The Early Days: From Parties to Studios
K-Crews' musical journey began at the tender age of 12 when he started writing raps. His natural talent for freestyling soon made him a standout at high school parties, where he was known for delivering fresh 16s on the spot. "I used to show up to the party and deal to all the kids, then eventually would be asked to freestyle a lil sum," he recalls. This early exposure to performing helped him hone his skills and build confidence. At 16, he recorded his first tracks in a studio, guided by his cousin Tommy NewGuy, a renowned battle rapper and freestyler. This mentorship was pivotal in shaping K-Crews' musical direction.
Unique Musical Style: A Blend of Old School and Innovation
K-Crews' music is a distinctive blend of old-school, highly lyrical rap with innovative melodies and flows. "I've asked 100 people who I might resemble and 99 said nobody, I have my own sound," he states proudly. His songs are deeply personal, reflecting his life experiences, from his challenging childhood to his rise in the restaurant industry. "I use music as a way to speak my mind and process experiences and traumas," he explains. This authenticity resonates with listeners, making his music both relatable and powerful.
Inspirations and Influences
Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of artists, K-Crews cites Mac Miller, Eminem, and the group Slaughterhouse as key influences. Mac Miller, in particular, left a lasting impact on him. "He was always my number 1 idol... I saw a lot of his aspects in myself," he shares. This admiration pushed him to emulate Miller's independent spirit and lyrical prowess while infusing his own unique style. Eminem's relentless pursuit of excellence also inspired K-Crews to strive for greatness in his craft.
The Art of Songwriting and Collaborations
K-Crews' songwriting process is meticulous and deeply personal. "I simply do NOT do the rap cap, I really rap what I live," he asserts. His lyrics are a reflection of his life, capturing moments of adversity, triumph, and everything in between. This authenticity has led to collaborations with notable artists such as OTF Ikey and Quality Control's Mark Battles. Looking ahead, K-Crews dreams of working with Jay Critch, Dr. Bushman, and producing a track with WondaGurl.
Live Performances: Connecting with the Audience
For K-Crews, live performances are a crucial aspect of his artistry. They provide an opportunity to connect with his audience on a personal level and gauge their reactions in real-time. One memorable performance at Toronto's Mod Club stands out for him. "The crowd was dead and dry as hell until my song Donuts came on... people were jumping and dancing, lots of hollering from the mezzanine level," he recalls. This electrifying experience solidified his passion for performing and his desire to engage with fans.
Conclusion: Staying True to Authenticity
K-Crews' message to aspiring artists and fans is clear: stay true to yourself. "Make the music you want to make and don't make the music you think people want to hear," he advises. Balancing authenticity with marketability is key to long-term success. With his unique sound, compelling storytelling, and unwavering dedication, K-Crews is poised to make a significant impact on the music scene. As he continues to navigate his journey, his fans can expect more authentic and powerful music that speaks to the heart of his experiences.
