Barron Bollar AKA Slot-A, Music Producer and DJ from Ypsilanti, MI. Now planted, growing, evolving, and transforming in Chicago, IL. Yet another creative and brilliant soul that crossed my path as I was journeying through life in the Chi, over a decade ago. Barron and I found common ground through music, creativity, purpose, drive, and our desire to experience more out of life.
We had opportunities to vibe to his DJ sets, connect with dope friends, break bread, and have long & inspiring conversations with depth. It was one of the many reasons I loved living in that vibrant and complex City. It connects and exposes you to diverse groups of people with colorful perspective and fearless ways of living. Teaching you valuable lessons and giving you new experiences that align you with your life purpose and mission.
The transition to Chicago has opened many windows of opportunities and new perspectives for Slot-A. It was one of the most transformational and uncomfortable moves that aligned him to his soul purpose, loving life partner, and a higher perspective & truth.. Learning, Collaborating, and Mastering his craft with Legendary Artists like, Add-2, Skyzoo, Ghostface Killah, Tech 9, Lunice, Rakim, Amanda Seales, Phat Kat, and so many others along the way. HIs unique blends are inspired and infused by Hip Hop, Nu-Disco, Funk, Latin, and Reggae sounds. Listening and watching him create, confirms that he is doing exactly what he was created to do.
I recently connected with Barron and had the opportunity to tap into his dimension of time. It’s amazing how one’s experiences can change the entire trajectory of their life. These are the stories that inspire us to continue learning, evolving, creating, and freely journeying through our own life experiences with so much conviction.
Tap into a little piece of Slot-A’s dope mind:
RM: What is your life’s philosophy?
Slot A: My life’s philosophy is to learn without ego. Being and tapping into a child-like state where there’s no need for a specific point of reference to learn something or just play. I accept the information as it comes.
RM: How has that philosophy evolved over the years?
Slot A: I learned about the black n white color spectrum of “knowledge.” Learning the black and white to better understand the grey area of a lesson. Lately, I’ve been learning how to exist within the rules, while breaking them at the same time. When I was much younger I was always scared of being heavy handed or clumsy. That would make me not want to try new things and step outside of my comfort zone. Now, I’m more comfortable with me. My focus is directed to having more fun while learning something new.
RM: How has your upbringing and circle of influence, impacted the way you live and think about life today?
Slot A: I’ve always only had like two friends at a time. Haha People who I really share Ideas and council with at any given time. Lately, it’s been more so about understanding the possibilities that we may have not seen when we were in our 20’s. The goal was to get signed or get some kind of major placement. Now, it’s just been learning how to make a real living from your thoughts. Getting excited from an idea and really turning it into something - instead of getting high off the excitement and letting the ideas die.
RM: Do you believe that your form of artistry infects our society with positivity?
Slot A: My intention is to spread positivity, yet I have no clue how people are receiving it. I Produce and DJ and sometimes the songs don’t always have the most positive lyrics. The goal is always to connect people through a mutual group experience. Loud music, dark rooms, and moving lights can raise the spirit to allow people to escape from their work day. Music is all air. Manipulating the air can be powerful experience for the person listening.
RM: How do you navigate through the music world as an independent artist?
Slot A: You just have to do it man. Learn from your mistakes, keep going, being consistent as your spirit would allow you to be. I’ve had a few years dormant in terms of practicing my medium and looking to turn my ideas into a product for consumption.
RM: How do you stay relevant, unique, and true to your own craft?
Slot A: You’re judged equally by what you do and don’t do. The goal for me is just to stay consistent because you never know who’s going to ask a question that requires your presence and skill.
RM: What practices do you implement to stay grounded and divinely connected to your Creator?
Slot A: Alone time without noise. It’s really a big thing for me. I work in the studio by myself a lot and even when I drive to clear my mind. I tune into a podcast or some music. The real alone time is great. No distractions. No sound. No music. Just alone with your thoughts, etc.
RM: What words of wisdom would you give to those seeking a deeper understanding of themselves?
Slot A: Don’t allow your attachments to be your prison. You came into this world with everything you need. There’s also a spectrum of black and white. You’ll find comfort in the extremes, but one day you’ll become curious about the middle areas. Thats where you’ll find your real freedom.
Stay Connected with Slot-A:
Apple Music
Spotify
SoundCloud
Instagram
Facebook
Interview by: Rebecca Muñoz