MusicSnake Takes Center Stage at NPR's Tiny Desk Contest with Live "Cold Storage" Performance
Independent hip hop artist MusicSnake, also known as Fred Fedor King, is making waves in the music world by entering NPR's prestigious Tiny Desk Contest with a live rendition of his track "Cold Storage." Uploaded to his YouTube channel, the performance showcases MusicSnake alongside his band and a backing vocalist, offering a fresh take on the original studio version.
The live video, specifically crafted for the Tiny Desk contest, sees MusicSnake slowing down the tempo and switching up the instrumentation. Departing from the original's violins and electronic beats, the live version features drums, bass guitar, and a keyboard with pedals, providing a unique twist to the well-known track.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary and sponsored by CapitalOne and Lagunitas, NPR's Tiny Desk Contest is a pivotal platform for emerging artists. Contestants must submit a video of themselves performing an original song at a desk by February 21 for a chance to win the grand prize – a Tiny Desk concert at NPR in Washington, D.C., a feature on NPR's All Things Considered, and the opportunity to headline NPR Music's Tiny Desk Contest On The Road tour.
This year's judging panel boasts a diverse lineup, including Tiny Desk producers Bobby Carter and Robin Hilton, alongside alums Bobby Wooten, Durand Bernarr, Julien Baker, MUNA, NEFFY, and NIKI. Industry experts such as publicist Loren Medina, manager Brendan O'Connell, record label president Nabil Ayers, and writer Keanna Faircloth join NPR Member station hosts Amelia Mason of WBUR, Novena Carmel of KCRW, and Stas THEE Boss of KEXP.
For MusicSnake, 2024 marks his debut in the Tiny Desk Contest. Since 2013, MusicSnake has been a vocal supporter of the Bitcoin movement, advocating for financial equality and a transparent economy. Beyond his music, the artist actively participates in Bitcoin and Crypto conferences. Recently, MusicSnake launched the CryptoSnake Deals page on his official website, further showcasing his commitment to the cryptocurrency cause.
"Cold Storage" is not MusicSnake's first foray into cryptocurrency-themed tracks, with previous releases like "Icy Flight" (2020), "Crypto Creep" (2022), and "Stack Sats" (2023) highlighting the rapper's dedication to intertwining his music with crypto narratives.
To experience MusicSnake's Tiny Desk Contest entry and explore the intersection of hip hop and cryptocurrency advocacy, check out MusicSnake’s Tiny Desk Contest page. As the 10th-anniversary edition unfolds, MusicSnake's unique contribution adds a distinctive flavor to the evolving landscape of music and meaningful storytelling.