Page 39 - Play Coastal Mississippi - Summer, 2025

GAUTIER NATIVE SETTING TRACKS
With Mississippi being renowned as the “Birthplace of America’s Music,” Asa pays tribute to his Coastal roots with his namesake. “Being a Mississippi baby, born and raised in the south of Gautier, the name Southside felt right, and AP is my initials,” he said.
At only 27, Southside AP is one of the youngest artists in the Magnolia State with a notable career, and said his music is not limited to one sound or a specific genre. He feels his catalog speaks to everyone. It is something he’s been thinking about for a long time.
He first found his writing passion through poetry at only 12 years old. He was soon inspired by other artists such as Soulja Boy, Drake, Ace Hood, and Rae Sremmurd. At 16, his poetry pivoted into lyrics, and a budding songwriter was born!
At 18, Southside AP began searching for a studio when he met Hattiesburg artist Travon! who soon became a mentor for the young artist. The pair’s artistic chemistry clicked, and Travon! began teaching Southside AP about different concepts and subject matters for songs.
Southside AP hit the streaming and YouTube waves in 2020 with songs and videos such as “Clout Baby” and “Designer Tings,” which were quickly popularized by his fans and followers. As music enthusiasts were learning his name, Southside AP continued to release tracks like “Okay Okay,” “Trench Hero,” and “Diamond Roads.” His favorite track right now is “Life Amazing,” which began streaming last August.
“It’s only a few months old, and it’s just about enjoying your life, whatever life you have,” he said. This artist conveys the message of perseverance by making the most of life’s moments. “I know everybody has ups and downs, but just getting through those and enjoying the life that you have is what it’s all about.”
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Like most locals, Southside AP was surprised and in awe at the thick blanket of snow the Coast received in January. His girlfriend, Allison Keller, an Illinois native, said Southside AP was like a little kid and could not wait to go outside to play around in the yard! Of course, in true fashion, this artist began singing his January 2 single “Long Days.” The song includes the lyrics “long days and cold nights, shining on the shorelines, take control of your life.” A very opportune moment, not to mention one of Keller’s favorites.
Keller met Southside AP online after following her retired parents down south to Biloxi. Together for more than a year, she reflects, “I didn’t know what to expect when I first met him,” she said. “But I quickly learned how genuine he is, which shows in his music.”
For those eager to explore the depth and honesty of Southside AP’s music, catch his new EP, “Thin Lines,” along with other EPs and singles on your favorite streaming services, such as Apple and Spotify, and his videos on YouTube and TikTok. With his unique style and passion for music, be sure to follow this Coast artist who’s chasing his dream and impacting the music industry on Instagram!
SOUTHSIDE_AP
Asa Purnell and Allison Keller
SUMMER 2025
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