With 410k monthly listeners under his belt, up-and-coming DVM-based artist Blaxian is making a name for himself with R&B and pop music that easily gets stuck in your head. Blaxian spoke with NYOTA about his creative inspirations, his single ‘GETCHONAME’, and his advice for aspiring musicians.

The DMV has a lively music scene. What did growing up in the DMV teach you musically?

Growing up in the DMV taught me the importance of culture, individuality, and rhythm. It’s such a unique area because you’re surrounded by so many different influences, from go-go and hip-hop to R&B, jazz, and the creative energy that comes from being so close to the nation’s capital. That diversity naturally shapes how you view music and storytelling. Being from an urban environment also had a major impact on my sound. There’s a certain groove, soul, and authenticity that comes from the DMV that you can’t really replicate. The music I create reflects that. It’s funky, melodic, and rooted in real experiences while still leaving room for creativity and experimentation. Growing up here taught me that music isn’t just about making songs. It’s about capturing a feeling, representing where you come from, and creating something people can connect with. 

How did you decide on the moniker Blaxian? What is the meaning behind it?

When I was in middle school, a classmate asked me what my race was. I told her I was Black and Filipino, and she replied, “Oh, so you’re Blaxian.” I remember thinking it sounded catchy, and the name stuck with me from that day on. 

Your music feels modern while still pulling from classic R&B and soul influences. What’s your creative process like when you’re building a song?

Certain songs come naturally to me. I typically start with the flow and melody, experimenting with how my voice sounds on a beat and letting the music guide the direction. Once I find something that feels right, I build a concept around it and begin telling a story that comes from my own experiences, emotions, or observations. For me, songwriting is about finding a balance between feeling and intention. I want the music to connect with people, so I try to create something honest and relatable while still making it sound good. R&B, funk, and soul are ingrained in me, so those influences always find their way into my music no matter what style I’m exploring. They shape the way I approach melodies, rhythm, and storytelling, and they’ve helped me develop a sound that feels authentic to who I am as an artist. 

Outside of music, what inspires you creatively right now?

Living and experiencing life is my biggest source of inspiration. I’m big on emotions, feelings, relatability, and drawing from things I’ve personally lived through because I think that’s what allows people to truly connect with the music. Some of my songs are also manifestations of experiences, goals, and moments I hope to have in the future. Whether I’m reflecting on real life or speaking something into existence, I always try to create music that feels honest, meaningful, and authentic. 

Your aesthetic feels really intentional. How would you describe your style and the kind of world you want people to step into when they experience your art?

I would describe my style as funky and nostalgic. A lot of my music is inspired by the sounds, melodies, and feelings that made me fall in love with music in the first place. At the same time, I like blending those influences with modern production and contemporary storytelling so it feels fresh rather than familiar. When people step into my world, I want them to experience a sense of nostalgia while still feeling like they’re hearing something new. My goal is to create music that reminds listeners of a feeling or a moment they’ve experienced, but through a lens that feels current, personal, and uniquely my own. 

Your single “GETCHONAME” already has over 400k streams. What’s the story behind the song?

“GETCHONAME” is about a common experience that a lot of people can relate to. You see someone across the room, instantly become captivated by them, and before you’ve even introduced yourself, your mind starts creating an entire story. The song captures that feeling of being drawn to someone based on a single moment and letting your imagination run wild before you even know their name. 

How hands-on are you with your visuals and music videos? Do visuals come to you while you’re making the music, or does that vision happen later?

I’m usually very hands-on when it comes to visuals. I like being involved in every part of the creative process, from developing the concept to deciding on specific angles, shots, and overall aesthetics. I’m a visual person, so I need to be able to see how everything comes together and translates on screen. I also edit most of my own visuals, which allows me to make sure the final product aligns with the vision I had from the beginning. Most of the time, I let a song marinate before I start thinking about visuals. Once I’ve lived with the record for a while, certain images, scenes, and ideas naturally begin to come to me. That’s when I start planning and executing the visual side of the project. For me, the visuals should enhance the story the music is telling, so I always want them to feel intentional, cohesive, and true to the emotion of the song. 

What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?

Be yourself, believe in yourself, and love yourself.