When David Christopher parted ways with Against All Odds, it would've been expected for him to put another punk group together or go acoustic for a solo career.

But Christopher isn't about the expected, so he decided to take it in an entirely different direction and meld the worlds of hip-hop, rock and electronica all into one sound. The result of this blending of genres gives each song a unique tone, while the stable of big names he's worked with gives his first EP, Rise of the Underdog, the credibility it deserves.

Rather than focusing on crafting pop hits to top charts and make money, Christopher wants his music to have a message and leave a lasting mark. At the same time, he's doing the the most punk rock thing he could possibly do: Whatever he wants.

Christopher took a minute to chat with Myspace between his busy schedule of shows, recording and motivating people (in fitness and otherwise) on Instagram about his journey as a solo musician so far.

Hometown: Los Angeles, CA

How would you describe your combination of sounds to someone who hadn't heard it before?

A hard-hitting fusion of crunchy guitars, head-bobbing beats, and catchy melodies that create a hybrid of punk rock combined with hip hop. Punk hop.

Who are some of your musical influences?

Way too many to name, haha. From Johnny Cash to Blink 182, Motley Crue to Eminem, Beastie Boys, 2Pac and N.W.A. to name a few.

What's it like to break out on your own as an artist at this time?

I think it’s good and bad. The good being that there is such an advance in technology that you can do so much more now to get your music out there to a larger audience without necessarily having to be on a label. For example, social media is a huge way to market yourself to people across the world. It helps make DIY much more beneficial. On the flip side, I think it’s also tough nowadays because there are so many artists doing the same thing and so much has already been done and created that you constantly have to think of creative new ways to stand out from everyone else. We’ve seen so much by 2016 that I feel people get bored or lose interest very easily now. It’s very tough for an artist or band in 2016, you have to work very hard. I also feel like a lot of the industry has lost its substance. A lot of artists are putting out music for image, ego, and money and basically repeating what’s already been done because it’s “cool.”

Why did you decide to go solo?

I decided to pursue my solo project after having spent years of being in a band and wanting to do something differently musically.

How did you come up with your specific blend of sounds?

I have so many influences, and I wanted to utilize that somehow. I wanted to do something new and experiment a little. I come from punk rock roots, and I’ve always had a love for hip hop, so I figured why not combine the two?

What's been the biggest benefit of being a solo artist so far?

Getting to create something completely new that I have never done before and taking on this whole new chapter musically. The future feels very exciting!

Where does most of your inspiration for your music come from?

Life and personal events that I have experienced.

What's something you've learned from being out on your own as a solo artist?

Patience, ha. Allow the time necessary, so you can do the best you can.

Are there any specific goals you have in mind for your solo work?

Making an impact, having a positive influence, and to hopefully inspire others. I want to make music that matters.

What's the songwriting process like for you alone after working with a band for so long?

It's weird, ha. I just pick up my guitar and either work out a melody or a riff, and then I take it to the studio and experiment. I love it though. It’s how I release.

If there's one thing you wish everyone on the planet knew about your music, what would it be?

That I create honest music to the best of my abilities, and I hope that you can relate and it will inspire you.

You have an EP coming out soon, and then what's next for you?

I'm releasing my new EP, Rise of the Underdog, in February 2016, and then I have plans to tour in the summer.

Is there anything else you want your fans old and new to know?

Grab the new EP in February and connect with me on social media and shows. I love chatting with you, and a big thank you to everyone for reading this.