Q. Good day, Luqman! We appreciate you taking the time to speak with us. The first thing we want to know is How did you get into making music?
A. My love for music traces back to my early childhood, where I immersed myself in various genres during the Limewire and Pirate Bay era. In those days, I’d download entire discographies of musicians and bands I admired. I contributed to my musical journey by singing in a local church choir during elementary school and playing percussion throughout high school. My knack for free-styling became evident at parties, where I’d effortlessly flow and deliver clever punch lines, often surprising those around me. Encouraged by others who recognized my potential in rapping, I took the leap into writing, recording, and releasing music. Since then, I haven’t looked back, embracing the path that unfolded before me.
Q. Who are your musical influences and why?
A. Among my top musical influences, Tupac stands out for his impactful lyrics and profound insights into the beauty and darkness of the world. His ability to promote change while maintaining a G persona struck me as authentically dichotomous. Eminem’s influence on me stems from his lyrical complexity, blending humor with dark themes and intricate rhyme schemes. He emerged as a true innovator in the early hip-hop scene, and the motivation conveyed in his tracks resonated deeply with me. Metallica’s impact lies in their musical compositions and performances, evoking feelings of doom, darkness, and chaos, yet somehow offering a glimmer of hope in this tumultuous world. “Nothing Else Matters” stands out as one of the most impactful songs of our generation. 50 Cent and The Game fall into the same category for me, drawing inspiration from the G-Unit era. Both emerged as underdogs who rose from the bottom, unapologetically expressing their thoughts and fearlessly confronting challenges. The collaboration on “Hate It or Love It” stands out as an iconic and inspirational anthem, resonating with underdogs on a quest for glory. “Many Men” by 50 Cent carries a unique emotional weight, tapping into a universal feeling even if the specific lyrics don’t directly apply. There’s something profoundly real about the sentiment when he addresses the multitude of people hoping for one’s downfall. It captures the essence of striving to fulfill our destinies amid adversity.
Q. What has been your biggest career highlight so far?
A. Undoubtedly, my most significant career highlights include opening for Tech N9ne in my hometown, performing in front of a crowd of 1000, and opening for Dax in Toronto with an audience of 500. These experiences not only showcased my talent but also allowed me to connect with a sizable audience. In addition to the live performances, I take pride in the substantial growth I've achieved across various social media and streaming platforms. The expanding reach and engagement signify a notable progression in my career, reflecting the increasing support from a diverse audience.
Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. In the next five years, I envision myself being widely recognized as one of the most prominent emerging artists, distinguished by a unique style and unmatched rap skills in both performance and delivery. As people delve into my discography and archives, they'll discover my versatility and the significant time I've invested in honing my craft. With a firm belief in my readiness for international notoriety, I look forward to making a lasting impact on the global music scene.
Q. What Is One Message You Have for Your Fans and Supporters?
A. To my fans and supporters, my message is simple yet powerful: never give up on your hopes and dreams. Embracing clichés aside, letting your dreams fade means living as a dead person. This doesn't imply abandoning a normal job or life but maintaining passion and pursuing endeavors that give you purpose and meaning, regardless of fortune and fame. Remember, with faith, hard work, and diligence, anything is possible, and I credit my journey from the darkest places to the grace of God. Cultivate contentment and gratitude for what you have while maintaining the drive to strive for more. It's the balance between appreciation and aspiration that promotes a healthy and blessed life.
