By Christine Shelby | OBSERVER Staff Writer

Country music artist RVSHVD is making a name for himself. Pronounced “Rashad,” the artist grew up in a small town surrounded by country music influences but didn’t initially take to the music his father introduced him to. It was hanging out with his mom at work that got him more immersed in country music and a friend who introduced him to Black country artist Darius Rucker. In 2018 he tried his hand at writing a country music song, sent it to his friends, and with their support recorded an EP. 

What makes someone go from writing for fun to recording an EP? Ease. “Everything came to me easily,” he says of the experience. “I felt like this was what I was supposed to be doing.” RVSHVD took that EP and released it locally to some fanfare and in 2020 did a cover of the Mustard and Roddy Ricch song “Ballin”. The cover went viral and he’s been perfecting his craft ever since. 

His stage name, RVSHVD, was inspired by a suggestion from his wife, who didn’t like his original idea of using dollar signs in the name. He credits her not only for helping him choose the name but also for the unwavering support she provides while he’s on the road. She travels with him, taking his photos, shooting videos, and helps sell merchandise. “She has my back,” he says. She has been with him since the beginning, and it’s clear that the journey wouldn’t be the same without her involvement and input.

When asked about his musical influences outside of country music, RVSHVD explains that he has been shaped by a variety of genres, including rap, rock, and R&B. “I grew up in a great time for the music I create. I listened to everything,” he says. These diverse influences are evident in his songs, and he believes, “It’s what draws people to my music.” 

RVSHVD uses his music to share stories from his life and experiences. His song “Deal with the Devil” addresses anxiety, a theme that became evident to him as soon as he heard the instrumental track. “I always express myself through my songs, allowing listeners to understand who I am,” he explains. He knows that the song resonates with his audience because fans often share their thoughts with him during meet-and-greets after his shows. As a self-proclaimed introvert, RVSHVD prioritizes self-care by watching TV, playing games, and listening to music. He enjoys being “off by himself” whenever he has the opportunity and can often be found exploring different dining spots while on the road.

Asked about his proudest moment to date as an artist, he says that it was his Grand Ole Opry debut, a pinnacle moment for many country artists. The Grand Ole Opry, launched in 1925, is a radio show that has featured the country’s greatest artists and rising stars. His manager surprised him during an LA recording session by connecting him with the powers that be at the show. This set in motion his debut which occurred on September 23rd, 2023, the day after filming the music video for his song “Small Town Talk”  in his hometown of Willacoochee, Georgia. 

“Small Town Talk” is RVSHVD’s tribute to his hometown, which has a population of just 1,243. Filming the music video was a highlight for him, especially since it took place during homecoming, where he performed at halftime. “It was cool because the last time I was at that school, I was on the field playing in the band,” he recalled. The video showcases the typical sights of a homecoming celebration, along with RVSHVD being surrounded by children during an elementary school tour. He was also honored with a key to the city and had a day named after him. RVSHVD hopes to film more music videos and write additional songs inspired by his experiences in Willacoochee. He makes it a point to travel back to visit whenever he can because he appreciates the break from city life.

This year, Black country music artists saw a rise in their popularity due to Beyonce’s entrance into the genre with her album “Cowboy Carter.” Conversations about the album energized media outlets to cover and write pieces equally highlighting other notable Black country talents to watch. RVSHVD reminisced about that time, saying “When she announced that she was about to drop that country album, I feel like it helped a lot of Black country artists.” He noted that he clearly saw his music streams and video views go up as fans started connecting with other artists. 

As RVSHVD gets ready to take the stage this weekend in Sacramento, I asked him what advice he would give to aspiring Black country artists and the answer was simple and to the point, “Be yourself,” he said. “We are at a point in time where we don’t have to act a certain way. We don’t have to change nothing about ourselves for other people.” 

RVSHVD is scheduled to perform at the Golden Sky Festival on Sunday October 19, 2024 on the Jack Daniels stage.

This story is part of the Digital Equity Local Voices Fellowship Lab. The Lab initiative is made possible with support from Comcast NBCUniversal.