Graft - 10 Questions + You Know What (Official Video)

Creating his lane and paving paths for his predecessors, Graft is one of the UK's most promising emerging young talents bound to make an impact through his core felt music and unique artistry.

Leeds born and of Caribbean heritage, 21-year-old Graft raps beyond his years explaining the many successes he has achieved so early in his career. Graft was crowned the winner of The Rap Game UK 2020 by UK Rap royalty Krept and Konan and BBC 1xtra’s Head of Music DJ Target. Winning the MOBO Unsung Award 2018 was another triumphant moment thus far. In the same year, Graft was awarded ‘Best Upcoming Artist’ at The Yorkshire Entertainment Awards, and a year later he would aggrandize to ‘Best Male Artist’ at the same ceremony. The many awards Graft carries under his belt are true depictions of his undeniable talent and work ethic, including the Arts and Culture Award he was presented with at the 2019 Legacy Awards at the Leeds Town Hall.

Graft 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?

All began when I was 14, started writing lyrics in my bedroom about things going on in the world, both positive and negative. Writing about my goals, my aspirations, girls and being creative. Testing myself. My upbringing is what truly sparked my love for music, with my parents and the music they listened to. They introduced me to Lover’s Rock, Reggae, Rap, Hip Hop, Rnb. The music I was listening to was Grime and garage which sparked my love for music further.

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

Dave, Potter Payper, Children of Zeus and Chip. They are the 4 that spring to mind. I love their conscious vibe, meaningful lyrics and versatility.

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

None really, making music and recording music has been fine, I have my own home set up. Never stopped me from making music.

4. How would you describe your sound?

Versatile, mindful, energetic, unique, thoughtful and meaningful. Not seen often, very rare.

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

Wining the rap game. The reason I say that is because I’ve seen first-hand how proud it’s made my Mum, my family and the people I love. Seeing how proud they are is my proudest moment.

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

Be unique, be yourself, don’t follow the trends because waves always subside. Make the music you want to make because that’s going to be timeless and stand out from the rest.

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

Artist from Leeds called D5, Cole LC, Temz and Mya Craig.

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

Children of Zeus – Their latest album ‘Balance’ and their previous album ‘Travel Light’

Santan Dave – ‘We’re All Alone In This Together’

Snoh Aalegra – ‘TEMPORARY HIGHS IN VIOLET SKIES’

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

Spending time with family with and friends and I really like exercising, playing a lot of football. Good food, meditating and long walks.

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

Water, need to stay hydrated always, my phone as that’s where I write my lyrics and that is all.