Introducing Heir The Prophecy, a proficient rapper and songwriter hailing from West Los Angeles. With a genuine representation of his roots, he captivates audiences with his remarkable storytelling abilities over powerful beats. Inspired by the renowned West Coast emcees YG and Nipsey Hussle, Prophecy's artistic identity remains unwaveringly authentic. In 2021, Prophecy made waves with the release of two albums and two EPs, elevating his status as an artist to be closely followed. Throughout 2022, he devoted his time to honing his skills and gracing the stage with captivating performances. Following the success of his Star Power album, he embarked on a distinguished music tour across LA, sharing his melodic creations with the hip-hop world.
Photographed by 5amuehlpatrick
Take us back, do you recall the moment you told yourself "I'm going to make this my career" , describe that moment. What made you pursue this career?
For me it was the first time hearing myself on a track. The moment the song was played back I was locked in and felt like I could do this at the highest level.
How would you describe your artistic style?
I would just say it's authentic to who I am. I'm definitely very versatile but what drives me is making great music, something that moves people.
Mental health is important and the life of an artist has its ups and downs. What has been the hardest change in your life you had to go through and what helped you get through that time?
The hardest change for me was taking a look at the people who were around me and realizing that everyone isn’t meant to walk the whole journey with you and having to love people from a distance even though the original plan was to celebrate success with them.
Are there any specific artists or movements that have influenced your work?
Nipsey by far is the biggest influence! The biggest thing I took from him is keep going, don't quit you might just be one moment away from getting where you're trying to be.
If you had to title this chapter in your life, what would it be?
This chapter would be called “Faith” because that’s exactly where I am in life right now. Having Faith in myself and believing that if I keep putting out the work and continue to invest in myself God will put me exactly where I need to be.
When was the last time you did something for the first time?
That would probably have to be the beginning of 2023 when I made the decision to change my circle and change the type of energy I keep around me. That was also where I felt like I started to make real progress.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
The best advice I would say I've ever been given has to be to stay consistent and never let someone tell you what you can’t do or what you're capable of.
Has there ever been a time when you felt like giving up and starting a new path? What keeps you focused?
All the time, I think that’s common for people in the entertainment industry but what keeps me focused is knowing when I decided this is what I want to do it wasn’t just about me it was about creating generational wealth to inspire. Looking at where I came from and where I am now all I can think is it's only up from here.
What has been the most exciting thing that has happened to you recently?
I would have to say getting that confirmation email to attend the BET Awards. This year I'm in attendance and next year I'm on the stage!
In your opinion, whom do you consider to be a visionary? What about them do you admire most?
I would have to say Nipsey again. I watched a lot of his interviews and he told us from the beginning what his goal was and as a fan I got the opportunity to watch it play out. I mean who you know sells his project for $1000 and sells out. Then to turn around, take that and reinvest into black communities, bring people from all different sides of the city together under one cause he was a true visionary.
How do you show up for yourself? As in, what’s self-care look like for you?
Showing up for myself starts with being my biggest fan telling myself I'm great without needing or seeking validation. Loving myself being unapologetically me.
The past years have been life-changing. What's something new you've learned or discovered about yourself in the past 3 years? How have you applied that to your work?
I learned that I'm resilient, strategic and no longer considered humble. Everyday i wake up and keep going keep pushing that barrier my resilience is on display the way my brain is always working on new ways new ideas to brand myself without compromising who i am just shows how calculated i am and as far as no longer considering myself as humble i learned this from an interview by J Brock on Clap It Up La where he interviewed East Side K-Boy and he said “Look up the definition of humble it's wack” so i did and the definition is “Having or showing a modest or low estimate of one's own importance” and i agree with East Side K-Boy it's definitely wack.
What was the inspiration for your new project? Can you tell us more about the meaning behind the music?
The Project I'm currently working on is called “Comes With Envy” the name stems from seeing how people really don't want to see you win and when you are either acting differently or become a target. That's why "Spend Alot' is the lead song of this project because its saying time is the most expensive luxury, stop being afraid to spend money and live a little let the haters hate.
Describe the creative process. When did you know you had the final cut?
My creative process starts with not listening to any music. It helps me avoid taking inspiration from anything I've been listening to and allows me to start with a blank canvas which is why my music is so authentic to me. Now knowing when it's ready starts with playing it for my team and making sure when people hear it they are moved in some kind of way whether it makes you happy, sad or just want to dance. That's when I know it's ready.
What do you feel has been your biggest growth as an artist?
I would have to say taking constructive criticism and applying it. Dj Hed once told me that people have to believe what you're saying so think about the message of the song and put that passion behind it to make them feel it.
Following your dreams comes with many ups and downs. What would say is the hardest thing about following your dreams?
The hardest part about following my dream is giving up. There were so many times I felt like letting go but I came too far to give up. This is exactly what I'm meant to be doing.
In your opinion, what do you think is not fair about today's music industry?
I just disagree with how it's not about the music anymore. I feel like good music gets lost in the shuffle behind what's viral which is usually people exploiting themselves for clout.
How do you hope your artwork resonates with viewers or impacts the world?
I want people to feel like they can make any dream a reality. There was a point in my life where I was at the very bottom. My mom and sister were homeless and I remember seeing my mom cry but she never gave up. She kept going, got a job, became manager, got us a place, and spoiled us. That always stuck with me. It showed me you can do anything if you believe in yourself.
What's next for you artistically?
Right now I'm just focused on building relationships and working with more artists. I have a few more singles I plan to drop between now and September then the Comes With Envy project.
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