Sonoma State transfer student Noah Alioto is making a name for himself as a talented, local musician and rap artist. Alioto, known by his stage name as NoahFly, is already making waves in the industry despite being a full time student. His debut album “Forever Fly” recently released on all major platforms.
Alioto’s musical interest is not something that developed overnight. Since childhood, he recalls being musically inspired and finding interest in all genres. However, the path that led to his current success began when he discovered hip-hop.
“When I first heard hip-hop and rap, I really enjoyed its unique beats. They gave me ideas and slowly those ideas turned into poems. Those poems turned to raps and slowly I began to learn how to rap.”
The style of NoahFly as an artist is something that has evolved with Alioto himself. One of his most popular new tracks, “Interstellar Dreams,” gives a good feel as to where his style is today. The lyrics are deeply personal yet relatable to many of his listeners. In this track, he explores how he has been treated by people over the years, his feelings on life, and how through it all he keeps his head up. The lyrics are accompanied by a soothing and smooth beat to bring it all together.
Other tracks such as “Its Good” showcase Alioto’s ability to collaborate with other artists, and also to bring a more “banging” beat to the forefront. Many of his tracks on the latest album feature Young Gully, another popular rapper in the Bay Area.
Alioto’s newest chapter in life involves juggling both musical work and his full time studies as a Communications Major. The workload between the two professions is not always easy to manage. “Consistency in your daily routine and sleep are two necessary things for this life,” the artist remarks. “The biggest thing about being a musician and student is focusing on being a student first. I’ve put that first. Music can always come after but I just take my time with it when I’m in school,” he says.
This is not the first challenge that Alioto has had to face during his career. Getting his name out and content uploaded properly has proved to be a challenge with companies such as Google and Apple. The algorithms used by these platforms make it hard for non-sponsored and new artists to show up in feeds. Soundcloud can be a more inviting space for inspiring artists to post their content, however, and NoahFly’s page reflects that.
Despite the work that comes with being a student, Alioto is hopeful that time at Sonoma State will help him grow as an artist. “Everyone at this school seems to be so interested in the community and creative. I love that. I’m a community man all the way,” he says.
Alioto has discussed his musical endeavors with several students, and is looking into the possibility of putting a show on locally. In an interview with the Sonoma State STAR, he says, “as for shows, I’d love to perform. I linked with the music club in hopes of making new connections, and potentially performing a few songs on the campus. I’d love some new fans!”
As for upcoming work, NoahFly will be releasing another EP soon. This upcoming EP will be produced by Traxx FDR, who has produced for music artists such as Berner, also the founder of Cookies streetwear.