In the pulsating heart of Denver’s music scene, Chris Cart3r stands as a beacon of resilience and creativity. An alternative rapper with deep roots in Louisville, Cart3r has forged a path marked by full-circle moments and a steadfast dedication to his craft. His music tells the story of his journey and the communities that have shaped him.
Chris Cart3r photographed by Trey Karson
Full Circle Moments and Milestones
Opening for Dizzy Wright in Denver on 4/20 was an honor for Cart3r, one that brought his journey full circle. “I used to listen to him when I was younger,” he recalls, highlighting the significance of sharing the stage with an idol. This milestone was more than just a career achievement; it was a tangible reminder of how far he had come, but didn’t compare to the feeling of hitting the stage his own way.
His sense of achievement rang loudest at his recent headline show, a self-curated event that underscored the strong local support he’s garnered. “It meant everything,” Cart3r reflects. “I put the line-up together top to bottom. Everybody had a really good time. There was a lot of love in the room that night.” This night was a celebration of both his personal success and the vibrant Denver music scene that has embraced him.
Roots and Realism: Louisville to Denver
Growing up in Louisville, Cart3r’s formative years were a blend of challenging experiences and deep inspiration. “There wasn’t a whole lot to do. We just partied, did drugs, and hung out at the skate-park,” he explains. With a grow-up-quick mindset, Chris lost many friends to violence along the way. “I take a lot of inspiration from the homies that aren’t here anymore, and from living through a really crazy time in my city,” he says, infusing his music with the raw realism of his Louisville roots.
Transitioning to Denver, Cart3r found a thriving and supportive music community. “Most music communities I’ve seen aren’t as put-together as Denver’s. There’s constant touring artists, a million music venues, and lots of opportunities,” he notes. Denver has been the perfect training ground for Cart3r, providing countless opportunities to hone his craft and connect with fellow artists. “Denver is what ignited me to get my music going,” he adds, expressing his gratitude for the city’s dynamic scene.
Creative Droughts and Visual Innovations
In the midst of a creative drought, Cart3r turned whispers of doubt into a powerful branding campaign with “WHERE’S CART3R.” I couldn’t write anything, dude. I definitely heard the whispers about me not doing enough, so this branding is my way of playing into it,” he explains. Collaborating with photographer Trey Karson, he executed a visual branding strategy that not only reignited his creative spark but also engaged his fans through mystery and creative custom newspapers.
This meticulous approach to his visual world reflects his commitment to his art. “The music always comes first, and from there, I can see the visuals in my head. I write them down and I make them happen,” he says. Chris is blending musical and visual worlds to create a cohesive experience for fans.
Chris Cart3r photographed by Trey Karson
A New Era of Vulnerability and Growth
As he prepares to release new music, Cart3r reflects on his artistic evolution. “I love to sing and rap at the same time and mesh them together. It merges the new school and old school,” he says. This new season of music is marked by a deeper level of vulnerability, a shift from simply wanting people to hear his music to wanting them to truly understand him. “I am putting out me. I am more vulnerable in these tracks,” he emphasizes.
Amid the whirlwind of his music career, Cart3r finds grounding in his family, particularly his two kids. “My two kids bring balance to my life. They help me chill down,” he shares. Their presence provides a counterbalance to the pressures of the music industry, allowing him to stay focused and motivated.
A Chris-tal Clear Vision
For Chris Cart3r, being an artist is not just a career—it’s a way of life. “Honestly, it means everything,” he says. Despite the challenges and the advice to diversify his efforts, he remains committed to his music and his brand. “I authentically built my persona and brand from nothing to what it is today. That’s insane!” he exclaims. His kids, who see him as a rockstar, serve as a constant reminder of why he does what he does. “This is my life, it means everything.”
Chris Cart3r’s journey is one of resilience, creativity, and unwavering passion. As he continues to evolve as an artist, and inspire fans and creators in Denver to be authentic and work for their passions.
Listen to 2-Packs STILL LOST & Blue Grass Baby Out Now wherever you get your music, and follow Chris Cart3r at @chriscart3rmusic to follow his journey!
