CashTank (born Traevon Caughman) is a rising rapper from Columbia, South Carolina, with a story of perseverance.
Balancing warehouse shifts and studio sessions, he’s spent six years honing his craft. In this interview, CashTank shares his journey, lessons and the drive to turn music into generational wealth.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
The come-up
Parham: Let’s start with your roots. How’d music become your path?
CashTank: I’m from Columbia, South Carolina — a small city. My dad put me on game early with CDs, so I grew up on Southern rap. By 11th grade, I knew I wanted to rap, even though our scene was tiny. After high school, I skipped college, worked jobs to fund studio time and stayed consistent. Five years later, I’m still grinding.
Parham: You mentioned working overnight shifts. How’d you balance that with music?
CashTank: I worked at a warehouse, clocking out at 5 a.m., then headed to the studio. Slept in my car sometimes. One night, I left work early for a show — changed clothes in the parking lot! People don’t know you just worked eight hours before performing. But I always give 110% onstage.
Lessons in the game: Patience and betrayal
Parham: What’s the hardest lesson you’ve learned about the music industry?
CashTank: Not everyone who starts with you will finish. Some homeboys fell off because they wanted overnight success. But real growth takes time. I also learned fans respect consistency. Dropping one song a year won’t cut it — I stay active on social media, keep ’em engaged.
Parham: Any standout moments so far?
CashTank: Winning a local showcase in 2021 was big. I performed like I was headlining, even though I was act No. 40. Later, I did an interview on *Off the Porch* — a platform for underground artists. Sitting where legends sat? That motivated me.
The Future: Legacy over clout
Parham: What’s your ultimate goal?
CashTank: Generational wealth. I want my family straight — my parents, siblings, future kids. Even if I don’t get signed, I’ll keep grinding. Most rappers blow up in their 30s; I’m 25. I’ve got time, but I’m not waiting.
Parham: How do you define your sound?
CashTank: I’m versatile. I rap, but I could hop on a pop or country track. My music talks about street life, but I’m not glorifying it — I’m showing the struggle. My little brother looks up to me, so I keep it real but responsible.
Final words from CashTank
Caughman’s hustle is a blueprint for independents. From warehouse floors and call centers to studio booths, he’s proof that consistency and patience pay off.
Keep an eye on South Carolina’s next star.
You can keep up with CashTank and his musical journey here.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more artist spotlights from the Indianapolis Recorder, click here.
Noral Parham is the multi-media & senior sports reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder, one of the oldest Black publications in the country. Parham has worked with various leagues to provide a diverse perspective in sports, including the Big Ten, Big East, IHSAA, IndyCar, MLB, NHRA, NFL, NBA, WNBA, WWE and the Olympics. Prior to joining the Recorder, Parham served as the community advocate of the MLK Center in Indianapolis and senior copywriter for an e-commerce and marketing firm in Denver.
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