Von Tae on Controversial Single, "Contagious"

After tweeting a snippet to J. Cole on Twitter, Von Tae's new single "Contagious" instantly became an overnight hit with nearly 1 Million impressions and hundreds of new supporters begging for an official release. With the audio only being available on YouTube, Von Tae released "Contagious" on all streaming platforms and the song has continued to go viral on social media with over 50K streams collectively.

As he considers this the "most powerful Hip-Hop record of 2019 so far," Von Tae sets his goals high for his appropriately crowned "black anthem" which sheds light on police brutality, stereotypes and racial discrimination.

Due to his most recent social media backlash from some who have called his own lyrics "racist" and the cover art derogatory towards "MAGA" supporters, the outspoken 26-year-old Hip Hop artist Von Tae says he’s focused on unveiling the truth and creatively vocalizing his fight for equality.

He says the narrative behind "Contagious" is “something that many minorities face in our country” and hopes that this song reaches the ear of every racist and empowers the heart of those who understand the pain of discrimination.

If you've been down from the start, you already know about our previous interview with Von Tae, before all the fame. Today we check in with the unabashed artist to get his thoughts on racism in America and how his life has been different since releasing "Contagious." Tune in below and follow up @theofficialvontae.

What have you been up to since we last spoke?

Honestly, I’ve been stressed out, going through a lot. But, most recently I’ve made some changes to better my mental health. Music has really helped in that process. It’s helped me write my latest singles, “Still Trippin”, “Bout Me”, “Problems” and “Contagious.”

Your new single has been called controversial, to say the least. What fueled your decision to make it?

Yes, “Contagious” is definitely controversial. Probably the most controversial song I’ve released. I watched Spike Lee’s “Blackkklansman” and the next morning it inspired me to write “Contagious.” Just seeing how much the people before us went through pissed me off. I needed to vent and get out all of my frustration.

Since it’s gone viral, how have people been treating you and your art?

Honestly, I’ve received more positive feedback. It’s been received well by both black and white. Of course, there’s a few comments from YouTube and Facebook live reviews where people call me “a racist” and they say things like “I can’t play this on my account, people are too sensitive.”

I also have noticed that a lot of people I know personally are afraid to share or publically express their views about the song but will tell me in private. I guess people are really hush-hush when it comes to politics and racism but I’m far from afraid to express my views.

Do you have a visual in the works for it?

Yes, and coming very soon. I usually to draw out all of my visuals before filming them and I already have a concept in mind. It’ll be filmed by a super dope producer named Spencer Seaser. I can’t wait to premiere it. I’m thinking about doing a special premiere in a theater and inviting my biggest fans, friends and family to view it first. It should be amazing.

Have you ever had a racist encounter?

I’ve had many but I can’t recall a direct one. I’ve been looked at funny going into certain places and things like that. But nothing I can recall personally. 

What is the main message you want people to take away from “Contagious” ?

I wrote this song to reach the ear of every racist. Although the lyrics are very blunt, it came from a very deep place and I hope to open their eyes and understand the pain that we go through. Even if the message isn’t received well, I feel better that I got it off my chest.