Rising Stars: Meet Archer

Today we’d like to introduce you to Archer.

Hi Archer, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself. 
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had an ear for music. Growing up in the church, I was surrounded by music, and it just became a part of me. From a very young age, I was able to hear a song and figure out how to play the melody on the piano. When I was about six, I started messing around on a toy drum set until one Christmas morning, my dad got me a full-sized kit of my own. I was thrilled! After that, I advanced in my rhythmic capabilities. When I was in high school, I had the opportunity to take electives as a part of my homeschool education, including recording with a producer in a local studio, which really benefited me with my knowledge of music production. Now, I have a little home setup I’ve been using to produce and have recently started distributing my music on to all main streaming platforms. 

The majority of my releases consist of Christian rap, but I’ve been getting into other genres like pop as well. Currently, I’m working on my soon-to-be debuted EP, “a melody of longing” that comprises both pop and some of my rap roots. I intend to release more Christian rap in the future and would love to join a Christian record label if God sees fit. In an industry full of music that’s constantly glorifying violence, sexual immorality, and substance abuse, I intend to put out content that does the opposite. In this broken world, we all need Jesus, so creating content that glorifies Him and everything that is good, right, and true influences the culture in a positive way, having an everlasting impact. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I have faced challenges in the past and face challenges now as such a young person trying to make it in the music industry. I’d say the biggest challenge I’ve faced in my journey so far is when I went through a season of depression and anxiety. Like most people struggling with depression, I felt trapped, alone, disconnected, and helpless. Oftentimes, I didn’t really feel like doing much, but would sometimes use music as an escape or distraction. I eventually got out of the rut I was in by focusing on the positive and all that there is to enjoy in this wonderful life that God created. Without prayer, I wouldn’t have made it through to where I am today. Without Jesus, I would’ve probably ended my life if I’m honest. I often take advantage of how far I’ve come. Sometimes even just in moments of reflection like this, I’m reminded of what God has redeemed me from, bringing me to where I am today. 

Career-wise, I’d say one of my biggest challenges is just finding the time to record and release music. Being a college student, it can be challenging to put time aside for working on my music, but I try to find time when I can. Another major roadblock to career success as a newbie is gaining exposure as an artist. There’s a lot of great music out there, and it’s hard to stand out in such a large crowd and get heard. For now, I’m going to keep grinding at what I do best and trust in God’s plan for my life. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
So far, I’ve only released ten singles, which is why I’m excited for my upcoming EP! I can’t wait to see what people think, and even if it isn’t as huge a success, that’s okay! It’s all a part of the journey. The development of this EP has been a great learning experience so far, and I’m discovering my own unique sound as an artist, which has been great to see! 

Lately, I’ve been pursuing my Bachelor’s Degree in Music Production and have learned a lot that I can apply to my work. I’m going to keep grinding with grit and apply what I absorb in the classroom, continuing the journey of becoming a better artist. For now, I’m going to just keep releasing music and see where this thing goes! 

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters to me most is Jesus. He’s been there for me when times were tough, He’s shown me love indescribable, and I really don’t know what I’d do without Him! My family’s also something I hold near and dear. I have taken them for granted but am now realizing that a good family is something not a lot of people have. I’m blessed to have loving parents and siblings, and my relationship with them is something I will cherish forever. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_archermusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialarchermusic
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleywilkinson616/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiBCWyUJEqgT2kzO5dv8TcQ
• SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-58315691
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6XasKxnQik8gDJGC6pGaU6?si=Sy5jFjngRHasaTH9Npzm5Q

Image Credits
Samantha Wilkinson
Wesley Wilkinson