Loyola alumna and Los Angeles, California native NCognita is a rapper on the rise, seeking to dominate the hip-hop industry.
Loyola was one of the universities that made an appearance at her high school college fair and grabbed her attention.
“I was immediately convinced by their music department and made it one of my top choices,” the artist said.
NCognita admits that going to school in New Orleans changed her view of music with its beautiful culture and music as its main staple.
“While living there, it’s almost impossible as an artist to not pick up some of the sounds and use it for the production in your own process.”
When asked how Loyola impacted her experience as a musician, the star said the wide range of classes she was involved in helped her recognize the importance of having full knowledge of your creative field.
“Loyola allowed me the space to develop into the artist I wanted to be but also taught me music as a whole,” she said. “I am very grateful that I got a full packaged version of that at Loyola.”
Loyola was also where she met, now close friend, Thomas Zeitler, who could not be prouder.
“That’s like my sister, man. You will never meet such a fun-loving, grounded and caring individual,” Zeitler said. “I think the love she gets from the outside world comes second to her after the love and positivity she can give to others.”
The “Clap Clap” singer originally planned to graduate last year in 2023 but left during her junior year in 2022 to go back home to Los Angeles.
“[I wanted] to devote my time to my career. So, basically what I would’ve done post-grad is what I’m doing right now,” NCognita said.
And devotion was something she maintained.
Zeitler said he and the rapper lived together for a year, and they had a studio in the basement for her to keep working.
“If she was stressed, she’d have a quick conversation about it and then let it go,” he said. “She pushes herself to stay focused, and she’s a perfectionist.”
Although a hard worker and perfectionist, NCognita shares that being a Black musician comes with unique challenges.
“Not only do you have to appease the pressures of the world and social media but also carry the weight of being consistent in your creativity while going through the trials of life,” she said.
The artist admits the flaws of turning a hobby into a “9-5.” She explains that she went from using music as an escape to losing that outlet as it became a career.
“It’s a job and a commitment. And sometimes the pressures of that and the world leave you between a rock and a hard place,” she said.
Still, NCognita said that her work life is actually everything she’s ever wanted.
She has the opportunity to meet and work with people who were her inspiration and were once a dream to work with, all while still being able to make time to prioritize the things that are important to her.
“It’s really authentic, especially because it’s her and her friends working on the music. And it’s always about her, her family, and her close friends,” Zeitler said.
The artist is happy to have met the beauty of making a passion into a career.
“I am grateful to have made a career in doing something that I love,” the musician said. “I’m able to travel, sustain myself, and work with people I’ve only dreamt of working with.”
When asked about the possibility of upcoming music this year, the artist gave a promising response.
“Fasho,” she said. “Music is coming all year round, but we plan to heat up the summer. Keep on the lookout for me.”
