The Beat Geeks
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The Beat Geeks

Atlanta, Georgia, United States | SELF

Atlanta, Georgia, United States | SELF
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"XO Magazine: Interview: The Beat Geeks"

Geraldine Sanchez interviews the hot music group, The Beat Geeks, and gets all the juicy information that fans want to know!! - XO Magazine


"Music Mindz Interview of The Beat Geeks"

Hey, how are you today? Tell Everyone who you are.
Luke: I'm doing wonderfully, thank you. I'm Luke Galloway, lead male vocalist and co-producer of The Beat Geeks.
Bobby: Greetings! I’m good.. feeling mad groovey! I’m Bobby Drake; lead producer, co-songwriter, and vocalist or the Beat Geeks.
Karissa: Howdy Do? I'm quite well. My name is Karissa. I am a singer, songwriter and 1/3 of The Beat Geeks.

Where were you born?
Luke: I was born in a little town called North Allerton in a land far away, Yorkshire, England. I don't remember much of it, after moving to
the states as a young child (missing out on picking up the charming accent), but I spent a good deal of my childhood living in London and Okinawa,
Japan as well.
Bobby: I was born in the Philippines. We moved to the states a few years after so I don’t remember too much about the country.
Karissa: Stuttgart, Germany on a military base.

Growing up as a kid, how did music affect your life?
Luke: My oldest sister was a musician and I always kind of tried to mimic her and do what she did. When she started taking guitar lessons, I was right
behind her, I listened to the music she liked, played the instruments she did, etc. My family, with my father being in the US Air Force moved around
all the time, so I never really had any close close friends that I grew up with, but I was able to start experimenting with music at an early age and it has
kept me company ever since. I was given my first very own computer when I was in the 7th grade and soon started playing around with
production and electronic music. No matter where we moved around the world, music was always there with me. Basically, it is a huge part of who I am
as a person, I'm always thinking about it, always creating it, those times that I was a new kid struggling to make friends I could turn to music and my love
for creating it, it's a beautiful endless relationship that doesn't move away from or argue with me, for the most part [laughs].
Bobby: Growing up, music always served as an outlet or a way to express the feelings I didn’t feel comfortable talking about or thought it best not to talk
about. I never was one to express my feelings verbally growing up and had a lot bottled in; however, music always had that one song or instrumentation
that could state exactly how I felt. It made me feel good, because it made me feel that I wasn’t alone with some of the things I was feeling.
Karissa: Wow... [sighs] music was and still IS my life. I come from a family of singers and musicians and growing up someone in the house was always
blasting something... LOUD. I was so little and knew so many songs [laughs]. But looking back, i would say that music taught me a lot about emotions.

What got you involved in music?
Luke: Well I can always remember being in awe of music from an early age gazing at my sister's huge purple poster of Hendrix on her bedroom wall, but
it was really my parents who got me involved. Living in England as a 10 year old kid, I wanted to do everything that other english 10 year olds wanted to do,
play professional soccer [laughs]. However my parents wanted me to be a "well rounded" individual and kind of aggressively coaxed me into taking guitar
lessons, after I saw my sister playing and having fun I decided it wouldn't be so bad and gave in. About a year after that something just clicked and I
started just understanding how music is put together... while other kids were doodling in class I was writing out scales and chord progressions, lyrics, etc. I
didn't comprehend the career possibilities in music until I was in high school, playing in bands and networking with some older producers that were actually
some of my teachers at the time. I started touring regionally with a band of mine and met a lot of people in the local hip-hop scene (including Bobby) around
the same time through a random chain of events and just started collaborating with them, with each collaboration and new relationship and project was
formed.
Bobby: Initially, I just wanted to play an instrument. So, I started with the drums. I took lessons and was in the school band; however, after a while it got
pretty boring [chuckles]. I guess it was due to the fact that I was ready to progress and play more difficult pieces; however the band instructor kept me
playing the beginners music because of my age. So I ended up quitting the band after a while. Over time, I used to make beats on tables at school, or
work on my beat boxing and such. I didn’t really get into production until the summer I graduated from high school in 2003. [Smiles] funny thing about that
was I simply got into it out of shear boredom. My dad had to have a liver transplant the week of my graduation, so he and my mom had to go to Tennessee
for the operation and me and my sister stayed home in GA. I was told about a program called Fruity Loops; so I downloaded it and began messing around
with it. Eventually, I learned the program, and started creating more working on developing my craft.
Karissa: My mother. I wanted to do everything she did. When she would sing it was just so beautiful to me and i wanted to sound just like her. [smiles]


