Henny!

“At the top all by ourselves, who is there to rival against?”

Shakespeare?

No, Henny!

Henry “Henny” Scallorns is a music artist and senior at Blacksburg High School, who has released two albums, multiple EPs, and many singles; all of which are available on all music platforms under “henny!” His main style of music is rapping, and his albums and songs are either self-produced or collaborations with other artists. You may see Henny around town, performing at local stops such as the Milk Parlor in downtown Blacksburg.

Henny’s most recent release is the song “Rivals” which was a collaboration with other local artists. “My favorite piece of music I’ve made so far is my new song ‘Rivals’ with Ynl Clay and space. It’s 7 minutes long with two beats which I both produced, and overall it was super fun to make,” Henny said about the piece. Personally, I think the beat is a standout in the song, making it well rounded and a good listen. It’s super impressive that a developing artist can produce such a long song with a catchy beat and vehement production.

“My favorite part about making music is the actual process of making it, putting together different ideas and making them fit into one final piece of art.” Henny said.

The production process is often forgotten when we think about music, but it’s clear Henny really values the hard work and effort that goes into creating one cohesive melody.

Henny has worked to promote his art, especially through social media such as Instagram. He posts teasers of his songs, pictures of his album covers, and even short music/lyric videos all on Instagram under the tag @henny_411. Students across BHS recognize the name, too. Gavin Diggs (12) said, “Henny’s work is super awesome. I love that guy and his music.” This recognition from the community is a reflection of the drive he has to get his music known. Graduation speech incoming?

He hasn’t done his work alone, though. Henny’s often been joined by many different collaborators, such as Ynl Clay, G6, space, and more. All are local music artists looking to make it big. Henny worked with Ynl Clay for the song “Rivals” and had a glowing review for their work together, “Clay is a great dude and a great artist, working with is wicked.”

Henny has performed at the Milk Parlor in downtown Blacksburg, where he rapped during their Beats N the Streets music session. “I have a lotta respect for the people that run it and it's awesome to perform over live music made by local artists on the spot.” A little bit of improv, a little bit of practice, and a lot of fun. All artists start somewhere, and the Milk Parlor offers a cool and exciting performance environment.

“He’s going somewhere, trust.” Beckett Socha (12). Henny is growing and developing as an artist, which all BHS students are observing as he releases new music. He has drive, collaborators he loves, and a passion for music. All are components that could lead to a super successful career, and I wouldn’t be alone in saying that I wish him the best. While we might not see him at the halftime show for Super Bowl LX, maybe at a concert venue. I think I’ll let Henny end this article for himself, “all else I gotta say is one love to all my supporters, stream ‘Rivals’ by Ynl Clay, and EzDuzIt.”

Written by Molly Nelson

Photography by Elayna Weatherspoon