Introducing Keekz, a Manchester based rapper giving the NW scene and further afield a consistent kicking with his sophisticated and hard-hitting lyricism. Squarely focussed on real life and the grit that comes with it, Keekz fires on all cylinders in his latest release (and visuals) Pray For Me (feat 88ight). We had the pleasure of catching up with the man himself for a quick-fire 10Qs…

1. Contestant, what’s your name, chosen craft and where are you based?

My name’s Keekz and I’m a rap artist from Manchester.

2. How would you describe your sound?

Generally I tend to create UK rap music with a gritty sound, exploring and addressing real life topics, however I am also very versatile and can adapt to different genres and tempos as displayed in my new release Pray For Me.

3. Who/what do you consider to be the biggest influence on your music?

My earliest music influences started from listening to 2Pac in my household growing up, and then I began listening to music with artists such as Chipmunk, Shifty and many others. However, in terms of the music I am current releasing, my biggest influences are artists such as Potter Payper, Mover various artists who uphold the ‘real rap’ flag for the music scene.

4. What’s the proudest moment to date for you as an artist?

My proudest moment up to date is opening up for The Game concert on his 1992 Block Wars tour.

5. Do you have any advice for our readers who maybe trying to play the mad game of music?

The most vital advice I would give to a reader is that if you are trying to become successful in the music industry, consistency is key, and never be afraid to experiment and use trial and error to find your formula and sound that your target audience favour. Have fun!

6. Name 3 people you would love to work with and why?

Potter Payper, due to the fact that he heavily influences my music and his success with the type of music he makes is an inspiration to myself as an artist.

Mozzy, as I listen to him on a day to day basis and respect his craft.

J Hus, down to the fact that I personally believe he is one of the greatest artists coming out of the UK scene and is a good representation of UK music.

7. What have you got planned for the not so distant future?

Currently I have singles and videos scheduled for release which is gonna lead up to a mixtape, which I plan to drop in mid/end of December.

8. What’s the album you’ve played more than any other?

J Hus Big Conspiracy

9. What’s the best concert you’ve been to and where was it?

The best concert I have attended [as a punter] was The Game concert as I don’t go to many. As a performer it was the Geko concert.

10. Name three things you can’t live without?

Music, family and Sov (Video Director).

Be sure to follow Keekz for the latest updates and releases. Shout out to A6 Offy and TwoReal Records!