Boneface Ink

words by: james johnson

If you haven’t gotten to know who Boneface Ink is, you’re probably been living under a rock. This brother has definitely built a solid name for himself as a musician, and as a tattoo artist. Many will know him instantly for his time on Spike TV’s Ink Masters, but he’s equally made a solid name for himself in the rap game. Now that he’s all done with Ink Masters, he’s refocused his talents and attention on his music, and the results are amazing. Take a few moments to check out our exclusive where we talk about his music, and all he has going on at the moment. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: You have so much going on right now. I’ve followed you for your tattoos, but you’re obviously deep into the music industry as well. Why was it important for you to make the transition and do music?

Boneface: It actually was the opposite way .. I went from music to tattoos. I had an opportunity to do a television show, Ink Masters, and that opened my following. It ultimately brought me back to music. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: That show was on Spike, right?

Boneface: Right, it was. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: Now are you still doing the show at all?

Boneface: Yes. I did seasons 8 and 9. I haven’t done much TV since then. I’ve done some work with Black Ink, but I’m not an official cast member. It’s hard to do that and music. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: So talk about how you connected with Rick Ross?

Boneface: It was crazy because I actually had not performed for a few years. I did a show in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. One of my homies was doing a concert with Twista and Lil’ Keke. It was one of my best performances. There was a guy names Brian Leone. He introduced me to a few people, and it got back to Rick Ross. Everything just lined up. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: It’s dope being connected that way. As far as artists signing to other artists, I haven’t been behind that with a lot of artists who run labels. Ross has been one of the exceptions. What’s it been like for you?

Boneface: Signing to Rick was a good thing. It’s easy for me to get the shine I need. He is pushing for you to make it. It’s a much better experience to be with someone so well-respected. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: Right. Also, he definitely brings people on board who are good artists and business people. 

Boneface: Right. He brings people who are a reflection of him. It was a privilege to be a part of that. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: You have two projects that dropped at the same time. What was the philosophy of releasing them both together?

Boneface: I’ve been rapping for like 25 years. I had so much material for the world to hear, and I wanted to get past where I was. I figured I’d drop the mixtape and the album. The album is where I am now, and the mixtape is where I came from. They have two different vibes, but represent me well as far as now and then. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: Where can everyone get them?

Boneface: They’re both on iTunes now. When you search one, they both come up. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: I think it’s really dope. You’re in your own lane which is great. 

Boneface: I really do this. It comes so natural I can have a project together in a week’s time. In this society now, you drop a project and within a week, they want more. I plan to drop every two months. It’s like, out of sight out of mind. I still tattoo at times, but I’m working on music. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: How about shows?

Boneface: Right now, I’m letting the music circulate first. I’m not much an entertainer. I want to have my fanbase set before I get out to perform. The music I make is more poetic. My setting has to be a certain thing. I’m not for everybody. 

U.G. Digital Magazine: I appreciate connecting with you. It’s dope because I’m able to catch up on what’s happening now, but also the world gets an opportunity to get to know you. How can people keep up with you online?

Boneface: My handle on social media is @bonefaceink