Rising Up With London Rapper Ki Faro
London hip-hop artist Ki Faro slams us from all directions with his unique artistry. Displaying high-quality emcee skills over a mix of classic grime and fast-paced rave beats, he represents the diversity of all the great hip-hop sounds consistently coming out of the UK. With an outstanding flow and a drive beyond comprehension, Ki Faro is on the come-up after a steady stream of great releases that have received astounding recognition throughout the UK. With the start up of his own label, Faro Empire, Ki Faro has just released his latest mini LP Rise Of An Empire that is bound to spread like wildfire.
We chat to Ki Faro about the launch of his new mini LP, his thoughts on the current hip-hop scene in the UK, and the future of Faro Empire. Ayla Dhyani writes.
You just released your latest mini LP 'Rise Of An Empire'. What can we expect?
From the Mini LP? 8 tracks of pure fire(14 if you buy the Deluxe edition from iTunes or Google play). For this project I wanted to focus more on a "Party/Rave" vibe. That’s why I have tracks like 'Young Kings' and 'Comic Book Strip.' These rave tracks are for trap-step or even Dub-step fans (electro rap). Also I threw in a more London based Grime-style 'The Black Bond.' But of course, I had to go back to the roots of hip-hop and round the project off with 'Ambitious' and 'Invulnerable.' Also expect there to be a video for every track on the Rise Of An Empire.
You've had a fair bit of recognition in the UK already. What have been the pinnacle moments in your career so far?
I think the release of 'The Rise Of An Empire' with a close second to the sponsorship from Palladium Boots. The reason I would choose the 'Rise Of An Empire' is because not only is it my first release under our record Label (FMR), it took me (us) a year and a half to prepare it, including shooting eight amazing videos and getting together all the talented features and producers! I even Vlogged the whole process on my YouTube channel.
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Tell us about the concept behind your first single 'Made In The Mana'.
'Made In The Mana' was initially a fashion concept I had in order to boost confidence in the youth to be proud of where you come from!
What are your thoughts on the current hip-hop scene in London?
The current London hip-hop scene is a growing commodity. When you have artists like Tinie Tempah featuring alongside 2 Chainz, or Krept and Konan alongside Rick Ross, and then have lyrical geniuses like wretch 32, with conscious rappers like Akala, and legends like Dizzie Rascal (he's been in the game for 10 years now), I am overly proud to be part of it. I know in the next year things will blow up at an explosive rate for the London and UK scene.
What do you feel separates you from other aspiring artists in the hip-hop community?
My music is universal and everyone can relate to it. I have fans in Asia who don't even speak English pumping my stuff… madness! That, and my versatility.
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If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be?
Either Seal or Jamiroquai. Best believe I'm getting them on my album.
What do you envision for the future of your Empire?
A corporate takeover. We will be a household name within five years. Of course I can’t tell you my methods... The game is to be sold not told (laughs).
What stimulates your soul?
Life, Family, Fans and of course all types of MUSIC!
Want to hear more from Ki Faro?
Base.