Who or what influences you to create the great music you create?
Luke: Anything and everything. Like, literally [laughs]. There is music all around in people, scenery, situations, etc. It just needs you to make it come out,
needs someone to tell the story through beats, melodies, and words. Seeing a great movie or listening to a great piece usually gets my gears turning. Always
being influenced by others as well...
Bobby: Hmmm... I guess my influence comes from the fact that I still look as music as an outlet; a way of expressing myself and feelings that I don’t
verbally express. Also, the idea that I’m not just expressing for me, but all those who have trouble conjuring up the words to state how they feel. Whether
it is from the fear of what may happen if they voice their feelings, the feeling that there is no one who will listen or understand, or just the fact that they
can’t find the right words to say what they want. That’s what influences me; being the voice for others as well as myself.
Karissa: Again, my mommy [smiles] she's great. It makes me happy to know that I'm making her proud. I must say, my life experiences and emotions are
the fuel to my creative fire though. Sometimes when i go back and listen to one of my songs or read some of my old lyrics and I'm like..oh yea i remember
that. [laughs]


What music artists do you look to for inspiration?
Luke: There are tons, but I feel a very very very strong emotional connection to a few... very random group of artists... Ludwig Van Beethoven for too
many reasons [laughs], but in the more modern realm I find myself getting inspiration from innovative folks such as DJ Shadow, Radiohead, any alternative
rock from the UK really, and a lot of electronic artists as well i.e., Armin Van Buuren, Eiffel 65 [laughs], Scooter. There are really too many influences to
mention in the Hip-hop and pop genres as well... basically if it is GREAT music... i'm probably listening to it and studying it thoroughly.
Bobby: I’m a huge Prince fan! [smiles] I think Purple Rain is the best movie and soundtrack ever!!! I also enjoy the musical works from Clint Mansell
(composer of Requiem for a Dream)… and music from the 80s (Madonna, Flock of Seagulls, Cindy Lauper, etc)… music from these artist, to me, have so
much feeling… like their music has a life. Plus it seems it could reach more people. The subject matter and such makes their music able to break barriers
such as race, and economic levels, and gender. That’s what we try to do with our music. Break barriers.
Karissa: The Late Great One Stop Shop King of Pop Michael Joe Jackson! As well as Prince, La Bouche, Cyndi Lauper, and all other greats from the
80's and early 90's. They knew exactly how to capture pure emotion and translate it into beautiful music we all could relate to. They were geniuses. Also,
my awesome group members Bobby Drake and Luke Galloway are wonderful inspiration for me as well.


What is your opinion of today’s music industry and what have you done to contribute to it?
Luke: I feel like todays music industry is not as whack or dead as people think but really a place that is extremely intimate. The artists have no barriers
anymore towards creating their own sound with new and cheap recording technologies, heck all of the beat geeks material thus far has been done on a
consumer grade computer and budget mic [laughs]. People can connect with their fans on a deep level like never before with Twitter and Facebook. It's
just an exciting place to be. However, there is a draw back to all this freedom, the consumers probably feel like a confused shopper in a packed cereal
aisle. They thought they wanted some Fruity Pebbles, but now there are chocolate Fruity Pebbles, special edition deluxe Fruity Pebbles, [laughs] so much to
choose from. It's just a natural flood of the market with new talent I guess, but that is good because it keeps everyone on their toes and keeping their game
up on point to stay relevant and stay hot. What have I done to contribute to it? The one thing that I am the best in the world at, being myself. Being a
genuine artist that loves music and wants to put out a great product for other people to enjoy and be inspired by.
Bobby: Today’s music industry is interesting [laughs]. Ummm… I guess it has its pros and cons. There are way more outlets for people to get their
music out; especially through the internet. There are also vast ways of networking and what not. I think the industry today is built more on how good your
business plan is and who you know that can help get that plan going and presented to the right people. Right now, we have minor contributions, but I feel is
beginning to impact majorly as we progress. I feel we are showing people that it IS ok to be different and make the type of music you feel and CHOOSE
to make instead of trying to blend in with the rest of the crowd.
Karissa: Today's music industry, from my standpoint, is quite different from what I imagine it once was. In all honesty, it seems as though there is less
creativity and originality. However, there are newbies fresh on the scene that are, in my opinion, legends in the making. [Two Thumbs Up] Personally, I do
my best to contribute by keeping my creativity. I know everyone can enjoy something that is fresh and innovative.

