ZZ The Pharaoh - 10 Questions + Years (official Video)

Manchester based hip-hop artist ZZ The Pharaoh releases the visuals for ‘Years’ - the first single from his forthcoming debut album.

Following the release of four EPs under his previous alias Zz, The Slept On, ZZ will release his first album ‘The Conception Drive’ in April 2021.

The track ‘Years' was inspired by the relief that was met with 2020 coming to an end - “It’s really been a mad year but definitely glad here” - as well as an expression of his achievements and accomplishments over the course of the year. From securing a partnership with ASOS for his lifestyle clothing brand usedtotherain. to curating the first hip-hop show since lockdown in the rainy city and selling out his second headline show.

ZZ The Pharaoh sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me how it all began? What sparked my love for music

From a young age I was exposed to a lot of different genres. My Dad played a lot of rock, hip hop, blues and reggae, whilst my Mom played a lot of RnB, soul and funk. Hearing artists from Eric Clapton, to Snoop Dogg to Mariah Carey was definitely a great start.

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

Some artists that influence me now have to be; Soulja Boy, Action Bronson, Pierre Bourne, Earl Sweatshirt, Eminem and a producer named Wun Two. They’re all based Stateside, however, as I branch out more I’d love to work with them in future. One artist I wish I could’ve worked with was Nate Dogg. Icon RIP. From the UK I’d like to work with Little Simz, Chip, AJ Tracey, Headie One or M Huncho. I feel like they’re at the top of the UK scene and have the most to offer lyrically, for me anyway. I like versatility and all of these artists have shown that.

3. What are some of the problems you have faced making and releasing the music during the coronavirus pandemic?

I luckily haven’t had any problems releasing music since the pandemic started but that’s because it’s all online, so if the machine works I can too. I actually only released one single last year under my previous alias, but I was pretty active throughout the year mainly setting the foundations for my new name and debut album, which will be dropping this spring. It was difficult to organise studio sessions with other producers and artists because of social distancing and restrictions, this slowed down collaborations as sending music back and forth is a bit long to me. I’d rather be in the studio getting a vibe from the other artist and knowing exactly how to tackle the song.

4. How would you describe your sound?

Nas mixed with Slim Shady and a sprinkle of Justin Timberlake.

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

Selling out my second headline show in Manchester and getting to perform in September 2020. It’s something I didn’t think would be possible with all the restrictions last year so I was really happy I got the opportunity to do that.

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Don’t be afraid to learn new information. Work with people you can trust and be yourself.

7. Are there any artists on your radar at the moment that we should check out?

IMVSOGIE, A.G, Kahreign and Renee Stormz.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

Wun Two – Two Medicine Lake, Soulja Boy - Soulja World, Action Bronson - Only for Dolphins.

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

I like to make clothes, I have a lifestyle brand called usedtotherain which symbolises changing your surroundings and exploring. I also like to play UFC 4 and make people quit online haha.

10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?

A big bottle of Evian, three rings on my fingers and a focused mind.