Music is the art of human connection. It’s the universal language that speaks to our emotions, going beyond borders and boundaries through infectious beats and rhythms. Each song is an invitation to dive into the heart and soul of an artist.

But behind every chart-topping track is a team working tirelessly to bring that vision to life. Enter Bobby Blakdout, a powerhouse in both music production and entrepreneurship. As the Founder of Blak’d Out, an innovative record label, Bobby has cemented his reputation as a trailblazer in the industry.

His creative energy knows no limits, consistently dropping hits that ripple through the music world. Remarkably, every single song he has released through his independent label, Blak'd Out, has secured a coveted spot across multiple platforms for the US Top 200 charts.

Bobby Blakdout has just dropped his much-anticipated album, DAYUM, featuring heavyweight collaborations with the likes of Rick Ross, Juicy J, and Gucci Mane. Released independently under his label,

Blak’d Out Records, DAYUM is more than just a collection of tracks—it’s a powerful statement. The album pushes boundaries, blending genres and showcasing Bobby’s unique ability to fuse different sounds into one electrifying musical journey.

At its core, Bobby’s story is one of resilience and personal transformation. When his stepfather was diagnosed with cancer, Robert Lindsey—better known as Bobby Blakdout—turned to music for comfort.

With years of DJ experience and a deep connection to bass guitar and drums, he used these familiar sounds to cope with the emotional weight of the situation.

Now, Bobby is turning his personal pain into purpose. A portion of the proceeds from DAYUM will go toward launching a charitable music foundation dedicated to helping children with cancer.

music, entertainment — Bobby Blakdout, Image: Supplied

This initiative will provide musical education, resources, and support to young patients, giving them a way to express themselves and find healing through the power of music.

GQ caught up with Bobby Blakdout to discuss music and his upcoming projects in an exclusive interview.

GQ: Bobby, your debut album DAYUM has been released, featuring an incredible lineup of artists like Rick Ross, Gucci Mane, and Juicy J. What inspired the sound and vision behind this album, and how did you bring such iconic collaborators together?

BB: The sound and vision behind DAYUM was really inspired by my early days, sitting in my first car, listening to legends like Three 6 Mafia and dreaming about what it would be like to work with my favorite artists.

As I got older, I realized that the biggest limits we face are the ones we create in our minds. When I took a retreat and opened my mind, I saw that anything was possible. I had this idea for the album, and even when I doubted myself, I reminded myself of my process and my vision.

Magazines like The Source have dubbed me “The Suge Knight of EDM” due to my extensive network and various other factors, so bringing together these iconic collaborators was a relatively smooth process.

Once I connected the dots and met Shaun (HEKLER), Ronnie (Gladez), Nehuen (Dabow), and Andrew (Dirty Audio)—all of whom are not only incredibly down-to-earth but also masters of sonic production—I was confident we’d create something truly exceptional.

My goal was to merge Hip Hop and EDM in a way that felt both innovative and thrilling; while also highlighting the unique styles each artist brings to the table.

GQ: Your journey into music began as a form of self-expression and healing, especially during your stepfather’s battle with cancer. How did those personal experiences shape the emotional depth and energy we hear in DAYUM?

BB: My stepfather was one of the strongest and most influential male role models in my life. He had a larger-than-life personality and was always known for helping others, as he believed in second chances.

Watching someone I love to endure so much pain and uncertainty while remaining strong was overwhelming. Music became my escape, though initially, I didn’t take it seriously. Once I really dove into production, it became a way to clear my mind during so many sleepless nights.

When I first envisioned DAYUM, it wasn’t about touring or headlining major shows. It was about personal growth and giving back. The personal experiences surrounding my stepfather’s battle with cancer profoundly shaped the emotional depth, energy and purpose of my album “DAYUM”.

GQ: With DAYUM, you’re not just making waves in music—you’re also launching a charitable foundation to support children battling cancer through music. Can you tell us more about how this idea came about and why it’s such a personal mission for you?