How do you feel about the Economy?
Luke: Well being in college right now, I don't really live in what people would call the "real world", but I can see that it is a shame how many people are
struggling to find work and how many people are being forced out of their homes due to bad loans, etc. It's a mess and it's not going to be cleaned up by
one person but a collective group of many working together. I really don't know enough to choose certain strategies and what not, but I know that the USA
is a great place and we have been through financial struggles before always coming out eventually and seeing a bright new day at the end of the road, and
that's what I think you have to keep in mind.
Bobby: Well, the economy is good for those with money and hard for those without it. As far as jobs go, I’ve seen how hard it is to obtain employment;
and I’ve seen those struggle from paycheck to paycheck just to make ends meet. I pray it all gets better, but it’s like the song from the movie Hustle and
Flow says, “it’s hard out here for a pimp, when you trying to get that money for the rent (laughs)” u know what I mean?
Karissa: The economy is a bit tough but not as bad as it could be so I thank God for that.


Please share some of the struggles you have experienced in the industry?
Luke: Well at first people didn't really seem to take me (us) seriously, young, different, kids are hard to take risks on in this industry and unless it's getting 4
cazillion hits on youtube, it's probably not going to get good major label attention [laughs]. But aside from that, I don't try to focus on the struggles, I just try
to get out there and work hard, meet people I need to be in business with, make friendships, and create. We're blessed beyond measure to be where we are
now, which is not that far in actually, but we are on our way because of passion, prayer, and other people who are passionate and praying for us.
Bobby: (Laughs) Oh boy… Well, firstly, like Luke mentioned, it seems as though people didn’t take us seriously; and he states a good point about the
cazillion youtube views. I guess, the major one that has caught me is how it seemed no one was trying to keep us informed. Certain opportunities would
come up and our services would be needed, and that was cool, but the moment we started asking questions as far as a complete overview as to what was
going on with the opportunity or just trying to gain information so we can have a more understanding as to who we’re dealing with, it was like no one
wanted to inform us; or they got gave us the impression like we weren’t supposed to ask questions. I mean I’m not saying the people we have come
across were trying to do us wrong or anything like that. I had complete trust that they weren’t, we just are the type of group that wants to know as much
as we can for peace of mind. We are very aware of how grimey this industry can be at times and we try to protect ourselves as much as we can.
Karissa: There have been struggles with people who "want to help", but in reality they have ulterior motives. Honesty is the best policy. Also, with me
being a female... yea... there's been that situation (smiles) but no one can make you feel inferior without your consent.


What tips do you have for other music artists out there to make a name for themselves?
Luke: BE YOURSELF! I can't stress that enough... too many people want to be exactly like their favorite stars and end up losing themselves. Realize that
it's not about you, it's about them, the consumers, your friends, family, classmates, etc. and about the music. Find what YOU do best and do it. True, when
starting out it is hard to find your niche and your sound, but through hard work and patience it will come, and when it does, work that much harder. Don't
get mad at the game and sulk, instead, work hard and get better at your craft and network your patootie off. Play where and when you can, open mics,
opening slots at bars, etc. Don't ever think you're too big for anything. And be genuine, don't lie folks... just don't. [laughs] Everyone around you is a music
executive this day and age, so treat them like one, with respect and love. Artists are now employed solely by their fans!
Bobby: First, trust in God!..One cannot accomplish anything without him. He knows your heart and he would never put a dream there that he wouldn’t
equip you to reach. Pray and have faith, no matter what! We are thankful for all he has done.
Secondly, do not be afraid to do you and make the music that suits you. A lot of artist take the route of mimicking artist already out in hopes that that will
get them recognized. In some cases it may work, but then it’s like…who are you as an artist, ya dig? Be you own artist. Show everyone what makes you
you and them them.
Thirdly, keep yourself informed and network. If you send out emails to people and what not, follow up if you haven’t heard from them. You don’t have to
blow their email or phone up, but just keep in touch. Don’t let them forget you. Also, do not be scared to network and meet people. This game is built on
relationships and the more people you meet, the better your chances. You never know who the people you come in contact with know, so be open to new
acquaintances.
Lastly, believe in your dream and surround yourself with those who truly believe it too. This industry is hard, and you’ll be tested in how bad you really
want it; but if you truly trust in God and the abilities he has blessed you with, your confidence should be through the roof, not matter what’s thrown at you.
Karissa: My advice would be for them to remember their strength. No one knows better than you how strong you are. Stay true to yourself and never let
anyone take anything away from you. Teach people how to treat you. Everybody deserves respect, so make sure you're both giving and receiving just that.
(Two Thumbs WAY WAY UP)


