Introducing The Multifaceted Emerging Rapper 80purppp
Delivering a reflective story of his high school experience, 80purppp is an emerging artist that’s creating an honest and open rapport on ‘his album – ‘Violet High’. Making his debut in 2018 with his tracks ‘Cheryl Blossom’ and ‘Betty Cooper’, the MC proved to be an expert and clever lyrist. His creative approach to the rap genre continued in later tracks culminating to his new album ‘Violet High’. Stripping down the layers of his inner thoughts, 80purppp has a combination of light-hearted and upbeat tracks to intimate records that beautifully highlight his angst-filled journey. With over 5 million combined streams and his newly released visual medley, it is safe to say that 2020 will be a big year for the talented rapper.
We got the chance to chat with 80purppp about everything from his album, his new visual medley, and so much more…
Your debut album ‘Violet High’ feels like a poetic journey of self-discovery. What was the creative process when you were making the record?
Well, since I made the project during my senior year of high school, the creative process had a lot to do with just experiencing it. All of the inspiration came from that huge part of my life, which I was a part of almost everyday of the year. If something interesting, sad, or crazy happened: I would immediately try to catch the moment in my notes app.
It seems like each track off the record was carefully crafted to tell its own story. Was it challenging to retell the experiences and feelings you felt during that time?
Some of the themes, more so than others. It was fun and exciting to write about the joys and highs and lows of high school life, but some of the darker themes were difficult to get down. Since many of the feelings are so complex with numerous layers, I took the time to do them justice. What many people misunderstand about me is that it isn’t any easier for me to talk about the depression, frustration, or pain that I’m going through: I have to really push myself not to hold back because if I did, there would be no point.
‘Wrap Up,’ and ‘1017’ are two of my favourites at the moment, which track did you enjoy creating the most?
I think ‘1017’ was my favorite to write since I was able to get so much off of my chest. It was the first track I was able to implement the sound samples I had captured from my school’s hallways, along with my alarm clock and dog Barkley :). It was the most fun I had recording because it flowed so well. That song will always be especially dear to me.
When you were in high school, who were your top three go-to rappers you listened to?
Xxxtentacion, Drake, and Playboi Carti were probably my most played artists, with Carti being my number one artist on Spotify Wrapped this year lol. X was the one who inspired me to begin making music, though.
When did you fall in love with hip hop?
I think I fell in love with it when I heard ‘Bring It On’ by Jay-Z on the Reasonable Doubt album. The bars, the flow, I meaaaaan so good. I still listen to that one regularly, Jay-Z is definitely one of my all-time favorite artists.
As an emerging artist, what sets your music apart from other young artists?
I think what sets me apart is my tendency to leave no territory untouched. I believe my versatility allows me to integrate my sound into other genres, as well as the crevices within those genres to convey how I’m feeling. I have no strings on me.
Your visual medley for ‘Violet High’ makes us feel so nostalgic, what was your intended direction for this video?
I think the nostalgia you may feel comes from the organic nature of the video. I didn’t want to do anything extra, or too hard to understand, just something that many could relate to. I mean, who can’t relate to hanging out with friends? We all get it. That’s what music is, it’s inclusive, and I wanted to stay true to that.
What’s next for 80purppp for the new year? Will you be touring the record? Are you writing the next record?
I’m always writing and exploring themes/ideas that interest and challenge me. I believe my plans for the future will become more apparent as time draws near, but I definitely want to do some shows, possibly work with other artists, and overall discover the doors this project is opening up for me.
Make sure to check out 80purppp’s new album here and video medley for ‘Violet High’ below.
