Rhyme Junkie
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Massachusetts rapper Kye Nathaniel speaks about hip-hop, his favourite artists and his Grammy-nominated father

By Peter Johnstone

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Kye Nathaniel hails from New Bedford, Massachusetts. We caught up with him to talk about is favourite artists and his three-time Grammy-nominated father.

The most recent release from Kye Nathaniel, “Pure Meditation” is a track that shows his undeniable talent. It also has an awesome video in which Kye brings the world to his wonderland.

His sound reminds me of a mix between Lupe Fiasco and Wale, which suggests that he could have a bright future in the game. I had the great privilege of speaking to Kye about all things hip-hop.

Rhyme Junkie: Who were your rap and hip-hop (or any musical) influences growing up?  

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Kye Nathaniel: I have so many but the artist who had the biggest impact on me would probably be Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco, Kid Cudi, & Pharrell.

All four of them had a huge influence on me when it comes to music. All four of these dudes weren’t the “norm” when it came to hip-hop if we’re talking about when they first came out.

Especially content wise, no one was making the type of music they were making. Nor were they speaking about what they were and when I was growing up.

They made me feel like you didn’t have to fit a mold musically or as a black male. You can honestly do whatever you want.

Keep in mind all of the artists that were out at this time. They were like cool nerds and I mean that in the best way possible. If we didn’t have them, I don’t think you’d see a lot of artists that we have today.

Rhyme Junkie: When did you decide to go for it and become an emcee and what did your family think?  

Kye Nathaniel: I come from a musical family so I’ve always been into music. My father, Armsted Christian, was a Jazz musician.

During his career, he had been nominated three times for a Grammy. So when it comes to my family, no one thought it was weird or anything. I’d say they were more surprised by my skill level.

Rhyme Junkie: Who is the rapper you would like to work with most? Dead or alive?

Kye Nathaniel: I’d probably have to say, Childish Gambino. He’s pretty much my favorite person that I’ve never met haha.

My father, Armsted Christian, was a Jazz musician. During his career, he had been nominated 3 times for a Grammy.

I love his music and think he’s a brilliant dude. I’m really hands-on when it comes to my stuff, from my music and my videos all the way down to the cover art I create.

I feel as though he is as well, being a writer, musician, actor etc. He’s creative overall and I think I could learn a lot from him. As well as create something really dope.

Rhyme Junkie: What has been your best experience in the rap/hip-hop music industry to date? 

Kye Nathaniel: I’d have to say meeting and speaking with Wyclef Jean. It all started with a phone call about my music and where he sees me being in hip hop. As well as what he sees me being in hip hop.

It all started with a phone call about my music and where he sees me being in hip hop. As well as what he sees me being in hip hop.

Definitely, an amazing feeling to have someone you’ve listened to your whole life think you’re dope. I also noticed a change in my music for the better from being in the studio with him. From how I layer my music to my writing process as a whole.

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From how I layer my music to my writing process as a whole.

Rhyme Junkie: Who is your favorite current artist? 

Kye Nathaniel: Anderson .Paak I think he’s an incredibly talented artist. I’ve yet to hear anything by him or with him that I don’t like.

His album Malibu was amazing. If you haven’t heard it I definitely would advise you to check it out.

Rhyme Junkie: Tell us a fun fact about Kye Nathaniel?  

Kye Nathaniel: I’m a really good cook. Don’t tell anyone.