How can fans connect and stay 1NE with you?
Well we love our fans, first off. We thank you all for you support and feedback. You can reach us through our site (www.thebeatgeeks.com), our
facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/thebeatgeeks), myspace (www.myspace.com/beatgeeksmusic), and our twitter pages (@Beat_Geeks,
@lukegalloway, @karissiam) - One Entertainment Magazine


"Three Geeks with a Beat Dedicated to be Whatever You Are Not"

THREE GEEKS WITH A BEAT DEDICATED TO BE WHATEVER YOU ARE NOT

Jake Neimi, Recording Artist/Producer from ABC radio, states “One day The Beat Geeks will be taking the world by storm and we will all be saying 'I knew you when.' [I] Mean it. You are one of the best offerings ever to grace … Music. Period.”


Atlanta, GA – June 8, 2010 – Creating music with their own unique sound and not conforming to the sounds and looks of today’s main stream artists, the canny trio, known as The Beat Geeks, says “We can’t be whatever you are”. These three musically talented songwriters, producers, and performers are sweeping the ears of the online media networks. They are described by their listeners as having great music featuring amazing songs over hypnotic instrumentation. PM, who featured on DJ Khaled’s first Album, “Listennn” made a post on twitter stating The Beat Geeks have “Grammy sounding records”! That’s a grand statement for these upcoming artists coming from their peer!


The Beat Geeks’ members consist of Bobby Drake, Luke Galloway and Karissa Smith. From their respective locations, the group works diligently with a relentless mindset to create ear pleasing tunes for all audiences in nearly every genre. In doing so, they have managed to collaborate with well-known respected artists such as J-Bo of the Youngbloodz, Young Cash from Nappy Boy Records, Ace Hood, and their newest collaboration, Gorilla Zoe by making a track placement on his mix-tape “Space Chimps”. They also collaborated with other upcoming local artists such as Al King (whom is featured on The Beat Geeks song “Alien Girl”) and Floco Torres.


March 2010: Bobby Drake was chosen to compete on behalf of The Beat Geeks at the Atlanta iStandard Producer Showcase. Although they didn’t claim the winning spot, they triumphantly placed and came out as winners by being offered opportunities to work with music industry establishments such as Konvict Music. Two major producers, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League and Needlz, judging on the panel stated The Beat Geeks material were radio ready. Colion, from the J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, went onto saying, "They [The Beat Geeks] have what the game is missing right now, and what it's really needing."


With all the excitement from their new opportunities this year, The Beat Geeks never lost focus on completing their first official single entitled “Sweat (Lose Control)” for the summer. The song has a lively, dance-pop style that’s perfect for fun summer parties and clubs. The single was officially released May 31, 2010 and had over 2500+ online listens during its first week. Crystal, from Sophia Fresh (a female group signed to Nappy Boy Records), told Bobby Drake after congratulating Sophia Fresh on their latest single release, “Thanks so much, Bro! Shoot we just tryna get on 'Sweat's' level! My hats off to you guys! Total crossover record.”


When “Sweat (Lose Control)” was still in the finalization stages, Sonya McLaurin, Personal Manager, ran across an international DJ from Africa named DJ Mastermind of Lights Out DJs, and asked if he would listen to The Beat Geeks single. After listening, he immediately responded back with, “Ok! I enjoyed the track, def [definitely] something I would play in the club…” He then offered to create a techno house mix. DJ Mastermind then referred her to his good friend from Germany, Holland’s very own Eugenio Ricci to do a hard core, big house mix. The group was ecstatic and honored to have mixes done by some of the finest DJs overseas.


