SANCTUARY PICKS WINNER 2025
NIGHTY NIGHTFUL
REAL NAME - NAHEIM HOWARD
BIRTH PLACE - UTICA NY
MUSIC GENRE - EXPERIMENTAL HIP - HOP
YEAR STARTED - 2019
START OF IT ALL
Nighty-Nightful, known as the RAGIZT, has emerged as a powerful force in the music industry, combining rebellion and righteousness to deliver a unique message through his art. His journey from a talented child DJ to a rising star is a testament to his passion, determination, and evolution. This article explores his musical journey, influences, and future aspirations.
SPARK OF THE BEGINNING
Nighty-Nightful's journey into music began with a profound reason: "I think what made me start music is one of main reasons: to have an influence, my type of power, and an impact along with a message to be Rebellious and Righteous in this Matrix." This desire to create meaningful music and leave a lasting impression has been the driving force behind his work.
THE PRODIGY
From a young age, Nighty-Nightful exhibited a natural talent for music. He recalls, "I was always a kid that seemed talented at music along with being once a DJ as a child for fun, to the point where it became my life, and now instead of just growing up with music... I became music." His early experiences as a DJ laid the foundation for his deep connection with music.
FAMILY INFLUENCE
On his father's side, Nighty-Nightful was influenced by lyrical and knowledgeable elements, which have shaped his complex and intriguing musical style. "I only have that lyrical and knowledge influence which is why my music can be complex and interesting to some listeners that likes the bridge between the old and new," he explains.
EVOLUTION OF INSPERATIONS
Nighty-Nightful's music has evolved alongside his perspective on life. He acknowledges the major role of inspirations and influences, even on a subconscious level. "My evolution of the music and the way I view life outside of music, but my major thanks is my inspirations and influence that I received even in the subconscious sense."
DEFINING THE SOUND
The years 2023-2024 were pivotal for Nighty-Nightful as he honed his unique sound. "I can say was the years I accurately made music sound more like Nighty-Nightful, the RAGIZT," he reflects. His dedication to crafting a distinct musical identity is evident in his work.
STARTING WITH TUNEME
A significant milestone in Nighty-Nightful's journey was downloading the "TuneMe" app on July 22nd, 2019. "If it wasn’t for the idea in July 22nd, 2019 for me to download the 'TuneMe' app on the Android, I probably would've still been a songwriter now," he shares. This decision marked the beginning of his transition from a songwriter to a full-fledged artist.
GROWING UP
Nighty-Nightful's upbringing was a blend of blessings and challenges. "Growing up was both a blessing and a curse, I have both of my parents with rough histories so the household was always dysfunctional, but I never struggled I just hustled to get better. At the same time, I grew up rebellious and believed in things I see as right and feel it in the soul if I do things wrong."
RISING UP
Today, Nighty-Nightful feels he is on the rise, thanks to a shift in perspective on streams and audience engagement. "As of now, I feel like I'm rising since I changed my perspective of streams and audience along with getting advice from others that know more than me."
MUSICAL TASTE
While he doesn't limit himself to one genre, Nighty-Nightful consistently creates his own wave, primarily within "Rap and Hip-Hop." He cites influences from legendary artists like Nas, KRS-One, Kanye West, XXXTentacion, Ski Mask the Slump God, Kendrick Lamar, Playboi Carti, and Lil Uzi Vert.
FUTURE
Looking ahead, Nighty-Nightful envisions himself becoming more recognized, powerful musically, and humble, while achieving greater things behind the scenes. "I see me being more recognized, more powerful musically, more humble and more intact along with doing greater things behind the scenes."