After following up his much-loved 2021 debut LP 'D.R.E.a.M' with the stunning comeback singles 'Nite n' Day' and 'Miss You' earlier this year, progressive rapper $$Terick is back once again to offer up his sweeping new jam 'Diaries'.
Capturing more of that smooth and atmospheric hip-hop aesthetic he has developed for himself, 'Diaries' makes for a wonderfully bold and inventive listen. With his vibrant vocal flow riding across a shimmering production from start to finish, he is continuing his ascent as one of the more innovative names on the rise right now.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
First instrument I fell in love with would have to be the piano, with string instruments being a close 2nd and first on some days. The piano was everywhere during those times. Home, school, mass you name it, But string instruments………. It’s just the sounds, something about the strings and their position…. It's therapeutic, sometimes crushing. Whether it’s presented in acoustic or electric form…. whatever I like ‘em both.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I was surrounded by soul music via my mom and rock music via the WWF/WWE. Hip hop came into play a little later in my younger days.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Odd enough WWF/WWE music volume 4. I remember unravelling that thing for Christmas back in the day. I was a huge fan back then. I enjoyed spending a lot of time with the themes and entrances of the superstars. In those days music was different, it wasn’t as accessible and I was limited in some ways.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I can’t say that I have a song I wish I wrote. My mind doesn’t go into wishing what could’ve been done or what someone else has done. I’m disciplined, I give my all in what I create at the time and I grow with my art, I can’t ask for more than that from myself.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Not in particular. I haven't been writing as much lately. I go in and do sessions based on my mood and what’s going through my mind at the time. I move forward with what I like and what I don’t use will go in the archives. At this stage in my career it’s important to be able to channel information and creativity from within.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I find myself listening to mostly older music these days. You know Roy Ayers, Dwele, Al B Sure, Erykah Badu, Floetry, Mary J Blige.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Kanye, A$AP Rocky, Playboi Carti and Kendrick Lamar are what come to mind at this point and time.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding things to me are free expression, connecting with the people, having the space to create and letting the world know my story/stories.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The most frustrating part of it all would have to be the unexpected aspects of life surrounding the process. life will happen, things will change and maintaining sanity, relationships, space and status through it all can be frustrating, challenging and stressful. Nevermind maintaining……… growing.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Don’t Stop!!!! Keep Going!!!!!
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$$Terick's new single 'Diaries' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.