Inno Combs on humble beginnings and creating experiences through music around the Globe
What inspired you to start rapping, and when did you realize it was your passion?
When I was a kid, my brother and I would grab my uncle’s guitars and perform imaginary concerts in the hallway of our apartment building in New York. From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a star — initially, I dreamed of being in movies. But life took an unexpected turn when I moved to Florida and discovered hip-hop. At the time, battle rapping was a big deal. I had no idea I could even rap, but one day, I just started rhyming, and the reaction was electric. The crowd loved it, and to my surprise, the ladies were impressed too.
As someone who struggled with self-image due to my weight, seeing people — especially women — respond so strongly to my talent was a turning point. That’s when I realized rapping wasn’t just something I could do; it was a gift that allowed me to connect with people. I told myself, ‘If I can make a name for myself in music, I can open doors to Hollywood and beyond.’ Hip-hop became my canvas, a place where I could share my story, my struggles, and my vision.
Rapping, for me, has always been the easy part. It’s getting paid to do it that’s the real grind. But every challenge has shaped who I am as an artist today. I want to inspire people to chase their dreams, no matter where they start or how many obstacles they face. My journey is proof that raw talent, combined with determination, can take you places you never imagined.
My music helped me visit London ,Spain, Texas and more!
If you’re curious about where this path takes me, I’d love for you to follow my story on social media @INNOCOMBS
How has your background or upbringing influenced your music?
I’ve always felt that hip-hop doesn’t have a clear path to success like other careers. If you want to be a basketball star, you join a team, play for your school, get recruited for college, and hope scouts take notice to get you to the NBA. If you want to be a doctor or lawyer, there’s a structured path through education. But as a hip-hop artist, it’s the streets — you hustle, deal with politics and favoritism, and hope life gives you a break. That’s been my experience.
Growing up, my dream and passion have always been music, but it’s been a battle. Raised by a single mom earning $12 an hour to raise four boys, I didn’t have the luxury of studio time or expensive equipment. I’d always choose helping my mom over chasing my dream because family comes first. Without the digital age or someone funding my career, I knew talent alone wouldn’t be enough. You had to hustle — whether in the streets or online.
The pain of failure and the hunger for success fuels my music. That’s what sets me apart as an artist. I’m a storyteller who can make a record entertaining and fun to listen to while staying authentic to my journey. I’ve been held back by circumstances and, at times, by myself, but now I’m taking matters into my own hands, like Jay-Z and so many great artists who were once turned down by labels.
My upbringing taught me resilience. It gave me the drive to push forward despite the odds. I’ve never had the backing of a label or a rich investor — it’s been me, my friends, and the people who cheer me on. Every struggle, every setback, and every ounce of hope speaks through my music. That’s why I do this — not just for myself, but to prove that someone with a dream, determination, and a story worth telling can still make it, no matter where they start. My record Villian and Self Made soon to release really speaks deeper on this message.
What’s your creative process like when writing lyrics?
About 80% of my songs are written in my car. That’s where I feel the most focused and inspired. I don’t have a studio of my own anymore — after my family’s house was robbed when I was younger, I lost so much, including songs stored on my computer. To make it worse, friends I trusted back then sold the studio equipment I left at their house. That experience taught me a lot about trust and resilience, but I never rebuilt that studio.
Now, I focus on recording in independently owned studios that fit my budget but still deliver great quality. I’ve learned hard lessons along the way — like paying a producer $10,000 for five songs, a music video, and an EPK, only to end up with unfinished material and a contract that favored them, not me. That experience pushed me to take control of my music and be smarter about my choices.
When I start a new song, it begins with the instrumental. I write the record to the beat, then negotiate with the producer for usage rights. Once I have everything ready, I book a studio session — usually just three hours to keep costs down. I record my verses in one or two takes, so most of the session is spent on mixing. Afterward, I give myself a week to step back and listen with fresh ears, making any final changes before sending it off for mastering.
Feedback is a big part of my process. I play my music for friends, family, and people I trust, letting their perspectives guide me. At the end of the day, though, I trust my instincts as an artist. Every song is a reflection of my journey — raw, honest, and built on lessons learned from the challenges I’ve faced. That’s what makes my music personal and real.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?
“My sound is high-quality and raw talent — unfiltered by big marketing dollars or co-signs from major artists. What you’ll hear is passion, creativity, and a voice that commands attention, whether it’s coming from your speakers or live on stage.
I work with what I have, but I know how to take something and make it sound bigger and better than it is. My music isn’t just sound; it’s an experience. I believe I’m like Drake before he was Drake, Kanye before he was Kanye, Kendrick before the world knew him as Kendrick Lamar. I’m that artist who’s ‘him,’ but not ‘him’ to the world yet. The world hasn’t fully discovered me or seen me go. The fact that I wear hearing aids now it’s impressing me that I could still create music at this level.
I wouldn’t call myself just a rapper — I’m an entertainer. My music paints a picture and tells a story. It connects with people on a deeper level because it comes from a real place. It’s not about hype; it’s about heart, vision, and artistry. If you listen, you’ll see why I stand out. My songs are written by me not a team of writers.
What do you think sets you apart from other artists in the industry?
I believe what sets me apart is my ability to push the boundaries of artistry. I don’t just create music — I create experiences. I know where I belong in this industry. As creative beings with high influence, it’s our responsibility to use our talents for the greater good, and that’s a principle I hold close.
I don’t feel like I blend in. Artists like Chris Brown and Michael Jackson stood out because they brought something unique, something unforgettable. I feel the same way about myself — I have something that’s truly worth people’s time and hard-earned money. My work is about more than just entertainment; it’s about legacy leaving a lasting impact.
When someone listens to my music, watches me perform, or engages with my artistry, I want them to walk away with a lifelong experience they can share with future generations. That’s what drives me and what I believe makes me stand out.
What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations we should look out for?
I have a catalog of songs I’m eager to share with the world, and my goal is to release a music video for each one. As a fully self-funded artist, everything comes down to time, money, and participation, but ultimately, the driving force is the fans. My listeners are everything. This is a numbers game — the fans are me, and I am the fans we are one force.
What I can promise is to give 1000% into everything I do, whether it’s the music, the visuals, or the performances. But I also need 1000% from my fans and new listeners — engagement, sharing, liking, posting, streaming, and spreading the word about what we’re building together. When they come to the shows and rock the merch dropping later this year, it creates a connection and movement bigger than just the music.
This year feels like it could be my breakthrough, and I’m pouring all my energy into making that happen staying consistent. I just hope that all my efforts aren’t in vain and that my listeners feel the same love and dedication I put into my craft. Together, we can build something unforgettable.
