In an age where digital distribution has been democratized enough for anyone to release music, live performances have become a true signifier of real artistic talent. The past several years have highlighted that fact through the rise in series such as NPR’s Tiny Desk, COLORS, On The Radar Radio, various hanging mic videos, and “Noochie's Live From The Front Porch.” 

Initially created around 2018 to promote himself following a deal with Atlantic Records that he describes as “wasn’t a desirable one,” D.C. rapper Antwon Vincent, a.k.a. Noochie, was armed with nothing but an iPhone and speaker. Noochie eventually started sharing videos of him freestyling sporadically whenever he felt like had something noteworthy to share. Around the summer of last year, he decided to elevate the production value and commit to a weekly release starting with “Noochie’s Live From The Front Porch Presents: Backyard Band,” which currently sits at around 375,000 views on YouTube. 

“I always knew if I added some consistency to it, then it'd be something that was going to happen,” explained Noochie. “I ain’t know what was going to happen but I knew something was going to happen. Once I did that, it only evolved. Instead of just doing freestyles, I started doing my original songs.” 

His solo performances in front of his porch allowed him to grow a significant following enough for veteran artists like Snoop Dogg to request that he sign with the revived Death Row Records. In between his own performances, he began booking notable artists, including Ms. KIM, Raheem DeVaughn, New Impressionz, Teejay, Alex Vaughn, Eric Roberson, Goldlink, Benny The Butcher, Tweet, Syleena Johnson and more recently Ruben Studdard. Noochie wants the legacy of his “Live From the Front Porch” series to be a welcoming place for Black artists who represent all genres of music. 

“My goal is just to make sure that I’m doing the service to Black music,” explained Noochie. “That’s pretty much my goal is to just make a Black platform to embrace us, our music and the stuff that we miss or stuff that I feel like the industry has shifted away from. It’s here to be appreciated and shared within this social media age.”

That sense of responsibility comes from Noochie’s upbringing within the music industry through his father, Roger “Boobe'' Vincent Jr.

Boobe's influence as a D.C. rap pioneer with his group, Boobe and the Young Farmers, marked by the release of the 2003 album One Way Up, left a lasting impact on the regional rap scene. Transitioning to OY Music Group, Boobe continued his journey, inspiring Noochie and fostering a supportive environment for regional talents. Noochie proudly represents this legacy, evident in his "Oy Boyz'' chain, symbolizing his deep-rooted connection to his father's musical legacy.

Being rooted in D.C. while spending time under a major record label before settling into indie artist life has allowed him to have a duality in his community’s growth. He acknowledges his indie roots while cherishing the opportunities to learn from major players in the industry. From Atlanta to Hollywood and New York, Noochie's experiences have shaped his understanding of the music landscape. He notes that in D.C., independence is almost a necessity, but his relentless work ethic has allowed him to thrive in both spaces. Makes sense as to how he can work with D.C. notables like Fat Trel, Oddisee, and even Rare Essence. 

“I’ve just been fortunate enough to build my network of industry people and push my goal to build up my indie spot so much that I get to make major connections as an independent,” said Noochie.”

Balancing a solo career with this important performance series has to be a challenge, but Noochie views it as one and the same. For him, “Live From The Front Porch” doesn’t exist without his reinvention as a solo artist. That drive has propelled him to new heights. Noochie finds satisfaction in the synergy between his various endeavors, seeing it as a positive blend of creativity and opportunity. He also has new music on the way and has a lot of projects in the works at the moment.

“That was kind of the thing right there by calling it ‘Noochie’s Live From the Front Porch Presents’ like how Tyler Perry does it,” Noochie said before joking. “I’m going to let people know this is mine without me dancing all in the videos. Even though I’m not in the front, I’m in the back. That’s branding. I’m ready to be heard.”

“Noochie’s Live From The Front Porch Presents” has also served as a platform for sound technicians, videographers, and editors. The series has allowed the rapper/curator to empower himself and those around him. 

 One thing is for sure: the neighbors definitely don’t mind. 

“I mean, the neighbors are great,” said Noochie. I don’t think if you came outside your house and saw Raheem DeVaughn singing or you heard Ruben Studdard singing ‘Sorry For 2004,’ you’d be mad at that. Plus, it ain’t like it’s all night. It’s usually one take, so it’s not that long.”