Ness: The Fearless Artist Turning Passion and Authenticity Into a Musical Revolution
When it comes to music, some artists create simply to entertain, while others pour their entire soul into their craft, using it as a medium for storytelling, introspection, and connection. Ness, a young artist hailing from San Diego, is undoubtedly part of the latter group. With a deep commitment to authenticity, self-discovery, and creativity, Ness is carving out a unique space in the music industry—one where individuality is celebrated, and artistry transcends trends.
A Musical Journey Rooted in Passion
Ness’s musical journey began early. One of his earliest memories is sitting in the back of his mom’s Chevy Rendezvous at just five years old, mesmerized by the “Big Poppa” music video. From that moment, Ness’s fascination with music went beyond surface-level enjoyment. He was drawn to the totality of it—the lyrics, the production, and the emotional connection it offered.
As a child, Ness explored creative expression through poetry and short stories, which eventually evolved into songwriting by the time he reached seventh grade. Over the years, he expanded his skills, teaching himself production, orchestration, and engineering. This self-taught approach speaks volumes about Ness’s desire to learn and grow, despite the challenges he’s faced along the way.
“My desire to educate myself and continue exploring the endless possibilities of my creativity are the driving influences for why I persist, regardless of setbacks,” Ness explains. This unwavering passion for music has propelled him forward, even during moments of doubt or criticism.
‘Litopa’: A Project of Growth and Reflection
Ness’s latest release, Litopa, is more than just a single—it’s a statement of who he is as an artist and an individual. The track, which also serves as the title of his upcoming project, marks a turning point in his artistic journey. It’s not only the first professionally recorded music video he’s released but also a testament to his evolution.
What sets Litopa apart is its unconventional approach. For this track, Ness chose to forgo a traditional chorus, opting instead for a raw and introspective introduction to his artistry. “A major part of my character’s essence is authenticity, integrity, and honesty,” Ness shares. The song delves into themes of hardship, feeling outcast, and personal growth, while also sprinkling in moments of humor.
Creating this project has been a labor of love for Ness. He first began producing the instrumentals just months into learning how to produce and completed an initial version of the project, only to scrap it when he outgrew his original vision. This commitment to getting it right—even when it means starting over—is a hallmark of Ness’s dedication to his craft.
“The finished version will showcase myself as not just an artist but as an individual outside of the music as well,” Ness says. Despite the challenges of balancing a busy work schedule with the demands of recording and producing, Ness is determined to deliver a project that reflects his true essence.
Overcoming Insecurities and Building Connections
One of the biggest hurdles Ness has faced is learning to embrace his own voice. Insecurity about his vocals initially made recording a struggle, but through practice and persistence, Ness is growing more comfortable and confident. He’s taken the long road, opting to produce and mix his tracks himself rather than relying on a professional studio. This hands-on approach has allowed him to learn the intricacies of the process and become self-sufficient—not just for his own benefit, but to help others in the future.
This spirit of collaboration is something Ness is leaning into more than ever. While his earlier projects, like 2022’s Playboy, were largely solo efforts, Ness is now focused on fostering relationships within his local music scene. From producing beats and shooting videos to writing for other artists, he’s eager to collaborate and contribute to the creative community around him.
“I used to think doing everything myself was the way to go, but meeting other creative minds has completely changed how I view collaboration,” Ness explains. As he builds connections and supports others, he’s also expanding his own horizons and preparing to showcase his talents on bigger stages.
Building a Legacy of Authenticity
For Ness, music isn’t just about creating catchy tracks or gaining fame—it’s about building a connection with his audience through honesty and vulnerability. Each song he releases is a reflection of his personal growth, and he hopes to inspire listeners to embrace their own individuality.
“I think as artists, we all try to maintain a sense of individuality, but many people gravitate towards creating what they think people want to hear,” Ness says. “Although I understand this approach, I make music that is me, regardless of whether or not people want to listen to it.”
Ness’s influences, including Tyler, The Creator and Mac Miller, have shown him that staying true to oneself is not only possible but essential for lasting success. His music incorporates elements inspired by these icons, while still maintaining a distinct and personal touch.
Looking Ahead
At just 20 years old, Ness is already laying the foundation for a promising future. Despite the challenges of finding venues to perform at due to his age, he’s managed to book shows in San Diego and has plans to perform in Austin, Texas in the coming months.
As he continues to grow, Ness envisions a future where he’s self-sufficient and able to pursue music full-time. Whether he’s engineering for other artists, producing beats, or selling out arenas, one thing is certain: Ness’s passion and work ethic will lead him to success.
“Life isn’t about having the most money or the most achievements,” Ness reflects. “It’s about defining your own success, making your own happiness, and following your heart.”
In a world where so many strive to fit into molds, Ness stands out by staying true to himself. With Litopa on the horizon, a commitment to collaboration, and an unshakable passion for music, Ness is poised to make a lasting impact—not just as an artist, but as a beacon of authenticity and growth.
For updates on Ness’s journey, future performances, and more, follow him on Instagram at @nessie.ig.