BB: I can’t deny that the project made a significant impact, but that was merely a result of having a solid structure in place. What truly motivated me was the vision of giving back.

Throughout the process, major labels were eager to release my singles and collaborations, but I always politely declined because I had a vision. Meanwhile top-tier managers for some of the biggest artists in the industry started reaching out to me, curious of how I was able to achieve success so quickly.

Even before I began working on the album, I knew I wanted its success to benefit others, and I structured it as such, which may have helped its success.

Most people pursue wealth or material success, but for me, it’s about something much deeper. I’m seeking spiritual fulfillment and a genuine sense of purpose through giving back.

GQ: The foundation’s goal is to use music as a form of therapy and emotional support for young patients. What impact do you hope music will have on these children, and how do you plan to integrate your industry expertise into the program?

BB: My deepest hope with this foundation is that music will serve as a source of strength and comfort for these kids as they navigate such a difficult journey. Having witnessed firsthand how powerful music can be, I want to use my experience and connections to make it more than just entertainment—it can be a lifeline.

By bringing in professional musicians for hands-on production sessions, we’re creating moments where these children feel truly seen and connected, even in their toughest times. Music has a unique way of breaking through isolation, and I believe it can give them the emotional support and creative outlet they deserve.

Additionally, we want to help these kids release their own music, giving them a platform to share their voice with the world and feel the pride that comes from creating something deeply personal.

GQ: You’ve mentioned that music became your refuge during some of the toughest times of your life. How do you envision your foundation providing that same refuge for children facing their own battles with illness?

BB: Music became my refuge during some of the darkest days of my life, especially watching someone I loved go through a fight that left us all feeling powerless. In those moments, music was the only thing that made sense to me, the only space where I could let my emotions breathe.

That’s the gift I want to share with these children — a place where they can escape, even if just for a few minutes, and feel a sense of release or hope. Hope is more powerful than people can believe.

Through the foundation, we’ll create opportunities for kids to connect with music in ways that resonate with their hearts.

Whether that’s learning an instrument, singing, or producing, I want to build moments where they can reclaim some control in a situation that often feels so overwhelming.

Music has a way of reaching us when nothing else can, and if we can give these kids even a little bit of that peace, that’s everything to me.

GQ: DAYUM blends multiple genres and features innovative production techniques. What do you hope listeners will take away from this journey, and how does it reflect your evolution as an artist?

BB: With DAYUM, I aimed for listeners to embark on a sonic adventure that mirrors the album’s eclectic and dynamic nature. The album is crafted to push traditional boundaries and deliver a fresh, innovative experience.

My goal was to assemble a diverse and heavy hitting album featuring Hip Hop and EDM icons in such a way that the first reaction when you hear it is simply, "DAYUM."

This project encapsulates my artistic evolution—embracing new sounds, experimenting with diverse styles, and pushing beyond my previous limitations.

GQ: Your spiritual retreat seems to have played a pivotal role in your shift toward using music for a greater cause. How has that experience influenced your creative process and your goals for the future?

BB: After my spiritual retreat, I experienced a profound shift in perspective. I came to understand that the things I once thought were important were trivial compared to what truly matters: people.

music, entertainment — Bobby Blakdout, Image: Supplied

This realization has deeply influenced my creative process and future goals. I want my music to serve a greater purpose, and I’m committed to using my platform to make a positive impact, focusing on causes that resonate deeply with the values I’ve come to cherish.

GQ: Lastly, beyond the music and the charity, what’s next for Bobby Blakdout and Blak’d Out Records?

BB: Beyond music and charity work, I am focused on expanding our horizons. We’re excited about exploring new genres and pushing creative boundaries with fresh talent. Our goal is to continue fostering a supportive community for artists and music lovers alike.

We’re also looking into some innovative projects that blend music with technology to enhance the listener experience. It’s an exciting time, and we’re committed to making a meaningful impact while having fun along the way!

Written By Takudzwa Nyambi