Razi, born in Detroit, now living in Atlanta, was taken into music at a young age and is now venturing to other industry platforms, calling himself the Prince of Entertainment. Razi has worked with many artists such as Ryan Destiny, Dej Loaf, Bone Crusher, and Jazze Pha. While working in the studio with these artists, Razi is looking to reclaim his throne at the top of the industry, starting with building his independent record label “Melodic Island,” and other things. Femi Magazine catches up with Razi to see what is new going on with his career.
Talk to us about the growth of your skills, music, and other endeavors from when you first started up to now?
Because my dad is a well-known bass player in Detroit, MI, I’ve played instruments since I was a child. I’ve been consistently producing & rapping for over ten years. I feel like I’m just becoming a master of my craft. Songs/Performances are 2nd nature at this point.)
What have been some challenges for you so far this year music wise, and how have you overcome them?
I’ve dealt with managers & execs being threatened by my independence, talent, & knowledge of the game. They work with me but from a distance or sometimes even blocking opportunities. I believe some are discouraged because they know that there may be a time when I no longer need them. I’ve already started to overcome this by building a record label & becoming my CEO.)
You are releasing Heart Canvas II on Valentine’s Day; tell us about the significance of this? Also, talk to us about Heart Canvas itself, what can your fans expect from it, what have you learned from making it, and all the behind work to create it?
Every year I drop two albums/projects. Last summer, I released “WAVE,” which was filled with club bangers & was my dedication to Atlanta/the trap sound that I’ve grown to understand since living here. Every Valentine’s Day, I release a “Heart Canvas” project, literally pages from my life/diary. I never go into my “Heart Canvas” projects intending to make hits, but to help others who may be going through similar situations feel like they’re not alone. These are my genuine emotions & feelings from the heart.)
You tweeted that you were the next Drake. Has Drake been an influence on you and your music? Also, what other music genres or people influence you or your music?
Drake is in my top 5. I was heavily influenced by him growing up. The rapping/singing aspect of his craft was so innovative. I have the same top 5 that rarely ever changes. These are the people that I believed influenced me the most: Kanye West, 50 Cent, Drake, Big Sean, & T-Pain. As far as genres go, I know that I’ll be tapping into the pop side in between rap/r&b albums. I love what Pharrell & the Black Eyed Peas were doing during my childhood as far as pushing the sound & barriers of black music.)
You have nicknamed yourself the prince of entertainment. Where does this name come from, and what does it all involve?
I call myself the prince of entertainment because there’s almost nothing I can’t do when it comes to the entertainment industry. I rap, sing, produce, write, act, edit my videos/commercials, & do comedy from time to time.)
What has inspired you throughout the years to continue music and flourish throughout every aspect of the entertainment world?
I’ve been involved in music since before I could talk. I believe this is what God called me to do. I know that my place in this entertainment world is to push the culture of hip-hop in the right direction & to motivate/encourage the next Razi.)
Who are you producing for or working with this year that you can’t wait to share with everyone?
I’ve just taken on my first artist in years. Her name is Kai & she’s heavily featured on Heart Canvas II. My producer Shawn Ski & I are wrapping up her first EP as we speak.)
What can your fans expect from you this year after the release of Heart Canvas II?
Heart Canvas II is the sequel to the first Heart Canvas. Expect me to feel you in on my experience with love/relationships that I dealt with in 2020. If you miss “the old Kanye”, or Jay-Z this will bring you back to that feeling you use to have when music had more meaning.)
I know you all miss that old Kanye, so be sure to check out Razi’s new album Heart Canvas II and follow him on IG: @ Razi_TV, Youtube @ Razi TV, and Twitter @ Razi_TV.
Adezza DuBose is a lover of love and mental health speaker. She thrives in uplifting black people and hyping them up to be the best version of themselves. She is a poet, author, and blogger and enjoys eating seafood and vegan food.
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