June 5th, 2010: Wisconsin radio station, Z100.7, aired "Sweat (Lose Control)" during a segment entitled “Hits from the Streets”. The song received amazing reviews by both the Z100.7 staff and listeners who were asked to call in when the segment was complete. An excited yet humbled feeling overcame The Beat Geeks as they listened to their song being played, for the first time, on a major radio network. The group was informed that the song would be played the following day, and has the potential to be put into official rotation by Z100.7.


As more listeners, DJs, and radio stations become intrigued by The Beat Geeks music, their career continues to soar. It’s only the beginning for The Beat Geeks and their continued success towards their dream as major, worldwide known, Grammy Award winning Artists.


The Beat Geeks single, “Sweat (Lose Control)”, is currently in stores online now.


For more information about The Beat Geeks, go to their website: www.TheBeatGeeks.com and/or contact their Personal Manager, Sonya “KP” McLaurin, at TheBeatGeeks.Info@gmail.com. - Hip Hop Press


"WCRX Interview with The Beat Geeks"

The ATL trio comprised of Bobby Drake, Luke Galloway and Karissa Smith are literally tearing up radio and online radio with their hit song, Sweat. Independent and receiving compliments from some of hip hop’s most known producers, like the J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, the group is out to fill a void in pop music with a sprinkle of dance, hip hop, and House in to their sound. Luke and Bobby dropped in to B-Side Radio to discuss their influences, how the group got started and what key ingredient Karissa adds to the group. Listen now!

WCRX Beat Geeks Interview

Want more Beat Geeks, check out their home page here. - SquareOne


"Press Release: Nikera Clothing Announces the Face of Fall 2010"

Atlanta, GA July 28, 2010— Nikera Clothing is scheduled to release the second wave of young fashionable talent on July 31, 2010 in Atlanta GA. After months of scouting the music industry they set their eyes upon a young group of college kids named “The Beat Geeks. The Beat Geeks are a talented threesome inspired by rock, disco, pop, and hip hop. Nikera Clothing will be shooting the much anticipated Women and Men Fall 2010 Collection on July 31, 2010 in Atlanta, GA from 2-4pm at a private studio location. The entire session will be Live via UStream. Each hour will be allotted for boutiques, press, and fans to see what really goes on behind the scenes of a fashion campaign. You will have the privilege of interviewing the Designer, Stylists, MUA, Photographer, and of course the Artists during this time. Private invitations were delivered to music and fashion professionals of Atlanta only. This is a private event.





About Nikera Clothing

Nikera Clothing is a unique clothing company dedicated to everything FASHION+MUSIC. The clothing company promotes young independent Artists from around the world and from all known music genres by giving them a placement within the corporation as the the face of the upcoming fashion collection. An Artist is chosen twice a year to bless the company as the official face of the collection. Nikera Clothing has created their own extraordinary lane within the fashion and music industry by allowing young Artists to display their fashion style and promote their music via the Nikera Clothing website. The music acts as the website’s unique soundtrack for the duration of the season. Music links, videos, and other promotional material are added to the Nikera Clothing website to ensure maximum exposure for each Artist. Dedicated to the millions of creative individuals in the world, Nikera Clothing continues to cater to the Artists who are striving to become successful and inspire others. www.nikeraclothingonline.com

About The Beat Geeks

The Beat Geeks are a group whose unique talents give them the ability to avoid being boxed in to one genre or market. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, members Bobby Drake, Luke Galloway, and Karissa Smith pride themselves on making music outside of the norm by using all of their musical influences and delivering a sound that sets them apart from and raises a new standard in the music world. They see music as a way of expression and one can hear the personalities of each member with every beat, verse, and hook. The Beat Geeks know in order to be irreplaceable; they must be different; so they are doing just that. Their sound is never monotonous and is constantly changing. As an embodiment of musical evolution, the Beat Geeks plan to leave their mark in the music world. www.thebeatgeeks.com

Press Contact:

David Beck

Cole Chamberlain Inc.

