Da'Jae Allen 
Dwayne Neff is a 23-year-old artist from Park Forest who attended Tougaloo College, majoring in Mass Communications. This exciting performer with electric music and a genuine soul, released his project “23” in May. Read on to learn more about this From the ‘Go performer.
What does it mean to you to perform at the FTG Fest?
All the hard work that I’ve been doing is starting to pay off. Being selected means I’m doing the right thing, and taking the right steps.
How would you describe yourself as an artist?
I would describe myself as an artist who takes his craft seriously and pays attention to details. Also, the things that he writes. I’m very conscious of the words that I use. I’m just an artist that cares a lot about what he does.
How did your passion for music begin?
When I was 17 years old, just rapping every day with my friends. We would just meet up and rap. It was a habit that we would just do. And we were like let’s get in the studio and craft something and it just kept going from there.
Who are your musical influences?
Travis Scoot, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar.
How did you come up with your stage name?
My name is the same as my dad who is my biggest inspiration. He supports me in everything I do and I know he’s not going to be here forever. When he does pass and I’m successful in what I’m doing, it will feel like we’re doing it together.
What are your main goals for a music career?
To tour the world and help make people’s lives better. Whatever they’re going through, just give them some music to make them feel better.
What artists would you like to collaborate with in the future?
I would like to work with Travis Scott. I would love to collaborate with Femdot. or Chris Brown. And I would like to work with Chance the Rapper for sure. And Lucky. I would love to collaborate with Lucky.
What advice would you give other emerging artists?’
To keep going. It’s a long process but keep going. Life has other obstacles outside of music but you gotta battle through those to continue to do music. You got to try and build yourself to be the best person possible and it will relate to your music.
Where do you hope to have the opportunity to perform one day?
Madison Square Garden.
What has been the highlight of your musical career thus far?
I got to open up for Duke Deuce. That was crazy. And then everyone from my neighborhood threw a show called Summer Smash in early June. Seeing everyone that I grew up with come out for one show together was cool and special.
What are your hobbies outside of music?
I play the video game, NCAA as of recently. I play a lot of and coach kids basketball which relates to my music as well. I take walks and read books. Or I’m with my girlfriend or advocating for the Church.
You can follow Dwayne Neff @d7neff and see him and other artists perform this Saturday at From the ‘Go Fest at the Dusable Museum! Get your FREE festival pass by clicking here.
By Da’Jae Allen, Sophomore, Howard University
Instagram: @dajae.10
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