich musical legacy. “I’ll fit in perfectly, I feel, with my unique sound and versatile flow along with the greats. It ain’t on me, it’s in me,” he confidently declares.

His versatility is what sets him apart. Describing his sound as “soulful, versatile, kinda angelic,” OTP.C4 explains how his style makes listeners do a double-take. “It’s like, ‘I can’t believe this is that type of feeling,’” he says, emphasizing how he approaches each beat with relentless energy and authenticity.

Staying Connected to His Roots

Despite his rising fame, OTP.C4 remains deeply connected to his Compton roots. His community, he says, gave him purpose. “My community shaped me as a person. I wouldn’t walk how I do, talk, feel music how I do, etc., without my community,” he shares. His loyalty to his hood is unwavering, and he continues to give back in any way he can.

He’s also quick to offer advice to up-and-coming artists: “Follow your gut. Be yourself in any situation, and let your creative mindset take over with everything you do. Be true to who you are as an artist.”

What’s Next for OTP.C4?

After the success of “Ball,” OTP.C4 has more in store for his fans. “Ball was just one of the hit singles I dropped about a month ago leading up to the release of my album, Out the Projects 2, out now on all platforms,” he says. As for what’s next, OTP.C4 is just getting started. “The goal I’m still chasing is to be the biggest singer in the world. To be the greatest. I’m just now getting started.”

With a sound that’s versatile and a hustle that’s relentless, OTP.C4 is poised to take over the rap game, one song at a time.