Conversations with Tom Pepe

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tom Pepe.

Hi Tom, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am part of a hip hop group called KnowMads, that I have led with my creative partner Tom Wilson since we were in our late teens. We’re originally from Seattle, WA and have been independently growing our movement over the past 15 years. We now have over 100,000 listeners on Spotify and Denver, CO claims our second most popular city of listeners. We were taken aback by our Colorado fans the first time we came to Denver and performed at Cervantes Masterpiece in 2017 – it felt like a reunion. It was a truly powerful experience seeing that our music had traveled by the internet and word of mouth and built a nest in a city we had never been to personally. We’ve always been independent and DIY and while at times this has felt like a challenge, we continue on our path to bring our own unique expression into the world.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
We’ve had moments of struggle, financially and in regard to mental health, drug use is also part of our story and staying clean and sober for the past eight years has been empowering and allowed for growth to occur that otherwise wouldn’t have been possible. Our art has grown alongside our lives and thus reflects are growth as people. There are times when being an artist feels painful, but transforming one’s pain can be healing for those who receive it. We’ve considered ending our journey but as long as something wants to continue speaking through us we will continue to be a vessel to shine a light.

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?
As an artist I’m known for my work with the hip hop group KnowMads (originally from Seattle, WA) which brought us to Denver in 2017 where we discovered we had already built a local fanbase in the Denver area. I am also a Fulbright Scholar and spent the past year in Colombia working with the US Embassy. I am looking at grad programs that allow for me to continue expanding myself as a mind a being and a vehicle for positive impact in the world. My ability to communicate across borders and find common ground sets me apart.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
For professional inquiries can reach out to me through email at tompepe@gmail.com or if you’re interested in my creative work listen to KnowMads music on Spotify or YouTube.

Contact Info:

• Website: knowmadfam.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/knowmadfam
• Facebook: facebook.com/knowmadfam
• Twitter: twitter.com/knowmadfam
• Youtube: bit.ly/knewvideos
• SoundCloud: soundcloud.com/knowmadfam