CROWN ROYAL

By: Michelle Santuosso

This 19-year-old R&B singer from Jacksonville, Fla., writes and produces all his own music, and first went viral on YouTube with a video for “I’m Next (Freestyle),” then caught the attention of Def Jam Records after posting a clip to Instagram singing his romantic ballad, “Valentine.” Osiris’ charming debut single “Worth It” and its encouraging, female-friendly chorus, gave this young artist his first notable chart success, along with more than 57 million video views. He’s since followed that up with “Shakira,” released in August. A young singer valiantly setting the new vanguard for teenage love, YK is also striving to be an example to other youth behind the music as well, with some very mature lifestyle choices. Which makes his decision to talk to the most immature of all trade publications truly perplexing.

You’ve got a very cool, memorable name but even more special are the meanings behind it. Tell us about that.
The “YK” stands for “Young King,” and my high school teacher Mr. Thomas, who is very conscious of Egyptian history, used to call me “Young King” every day that I came to his class. So when I began my musical journey, I named myself “Young King” Osiris after my high school teacher. He inspired me, along with my father, who named me “Osiris.”

How did “Worth It” exceed your own expectations?
To be completely honest, the moment I heard the song, I knew it was a hit. I recorded, wrote and produced that record in my home city of Jacksonville. I’m very proud of that, because not a lot of artists can say that they recorded a double-platinum record in their very own city. It’s very organic, to say the least.

What would being nominated for a Grammy mean for you personally?
Winning a Grammy would be a life-changing moment for my family and myself. I never thought that I would even be considered for a Grammy, because I understand that it is the highest honor an artist can receive in their career. Even if I don’t win one, being nominated is a very big accomplishment.

You set a very positive example for others—tell us about your philosophy of “moving smart.”
“Moving smart” means I understand that I’m being watched and admired by millions of young people who listen to my music. I want to be a positive example for the youth and let them know that you don’t have to do drugs and alcohol to achieve your dreams.

What was something a fan of your music has told you that made you realize your music was connecting on another level?
A fan sent me a tattoo of myself on her arm, and she told me that I inspired her to become a musical artist.

You are the oldest of eight brothers and sisters. The oldest child is often in charge and also going through everything first, so how has having that many siblings prepared you for life as you set out on your own?
Being the oldest sibling, I’ve had the ability to guide my brothers and sisters in a path that is much better than mine, because I can give them direction on some of the bad and good choices I’ve made in my life. I’m also able to provide them with the option of going to college so that they can pursue their dreams, as I did.

If you had to pick one, who would be your ultimate guest feature artist and why?
Michael Jackson, and I understand that he is no longer with us, but I’ve always admired him growing up. I love his dance moves and the energy that he gives his fans, so I know we would have made a dope video and song together.