Storytelling into Haven with NYC MC Des Brennan

Emerging NYC MC Des Brennan is on the cusp of breaking into the hip hop scene for real. Des’s reliability and lyrical skills make him not only someone you have to stop and listen to, but also someone you can depend on. Using rapping as therapy has become a normal outlet for Des, and he continues to do it with his latest EP ‘Haven.’ ‘Haven’ beautifully draws into the light when things were getting dark for Des. 

We chat to Des about his thought process when writing lyrics, other forms of therapy he uses to fight depression and why listening to beats is his favourite thing in the world. 

Does production or lyrics come first?

Production always comes first. 

What's your thought process when you write lyrics?

My thought process usually revolves around the type of song I am trying to make, and the mood that I get from the beat I am listening to.

What got you into rap in the first place?

I just loved the way hip hop songs sounded as a kid. I knew right away that it was the genre I would be most drawn to. I listened to it non-stop. The more I did, the more I loved it. 

You use rap as therapy, do you find you need to do other stuff to keep your mind occupied?

Yes. Rap isn't my only release and therapeutic outlet. It's my favourite and most important one, but I definitely have others such as weightlifting/working out, flag football and basketball, reading books and watching TV series, doing craft beer research and hanging out with friends, etc. 

You just released an EP, how did you come up with the concept?

I came up with the concept when I was sitting in my car at the park. I was feeling pretty gloomy, so I knew I had to make something to make myself feel happier and more motivated.

What stimulates your soul? 

Writing and recording songs. Also listening to new beats. It's the best feeling in the world. There is nothing like making music. Not only do I love it but I also need it.