In the music industry, where success often hinges on both talent and tenacity, the story of Classic MGM Grand Smith is one of perseverance and passion. Starting from his high school days, Classic has steadily built a brand that combines the timelessness of classic artistry with the vibrant energy of Las Vegas. His journey, from dreaming in the classroom to appearing on Showtime TV, is both relatable and inspiring.
Q: Your brand name, “Classic MGM Grand Smith,” is quite unique. What’s the story behind it?
Honestly, it all started in high school. I was always into music, but when I discovered Tupac, something clicked. His music was more than just sound—it was a movement, a voice for so many. Tupac is the reason I got into music. The “Classic” part of my name comes from wanting to create something that would stand the test of time. You know, something people will look back on and say, “That was legendary.”
As for “MGM Grand,” I’ve always loved Las Vegas. There’s this energy in Vegas that’s just electric, especially when you think about the MGM Grand Arena. It’s a place where some of the greatest performances have happened. To me, it symbolizes the pinnacle of entertainment, and that’s the level I’m striving for in my music. And “Smith” is my actual last name, so it keeps everything personal and grounded. The name represents who I am—an artist aiming for greatness while staying true to my roots.
Q: You’ve accomplished a lot, including being a multi-published artist and appearing on Showtime TV. What has been the biggest highlight for you?
Man, there have been so many incredible moments. But I’d say the biggest highlight was being on the front cover with Deontay Wilder, the former Heavyweight Champion of the World. That was surreal. Growing up, I never imagined I’d be in the same frame as someone like Deontay. It’s not just a picture; it’s a piece of history. Being on the cover with one of the greatest heavyweights of all time is something I’ll always cherish.
Another major moment was getting featured in The Source magazine. I remember reading The Source when I was younger, and it was like the Bible for hip hop culture. Seeing my name and face in there was a dream come true. It wasn’t easy—I had to work hard for years to get to that point. But when it finally happened, it felt like all the late nights and sacrifices were worth it. Hard work, dedication, and consistency—that’s what got me there, and it’s what keeps me going.
Q: What keeps you motivated to keep creating music that resonates with your audience?
For me, it’s about having a big heart and a deep love for what I do. Music isn’t just a job—it’s a passion. I put my heart and soul into every track because I know that’s what connects with people. I’ve always been inspired by the greats, especially artists like Nas and Mobb Deep. They didn’t just make music; they told stories and shared their experiences in a way that resonated with people.
When I’m in the studio, I’m always thinking about my audience. What are they going through? What do they need to hear? How can my music make a difference in their lives? That’s what keeps me motivated—knowing that my music can uplift, inspire, or even just help someone feel understood. That’s the power of music, and it’s why I do what I do.
Q: Can you tell us about your latest project? What message are you trying to convey?
I’m really excited about my latest project. I just appeared in a movie on Tubi called Deserved It, and it’s been an amazing experience. Seeing myself on screen is surreal, and the response has been great. I’m also working on new music. The theme of my upcoming tracks is all about resilience and the grind—staying true to yourself no matter what obstacles come your way. I’m always in the studio, pushing myself to evolve as an artist, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear what I’ve been working on.
Q: Your Instagram is full of engaging content. How important is social media to your career, and how do you use it to connect with your fans?
Social media is everything these days. It’s like a digital stage where I can showcase my work and connect with my fans in real-time. I use Instagram to share my journey, promote my music, and give people a glimpse into my life. But it’s not just about promoting—I want people to know who I am, what I believe in, and what I’m passionate about. That’s how you build a real connection with your audience.
Social media also helps me stay connected with my fans and keep them updated on what’s going on. Whether I’m dropping a new track, making an appearance, or just sharing some behind-the-scenes moments, it’s all there for my fans to see. It’s a vital part of my brand, and I’m always looking for new ways to use it to connect with people.
Q: The music industry is tough. What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
The biggest challenge for me has been building a buzz and creating momentum as an independent artist. When you don’t have the backing of a major label, you have to do everything yourself—marketing, promotion, everything. It’s a lot of pressure, but I’ve learned that you have to believe in yourself and invest in your own career. No one is going to work harder for your dreams than you will.
Work ethic is everything. You have to be willing to put in the hours, make the sacrifices, and keep going even when things get tough. For me, it was about taking every opportunity that came my way and making the best of it. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. Every challenge has taught me something valuable, and those lessons have helped me get to where I am today.
Q: You’ve worked with a lot of artists. How do you choose your collaborators, and what do you look for in a partnership?
Collaboration is one of the best parts of being in the music industry. It’s a chance to learn from others, blend different styles, and create something unique. When I’m choosing collaborators, I’m looking for artists who share the same passion and dedication to the craft as I do. It’s not just about talent—it’s about work ethic, attitude, and the ability to bring something fresh and original to the table. I’ve always believed that the best collaborations happen when both parties are willing to step out of their comfort zones and try something new.
Classic MGM Grand Smith’s story is a powerful reminder that with passion, hard work, and dedication, anything is possible. From high school dreams to appearing on Showtime TV, he has proven that the journey is just as important as the destination. Keep an eye out for his upcoming projects—there’s no doubt that Classic MGM Grand Smith is just getting started.
