We had the good fortune of connecting with Forrest *E.Q* West and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Forrest *E.Q*, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
The simple answer is, I’m from Los Angeles. But I’ve lived al over. My mom is an artist from the 70’s/80’s era of R&B/Pop. And because of her being in the prime of her career right around the time I was born, I was able to experience different parts the world at a young age. That absolutely gave me a perspective that most aren’t lucky to obtain. No matter where I was and ever since I can remember, music has been extremely special to me. Between living all over the world and growing up around music legends, I’m blessed to have had those experiences. It’s a major part of what made me the artist and the man that I am.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve always had a healthy confidence in my musical abilities. I’ve been writing music since I was 6. As far as what sets me apart, it’s my versatility. With The Combine, I create anthems. Songs that almost immediately get stuck in your head. Colliding and weaving in and out at the same time. Music that gets you amped. With my solo music, I revert to my first loves, R&B/Pop. It’s my default. And I fall in love all over again every time the red light comes on. And none of it is easy. Nothing great ever is. But it’s worth all of it. I learned very early, to trust my instincts. Don’t be closed off to people who give you constructive criticism as long as they have your best interest at heart. And never let ANYTHING give you an excuse to be distracted or to quit.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love to jet set. I fell in love with Tulum. But anywhere with a beach and clear ocean water… is my happy place. I honestly just live to travel. Some of my other favorite places I’ve been are Tokyo, Amsterdam and the Caribbean Islands to name a few. Currently, I’ve been to 5 of the 7 world continents. Next stop, Australia. Then it will be 6 of 7. Best believe I won’t stop there.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
2 things. The Combine and The Culture Coffee Co.. The Combine is a duo of my brother Triune and myself. We create custom original records for the licensing space. And don’t get it twisted, it’s #TheCombineVSEverybody

And The Culture Coffee Company…. Well, the day diversification is key. My goal was to create a business in a thriving industry. Something people can’t get enough of. And I am a fiend for a great cup of coffee.
@theculturecoffeeco

Website: WeAreTheCombine.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/soundsbyeq?utm_medium=copy_link

Twitter: https://twitter.com/soundsbyeq?s=21

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/soundsbyeq

Image Credits
Respect my shooter @bennylee_media

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.