LIFEOFTHOM Is Establishing A New Era Of Cinematic Music
LIFEOFTHOM’s originality and fearless experimentation in the underground scene has carved him into a music industry gem. The world is abound in artists competing for listeners’ attention and LIFEOFTHOM, a.k.a. Thomas, is a refreshing anomaly. The young artist from Washington Heights has been introducing a new-wave hip hop sound that feels vividly nostalgic, and is curated from raw, organic experimentation and a strong sense of production. Paired with consistent month-to-month drops and intriguing cinematic visuals that feel like old films, LIFEOFTHOM has set himself up as a poster child for promising independent artists as he constantly evolves his body of work while building a massive community. His underlying oath to deliver distinctive, tangible experiences through music has cemented itself through his expressive delivery and Thomas’s consistency within visually distributing music on social media in niche ways is a valuable study in creative marketing.
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In modern artistry, all successful artist’s stories revolve around a strong narrative, however you have to be multi-faceted in order to market your story effectively. Thomas’s keen understanding of not only auditory art, but marketing, strategy and the culture strongly support one another. The moniker ‘LIFEOFTHOM’ isn't just a catchy title; it’s a reflection of Thomas’s life and artistic endeavors. Performing initially under the name Thomas, he faced the challenge of a common name’s poor search engine optimization. “I just thought of an easy ass gamer tag.”, he remarks. The new title uproots his footprint in a memorable way.
Thomas’s latest project, "COCOTASO" a seven-track album created with producer Stoic, is solidified proof of his innovative approach. “That project is a super dope, easy listening, introspective project,” he shared. Created in just three to four weeks, the album is a blend of quirky lyrics, pop culture references, and introspective themes. Tracks like “HOO” and “OMG” showcase a “me against the world” vibe, transitioning into vulnerable pieces like “SEA SICK” The album’s unique sound, described as both nostalgic and new wave, highlights Thomas’s ability to fuse familiar elements with fresh, contemporary twists.
“Stoic...he was just real with me, bro. And he was just like, ‘Yo, I feel like you rap so fire...but I don’t feel like you’d be saying much sometimes.”
Working with Stoic pushed Thomas to new creative heights. This honesty led Thomas to delve deeper into his songwriting, resulting in a project that is not only marketable but also rich in substance. Surrounding himself with like-minded individuals has been crucial for Thomas, allowing him to tap into a shared creative energy that propels his work forward. One of Thomas’s standout qualities is his adeptness at marketing. His advice to other independent artists is straightforward: “Don’t care about how much you’re posting...you want to get this shit in front of as many faces as possible.” His consistent presence on social media ensures that his work remains visible, making him a frequent sight on his followers’ feeds. This relentless approach, coupled with high-quality content, has solidified his presence online.
Thomas also emphasizes the importance of health and wellness in his creative process. “Getting outside, putting on some music, and working out,” are essential routines for him. Maintaining a clear head through meditation and breath work is vital, underscoring the connection between physical well-being and creative energy. Thomas also opened up about fasting during the recording of COCOTASO which altered his state of mind immensely and positively. LIFEOFTHOM has successfully ventured into the Web3 space, selling NFT collections and building a robust network. While he acknowledges the challenges and fluctuations within the industry, he remains optimistic about its potential. “I do believe in Web3 and its success one day, especially within the music industry,” he stated. His involvement in this space not only showcases his adaptability but also his forward-thinking approach to leveraging new technologies.
“I love to engage with the crowd...most times when I’m performing I like to take my shoes off. Just get more comfortable.”
Known for his energetic and interactive shows, he creates a rare connection with his audience. By embracing his comfort and authenticity—often performing shoeless—he ensures that each performance is a memorable and immersive experience for his fans. With upcoming projects and collaborations on the horizon, including work with renowned producer Plain Pat, Thomas is set to continue his upward trajectory. His relentless work ethic, combined with his artistic talent and innovative approach, ensures that he remains a prominent figure in the music scene.
From the moment I’d met the musician at a rooftop party in Queens, Summer 2023, I’d picked up that there was something unique about Thomas’s aura. In an industry crowded with talent, he stands tall with his unique sound, creative marketing, and genuine connection with his audience. As he continues to evolve and push boundaries, there’s no doubt that LIFEOFTHOM’s potential is worth investing in right now.
Photography: Josh Sauceda
Interview and Writing: Josh Sauceda
Production Assistance: Matthew Diaz, Bleu Pablo
Production Set: Penthouse Recording Studio
