Recently, at Pahrump Valley High School, students from 9th to 12th have all been hearing and seeing the same name: Yeung Reap. It’s noticeable that the name is being said around the halls and even being chanted during the homecoming pep rally, but not all students actually know who the person behind the name is. This leaves the burning question that students and staff may be wondering: “Who is Yeung Reap?”

Who Is Yeung Reap?

From the grounds of the East Side of Paradise, Las Vegas, Nevada, sprouted Dane Lund. Growing up there, he was exposed to the “ghetto”, whether it was the neighborhood he grew up in or the lifestyle surrounding that side of Las Vegas. “Growing up in Las Vegas is a very unique experience for any kid living there, especially due to the dangerous nature of the city,” Lund said. 

He lived there in Vegas for about 11 years before moving to Pahrump. It was a new start in a place he didn’t really know, but he still managed to prosper with the change. When he got to middle school, he started writing lyrics and making songs. Like any other artist, he took this time to find his musical style. During this time, he even found the stage name that would stick with him for years to come: Yeung Reap. 

How It All Started

Lund was exposed to music at a young age because of his dad, who was in a punk rock band. Even though his dad was an influence, there was always a special place for music in his life. “I’ve always been moved by music since a young age, but it all really started when I met a group of people online who all made music and beats,” said Lund. Meeting these people is what really helped start the journey he’s on now. 

After this, he started writing about his life and started taking music seriously. Before doing that, he had to have a name that people would remember and recognize when they hear it. Well, thankfully, it wouldn’t take long for him to find it. While Lund was chilling in his living room, he and his dad were talking about possible names for the company his dad runs. They eventually came across the very name we’re talking about now.

Outside Influence of Yeung Reap

The Yeung Reap fanbase has definitely grown from what it was since he started high school. Everyone, from the students to the principal, knows about him, and they all have a different outlook on him. One teacher, who probably knows Yeung Reap best, is Mr. Hoffman. 

Mr. Hoffman teaches history and is fortunate enough to start his morning off with Yeung Reap in his first period. “Yeung Reap is an exceptionally driven and talented young man. He shows a strong sense of purpose and takes full advantage of every opportunity that comes his way,” said Hoffman. “Whether it’s in the classroom or on stage, he brings energy, creativity, and confidence to everything he does.”

Jackson Stiles, a PVHS student and fan of Yeung Reap, said he wanted to share his thoughts after hearing about the article on the student. “I really think Yeung Reap is a fantastic artist. Even just talking to him regularly, he’s a chill and fun guy to talk to.”

What can we expect next?

Since Yeung Reap is only a junior in high school, there’s still a long journey ahead, especially as an artist. Trying to make it as an artist isn’t as easy as it looks, so there’s definitely going to be some struggles along the way. Luckily, there are people around who support and encourage Yeung Reap. “My advice would be to stay grounded and keep learning. The best artists are the ones who never stop growing and who remain open to feedback and new experiences,”said Mr. Hoffman when asked what advice he would give to Lund. 

Others would probably be nervous to step out and try to make a name for themselves, but not Yeung Reap. He’s already thinking about how he’s going to do it. “Right now my goal in life is to get the money to make it out to Vegas, and get tapped into the local scene,” said Lund when talking about future goals. When asked what the fans can expect, he replied, “A lot. New music, new shows, new collabs, lots of exciting things happening for sure.” 

After asking for any final words or details he wanted to add before wrapping up the interview, Yeung Reap decided to send the people off with a message: “Life ain’t always cupcakes and rainbows, fam. Somedays you just gotta suck it up and thug it out.” Somedays life is going to hit hard, but if you suck it up and push through, you can persevere. Check out Yeung Reap on music streaming platforms. If you see him in the hallway, make sure to throw a shaka out.