My City: Raheem DeVaughn - From the DMV to the Top of R&B

Over the course of the last five years DMV born and bred singer Raheem DeVaughn has established himself as a leader in the new r&b-soul movement, and he's preparing once again unleash his unique sound on the world with his upcoming album "The Love & War Masterpeace". In addition to dropping a new mixtape, "Mr. February a.k.a. March Madness", Raheeem recently sat down with RefinedHype to discuss his early days in Beltsville, Maryland, his international travels and the source of his inspiration.

RefinedHype: You're from the DMV area, a region that's recently begun to get some serious attention as an epicenter of quality music. Why do you think it took so long for the DMV to get the attention it deserves?

Raheem DeVaughn: I think it’s because in any place where you have your own sound that you are trying to define, it takes time. It takes time for people to connect with it especially if you are not willing to conform to what everyone else is doing. It’s normally when what you’re doing becomes cool that’s when it gets noticed.

RefinedHype: How did your early days in Beltsville, Maryland influence your career and music?

Raheem DeVaughn: I can’t say that it did influence me too much. My influence really started once I left Beltsville. A lot of it started when I went away and spent first year in college. When I was younger I was going through the motions of being a regular teenage kid. I did choir and stuff but I was I was kinda shy though. Music became a priority once I graduated and got my diploma – that’s when my fascination with music really developed and I became serious about wanting to be an artist.

RefinedHype: You've toured in every country from Japan to Jamaica. What is the most important lesson you've learned from all your international travels?

Raheem DeVaughn: That real music is universal no matter the language or dialect—they can feel that energy in the music. If its powerful enough, they can connect with it.

RefinedHype: Where do you go to get inspired?

Raheem DeVaughn: I don’t go anywhere in particular. It depends on the vibe that I am trying to get. I do enjoy the nightlife. It sounds crazy but I will go to a club to think and figure out my next musical plan, or see what people are doing so I can do the opposite. My inspiration comes from everyday life. There is so much to write about from both sides of the fence from life stuff to personal. I try to be my own muse and let people or experience be the creative muse.

RefinedHype: Last words?

Raheem DeVaughn: I have my new album “The Love and War Masterpeace” coming out on March 2, plus my new brand indie label and blog 368musicgroup.com. I have my new artist Phil Ade and I also have my new mixtape “Mr February aka March Madness”. And my fans can tweet me @Radiorah.