The Westleaf
What's up Leafers? Welcome to the latest edition of On the Rise where we interview upcoming hip hop talent. Today's guest is hip hop artist, Simba X. Simba is straight out of Orlando, Florida. Her style is conscious and bar heavy. It's clear when listening to Simba's music that she's destined to change the world with her voice and powerful message of peace and unity. Simba's been making waves in Florida with her sound so we had to tap in with her. Check out the interview below.
Westleaf Staff: Greetings, Simba.Your sound is awesome. When did you start making music?
Simba X: I started making music in 2018 but have been writing poetry ever since I was a teenager.
Westleaf Staff: Nice. Poetry is a good foundation. I can see where you get your skills from! What city do you represent?
Simba X: Orlando, but I’m originally from Ft. Lauderdale, FL.
Westleaf Staff: Dope! Shout out to Florida! Y'all have some real talent down there. So how did you create your stage name?
Simba X: My name was given to me by the community when I was 16 for being fierce and courageous.
Westleaf Staff: Nice. I love that name. It's definitely powerful. So how did your early life shape your interest in music?
Simba X: As an adolescent, I performed poetry and facilitated workshops with at-risk youth at schools, juvenile detention centers, art institutes, etc. Facilitating these workshops influenced my desire to want to venture out into making music and impact my community through my artistry. As a creative, I wholeheartedly believe in the power of utilizing our voice as a catalyst for change.
Westleaf Staff: Wow. You're really making a huge impact on the world. I respect your altruism. Salute to you! So who is your biggest Musical influence?
Simba X: My biggest musical influence is Nas hands down, as he is a very influential lyricist that has focused his craft on highlighting important topics that many struggle with. Nas has embodied articulating both struggle and triumph through the use of figurative language and sensory detail, which as a poet I admire very much.
Westleaf Staff: Nice. Nas is a legend! Next question! What's been the defining moment in your music career thus far?
Simba X: The defining moment of my music career has been the overnight studio sessions, where I find myself opening up the most and really tapping into my truest feelings.
Westleaf Staff: Nice to see you tapping in with your essence. The people will certainly feel that energy.
What makes you a unique artist?
Simba X: What makes me unique is my ability to be a voice for the city through my poems and songs and speak for those who may go unheard.
Westleaf Staff: Fire. You'll be rewarded for that mission! So what does art mean to you?
Simba X: Art means passion, emotion, and vulnerability.
Westleaf Staff: Facts. I feel that! Where do you see your music career going over the next few years?
Simba X: I see myself traveling and speaking to many youth in different cities.
Westleaf Staff: I can see that happening for you. It's already done! Before we go, describe music in three words.
Simba X: Raw, real, and in your face.
Follow Simba X:
Instagram : @SIMBASIMBA93
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