ASTRO a.k.a. The Astronomical Kid

It’s definitely been quite a ride for you since your stand-out appearance on season one of the X Factor USA, but before we get into all of these other endeavors let’s talk about your time on the reality TV show — How was that whole experience for you?

It was chill. It was a learning experience and gave me a dose of what “The Industry” was like. Now when I look back, I appreciate the opportunity and everything that occurred. It helped me to grow as a person and as an artist.

Although you didn’t win, were you still pretty satisfied with the end result?

Of course. Jennifer Hudson finished 7th on American Idol. I finished 7th on X Factor. Lucky number 7!

Currently, you are simultaneously on both the silver screen, as well as television so let’s start with A Walk Among the Tombstones — How did this whole situation come about? And, what exactly was it like working with a Hollywood icon such as Liam Neeson?

Well, my agency sent me the script, and I fell in love with it instantly. What’s crazy is I didn’t even know of Liam Neeson’s work prior to filming. But, he was my mother’s favorite actor, so she kept talking about how excited she was. When I found out I got the part, I was hyped! Especially because it was filming in New York City and (I was) ready to work. Working with Liam was a humbling experience. To be near someone who has accomplished so much in the acting industry and see them be super laid back and NORMAL, was a great thing. Liam is a cool ass dude.

As just mentioned, you are also on FOX’s new hit series ‘Red Band Society’ — How did you land the role of Dash Hosney?

Agency sent that script as well, and I read it and thought it was a cool story about teenagers being told from the teenagers’ perspective. I originally auditioned for the role of Jordi, but I went back like 3 times and they told me I would be a better fit for the role of Dash. So here I am.

Tell me about your character? Is he anything at all like you are in real life?

Sorta…He’s a very ambitious kid and so am I. But other than that, I don’t see too many similarities. I would definitely never dress like Dash! *Chuckles* His outfits have been all over the place since the pilot episode. *More chuckles* But it fits the character well.

Because there’s an ensemble cast; Octavia Spencer, Dave Annable, Griffin Gluck, Nolan Sotillo, Charlie Rowe, Zoe Levin, Ciara Bravo, among others, is there a real camaraderie amongst one another on set? I bet you’re having a whole lot of fun filming, aren’t you?

Well, luckily, everyone in the cast shines in their own way — on and off screen — we all compliment each other. Everybody’s real professional as well; I’m probably the least professional person there! But, it’s a pretty fun environment overall.

In addition, you are gearing up for the release of your brand new EP Computer Era — Although pretty self-explanatory, still tell me what prompted your decision to title the project this?

I just thought it was interesting how rap turned into this digital monster. People don’t take much time with the music anymore; it’s all just…Make a quick beat, write a catchy hook and a repetitive verse. But, this project is me trying to end the “Computer Era” and bring back quality music; I guess it’s sort of a contradiction. I tend to do that type of stuff a lot.

Along with the EP, you are launching Grade A Tribe clothing line — Tell me about this business venture of yours…

I’m just trying to take over every field and promote what I like. In today’s culture, a lot of the music sounds the same and most of the clothes are “trendy,” so I started making my own clothes. I don’t really like the radio scene in New York City like that, so I’m about to start my OWN radio station. I’m just changing the things that I don’t like, slowly.

Reflecting, how did you first discover your musical talent?

I don’t really remember. I’ve always had a love for Hip-Hop, since like the age of three. I started rapping at about the same age, too. Now the moment where I started rapping and making sense, was like 8…9 Years old. But, the love for music has been there since the womb, if you ask me.

Who have been your greatest inspirations musically and why?

Too many to name. As far as rappers, the “big dogs”; Hov, Biggie, Pac, Snoop, Wu-Tang, etcetera….To me, these guys are some of the nicest lyrically and great with business; especially Hov. He’s got millions and he’s still a ‘Brooklyn Don’ — Gotta respect it!

Where does your moniker originally derive from?

Dictionary. Astro is short for The Astronomical Kid. I was looking for a rap name in the dictionary and I saw Astronomical.

How then would you describe and/or define the style of music that you create and perform?

I don’t want to sound corny or anything, but real music. Music that you can listen to and relate to. None of that fantasizing negative bullshit. I try my hardest to rap about things that I’ve been through, or someone around me has been through; REAL LIFE SITUATIONS! I think those are the things that made the greats…The Greats.

What do you feel you offer the music industry that we don’t already have in other performers?

A feeling of reality. I feel like with most artists today, you have to like a certain type of music and be a certain type of person to really feel connected with them. Every one of my raps are based on everyday life and made for everyday people.

Have you encountered any problems in getting to this point in your career?

Of course! I’ve had lots of trouble finding out who Astro really is. I’ve never tried to sound like anyone else, but there has been times where I felt the need to fit in and compromise for radio/blogs/TV/etcetera. But at this point, I’m more aware of my sound and style. And, I’m also supportive of those who support me.

What do you want people to get from your music?

EVERYTHING! I just want the listener to be affected in some way, shape or form. That’s what rappers like Big and Pac did for me. After listening to Life After Death and Me Against the World, my thought process was a little bit different. I want people to sit and think about the lines I say, not just think “that was hot” and turn the song off.

What has been your greatest achievement so far?

Well, I guess, getting all my heroes aware of who I am and what I do. I think about that every few days. I know FOR SURE that every one of (my) Heroes know about that youngin’ named Astro that raps…And if they don’t know, their kids know and they put them on. It’s a beautiful thing!

If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?

I got a million of ’em, but if I had to choose one I would probably say Hov. The reason being, I grew up on Hov and I pretty much studied his career ever since the moment I decided I wanted to rap. That’s the MC I’m trying to be better than at the moment, and I feel like I’m catching up everyday. So, I think a song with Jay would either put me in my place, or let me know I’m the best in the game.

If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?

Not so much a venue, but an event. The Source Awards. I really don’t understand why they would cancel something like that; it was such a dope platform for Hip-Hop artist. You could design the stage how you wanted, and it was raw Hip-Hop energy. If I ever did that though, I’d probably have to travel back to 2003.

One track of yours that you think defines you and why?

Probably a song on Computer Era Called “Ghetta Story.” That’s definitely my favorite song off the EP. I feel like it gives listeners a peek into my mind and thinking process. I call it the realest shit I ever wrote, because it takes me back to a time in life where I was really an observer of the universe; not knowing where I would end up but just being aware. I think when people hear it, they’ll have a better understanding of why I move the way I move.

@AstronomicalKid – #OfficialHype
By: Todd Davis

Photographer: Ben Miller

Styling: Stephanie Powers

Grooming: Cat White

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