Stepping into spring with an ice cold freestyle and some moody visuals to go along with it, Gi Major holds nothing back in her newest release, “Like A Lion.” The tune​ ​comes as a perfect follow-up to her debut album,​ ​MAJOR MOVES​, but this time with heavier bars, wittier puns, and a UK bass production from Birmingham’s own, Casey Orange, to back it.

Using her unique sound to seamlessly (and strategically) create an international foundation, Gi has had much success integrating into the UK music scene over the past few years. Famed music publication ​EARMILK​ describes Gi as an artist who “​has taken bold steps in blending traditional New York rap sensibilities with the vibrant futurism of UK hip-hop styles,’’ an approach she again executes with ease on “Like A Lion.”

Gi sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

I'm a 90's kid through and through and I definitely have a deep seeded love for anything that was birthed during that time period. When I was young I would sit and watch music videos for hours trying to emulate my favourite artists and learning about the culture. Missy Elliott's vision, Eminem's storytelling, Aaliyah's style, Lauryn Hill's soul...these artists are the essence of authenticity and it was their ability to communicate their deepest emotions to the world that made me want to be a part of that. I wanted to communicate in the same way. That's when I started writing.

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

Westside Boogie has been a major influence to me as of late. I'm the type to hyperfocus on one artist at a time and really dig into their collection. That usually does it for me. He's brought the softer side back to Gi Major and inspired me to remember my hip-hop roots even when I've been pushing my grime sound lately. It even comes down to his collaboration choices. I want to be as dynamic as him, always. Another major inspiration for me is FLOHIO. She is wildly talented and quite possibly one of the hardest out of the UK right now. I think I would do damage on a track with her if given the opportunity. Everything about her energy is authentic and I respect it. Ghetts is an absolute madman. His new album seriously charged me up in regards to his storytelling abilities and the way he packages and delivers his bars so effortlessly. I really relate to his energy on a track and the way he attacks the beat. Last but not least, THE BUTCHER. Benny the Butcher is a godsend for hip-hop. I really don't even know where to start with him but his music changed my entire year in 2020. His style is nostalgic, but his bars and wordplay are unparalleled no matter what era you're from. It would be a dream to work with any of these artists and I plan to make that a reality.

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

Honestly, I didn't see the pandemic as much of a roadblock, but moreso as a detour that brought me closer to who I am and my ability to execute despite the situation. I relocated back to Massachusetts to be with family during the first half of the pandemic and brought my recording setup with me to finalize the final 4 tracks of my album. This was the first time I didn't rely on a sound engineer to get my raw vocals down and it was really freeing. That independence is what pushed me to make the move to London. In September I moved to the UK for the release of my grime album, MAJOR MOVES. The pandemic and the self-reflection that came from it was a major catalyst towards these decisions. I'd be lying if I said that there weren't difficult times when I had to ask myself some seriously hard questions during that time period, but I asked the questions, got my answers, and made adjustments accordingly.

4. How would you describe your sound?

Playful but aggressive, uplifting but dark, soulful but grounded. I mainly just try to keep it honest. I think that my music is relatable to people because I speak on topics and emotions that I feel we all go through and try to help other people tell their stories by telling mine. I want people to see the power that comes with vulnerability. I like to play on listeners' emotions by keeping the content brutally honest, but being sure to add some comedic relief to my wordplay that energizes people. Production wise, I choose beats that are definitely bass heavy and a bit left-of-center, but it works because I'm a bit left-of-center and I like it like that.

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

Probably quitting my job and moving to London this past September. That was a decision I made and executed on my own and it was the first time in my career that I gave myself the opportunity to be a full-time artist after years of balancing both. It was more than being a full-time artist. I relocated to another country for my love of music, and I'm proud of myself for that type of commitment and dedication. I basically used all of my savings to make that trip happen, but what I lost in money, I gained in confidence and experience.

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

This game is a long-game. It takes time, and dedication, and experiences, and mistakes in order to grow. Be sure to take care of your mental and physical health as you try to navigate a path that is solely designed for you. It's going to be hard at times because in art there's no direct path or specific steps you can take to achieve your dreams...you have to design your own and adapt that design as you go. The music game will pull you in so many directions but a strong mind will get you through anything. I am grateful for being able to experience life through this lens and for the lifelong friends i've made from the industry and lifestyle that comes along with it. That lifestyle also has a dark-side though. So work hard, play smart, and surround yourself with GOOD people.

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

I'm gonna shout out my boy Meechy718 out of Brooklyn. He's really setting the pace out here and doin’ things in his style. Even though he embodies New York hip-hop, he doesn't really sound like anybody else and his live performance is A1. I would definitely peep 'Check' or his new tune 'Tap Out.' Also, Regothereshego out of Philly. Another stand out artist with a voice i've never really heard before. Her music is kind've like if Amy Lee (evanescence) sang over otherworldly trap beats. It's pretty wild. I hope she doesn't mind that description haha. Definitely check out 'Pray For You' ... that song / album blew my mind and made me a lifelong fan.

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

The last 3 albums I gave a really thorough listen to and was seriously moved by were Benny the Butcher's "Burden of Proof, "FLOHIO's "No Panic No Pain," and i'm stillllll out here rinsing Ghetts "Conflict of Interest." That one's going down in history.

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

I like to chill with my people, at the same time I like to be alone just as much. Meditation and exercise are big parts of my life and help to keep me grounded. I've always been competitive, so I love sports. I began boxing while in London and I'll be joining a new gym now that I'm back in NYC. I also just joined a basketball league with my best friend called 'Downtown Girls Basketball.' It's awesome getting to play again because I haven't since high school and basketball has always been a major part of my life. It's where I learned to pivot and I now apply that adaptability to life. I'm also huge on documentaries and deep diving into the internet for information.

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

Tea, Incense and Focus - Please don't distract me.

“Like A Lion” is available now on all major streaming platforms.