His laugh makes the rap artist instantly accessible — even over the phone and nearly 430 miles away.

Stalley is known for the music video “Do it Big” along with the Cool Kids and Ski Beatz, which was recently featured on MTV.

But to his friends and family he is Kyle Myricks. Originally from Massillon, Stalley said a music career was what he was meant for, even though he didn’t always know it.

“It’s always something I dreamed about doing, but growing up I was more into sports,” Stalley said.

When a foot injury left him unable to pursue a basketball scholarship at University of Michigan, Stalley quit both school and sports and moved back home.

While home, Stalley began focusing intensely on his music career and decided to move to New York City.

When his friend who had opened a studio in New York City begged Stalley to come in and record, he refused at first. Eventually Stalley relented and free-styled at the studio — receiving positive reactions.

“That’s when I really began putting my head down to it,” Stalley said.

Stalley did a six-track with his friend and got his big break when they took it into a store that rapper Mos Def came into.

Once Mos Def heard the tracks, he immediately assured Stalley of a future in the music business, causing a domino effect.

“That when I started doing shows in Montreal, London, Paris, local New York and Brooklyn. I was writing music a lot at that time,” Stalley said.

The big transition to New York City was one he explores in his music. Stalley said his first album was more of a free style, allowing himself to “zone out.” The second album, “The Autobiography,” is more “in depth and focused on a concept.”

Stalley credits his success to the guys from the neighborhood who watched out for him, making sure he stayed out of trouble and followed his passions.

“A lot of my inspiration from my music comes from them,” Stalley said.

Stalley offered his own advice to aspiring artists.

“The advice I would give ‘em is be yourselves as an artist,” he said. “Some rap, sing, draw — you’re an artist. Whatever your vision is, don’t be scared. Say and do what you feel. Be yourselves and you’ll be successful, being happy with yourself is the important part.”

For Stalley, living New York City’s fast-paced lifestyle has its pros and cons.

“It can be fun or stressful,” Stalley said.

While Stalley doesn’t plan on moving back to Ohio anytime soon, he did hint at a possible performance at Kent State if the opportunity arose.

Contact features correspondent Cassandra Adams

at [email protected].