Former HipHopDX Features Editor Andre Grant said in his “Defense Of The Struggle Rapper” editorial, “Out of all the things the Hip Hop web has vilified, the “struggle rapper” might be the least deserving of all that ridicule.” Before Kendrick Lamar became big enough for Barack Obama to sing his praises or Drake found himself making deals with Apple, they were artists without a significantly large fanbase attempting what seemed like the impossible. Hitting the top of the charts became a distant goal to making past one hundred streams of a song possibly made within the confines of their bedroom walls and gaining likes, re-post or anything else that would reach someone. Providing a weekly outlet for those getting their feet wet in the sometimes brutal sport of Hip Hop, allow us to give readers a look into tomorrow’s possibilities through “Up NeXt.”

Coming Off Tour With Lupe Fiasco, He’s Set To Drop Home Court Advantage

Inspiration For Career

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“My father is a musician, so it’s in the blood. I use to sing in the choir growing up and my father would always be playing the piano at home while I danced. Around the fifth grade, I started rapping and Master P’s “Make ‘Em Say Uhh” inspired me to rap.”

Having A Shot At Stardom

“I don’t believe I have a shot, I know it will happen. I’ve been held in high regards by some of the best in the business, in all fields. From Sway, Lupe Fiasco to Wyclef Jean, even HipHopdx recognizes the skills. The real always shine through in the end.”

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Project(s)

“I have a new project I’m putting the finishing touches on that will be out this summer. I’m linking up with the homie DJ Victouriouz on a project titled Home Court Advantage. Something to give the people right off the tour with Lupe.”

Twitter: @TheBoyIllinois

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Instagram: @theboyillinois