Interviews SMILEZ

Published on July 12th, 2023 | by Dr. Jerry Doby

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SMILEZ: The Breakout Rapper Illuminating the RAGE Space

Discover the rising star SMILEZ, an electrifying rapper who combines punk influences and hip-hop storytelling to create a fiercely unique style. With his debut album, “Ur in My World,” and the captivating single “Coffee Queen,” SMILEZ is making waves in the music scene, captivating audiences with his explosive energy and raw authenticity.

From Dallas to LA: A Journey of Intense Ambitions

Raised in the scorching summers of Dallas, TX, SMILEZ emerged from the heat with a burning passion for music. Influenced by punk and hip-hop, he honed his songwriting skills, blending intense lyrics with a playful irreverence that sets him apart. Seeking new opportunities, he found his place in the vibrant music scene of Los Angeles, drawing inspiration from the mellower yellows of the sand and sun.

A Breakout Single and Unforgettable Collaborations

SMILEZ’s debut single, “Head Shoulders,” showcased his dynamic style and garnered significant attention from fans and fellow emcees. The track’s infectious energy, accompanied by SMILEZ’s over-the-top all-yellow outfits, solidified his unique visual aesthetic. Building on his growing success, he embarked on a raucous European tour with the renowned artist 6ix9ine, forging a friendship and earning a coveted spot as the only independent artist featured on 6ix9ine’s album, “Tattletales,” alongside rap legends Nicki Minaj and Akon.

Global Recognition and Unleashing the RAGE

Since then, SMILEZ has graced stages worldwide, sharing the spotlight with acclaimed artists like Snoop Dogg, Trippie Redd, Wiz Khalifa, and JuiceWRLD. With the recent release of his first full-length album, “Ur in My World,” SMILEZ has firmly established his place in the RAGE space, captivating audiences with his powerful performances and fearless artistry.

“Coffee Queen”: A Fusion of Punk and Hip Hop

One standout track from “Ur in My World” is “Coffee Queen,” where SMILEZ channels his punk influences into a fusion with hip-hop. The song features hardcore punk power chords layered over a trap beat, delivering a raw and unfiltered expression of his tumultuous relationship. SMILEZ’s fierce and vulnerable lyrics explore the longing for control in a nightmarish dynamic that keeps him endlessly drawn back. The track’s intensity is palpable, igniting a head-banging, rageful catharsis for listeners.

Experience the World of SMILEZ in the “Coffee Queen” Music Video

Step into SMILEZ’s world with the captivating music video for “Coffee Queen.” Opening with SMILEZ emerging from a phone booth into a desert landscape, the visuals perfectly embody the emotional distance and scarcity within his relationship. Throughout the video, glimpses of his coffee queen, dressed in vibrant orange to complement his ever-present yellow glow, offer a contrasting yet evasive presence. As SMILEZ navigates this complex connection, one thing is certain—his blazing star power is here to stay.

SMILEZ weighed in for The Hype Magazine on the new music video, inspirational, and his process

SMILEZ

SMILEZ

The music video for “Coffee Queen” contains beautiful and colorful cinematic visuals. What inspired the visuals for this music video?

I keep all of my videos close to the same color code: yellow and bright colors. I’m a big Andy Warhol fan. I don’t know I just like things bright.

Who are some of your biggest musical inspirations?

Nirvana, Drake, Lil Uzi Vert, The Strokes.

What is the story behind “Coffee Queen”?

It’s kind of a love song, first meeting a girl, etc. I like exploring the early stages of relationships. I love coffee, too, so I wanted to do an interesting play on words.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to your younger self?

Just do what you want, fuck the trends, and fuck the business

What was your favorite part about filming the “Coffee Queen” music video?

I loved going out to Joshua Tree to film. It’s the first time I’ve made a music video in the desert, so that whole experience was great.

How has your music evolved since you first started making music?

It’s more of a full picture now; I don’t try to hide any parts of myself.

What is your favorite part about being able to combine the genres of punk and hip hop in your music?

Coming up with an interesting mix of both genres; every song has certain elements, and it’s fun to mix and match things, to come up with something new.

What can you tell fans about the future of Smilez?

More projects, and more videos.

SMILEZ

Stay Connected with SMILEZ

To stay updated on SMILEZ’s latest releases and upcoming projects, follow him on social media:

Website: smilez.com
Facebook: SMILEZ
Twitter: @smilezsmilezzz
Instagram: @smilez
TikTok: @smilez

 


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About the Author

Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.


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