Artist On The Rise: What was the first song you ever wrote, and how did it come to life?
Smartzee: The first song I ever recorded was in a local neighborhood studio with my friends. Back then, we were just kids soaking up the hip-hop culture, inspired by the legends we looked up to. The lyrics? Classic ego trip—introducing myself, shouting out my city, repping my homeboys. It was raw, unpolished, and full of energy. That moment was the spark that made me realize music was more than just something I loved—it was something I had to do.
Artist On The Rise: Who or what would you say is the biggest influence on your music?
Smartzee: The golden era of hip-hop—the 80s and 90s—was everything to me. Back then, history lessons in school barely reflected who I was unless it was through a negative lens. But hip-hop? That was my real education. Public Enemy, Nas, Ice Cube, Tupac, and KRS-One weren’t just rappers; they were teachers, revolutionaries, and storytellers. They gave me pride, knowledge, and a sense of belonging. Their music showed me that hip-hop isn’t just entertainment—it’s empowerment, it’s legacy.
Artist On The Rise: How do you approach the songwriting process – do you start with lyrics or melody?
Smartzee: It depends on the moment. Sometimes, a beat hits me first, and it’s like the rhythm itself is speaking. Other times, it’s a phrase, a thought, or a personal experience that sparks the lyrics. Early on, I used to mimic my favorite rappers, but as I grew, my music became more personal. Now, every song is a chapter of my life—raw, real, and unapologetically me.
Artist On The Rise: What’s one thing you’ve learned about the music industry so far that surprised you?
Smartzee: The biggest surprise? Talent alone isn’t enough. You can be the most gifted artist in the room, but without the right mindset, connections, and business sense, you’ll struggle. The industry is a machine—it rewards consistency, strategy, and perseverance just as much as it does creativity.
Artist On The Rise: How do you stay authentic while navigating the pressures of the music business?
Smartzee: The company you keep is everything. Early on, I had people around me who didn’t share my vision, and I learned the hard way how that can throw you off course. Now, I make sure to surround myself with people who share my values—people who push me to be better, stay real, and never compromise my integrity.
Artist On The Rise: Can you describe a moment when you felt like you were truly starting to break through as an artist?
Smartzee: When the record label dropped “Et C’est Parti”—a song by French artist Nâdiya, featuring me—the response was insane. The track blew up, and suddenly, I was getting recognized in the streets. People I had never met were turning their heads, giving me nods, showing love. That was the first time I felt the power of music on a bigger scale. It was a glimpse of what was possible.
Artist On The Rise: Is there a particular message or theme you hope to convey with your music?
Smartzee: Absolutely. LEGACY, my new album, is my most personal work yet. It’s about growth—about surviving struggles, embracing victories, and becoming the best version of yourself. I talk about navigating the streets, learning from mistakes, and evolving through experience. At its core, it’s about leaving something behind—whether that’s wisdom, resilience, or inspiration for the next generation.
Artist On The Rise: What’s your favorite song that you’ve written, and why does it hold that place for you?
Smartzee:“All of Me” from LEGACY is hands down the most personal song I’ve ever written. It’s dedicated to my kids. It’s my way of giving them something real—something they can hold onto long after I’m gone. Every lyric comes from the deepest part of me, and that makes it special.
Artist On The Rise: How do you handle creative blocks or periods when inspiration feels low?
Smartzee: Creativity comes in two ways. Sometimes, it’s a patchwork of things we’ve seen, heard, and felt—a subconscious remix of our experiences. Other times, it’s a pure, unfiltered connection with something deeper. When I hit a block, I don’t force it. I step away, breathe, and live a little. Inspiration is everywhere—you just have to be patient enough to let it find you.
Artist On The Rise: If you could collaborate with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Smartzee: India.Arie. Her music is pure soul—honest, healing, and deeply meaningful. She has a way of making you feel every word, and that’s the kind of energy I connect with. A collaboration with her would be legendary.
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