Meet 1st Shift

Today we’d like to introduce you to the 1st Shift.

1st Shift, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started doing music in 2009 with a couple of my friends as an outlet for self-expression. We weren’t really any good back then but the potential was always there. Eventually, we ended up getting it and making some noise in KY. I used to go by the name “Jeffrey Bankroll”.

But I didn’t want to associate myself with just money all the time. So fast forward to 2019, and I was given the nickname “1st Shift”. 1st Shift came about because I would go to work from 3 am to 12 noon, pick my son up at 1 and go to the studio til around 9/10 pm. That went on every day for about 2 years. I’ve been going strong ever since.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, this road hasn’t been smooth at all. A lot of hard work and dedication has gone into this. I had to learn discipline and sacrifice a lot on the way.

I have 2 children so financially it can get tough, but I had to learn how to budget. Many early mornings and late nights have been trying to get projects done. A lot of details go into every part of the music that we make but it’s all worth it in the end.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I like to think of myself as more than just a rapper, or an artist. I’m a brand really. I’m known around town for branding just as much as I’m known for being a rapper. I have a clothing company called “1stShft Co” that has a lot of buzzes statewide. We are currently in 36 states.

It started off as just a way to pay myself for music but quickly turned into something lucrative. I think music and clothing go hand in hand. Both complement each other. I’m most proud of being able to be myself. I think it’s a blessing when you’re able to live life the way you picture it in your head. What sets me apart from the rest of the pack is that I’m me honestly. 1 of 1. I try to stay true to who I am at all times and never compromise that. I believe in being genuine and authentic.

What were you like growing up?
When I was growing up I had dreams of playing in the NBA. I always had a ball with me everywhere I went. I played football, and baseball then too. I was pretty athletic.

Ball was life then lol.. but as I got older I started to get more into art. I always could draw but I started being a little more intentional with art. That lead me to things like graphic design and web design. I was into music then but I didn’t know that’s what I wanted to do until later on.

Contact Info:

• Website: 1stShft.com
• Instagram: @1stShft
• Twitter: @1stShft