Los Angeles, CA

Office: 888.514.7250

David.beck@colechamberlain.com - Nikera Backstage


"Hanging with The Beat Geeks"

How you doing today?
Bobby Drake: I’m doing quite well, thank you… trying to make the most of what god presents to me, ya know?.
Luke Galloway: Quite well, thank you!.
Karissa Smith: I’m Great!.

For those who don’t know, who are in The Beat Geeks?
Bobby Drake: A trio consisting of producers, singers and songwriters who have come together to create and share their music with the masses. The group consists of Bobby Drake (producer/songwriter), Karissa Smith (lead female vocalist/songwriter), and Luke Galloway (lead male vocalist/songwriter/producer).
Luke Galloway: We are a collective of producers, writers, and artists here to create great music and be ourselves, letting our inner geeks shine.
Karissa Smith: Three super talented individuals. Bobby Drake, Luke Galloway and, myself.

How did you guys meet?
Karissa Smith: I met Bobby in college through a mutual friend and I met Luke through Bobby.
Bobby Drake: Well Karissa and I have known each other going on 3 yrs now…we were working on material with another songwriter… Luke and I met a year ago… we collaborated on a track that was being shopped, which led us listening to the material we each had separately, and the chemistry evolved from there.
Luke Galloway: I met Bobby Drake though a rapper named Jimmy HenneC in Valdosta, GA. Bobby and I were both in school and producing on our own around the area. Bobby wanted a guitar lick for a track he was working on for Jimmy. Jimmy gave me a call and I came to the studio and laid down a quick solo, from then on Bobby and I started collaborating, and eventually we did so much work together that we decided to form a team.

How did you come up with the name The Beat Geeks?
Karissa Smith: I was the latest addition to the group so the name was already there. I just jumped right in and got to work!
Bobby Drake: I actually had come up with the name a few years ago… I don’t remember what sparked it [laughs]

What first got you into doing music?
Bobby Drake: Well, I played the drums during the early years of my life. Then, did the rap thing throughout middle school up until my freshman year of college… I got into producing, honestly, out of sheer boredom…. one of my peers introduced me to the fruityloops program the summer I graduated from high school, and from there I just kept trying to evolve and create.
Luke Galloway: When I was young, all I really wanted to do was play soccer until my mother suggested that I become a more “well rounded” young man. She signed me up for guitar lessons and I hated it, but one day something strange clicked in my head when I stopped trying to learn the songs my teacher was giving me and started writing stuff on my own. I fell deeply in love with creating my own songs, sounds, etc. My older sisters were also involved in music; I got a lot of my first music taste from them and branched out on my own after they started kicking me out of their rooms in fear of me stealing their Hanson and Avril CDs. [laughs].
Karissa Smith: My mom. She sang all the time and made up songs to make learning interesting for me. [laughs]

What types of music motives you? Why?
Bobby Drake: I’m a huge fan of 80's music, as well as, techno and dance music. I wasn’t introduced to rap/hip-hop until my 6th grade year. Plus, living overseas, I was only exposed to what they played over there. These types of music motivate me immensely because, as far as techno and dance music go, its high energy and fun… and I like the sounds and effects used in the instrumentation. 80s music has a high level of creativity in my eyes. You had so many different artist and sounds going on during that era. You had your Electronic vibe, like the Eurythmics, your fun, feel good vibe like Cindy Lauper, and your smooth jams like your Lionel Richies and such. Plus you had Michael Jackson and Prince… Need I say more? [laughs].
Karissa Smith: All music motivates me. I love music that allows me to connect with the performers emotions.
Luke Galloway: Anything uplifting and emotional. I’ve always been a fan of over-the-top production, though I can greatly appreciate a good stripped down song, I guess my musical tastes when listening can be compared to a Michael Bay film, as much as I hate to admit it. Intricate classical gets me going, as does the vast genres of electronic music, but it’s always great to go back and listen to the classic pop from the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s.

