1 of 1: Meet SHAM1016 – A Los Angeles Visionary Redefining Music, Business, and Culture
MEET SHAM1016
SBRBN caught up with Sham1016 to chat about his journey as a visionary and artist in L.A. Sham1016 is a multifaceted artist and entrepreneur from South Central Los Angeles, recognized for his authentic storytelling and deep connection to his hometown. Influenced by artists like Tupac, Kendrick Lamar, Missy Elliott, and Jodeci, Sham1016’s music emphasizes versatility and genuine expression. Known for blending raw lyricism with melodic introspection, Sham1016 offers more than just music—he presents a vision rooted in authenticity, community pride, and self-made artistry.
IN THE HEART OF SOUTH CENTRAL
From the heart of South Central Los Angeles, Sham1016 is more than just a stage name — it’s a tribute to where it all began. “1016” refers to his childhood home on 1016 W. 90th Street, a symbolic anchor in his life and music. Growing up in a culturally rich yet challenged environment, Sham turned to creativity as his compass — finding expression through rap, design, and community activism.
“I think I’ve defined my sound from the start, My sound is player at the core, it’s soulful and melodic, it’s me”
Since dedicating himself to music full-time in 2016, Sham1016 has built a substantial discography. Notable projects include the introspective album Foul Play, which delves into themes of personal growth and the complexities of relationships, and the collaborative EP Sorry Not Sorry with producer Corey Cail, blending West Coast vibes with modern R&B and hip-hop elements. Alongside his most recent album produced by Chase N. Cashe titled Player Made Melodies.
Player Made Melodies
Available Now
on all platforms!
THE VISUAL STYLE: SEEN TO SCENE
In a city where rap and film coexist harmoniously, Sham1016 is delivering both with depth and intention. He isn’t merely just releasing music—he’s curating experiences, and each new drop feels like a short film accompanied by the soundscape of his hometown. “Growing up my Grandmother, Pops and Uncles would tell me stories about their lives – I love stories and I like to tell stories – I have a story so why not tell it?” Sham expressed with SBRBN. He stands out in a newer wave of artists reshaping the identity of a music in L.A.
For Sham, visuals are not an afterthought; they are integral to the creative process. His short-film style videos, often creatively directed or penned by him, transcend mere “performance clips,” transforming into cinematic moments rich in emotion, narrative, and raw aesthetics. Whether capturing a day-in-the-life through a noir lens or offering a surreal portrayal of grief and growth, Sham has a knack for captivating audiences—frame by frame.
“I use this as my canvas, it’s always my mission to showcase the beauty of Vermont – and allow others to see it how I see it – there’s so many colors and textures here.”
Sham1016
THE CINEMATIC INFLUENCE
His innovative approach is heavily influenced by the trailblazers before him. Missy Elliott’s groundbreaking, futuristic visuals set the stage early in his artistic journey. “Missy didn’t just create music you could feel—she crafted videos you couldn’t forget” says Sham. That same boundary-defying spirit resonates in his work, where he refuses to be confined to one lane, format, or aesthetic.
Adding to this inspiration is Pharrell Williams, whose multifaceted brilliance has opened new avenues for Black artists who resist being pigeonholed. From the beats to the style, Sham embodies that Pharrell ethos of balance—raw yet polished, grounded yet imaginative. His tracks might reverberate like the backseat of a ’96 Impala, but the vision? That’s on the level of red-carpet art-house cinema. “We all grew up watching movies from people like John Singleton, and Hype Williams who tell their stories in their way – so I make it my responsibility to tell my story the way I want to” Sham shares.
What truly distinguishes Sham1016 is his unwavering commitment to authenticity—not as a marketing gimmick, but as a guiding principle. His lyrics echo the lived experiences of his community, embodying the truth that real stories deserve to be told. Instead of pursuing viral hits or high-profile endorsements, he is meticulously crafting something richer, slower, and more enduring—a catalog that is both deeply rooted in local culture and expansively creative. In an age where artists often find themselves torn between marketability and significance, Sham is achieving both on his own terms.
A DESIGNERS VISION
Beyond the booth, Sham1016 is also a self-taught graphic designer with his own clothing line. His designs blend bold visuals with messages that resonate deeply with his community — from streetwear that reflects South Central pride to pieces that spark conversation around culture, identity, and resilience. Sham1016 brings a designer’s eye to fashion. He personally creates every graphic, merging streetwear with social commentary.
Each release carries symbolism, rooted in cultural pride, Black identity, and L.A. street culture. His garments tell stories — about survival, success, or simply the beauty of being Black and present. Whether it’s a minimalist tee with a bold statement or a graphic hoodie that nods to his neighborhood, his brand is a visual extension of everything he raps about.
Sham’s personal style has been shaped by his experiences living in Berlin, along with his travels that have greatly impacted his fashion sense. His style genuinely reflects his identity, blending in elements like tracksuits and military-inspired designs. In the end, he favors a clean and polished aesthetic.
DEEPER THAN MUSIC
BUSINESS, HEALTH AND COMMUNITY
In 2018, Sham1016 partnered with Dominique Burell to establish Blacker the Berry Juicery, a health-forward business built to serve nutritious options in areas often underserved by fresh food access. The mission extends beyond wellness—it’s about disrupting cycles of poor health and creating generational solutions for his community.
Their goal is to offer plant-based nutrition and healing alternatives in areas where fast food is abundant but fresh produce is scarce. But it’s more than juice — it’s activism. Sham and his co-founders use the business to push conversations about food deserts, diet-related illnesses, and even the lack of healthy meals in the prison system. This business embodies his mission: to create access, inspire wellness, and challenge the systems that keep communities unhealthy.
SBRBN asked SHAM1016 to share some of his favorite local spots to eat at in Los Angeles!
FOR THE CITY
EVENTS CURATED BY SHAM1016
PLAYERS PACE
Players Pace is a collaborative event series launched by Los Angeles hip-hop artist Sham1016 in partnership with The Good Water Company, a Black-owned wellness brand based in Gardena, California. This initiative aims to blend music, culture, and community engagement, reflecting both Sham1016’s artistic vision and The Good Water Co.’s commitment to health and empowerment.
The event series features live performances by Sham1016 and other local artists, showcasing a mix of hip-hop and R&B that resonates with the community. Attendees can enjoy a run, walk or jog alongside curated playlists, live DJ sets, and opportunities to connect with people in the community.
Next Event takes place on Saturday May 3rd, and it is dedicated to Mothers in honor of Mother’s Day!
SET GALA
Set Gala is an annual event curated by Los Angeles hip-hop artist and designer Sham1016, celebrating South Central culture through music, fashion, and community engagement. The event is held annually. The last event was titled “Rodeo on Vermont,” which took place on July 20, 2024, at The Moroccan Lounge in downtown Los Angeles.
Set Gala has evolved into a signature summer event, blending live performances, curated fashion, and a strong sense of local pride. The 2024 edition featured a Western-inspired theme, encouraging attendees to don cowboy hats, boots, and denim, reflecting Sham1016’s creative direction and cultural storytelling. Sham expresses ’Set Gala’ is something that he believed was missing in the city-“it gives people a reason to get dressed, pop out fly – and come together for a good time.”
