How Arz is Rewriting the Rules of British Rap with Raw Talent
Meet Arz: The Fresh Face of British Rap Making Waves with Raw Honesty.
In the ever-shifting landscape of British rap, few artists have emerged with the kind of magnetic presence that Arz brings to the table. With a career still in its nascent stages, this London-born rapper is already making waves with his compelling blend of introspective lyricism and vibrant production.
Hailing from London, this up-and-coming rapper is gaining traction with a fresh sound that combines personal storytelling with a modern twist. His music, marked by its relatable themes and innovative beats, reflects both his unique perspective and the diverse influences that shape his artistry. Arz’s music, marked by its raw honesty and rhythmic ingenuity, reflects a deep understanding of both the genre’s roots and its evolving future. As someone who has witnessed countless artists rise and fall over the past two decades, I can confidently say that Arz’s unique sound and genuine artistry position him as one of the most promising talents to watch in the rap scene today.
Arz’s ascent has been nothing short of remarkable. His breakout singles, such as Alone With You and Hate You, I Love You, are more than just catchy tracks—they’re carefully crafted narratives that offer a window into his soul. These songs capture a blend of personal reflection and universal appeal, a balance that not only highlights his lyrical prowess but also demonstrates his ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. It’s rare to see such an authentic voice emerge so early in an artist’s career, and Arz’s ability to do so speaks volumes about his potential longevity and impact in the industry.
As Arz prepares to release his debut project and continue his journey, the excitement surrounding him is palpable. His trajectory suggests that he’s not just another fleeting name in the rap game but a substantial new force with the potential to redefine the genre. For those of us who have followed the twists and turns of the music industry over the years, Arz’s fresh perspective and undeniable talent are a breath of fresh air. His story is one of both promise and intrigue, and it’s clear that he’s on the verge of leaving a significant mark on the British rap scene.
We had the opportunity to speak with Arz on his musical journey, inspirations, and up and coming releases.
Where is home?
I think home isn’t necessarily a place but a feeling. A feeling of infinite safety & familiarity. Home is where the love is. Day to day being around family I feel at home & making music anywhere makes me feel at home. Chilling in east London with the mandem I feel at home. Going Bagel King on a late drive with shawty I feel at home. Loool physically anywhere across northeast London is HOME you will indeed catch me.
What was the defining moment you realized you wanted to do music? Has music always been your career plan?
During the end of primary/beginning of secondary, I wanted to be an actor. I loved movies & tv series, I remember I’d binge watch The Walking Dead back to back to back just because I loved how it was shot, the story and how sick the actors were. In year 8/9 I started freestyling on Instagram about nonsense & it actually kinda picked up. Around year 10/11 I figured out what I liked to rap about and started seeing a clear path of where I can take it. College I dropped out knowing I wanted to be ALL into music. A couple of months after that I made my biggest track ‘Alone With You’. If it wasn’t clear enough from the early reception on tracks like ‘no games‘ & ’18+’ that I should stick with music it was definitely shown to me after ‘alone with you‘.
What is it like being a part of the UK rap scene? How has it shaped you as an artist?
Being a part of the UK rap scene is sick. There’s tooooooo many super cold artists carving the lane. I always admire the artists who stay true to themselves. The ones that are individuals. Music and feelings that can’t be replicated by anything else, I’m big on finding real & raw music from artists that may not be in everybody’s faces all the time. I feel like people being honest & true to themselves always inspires me. It’s like you get to read a book from their chapter you have no idea of.
Today you released “Age Like Wine”, a relaxed single discussing not wasting time in a relationship with someone. What was your creative process like when crafting this release?
I remember this day quite clearly actually despite my memory being horrid. Went down Hoxton to link bkay, I think this was the second time we linked up. The first time was roughly 3 weeks before that. On that day specifically, we were going through samples & loops just chopping it up & talking. And he played the loop and I only had to hear about 3 seconds of it before I went mad. I love it when you instantly know about something. You instantly feel it and resonate with it. That’s how I felt. So I sat there for a few hours and wrote the whole track, I had a lot to get off my chest so it really just flowed. One of my favorites from the mixtape for sure. Big up Bkay as well he’s a legend.
In 2021 you released the hit single “Alone With You”, amassing over 145 million streams on Spotify. What was it like for you to reach such a monumental moment in your music career? Did you expect the single to take off in the way it did?
It was a really really special moment I won’t lie. Around that time I had just figured out my direction, and sound & where I wanna take this music thing & that was talking about my emotions. Being someone who can rap about vulnerability, love & relationships. Whilst everyone was making drill music I wanted to promote what life is really & should be about. CONNECTION. So yeah I was gassed to be recognised to such lengths for something that was so true to me. I knew the song was going to be successful. From when I made it in the studio I instantly knew it was special however I had no clue it would get the reception it did. It was a shock but I knew I had put so much work and time into music it felt right.
From your first-ever release to your most recent single, how have you evolved as an artist?
I think before an artist I’ve changed so much as a person. I first started music when I was 14 dropping Y1C on MM, now I’m about to turn 21 on my 4th mixtape. WILD stuff. Experiences definitely have a massive part to play in my evolution. Many relationships gained & folded. Many places traveled. So much that I’ve had to learn going from a teenage boy to a young man the list wouldn’t stop. I’m happy my writing is getting better, I’m able to describe things in fuller detail which is something I always admire about rappers. The detail they give to paint a vivid picture. My beat selection and ear for production is growing and getting better all around I feel like I’m growing at a healthy pace. I just have to stay consistent & true.
What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?
People always think I’m going to be a c*nt because they see a mix-race yout with dreads & tatts but I’m actually proper loving. I’m a sweetheart LOL. I’m aware of a lot of things & I’d say I’m quite sensitive hence the music. I like my own space & time a lot because it leaves no room for anything stressful/not needed. I have a birthmark in my hair. My birthday is Christmas Eve which is actually meady if you think about it. Something that people say to me is I listen to so much trap/hard music given the type of music I make, I find that funny because my music taste is just ridiculously broad. There’s a couple off the top of my head.
The Fox Magazine is all about inspiration, what/who inspires you the most?
Hearing new perspectives, seeing new places, insightful conversations, so much I grab inspiration from. The music I listen to also. Meeting new people. Going through different situations. Life gives me inspiration in many many ways. Artist wise I’ve always appreciated Brent, Lucki, Young Thug, NBA Youngboy, Cruza, Nocap, Mansur Brown, Veeze, Youngs Teflon, Tems, Joe James, Destroy Lonely, Nines, Potter, Babyface Ray. These are just a fraction of artists that I listen to every day that inspire me.
As someone who has been leveling up in the music industry for quite some time, what’s your best advice for aspiring musicians?
Trust your gut, stay true to yourself & your original message.
Can you give us a sneak peek at any projects you’re working on or may be dropping soon?
Honey I’m Home. Sept 6. 12 tracks. just don’t miss it <3