What influences (not just music wise) helped to give you the confidence and dedication that you have now?
Bobby Drake: Really… just life in general. Its lessons and experiences have allowed me to grow and really go after what I want. I’ve learned a lot on this journey towards success, which helped in building my confidence…
Luke Galloway: I’ve always had a strong faith in God. There’s someone or something out there guiding my steps and looking out for me. My parents have been amazing too, showing me support even when I’m spending my allowance money on concert tickets and guitar strings. Also, the great people I’ve been blessed to get to know and work with have been instrumental in my development as an artist and person in general.
Karissa Smith: Well, I was always extremely shy growing up until I started to realize that I was only robbing the world of who I truly was. That realization brought me to the confidence I have today. Without both confidence and dedication it’s impossible to truly reach any goal!

Tell the readers of Area 84 about your first musical performance.
Karissa Smith: Terrible. I did a lot of giggling [shakes her head] I didn’t take it very seriously. I was super young and shy. It was quite dreadful.
Bobby Drake: Well, we haven’t had any performances as a group yet; we’ve all had separate performances in the past. My personal first performance was when I was in a rap group while in college. We had a show at this random club, and there was noooooobody there [laughs]… so we took it as a rehearsal to help polish up the performance aspect of our group.
Luke Galloway: I was in 7th grade, my middle school was holding a talent show and I was scheduled to perform a song, “Sweet Home Alabama”, believe it or not [laughs]. There were about 200 kids in the gym, me with my guitar and a drummer friend of mine, some student teacher on vocals, just jamming away, then after the song I broke into some terrible version of Van Halen’s “Eruption” solo… but everyone went nuts, it was classic. After the show was over, the teachers still had time to kill so they walked up to me and asked if I would play some more songs… so basically it turned into my first headlining concert in some weird twisted way. I finished off the set with some more covers of Relient K’s “Sadie Hawkins Dance” and Jet’s “Are You Gonna Be My Girl?”. People that I’ve grown up with still remember that first show [laughs]. Ever since then, I knew I wanted to be on stage.

What can we expect from The Beat Geeks in the future?
Luke Galloway: Lots of fun new summer songs. Be prepared to incessantly dance, moving until you can’t hold back from breaking a “Sweat” (hint hint).
Bobby Drake: Well, we are in the final stages of polishing up our single “Sweat” which is to be released this summer. More appearances at different events and such, more new music, and performances will start soon.
Karissa Smith: A lot! We’re constantly creating. Sometimes it amazes me how much so!

If you weren’t singing and/or producing, what do you think you would be doing right now?
Bobby Drake: Hmmm…. well I’m not too sure… probably grad school.
Luke Galloway: I would probably be devoting my time toward becoming a Fortune 500 CEO or curing cancer, something like that [laughs] or becoming a huge computer nerd/studio guru.
Karissa Smith: I have no idea. I’ve honestly never imagined my life without doing what I do. But for kicks I’ll say I would be a painter or a dancer. Those were my second and third loves as a little girl.

Are there any last words you would like to say to our [84] readers? Where can we learn more about you?
Bobby Drake: First, I want to give God the glory. He is the reason for all we have accomplished thus far and for our ability to create. He guides our career and without him nothing is possible. Thank you Lord. I also want to shout out all our fans… Everyone who supports us and those who just took a few minutes out of their day to listen to a song or two from us. We really appreciate it, and there is more to come so be on the lookout. You can hit me up via Twitter (@Beat_geeks), Myspace (www.myspace.com/beatgeeksmusic), Facebook (The Beat Geeks), or our official website (www.thebeatgeeks.com).
Luke Galloway: Remember the past, live in the present, and look hopefully towards the future. You can read more about us and listen to some of our tunes at www.TheBeatGeeks.com.
Karissa Smith: Thank you for reading! and you can catch up with me at karissiam@gmail.com and/or on Twitter @Karissiam Thank you!.

This entry was posted on Monday, July 19th, 2010 at 12:03 pm and is filed under - 84 Area Blog


"Behind the Scenes of the Fall 2010 Ad Campaign with The Beat Geeks"

NIKERA CLOTHING blessed the city of ATLANTA, GA over the weekend, by giving the PRESS of Atlanta exclusive access into their FALL 2010 COLLECTION Photo shoot featuring Atlanta’s newest techno/pop power group THE BEAT GEEKS. There were complimentary Champagne Mimosas and a delicious collection of champagne flavored cupcakes sponsored by COCKTAIL CUPCAKE of Atlanta on set. The shoot was a major success! Free music and posters from THE BEAT GEEKS were given away at the close of the evening and the entire production was streaming LIVE via USTREAM! Check it out!! - Nikera Backstage


