ALUMNI

Born David Stanfield on November 9th 1986, Alumni recalls a childhood of melodic jazz tunes constantly playing from one of the vinyl LP's in his father's countless record collection. "Nothing relaxes the soul quite like a saxophone in the right key…" The very combination of string, chord, and brass instruments along with smooth R&B vocals have been a primary influence on the sound of music Alumni creates today.



At a glance Alumni fits in perfectly with today's image of indie Hip Hop/Rap music but his work ethic, dedication and passion stand out like a toddler at a night club. "My dad was a huge do it yourselfer and I feel as though it rubbed off on me. I record, mix and master my own music, promote my own events, I currently manage myself and do most of my own graphic work!" Alumni's music focuses on lyrics that captivate listeners with metaphors and punch lines that turn words to the ear into pictures in the mind.



Aside from a strong online fan base, Alumni has made himself a prominent figure in the independent music scene in his hometown of Buffalo, NY. His 1st single from his debut EP entitled "Late As Usual" was nominated for 'Single Of The Year' on 93.7 WBLK's Unsigned Hype. Alumni has featured on numerous projects from mixtapes by DJ Ran (New Jersey, has been featured on BET's Rap city) and DJ Superstar Jay (New York, Mixtape DJ of the year nominee) as well as featured on songs with Ali Vegas, upcoming indie artist G5 Gi and more.



For listeners of Wiz Khalifa, Lupe Fiasco, Coldplay, Mobb Deep, Joe Budden etc. "When I make music I tune out the radio, music videos on TV and all other music that's current. I want to create the music "I" want to create and nothing that sounds like anything else. When you hear my music, you hear ME!" This is a common bond between Alumni and his musical influences, creating music for listeners to hear and appreciate as opposed to creating music based on what the idea of listeners might be interested in. "When you create music that is honest and about yourself, you attract listeners that can relate to not just your music but you as well. Those listeners become loyal fans, but when you make music based on what's popular and what you think others want, you attract listeners solely for your songs and they never fully grasp you as an artist. I think that is what separates the good from the great"



"One of my favorite unsigned artists this year"
– WBLK's Dwaine "DT" Terry
"Bar for Bar, one of the best I've seen hold a mic"
– DJ Ran
"Dope"
– Ali Vegas