Meet 808 Mosley | Artist | Rapper

We had the good fortune of connecting with 808 Mosley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi 808, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in the Bronx, New York, but I was raised in Virginia Beach—and both places shaped me in different ways. Growing up in the Bronx gave me awareness, and a strong sense of identity. Virginia Beach gave me space to observe, adapt, and build my creativity. I’ve seen different walks of life, from the poor to rich. I was constantly going back and forth from the North to the South, and that exposure to different people, accents, energy, and mindsets made me culturally fluid. I learned to find common ground no matter where I was.

My roots run deep. My mom is Geechee, and my dad is Jamaican, so music and movement were always in the house. Whether it was reggae, soul, gospel, or trap, there was always rhythm and expression surrounding me. After graduating high school, I moved to New Jersey for a while and formed a rap group with my cousins. That era was about collaboration, hustle, and turning pain into passion. It laid the foundation for the way I create today.

What really shaped me, though, were the examples I looked up to—people like Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, James Brown, Jay-Z, Future Hendrix. Innovators. Revolutionaries. Creators who used their gifts to shift culture. I was always motivated by people who used their art as a weapon of truth and change. And I’ve always wanted my work to reflect that same kind of impact.
My upbringing taught me how to move with intention, stay motivated, and express to myself —whether it’s through art, music, or fashion. I didn’t grow up with a lot, but I grew up with enough to dream big. Everything I’ve been through molded me into a man who knows how to stay calm, create, and lead.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is rooted in truth and experience; everything I create comes from a real place. I don’t fake it or chase trends. I create from what I’ve lived—pain, love, isolation, breakthrough, and success. I’m not just making content—I’m creating the setting. My brand is where culture meets vision. It’s not just about media; it’s about being a light, helping others level up creatively while staying true to who they are.

Getting here wasn’t easy. I’ve been overlooked, doubted, and started over more than once. But I never quit. I taught myself everything—from video editing and beat making to mixing and mastering. I used what I had, stayed hungry, and turned setbacks into setups. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is.. nobody’s coming to save you—you’ve got to become what you needed. So I became that.

I want the world to know that I’m here to build something timeless.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If you’re visiting me, we’re definitely hitting the beach—somewhere beautiful near the water. Maybe even a yacht party just to elevate the vibe. Topgolf is a cool if you want to chill and talk over good energy. And when it comes to food, I’m simple but picky—I love burgers and fries, jerk wings, cheesecake, and soul food done right. Doesn’t matter if it’s fine dining or a takeout spot, I just want good eats. We might hit a local seafood spot or a hidden gem with good music. For me, it’s less about the scene and more about the atmosphere.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family, my mother has always believe in and supported my ventures. My father early on and still being a voice of reason and makes things happen. My grandmother and my ancestors who came before, for leading and helping with my mental security in times needed. My friends, few but strong stuck with me through all the adversity.
Shout out to my cousin JT—he’s always believed in me, even when things weren’t clear. My cousin Hush, who’s like a big brother. He’s the one who helped me see the bigger picture. And Karel, who’s like a big sister, holding me down through transitions. My sister Adri—she never gave up on me. She’s been patient and strong even when I was hard to deal with. And my brother Ash—he’s helped shoot visuals and bring my ideas to life. Every single one of them plays a part in this story. This isn’t just about me—it’s about all of us.

Website: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwSrYa4FDEs

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/808mosley/

Twitter: https://x.com/808mosley/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@808Mosley

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@808mosley
https://www.threads.com/@808mosley
https://www.jango.com/music/808+Mosley

Image Credits
@808mosley IG, X, Tik Tok and Youtube.