Q&A With New Mexico Based Hip Hop Artist Merlin Babaji
Yo Merlin Babaji!! Much respect on your latest single “Dreams” Ft. Mick Jenkins? One of our main contributors BOOM ranked it 8/10!!! WOW solid ranking!! Please tell us a bit about yourself? How long have you been an artist? How did you get your Emcee name?
Hey I have been an artist all my life. I started music playing the guitar and rock music when I was a kid and learned most instruments (Guitar, Piano, Drums, Banjo, Ukulele) And rapping came pretty natural after that. I started free styling in high school but didn’t take it that seriously. The name Merlin is from my family in Wales and Babaji is something that my friends from India started to call me it means spiritual leader in India. I grew up in New Mexico, one of the most fucked up states in the country so you could see why I would turn hip-hop. Hip-Hop is the voice of the people who the system has fucked over, so I intend to be that voice and represent my state.
Tell us about the dark new wave of Hip Hop that is spreading like a wildfire! We got names like Suicide Boys, Ghost Mane and plenty more blowing up on that new wave…We feel like you sound is cut from the same cloth to be honest! Break down to influence behind your music and it this type of rap id what fits your brand.
I respect and listen to artists like $uicide Boy$ and GhosteMane but im trying to paint a bigger picture than that. Too many artist assign themselves to one genera or sound. I listen to everything.
Please breakdown the creative process of your new single “Dreams” Ft. Mick Jenkins? Wicked cover art btw! How did you end up coming up with that single cover art??
I wrote dreams before I knew Mick was going to hop on it. I emailed him inquiring about the song and he responded really quickly with his verse. I think both of the verses complement each-other. The cover art is from my home Will Benson who’s an artist in Portland.
How often do you perform LIVE!? have you ever been on tour?
I perform live as often as possible and you can expect shows in the Los Angeles area on a regular basis.
Please tell us about your mission statement regarding your music and movement. What do you want fans to walk away with after listening toy our projects? Also, please describe your sound in the simplest way possible?
My statement is to inspire other people to chase their dreams no mater what it is. Too many people are convinced they can never get them but I’ve been living mine. All it takes is hustle.
What you got cooking next? Anything special for Summer 2018!!??
I just released my first music video for my song “ENTITY” its on youtube now. You can expect more music videos, live performances, and I’m also planning an album.
Our most popular question, what is your definition of “Underground Hip Hop”?
Underground hip hop is the side of Hip Hop that’s not controlled by major corporations.
Where can fans find your music? Drop all links!!
Any shout outs?
Shout out New Mexico!!!