"+ Nikera Clothing +"

I was invited to attend a shoot for @NIKERACLOTHING. I thank everyone involved for having me and the wonderful experience ;] http://www.nikeraclothingonline.com/

[The Article features pictures of The Beat Geeks modeling Nikera Clothing shot by Eye Q Photography] - AdillaTheGENIUS


"Adilla The Genius on Set with Nikera Clothing and The Beat Geeks Fall 2010"

Adilla The Genius is a phenomenal photographer who blessed our set during our FALL 2010 AD CAMPAIGN on July 31, 2010 over the weekend in Atlanta GA. The images are beyond extraordinary!!!! - Nikera Backstage


"XI Magazine Exclusive: Nikera Clothing Fall Fashion Preview"

With the Fall fashion season right on our heels, Nicholette Moore was just in time to reveal her fall collection for Nikera Clothing at Studio Space in Atlanta on August. The private preview was open to boutique buyers and local and national media. Viewers got to drink champagne and munch on delicious goodies as the new face for Nikera Clothing, The Beat Geeks, modeled and posed for photographs for the Nikera Clothing Fall Fashion Campaign. The line will be available in local boutiques in New York City, Los Angeles and Atlanta this upcoming fall. Be on the look out! - XI Magazine Online


"Unsigned Hype: The Beat Geeks - Deep Down... Club Banger!!!"

Thursday, May 13, 2010
Unsigned Hype: The Beat Geeks - Deep Down...club banger!!!
Shout out to my homegirl K-Princess for putting me onto this song by the artists she's managing...funny thing is I came across these cats, The Beat Geeks, sometime ago on twitter and loved their production...They've added a young lady to the fold and I'm looking forward to seeing how their project comes together, the Final Kauz Ent. family might have to contribute to that...This track has that LA/Miami vibe, I might have to play this at some of my parties in DC!!!

Download the song here!!!! - "Ambitionz Az" A Mogul...in training


"The Beat Geeks: Sweat (Lose Control) Song & Video"

HipHop artist The Beat Geeks released their "Sweat (Lose Control)" song
on 05/31/2010. The song is tiiiiiighhhttt (a Thumbs Up)! Cool, this song is fresh off the streetz! This joint is not making heads nod. Isnot it dope or are you sleeping? Anyway, listen and then judge. Below we have collected all music video/streams to make it as easy as possible to watch/listen to "Sweat (Lose Control)" by The Beat Geeks.
- Music Remedy


Discography

"Sweat (Lose Control)" [1st Single] Currently on iTunes
"Sweat (Lose Control)" Eugenio Ricci's House Mix [Main Version]
The Beat Geeks - "Deep Down"
The Beat Geeks - "Pump Up The Volume"
The Beat Geeks - "Ready To Move"
The Beat Geeks - "Where Da Party At"
The Beat Geeks - "Get Down"

Photos

Bio

The Beat Geeks are a crossover pop group based in Atlanta, Georgia. They were brought together by chance and ongoing collaborations between producers/artists Bobby Drake, Luke Galloway and artist/vocalist K Poindexter (Dex). Their vibrant blends of hip-hop, electronic dance, rock, and RnB heralds them as one of the top rising musical crossover groups both domestically and overseas. Their resume includes opening for Ludacris during UGA’s Homecoming in October of 2010, headlining for Athens number 1 radio station, Power Athens, during their first birthday bash, which included a sold out event, Georgia Tech’ Relay For Life event, and Athens Boulevard magazine’s Fashion Week. They recently obtained their very first placement with TNT's hit show "Men Of a Certain Age" and HBO Showtime's "The Real L Word"for their song "Strobe Lights" and also NBC’s hit show “Parks and Recreation” for their song “Pump Up the Volume." Although they are artists first, they are also a very talented team of producers. Collaborations include: Ace Hood, Lil Jon, Nappy Boy’s Young Cash and Tay Dizm, Playboy Tre, B.o.B, Young Capone, J-Bo of the Youngbloodz, and Gorilla Zoe. With a constantly growing worldwide fan base, The Beat Geeks are poised to become one of the next great hit-making entities to provide the world with unforgettable music and extraordinary style, all while having an extremely good time.