While Slim Dollars‘ life takes an interesting turn, his own music may just stand as its soundtrack.

Written By Danny McLean (@KingDanny__)

For the first time this year the sun is beaming more than usual in Brooklyn and even with these bright rays, Slim Dollars’, born Sharod Simmons, demeanor remains unfazed. Entering a barbershop In the midst of storytelling and haircutting, this Harlem rapper’s presence is felt. Smiling awkwardly while giving everyone dap, his humility is enough to make you guess he has the gift of gab. But there is something more than meets the third eye when it comes to Slim Dollars.

Though he’s become accustomed to hustling in the streets, he was always keen on breaking into music. After quickly learning the outcome of the street-life, Slim turned to recording on a regular basis instead. On Twitter, he describes himself as “Just a dope ni**a without a deal whose shows sell the fuck out.” Without major backing, Slim’s mixtapes and visuals are proof of his unmatched work ethic along with his growing number of fans.

“Working hard in music showed me a whole different type of living. I ain’t even make it and I’m seeing sh*t I never even seen,” he says.

With a mentality of constantly moving and expanding, Slim and friends formed Trips3t. Trips3t’s first intention is to network on a bigger scale, travel, and perform elsewhere besides New York. Coincidently, fans and people alike began to pair the set with trippy drugs.

“It’s cool, but we still use it as a metaphor. We want to get f**ked up. We want to have fun, but we also want to go places,” Slim says in regards to clearing up those allegations. “How many blunts can you smoke in your lobby? The idea behind Trips3t is to fuck with more people and travel outside of our comfort zones.”

Furthering these allegations are the trippy treats known as marijuana goodies, which are known to be at a Slim Dollars show. As Slim laughs, he says “It goes together, man. The whole Trips3t and trippy treat thing was organic. It was around the time we were opening up for Juicy J, Rockie Fresh, and we saw a crazy energy from having it at shows.”

Constantly fighting placement in the wild-turned up-loud-basic music category, Slim is adamant that his music is a balance between that and spreading awareness through his lyrics.

“I got songs where I’m discussing where you want to be in life and how you’re dealing with that shi*t. My music is for people who ain’t where they want to be at now in their life. And during that process, you may do drugs, have sex, and party.”

Talented, charismatic, and motivated, it’s only a matter of time before he receives his just due.