52Kings is a recording artist, songwriter, record producer, fashion designer, and entrepreneur from Seattle, Washington. For the past five years, he has been hitting fans with his own brand of moody, dreamy hip-hop that delivers smooth production and inventive beats.
We couldn’t wait to sit down and ask him some questions about how his new album, In Remembrance to Reperations came about, how the pandemic has informed his creativity, and get some insight on his sonic approach. Enjoy our official and exclusive interview with 52Kings
52Kings Interview With Respect My Region
RMR: What’s good man, the new album dropped. I know you produce and perform, how much of the production did you take on this project?
52Kings: I’ve been working on this project on and off throughout the year. My team and I went through some ups and down this year with Covid 19, as well as my brother Malcom Rebel passing, but we got through it together and stayed positive, productive, and focused.
RMR: There are lots of directions on this project, but a few recurring themes. I get feelings that the music and tonality was very much inspired by this year. From the image on the cover (wearing a mask) to the vibe I get from the music. Is that true, and what inspired the sounds on In Remembrance To Reperations?
52Kings: My instrumentals are my way of venting. I would say majority of my music is created from emotions and experience . Also trusting the artistic direction of my videographer, Jordan McGrath, really helped give the viewers and listeners a unique experience. If you haven’t got a chance to do so, check out the official visuals for “Into the Pines”, a hit single off of my new project.
RMR: We can’t speak in 2020 without speaking on 2020. How has this year impacted not only your career, but also your outlet as a performing artist – what has it done for your creative process?
52Kings: This year has really made my creative process a little more solid and intentional. It’s given me time to really put out quality music. Prior to the release of my latest project, I released a single a week. Only one of the singles made it onto the project.
RMR: My favorite records are Touchdown, Ok OK, and The Other Option. All of these joints have a different feeling but clearly blend. What drives you to cultivate a wide palette of sounds as opposed to staying in a more singular lane?
52Kings: I’m glad you liked those songs. Being a producer of multiple genres of music took a toll in the cultivation process. At the end of the day, I don’t consider my self a rapper. I see myself as an artist of several different mediums.
Be sure to check out In Remembrance to Reperations and keep an eye out for future releases from 52kings.
