ATL representative TJ Pompous is going places; a rapper, singer, songwriter, music producer, and engineer, he’s making some noise alongside his team, the APEX Society. His recent release, a two-song EP entitled Argument, is an inventive “he said, she said” perspective of a disagreement between a couple. His Soundcloud is full of what appears to be untapped gems. We caught up with the young upstart, who also goes by the monicker PonyBoy. Check out our interview below.
Introduce yourself.
My name is TJ Pompous AKA PonyBoy. I’m an aspiring producer, rapper, and singer/songwriter from Stockbridge, GA (metro Atlanta) in Henry County. We affectionately call it THE HANK.
Tell me about your music — describe your sound. How did you get started?
I’ve been into music my entire life. I blame it on the constant car rides with my dad, listening to whatever he played. The music was always different, and I think that’s why my music sounds the way it does.
Who/what were some of your influences?
My music is unique, and it doesn’t sound like anything that any other artist has made. It’s refreshing and original. My biggest influences are Michael Jackson, Prince, and Kanye West. They’ve always pushed boundaries, and that’s something I try to do with my music.
What have you released so far? What are you currently working on?
I’m a member of a group of fierce MCs called APEX SOCIETY, and together we have released two LPs so far. My latest solo project is called “PonyBoy EP”. It follows the story of the famous book, The Outsiders. I took some inspirations from the movie and gave it a hip-hop twist. Currently, I’m working on another EP called “The Diamond Kid “ that’s set to drop late summer/early fall, as well as producing solo EPs for the other members of my crew. I want to highlight each of our strengths so that everyone can appreciate our individual styles and talent.
What have been some of your biggest achievements thus far?
So far, my fan base has consistently grown bigger and bigger!! On SoundCloud, APEX SOCIETY has over 100,000 plays, and since the release of PonyBoy EP back in May, I’ve gained an additional 10,000+ plays on my personal SoundCloud page. I’ve also had the opportunity to perform several times at the Vinyl (at Center Stage), The High Museum of Art, and numerous private events/parties.
What do you want people to take away from you as an artist? What’s next for you?
As an artist, I not only want people to listen to my music, but I want them to feel it, see it, and crave it! Music is a powerful tool that I think can be used to heal and bring people together. I want my music to be the one thing that connects all races, ages, and cultures! I have a lot of great music, performances, and surprises on the way!
