AGift — An Icon on the Louisville Music Scene

Meet AGift, an artist from Frankfort, Kentucky, who is quickly making his mark in Louisville’s growing music community. His journey started back in the fourth grade when he wanted to be a DJ. That early dream turned into a lifelong love for music. By 17, AGift had made his first song—and he hasn’t stopped creating since.

In 2022, he dropped two projects, From Me To You and Sore Loser. “At that time, I was just experimenting,” he says. “Things weren’t very technical—I was just saying how I felt.” Those projects helped him find his voice and set the stage for what’s next.

A big part of his growth came from working with 2forwoyne, a respected producer in Louisville’s music scene. “Working with him was really an honor,” AGift shares. “He’s someone I looked up to.” Even though he’s not originally from Louisville, AGift says the city welcomed him with open arms. “There’s a renaissance happening musically right now,” he explains. “It’s a blessing to be a part of it. We’ve got a chance to revitalize Black entertainment.”

Faith and family are at the heart of everything he does. “God inspired me to pursue music,” AGift says. “I want to express myself, connect with people, and give back.” He also credits his parents—especially his father, whose love for music shaped him early on—and his friends for always supporting his dreams.

I personally had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with AGift to talk about his upbringing and what got him started in the music industry. He is well beyond his years, and the wisdom he possesses is one of the many attributes that will ensure his success in all of his endeavors.

How would you describe your style and sound in hip hop?

My style and sound are very versatile. I can come from many different angles, and my main goal is to innovate. I’m still in the process of finding my sound, but I feel like I’m getting closer. It’s helping me excavate my soul and core.”

What made you want to start making music?

Seeing how people took in my music and how it affected their lives are really what made me want to start making music.

Who are some of your early influences?

My early influences in hip hop were Bel Biv DeVoe, J Dilla, Busta Rhymes, Kendrick Lamar, The Pharcyde, André 3000, Big Boi, The Fugees, and Kem, to mention a few. They influence me today by encouraging me to be myself and talk about different things in my music. I want to have my own impact in the industry.

How has Louisville’s music scene influenced your growth?

I’m not from Louisville, but since I’ve been here, everyone has welcomed me—it feels like family. There’s a renaissance happening musically right now, and it’s a blessing to be a part of it. As a city, and through all the creatives in it, we have a chance to revitalize Black entertainment.

What keeps you motivated?

My motivation comes from wanting to give back, see the world, and take care of my family. I believe God and music will allow me to do that.

What do you want people to feel when they hear your music?

My end goal is for people to leave my shows inspired and wanting to change their lives for the better—and to get closer to God. When people hear my music, I want them to feel. I want to take them to a place, a time, a moment. I love the art.”

Where do you see yourself in five years?

God willing, I’ll be able to take care of my family and my community, and be happy. I want my family and loved ones to be happy and not stressed about finances. I want to help my mom stop working, travel the world, and perform in arenas—touching people and the world with my music.

What advice would you give to young people following their dreams?

Be you and keep God first. Move with intention and move with love. Believe in yourself. You do those things—you’ll succeed.

AGift’s story is one of faith, love, and purpose. With every beat and lyric, he’s proving that hip hop can be honest, healing, and rooted in something bigger than fame. As Louisville continues to rise as a creative hub, artists like AGift remind us that the real gift is staying true to who you are and using your art to inspire others.