Published on April 17th, 2020 | by Brittany Burton

Brooklyn Rapper King Xerxes Talks Legacy, Dream Collaborations, & More

Penning his thoughts at the early age of 11, Brooklyn lyricist King Xerxes is making a name for himself. Xerxes hails from one of the biggest boroughs in New York, known for spawning idols and influences such as Jay-Z. The emerging artist is carving his own lane through lyrical efforts and catchy one-liners.

While much of the city tends to follow the latest wave, Xerxes is creating his own. Just last year, he dropped his debut project, Hoop Dreams, which amassed several thousand views. The project is only a portion of his impressive catalog, which details hardships and strong emotion.

We spoke with the Brooklyn rapper about his influences, catalog, and standout record “No Long Talk” amongst a list of other things.

As far as music goes, is there anyone who paved a way for you?

My mother did. She paved the way by showing me that a single black woman who came from another country could work to support a family of five still and follow her own dreams. She’s the reason why I’ve always refused to take no for an answer.

When people hear King Xerxes, what do you want the first thing that comes to mind to be?

I want my listeners to know that I’m a student of the game who cares about the art and the culture. I want them to know that I am an artist and I am music.

If it weren’t for music, where do you think you’d be right now?

If it wasn’t for music, I’d be in the Navy.

When it comes to legacy, what are some things that you do to stand-out amongst the crowd?

I allow my self to step out of my comfort zone. I don’t want to be boxed into just one genre so I take the risk and I make the music that I feel like hearing.

A few months back, your “No Long Talk” video hit a million views. How does it feel to have tons of people streaming your music?

I came from not being able to get a hundred plays in a month. When I hit a million views I felt like I traveled to all of the countries that my video was played. if my music career doesn’t reflect my goals, one thing that I know is that my words were able to travel and speak to millions of people. I know that I was able to provoke some type of emotion whether it brought about joy, motivation, or even a pick-me-up, I’m happy with that because I know how music makes me feel. Music is like a drug.

Do you currently have a dream collaboration with any artists or producers?

I always dreamt of the day that I’d get a chance to make a song with the late great Nipsey Hussle, God rest his soul. I would also like to work with Meek Mill, J Cole, Maroon 5, Damian Marley, Nas, and Burna Boy.

If you could pick one record out of your catalog that stands out the most, which one would it be and why?

I would choose “Kyrie” because it’s about being on a journey and staying focused by keeping your eyes on the prize when life has dealt you so many different cards.

Press play below to stream King Xerxes “No Long Talk” video.