n the vast landscape of hip-hop, where authenticity and individuality often take center stage, Kota The Friend emerges as a unique voice, blending rap, soulful melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics. Born Avery Marcel Joshua Jones on October 16, 1992, in the vibrant city of Brooklyn, New York, Kota has steadily carved his path in the music industry, becoming a rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his independent spirit.

Early Life and Musical Upbringing:

Growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, Kota’s early years were marked by a deep connection to music. Introduced to the trumpet at the age of 8, he later expanded his repertoire to include the keyboard, guitar, and bass. Attending the Brooklyn High School of the Arts and Five Towns College for trumpet, Kota’s passion for music led him to create the rap trio Nappy Hair during his college years. Despite facing challenges and working weekend jobs to fund his at-home music studio, Kota’s determination laid the foundation for his future in the industry.

Independent Journey and FLTBYS:

Kota’s commitment to independence in his musical journey is evident, having turned down three major record labels. Instead, he founded his own label and apparel store, FLTBYS (Flight Boys), a skate, music, and travel culture brand. Kota’s entrepreneurial spirit was further demonstrated when he purchased a building in Midtown Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, housing his FLTBYS retail store.

Musical Evolution and Notable Releases:

Kota’s discography is a testament to his artistic evolution. From debut mixtapes like „Palm Tree Liquor“ in 2016 to his independent studio album „FOTO“ in 2019, Kota’s sound is characterized by mellow and jazzy beats. His second studio album, „EVERYTHING,“ released in 2020, featured collaborations with prominent artists like Joey Badass and Bas. Kota’s third studio album, „MEMO,“ released in July 2022, continued to showcase his growth and versatility in the industry.

Critiques and Recognition:

Kota The Friend’s artistic endeavors have not gone unnoticed. His debut album, „FOTO,“ was lauded by Rolling Stone as the 17th best hip-hop album of 2019. The album’s success paved the way for his first headlining tour, the FOTO Tour. Subsequent releases, such as „EVERYTHING“ and „MEMO,“ received positive reception from fans and critics alike.

Personal Life and Influences:

In a revealing interview with Genius, Kota shared his musical influences, citing Jay-Z, Nasty C, Kid Cudi, Bob Dylan, The Beatles, and others. Beyond his musical pursuits, Kota is a devoted father and periodically practices veganism to cleanse both his body and mind.

Conclusion:

Kota The Friend’s journey is a testament to artistic independence, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of creative expression. As he continues to release compelling projects like „Lyrics to Go Vol.4“ and „To See a Sunset“ with Statik Selektah, Kota remains an artist who defies conventions and invites listeners into a world where authenticity and musical exploration reign supreme.