Introducing The Rising Hip Hop Talent AK
AK is a New Jersey talent that’s making waves in the industry. The emerging artist first set the internet into a frenzy with his remixed freestyles of popular hip hop tracks. Over time the 20-year-old MC earned 1.6 million subscribers on his YouTube channel while securing millions of views. Debuting in 2018 with his original track ‘Love Me’, AK soon started to conquer the charts –earning his first number 1 single with ‘Now I’m Forever’. After having a busy 2019 and releasing a plethora of singles and music videos – including his brand new song ‘Good Thing’ – AK is showing no signs of slowing down his upward trajectory.
We got to chat with the MC about everything from his New Jersey roots, his hip hop inspirations, his single ‘Good Thing’ and more…
Who first introduced you to hip hop?
My older brother Todd. He put me on Hopsin and played me Ill Mind 5 and I knew after hearing that song that I too have some things I want to say.
Which rapper or classic hip hop album comes to mind when you think of your childhood?
Hopsin or Big Sean. Hopsin was the first rapper I ever really listened to and idolized. And the first album I ever bought was Big Sean ‘Finally Famous’ I remember getting it for my iPod and being so hype to listen to it on the bus rides to and from my middle school haha
How did growing up in South Brunswick, NJ influence your music taste?
South Brunswick has a lot of diversity and that naturally turned into my friends not all having the same background and cultures. Being exposed to new things and even hearing specific instruments used in the music in certain cultures is and was definitely impactful to my music taste
Did you always know that you wanted to pursue a career in music?
I didn’t know for sure until I saw J.Cole perform live at PNC Bank center in Jersey back on his 2014 Forest Hills Drive tour. I was making music then, but that night is when the switch flipped. I knew I was going to be in shoes similar to his someday after that night.
How would you describe your flow and sound?
Well crafted, unique, ear candy, soothing, effortless.
Okay let’s talk music, your new single ‘Good Thing’ is absolutely fantastic. Can you take us through the creative process for the record?
I went to the studio and met up with my homie Goldmvn who produced the song and I just jumped in the booth and started freestyling melodies and vibes I was feeling and eventually one of em stool out most to me so I laid it down and ran with it.
What do you want fans to take away after listening to the record?
Empowered, motivated, and also closer to what my plans are and the potential opportunities that could come from my abilities beyond just rapping and performing. The second verse I talk about it specifically, you’ll have to check it out.
Will we be getting a video for the track?
Yeah! I’m shooting a video in my home studio for it like I’ve done before!
If you could collaborate with any artist who would be first on your list?
J.Cole, his way of writing and storytelling is something I always admired. His show at PNC bank center in Jersey was one of the most pivotal moments in my life and set fire to my drive to become an artist myself.
Looking towards the future what can fans expect from AK in the coming months?
More music. And a pivotal moment in my career. I feel it.
Make sure to check out AK’s video for his latest single ‘Good Thing’ below…
