We had a moment to chat with Balla Bellee, the Memphis Tennessee artist who’s been making a name for himself over quarantine. Check out his full interview below and let us know what you think HERE.

Where are you from?Ā I’m from Memphis.Ā 


What was life like growing up?Ā Growing up in Memphis was rough but you find a way to live. You find a way to have fun and make difficult situations normal. I can’t lie like it was all bad though,I’m Memphis for life.


How did you get into the music scene?Ā I got into the music scene from rapping with my brothers. We had a rap group called MoneyPileGang and me and the CEO just kept running with it. Shout out to the gang doe, love.

What was the first song, event or experience that really boosted your career? The event that boosted my career was a combination of several things. I was working and then I lost my job, so while the group situation helped, some personal relationships with people weren’t in the best space.Ā I felt like music was the only thing I still loved and I wasn’t going to give it up. I started recording like crazy and sending my CEO all the music. I would drop everyday he kept telling me and from here we started working on a plan.Ā 

How did you get your nameĀ BallaĀ Bellee?Ā I got my name from being young and livin like a lil baller. My mama used to call me Lee as a nickname and I loved the movie “Belly” so I put it all together. That shit just sounded good to me so we just ran with it.Ā 


Who is your biggest inspiration?Ā My biggest inspiration was my grandfather. He passed last year. He was the epitome of hard work and living out your purpose. He was real and stood for something. I learned early on to live my life and live it unapologetically.Ā 


Most expensive jewelry piece?Ā Most expensive piece at the moment is probably my bag chain. I like that fresh simple shit. As time goes on, I’ll get more.


What has been the most difficult part of being an artist?Ā The most difficult part seems to be the industry politics. You have to get to know these DJs and promoters’ circle to get to these peoples and it can be tough. I’ll also say the CAP is at an all time high. I just had to understand that’s how the game goes and that’s just how some people do business. I realize that as long as you’reĀ real, the light gone’ shine through.


Where do you see yourself in 5 years?Ā I see myself charting on Billboard, maybe some movies, a regular at the Grammys, VMAs, MetLife Gala, etc. Star living and continuing to solidify our brand. I also want to make this Money Vulture Entertainment a household name and help to develop upcoming artists.Ā 


If you could collaborate or open up for one major artist, who would it be and why?Ā I think it would be Gotti or Dolph at the moment. With all due respect to others in Memphis, I just got a feeling, and I know the energy in the room would be crazy. We could relate to certain situations, people, and issues in the city. I think it would also be a good look because for years people have been asking “Why cant Memphis come together like this place or that place?” I think we could show the world we can unite too.Ā 


What advice would you give to someone looking to become an artist?Ā My advice would be to have patience, confidence, and run your one race. Stay focused on your plate and don’t compete with nobody but yourself. If you’re better than where you were before, you should be happy. And don’t forget to celebrate the small wins.Ā 

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