Signed to Alamo Records, Rod Wave has taken that mission and offered his music to the world. 2018’s “Bag” video has more than 4 million views. The song is focused on obtaining wealth through strategy and hard work. It is a mantra to the singer and rapper whose ATR chains stand for “After The Racks.” Despite the temptations around him, he is steadfast on creating a better situation for his family and friends. Another million-plus-streamed video from his Hunger Games video is “Heart 4 Sale.” This song about post-breakup blues emphasizes Rod’s melodic gifts. A grabby visual shows the Floridian hustling a symbol heart out on the streets, where there are no takers. “I try to be as personal as possible because even though everything’s good in my life, I’m a human. The more uncut I can be, the more people can feel it and the more the messages stick.” It is a different kind of artist who is willing to not just show life’s highs, but present the downs through a creative and unconventional video. Another Hunger Games 3 highlight, “Feel The Same Way,” blends Rod’s rapping and singing for a moment in the crossroads of a bright career unfolding. “I wanted somebody who had already been through where I am, crossed them paths, and burned them bridges. That’s Moneybagg Yo was right,” he explains, refusing uninspired clout-chasing collaborations. Rod’s also worked with local label-mate OTM Frenchyy.

Featuring a melodic voice and commanding bars, Rod Wave has a spectrum of vibes. “I don’t really have no one style; it’s however I feel.” He says that he often decides how to deliver his words based on the subject matter. His soulful side is partly due to growing up in a house full of women, with his grandma, mother, and sister. From oldies to ‘90s R&B to contemporary Rap, Rod (whose name is Rodarious) embraced it all. He went head-first into music, recording in his high school’s studio—even if it meant missing most of his other classes. “I used to rap for my dad on the phone when he was in prison. So when he came home, he bought me a mic,” recalls Rod, who says that his father has always been a presence and role model. That early separation inspired recent video “Jan2Jan,” while “Tomorrow” weighs the risks of living reckless.

Thanks to his family, Rod had encouragement to pursue music after graduating. Alamo was not only impressed by the music of the prodigy, but also his strong social engagement—driven by making fans feel valued. “People are here for me, and I will always remember that,” Joining a team enhanced the vision. “This is a dream come true. I was already making moves and money, but when they came, it became a reality that I’m a rapper for a living. It felt real.” It now looks real, too. Rod has seven videos planned for early 2019. As Hunger Games 3 continues to reach new eyes and ears, the multi-talent has new music, collaborations, and bigger moves on deck.