YLM Forest Speaks on DJ Premier’s Co-Sign

In a world where musical boundaries are constantly shifting, few artists embrace that fluidity quite like YLM Forest. Blending reggae, trap, grunge, pop, and house into a signature sonic mood, Forest has been making waves — and recently caught the attention of none other than DJ Premier. We sat down with the rising artist to talk about that moment, his creative approach, and what’s next on the journey.

Q: First off, congratulations — a co-sign from DJ Premier is huge. How did that moment come about?

YLM Forest: Appreciate that. Yeah, that was surreal. I was brought in to work on a music video for Teflon from M.O.P. It was shot at this retired prison in New York — the whole setting had this raw, gritty energy. DJ Premier and Termanology were there, and just being part of that creative space, bringing my vibe to the project… it was big. It wasn’t just about being there, it was about being recognized as someone who brings something real to the table.

Q: What did it mean to you personally to get that kind of nod from someone like Premo?

YLM Forest: Honestly, it’s validating. DJ Premier doesn’t just work with anybody — his standards are high. So for him to acknowledge what I’m doing, even subtly, it felt like a green light to keep going. It told me I’m on the right path.

Q: Your music blends so many styles — reggae, trap, grunge, pop, house. How do you decide where to go sonically?

YLM Forest: I don’t really “decide.” It’s about the vibe. I’ll freestyle to a beat, just feel it out, and let the cadence take me somewhere. Later I’ll come back and structure it. I’m not focused on bars or sticking to one genre. I’m trying to create a feeling — something that lives in between sounds and makes people feel something positive, something real.

Q: “Juice,” your latest single, feels like a great example of that. What’s the story behind it?

YLM Forest: “Juice” is about energy. That motivation to keep pushing, to feel alive. I wanted it to feel bright, inspiring — like something you’d play when you need to get out of your head and into your vibe. It’s genre-fluid, but the message is clear: elevate.

Q: You’ve worked with some notable names already — Akae Beka, Carlton Carvalho — and now upcoming features with ImDru! and Luwop. What drives you to keep collaborating?

YLM Forest: I love synergy. Every artist brings a different frequency, and when we align, it takes the track to another level. I’m all about connection — not just musically, but spiritually and emotionally. Collaboration lets me learn, grow, and reach new energies.

Q: With all the momentum you’re building, what’s the long-term vision for YLM Forest?

YLM Forest: I want music to be the vessel that supports my family and touches lives. I want to leave behind timeless tracks — music that uplifts people even years from now. I’m not chasing trends. I’m building something that lasts, something with soul.

Q: Final question — if you could describe your mission in one word, what would it be?

YLM Forest: Elevation. That’s what I’m here for — to lift spirits, break limits, and vibe on a higher level.

Check out YLM Forest’s latest single “Juice” on Spotify
Follow him on Instagram @ylmforest