High school can be both an awful and amazing place—life-long friendships form, the pressure to obtain flawless grades seems unbearable, the new freedoms that accompany older age are exciting, and the pressures and temptations of high school are constantly present. Every student that walks the halls of DHS develops a passion for something, whether it be athletics, journalism, or music. Students learn to turn to their passions during tribulations and channel what they are currently experiencing into these “safe-havens”. For DHS alumni Sean Landes, this was rap/hip hop music.
Landes developed his passion for music at a young age. He grew up listening to and composing music on the piano and in his head, and eventually learned how to play the trombone. When he was in the fifth grade, Landes’ purchase of 50 Cent’s “Get Rich or Die Tryin’” sparked his interest in rap. From that point on, rap music was Landes’ world.
While Landes’ experience at DHS was an enjoyable one, he needed a way to relieve the stress and anger he felt. Writing rhymes was able to provide this outlet.
“I played a lot of sports and had many good friends,” said Landes. “However, fitting in can be hard in high school. So I found a way to express my struggles as an adolescent.”
As Landes’ career began to take off, he received support as well as discouragement.
“At first my parents discouraged my lyrics,” said Landes. “But soon they were listening to my songs. I had much support from teachers and friends.”
According to his personal website, Landes met local producer Kevin Quoss (“Cryonic Sun”) and local MC Rob Parker, and began to work on a few songs with them, forming the group Life in the Matrix. His first single, “Things Change”, was an east coast-type jam about the music industry. Landes and Life in the Matrix are due to release more singles in the near future.
Growing up in Midland, it would be difficult for Landes not to incorporate his experiences here into his music.
“The city of Midland has taught me not to make music for any group of people, but just to make music,” Landes said. “Something anyone can relate to.”
To learn more about Landes and his career, visit: http://www.reverbnation.com/seanlandes
By Emily Peterson
