EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: From Olympic Dreams to Center Stage: The Rise of Nineside

In a culture where authenticity is currency and evolution is mandatory, Nineside stands as an artist forged through discipline, transformation, and purpose. Once training for the Olympics as a 2x All-American in track, his path shifted during the stillness of the pandemic—redirecting that same elite focus into music. What started as curiosity became calling. What was once a side passion became destiny.

In this exclusive, Nineside opens up about growth, fatherhood, artistry, authenticity, and why his biggest competition has always been the man in the mirror.

When did you first realize rap was more than just a hobby for you, and what was the moment that made you say, “This is it”?

I always had a love for music, but it was overshadowed by my love for sports. Before being an artist, I was training for the Olympics after my 2x All-American season in track. When Covid happened, it gave me time to explore new things, and music was one of them. At first, I didn’t take it seriously because in my mind, becoming an Olympic athlete seemed easier than becoming a national recording artist. But music stuck with me. Around 2023, I decided to go all in—and now it’s yielding the benefits I saw for myself.

When you’re creating, do you start with the beat, the lyrics, or a feeling you want to capture?

I usually don’t even write anymore. I hear a beat—or find one that matches the mood or concept in my head—and just let it fly. I still write for certain things like scripts or songs for other artists, but most of my work comes straight from the mind of the man.

Which artists or life experiences have shaped your style the most?

I don’t feel like I’ve been influenced in terms of sound, but creatively? Absolutely. Artists like J. Cole, Kendrick, OutKast, Wayne, T.I., and even Hall & Oates, ConFunkShun, and Herbie Hancock. I’m inspired by what they created—the imagery, the sonic feelings. I aim to be just as impactful in my own way.

If someone had never heard your music before, which track should they start with, and why?

“Mean to Me” or my latest single “Cinema.” “Mean to Me” was my first pivot into making music I genuinely liked after finding my sound. “Cinema” represents my current state—new to listeners, but I’ve been evolving into that artist for the past 2–3 years. An honorable mention would be my Vibrancy tape—that’s when you could tell I really started figuring it out.

What’s the hardest obstacle you’ve faced in your career?

Me vs. Me. Staying true to myself while pushing toward who I want to become is the real challenge. I’ve dealt with people lying and stealing while playing victim—but nothing tests me more than the evolution of the man in the mirror.

You’ve probably lived through moments your fans don’t know about—what’s one personal story behind a song that changed how you see life or music?

“Introduction” on my STO’ RUN EP. It’s not formatted as a storytelling track, but if you listen closely, you’ll hear growth—of a man and an artist seeing life differently. The birth of my daughter was my definitive moment. I was already a hustler, but knowing someone depends on me lit a new fire.

How do you feel about the current state of hip hop, and where do you see yourself fitting into it?

Hip hop feels like it’s on a slow revival. There’s been a lot of imitation and saturated sub-genres, making things feel mundane. But now you see both young artists and OGs stepping back in to regulate the culture. We can have balance across all sub-genres—but you have to honor the craft and its pioneers while still being original enough to move it forward.

What’s the most misunderstood thing about you as an artist or person?

I’m not misunderstood. I’m exactly who I am on wax as I am in real life. My earlier music had different styles because I was building my sound—but I’ve always been me. Outgoing, standoffish, in tune, out the loop—it’s all authentic.

Years from now, what do you want people to say about your impact on the culture?

I want people to know I loved and respected the art form and the process. That I stood for something bigger than myself. When I’m gone and the music fades, I want the man to still reflect who I always aimed to become.

What’s coming up next that fans should be excited about?

Consistency. I’m going to keep dropping and stay in people’s faces until the movement is undeniable. Expect great music. Expect advocacy for our communities. And keep your calendar open—I’ll be on the world’s biggest stages soon enough.

Nineside isn’t chasing trends—he’s chasing evolution. From Olympic-level discipline to artistic elevation, his journey proves that greatness transfers when purpose is involved. Fueled by fatherhood, sharpened by self-reflection, and grounded in authenticity, he represents a new wave of artists who respect the craft while boldly redefining it.