In the music industry, stories of perseverance, brotherhood, and sheer determination often resonate the loudest. One such tale is that of Black Oxygen, a band born from the dreams of two brothers, David and Nick, who embarked on a journey from the heartland of Kansas City to the bustling streets of Los Angeles. Their story is one of triumphs, tribulations, and the relentless pursuit of their musical aspirations.

The origins of Black Oxygen trace back to Kansas City, where David and Nick spent their formative years. Their journey began in a city known for its jazz roots and vibrant arts scene. The brothers’ passion for music was ignited early on, and they quickly made a name for themselves in the local music circuit.

One of their early breakthroughs came when they participated in a highly competitive Battle of the Bands in the Midwest. Emerging victorious, they not only won first place but also caught the attention of producers working with Jamie Foxx at Red Bull Studios in LA. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of their ascent in the music industry.

With the allure of Los Angeles beckoning, Dave and Nick made the bold decision to relocate to the city of dreams. For nearly a decade, they immersed themselves in the vibrant LA music scene, honing their craft and building connections. Their journey was far from smooth, as they navigated the challenges of a highly competitive industry.

In the early days, they had the opportunity to work with notable names like Tech N9ne and Danny Trejo. These collaborations added to their growing portfolio and credibility. However, the transition from Kansas City to LA was not without its trials.

“You learn from your failures. You also grow from them,” David expressed.

Despite the highlights, Black Oxygen faced numerous setbacks and hurdles. They encountered unfavorable business deals and experienced the sting of rejection. Yet, each setback became a learning experience, shaping them into resilient artists.

Nick added, “Throughout all of our dealings with all these people, having good experiences, bad experiences, having trust broken and upheld, you learn to recognize when things feel off. If something feels off, it’s likely going to get worse in the future.”

Their journey was a testament to the adage that success is often built on a foundation of failures and lessons learned. They persevered, continually refining their craft and pushing forward with unwavering determination.

A defining moment in Black Oxygen’s career came when they connected with Shifty Shellshock, the singer of the iconic song “Butterfly.” Shifty saw the potential in Dave and Nick and offered them the opportunity to reinterpret “Butterfly” for a new generation. This collaboration was monumental, as the song had a timeless quality and was a platinum hit in multiple countries.

The process of recreating “Butterfly” was organic and seamless. Within three days, the song was recorded, mixed, and mastered. The music video paid homage to the original while infusing fresh, modern elements. Shifty’s involvement added a layer of authenticity and credibility to the project.

The success of their rendition of “Butterfly” was staggering. The song garnered millions of views, charted on Billboard, and caught the attention of major labels like Warner Music and Universal. It was a testament to their hard work and persistence paying off.

With their newfound success, Black Oxygen finds themselves at the cusp of even greater opportunities. They have expanded their creative endeavors beyond music, launching their own clothing line and exploring new business ventures. Their story serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists, proving that with dedication and resilience, dreams can indeed become reality.

Photography Credit: Rowan Daly