We stay putting you on to new talent and breakthrough artists who will truly make an impact on the state of the music industry. Today we feature rapper and visionary, Erick Rush.
Erick Rushubirwa, better known by his moniker Erick Rush, is a rapper who was born in Der es Salaam in Tanzania. Since his birth, the rapper has been on the road, first within Tanzania and then later immigrating to the United States.
He began getting into music when he saw a video by Kriss Kross called Jump when he was 7 years old. He then cultivated his sound by listening to rappers such as Tupac and Nas to name a few. In 2012, after 1 Debut Mixtape and 2 failed attempts at college, he was at a crossroad in his life when an opportunity arose for him to study at UKZN in Durban, South Africa. He saw this as a chance to go clear his mind and train himself in the field he loves most, music and media.
Erick thrived in SA releasing his anticipated second Mixtape, OE & Clear Eyes, receiving high praises throughout Canada and South Africa. The project caught the ear of FreeWorld Music’s Zyne Marcus, who was immediately captivated by the project and began managing the artist. The mixtape caught the attention of Khuli Chana who was so impressed with the youngster, he began mentoring him and gave him pointers on what it takes to make it into the industry.
He also made it as one of the Top Ten Finalists on TRACE Televisions first ever Trace Stars competition. In 2015, Rush participated in the Vuzu hip hop competituion, The Hustle but was eliminated even though he was tipped as one of the strongest contestant to win the competition.
Above all was, he got the chance to show his skill to the Legendary Wyclef Jean who immediately saw the future in the young rapper. Wyclef Jean praised Rush’s rhyme style and poetry and commented on the rapper’s ability to tell a story: “You paint that picture, and it’s clear, I see exactly whats going on.”
He caught our attention when we heard him on Nasty C’s highly acclaimed album, Bad Hair and then came Swoosh and Hold It Down and their equally fresh videos. We honestly cannot wait to hear more from him. His new project, New Age Voyage, is set to drop really soon. We can’t wait.
Link up with him on Twitter and the Gram. Also listen to more of his music on Soundcloud.
Take a look at the video for Hold It Down below.
