Who is Bobby as a Hip-hop artist?
As a Hip-Hop artist I am someone with a different outlook on music. I tend to think of myself as being unique compared to everyone else. As a Hip-Hop artist I find myself to be someone with a unique story because I have already seen a lot of things in my life. I have seen different religions with people from different parts of the world. All my artistic and creative abilities come within my soul and is fully real and true to me.
When did you start, and what inspired you to make music?
I started when I was only 16 years old not knowing fully what Hip-Hop was but the more I did it, progression started showing. What inspired me the most was the Jerk movement, which is a dance, and from there I started listening to trap music.
How would you describe your music in one sentence?
Music from my mind, body and soul.
What sets you apart from other acts/groups?
What sets me apart from other people is my background and story I have. I like talking about being real a lot as well, because I feel that plays a huge part in everyone’s life. Especially knowing the people around you very well.
Which one of your songs are you most proud of, and why?
The one song I am most proud of is called Osiris. I am very proud of this song because in my verse I talk about so many things that people are afraid or don’t really pay attention to. I talk about the problems that go on around the world and an insight of how I feel towards the world.
Where do you come from or what part of NZ do you represent?
I come from Sudan, Africa, but I am mixed with my mom being from somewhere else. I came straight from Dubai to New Zealand. I represent Hamilton because this is the city I’ve lived in since I came to New Zealand. I feel like there is a lot of potential in Hamilton.
Do you produce your own beats or do you use any particular beat maker?
I don’t produce my own beats but I have two particularly talented producers that I work with, who are also close friends of mine. Tony Douglas and Stuss.
What are your most and least favourite things about Hip-Hop culture?
The most least favourite thing about the Hip-Hop culture is some people thinking everyone has to be a gangster to be a Hip-Hop artist. Times have changed and that’s not the case anymore. My favourite thing about the Hip-Hop culture is evolution and the amount of people breaking boundaries in the game. A lot more people around the world are getting into Hip-Hop music and the culture is growing in New Zealand.
Tell us about your latest release.
My latest release was my BSELF EP produced by Tony Douglas. BSELF basically means be yourself which is simple. It’s a five track EP and it’s my first full project I have released.
What advice would you like to give to other aspiring rappers/producers?
The advice I would give all artists out there is don’t worry about what people say keep pushing in what you believe in. You will eventually get better at it. Be true to yourself while you do everything as well. Stay true to the people around you.
What can we expect to see from you over the next year?
You can expect something different from the last project, again everything from my mind, body and soul.
Check out Bobbys Mix Tape BSELF: