With his unmistakable flow and a catalogue of genre-defying tunes behind him, Cardiff’s Mace The Great delivers another explosive single in the form of 'Wicked & Bad,' a track that continues to diversify and alter the narrative of Welsh music.

The drill-inspired single is a dark and ominous addition to Mace's discography, serving up a storm with heavy 808s and signature syncopated percussion synonymous with the genre. Lyrically, he’s full of confidence fusing a patois-inspired hook with wheel-up worthy, braggadocious bars such as “I got booked for support and I shut down more than the headline”—Mace knows he’s destined for greatness.

Speaking of his release, he states, "this is the perfect follow-up single from ‘Loyalty’; it's completely different and heavily influenced by my Jamaican roots. I want people to literally feel big energy as soon as they hear it!”

Mace The Great has been breaking new ground for Welsh rap. Endorsements from his home country go right to the top, having been selected by the Welsh Government to perform at an industry showcase in New York on the same day that Wales face the USA in their first World Cup game since 1958. He was part of Size? and Mixtape Madness’ debut Cardiff cypher and took part in the BBC Documentary Wales: Music Nation presented by Huw Stephens, highlighting the bubbling local rap scene.

It’s clear that Mace’s presence is extending far beyond his hometown, proudly flying the flag and pushing forward one of the most exciting and vibrant music scenes in Wales.

Mace 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 was watching Smokey’s TV, SBTV F64’s and just getting inspired the spark was first seeing people like skepta, JME, Chip etc and seeing people around me who were sick mc’s. That’s what sparked it for me!

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

Stormzy, Skepta, Nippa & Knucks.

3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?

“SplottWorld” is a big project I’ve been working that’s gunna drop in the new year! 10+ tracks different bare different genres it’s mad!

4. How would you describe your sound?

Unapologetically Cardiff.

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

Before this year I never ever been to America and this year I got booked for SXSW in Texas and had two bookings in New York. When I deep it…my bars took me to America twice it’s mad!

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

Self belief, take constructive criticism, keep a good circle and solid team around you!

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

Luke RV, Marino, Celo and Niko all Welsh artist who are sick!

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

J Hus - Big Conspiracy
K Trap - The Last Whip
Kendrick Lamar - Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers
Skepta - All in

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

Go out for food
Chill with my son
Listen to music
Watch the football

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

Water
Sweets
My phone