L3viii bringing musical talent to Claflin in fall 2026

L3viii (Leviticus Long Jr.) performs on stage.

Throughout his young career, L3viii had to overcome several obstacles as an independent artist.

"It was a difficult transition because music went from being my hobby to being something I take seriously. At times, it still gets difficult, and I have to remind myself why I chose this because it's really easy to start hating something you love to do. In times like those, I just sit back and listen to J. Cole and then I realize that this is what I enjoy doing."

L3viii also struggled with both the practicality and the business aspects of being an independent artist. In addition, he struggled with being a student on top of being a musician.

 "Being an artist is very practical, meaning that I had to practice my craft every day. Also I had to study to maintain my grades. My issue then, and still my issue, was the practicality of my music and actually focusing on schoolwork."

L3viii (Leviticus Long Jr.), who was almost named something else by his music-loving family, was born in Columbia.

He attended local schools and found his rhythm early, starting music in eighth grade with one of his close friends who was making music before him. He started taking it seriously in high school and it really just snowballed from there.

L3viii plans to bring his talents to Claflin University as a freshman in fall 2026.

One of his biggest inspirations is J. Cole, his favorite rapper and one of his reasons for doing this. Since starting he has released a collab album, an EP, and a solo album in May of this year with more music to come. He feels like his sound is unique in a way, but he is definitely influenced by artists he likes to listen to.

When people come up to him, or message him out of the blue about a song and tell him how much they liked it, it's an amazing feeling and keeps him motivated to keep going with his craft.

He has always wanted to be successful and have financial freedom to take care of himself and his family. He feels like this is the way to do it for him. He doesn't rap because he feels like he has to or he doesn't have any other choice, he raps because it's what he's passionate about and what he really loves doing.

"I want to pursue this seriously and acquire my place in the industry. Then probably through my network acquire more opportunities in what I do. I also want to travel for a while and perform at the same time. I will pray and try my best to not become complacent where I'm at."

His upcoming project "3-2-1" is slated for late July. He advises other artists to stay consistent, drop frequently, and listen to their music as a consumer would, asking honestly if they would switch stations or keep bumping it.