Knap - Leaving The Endz (Official Video) + 10 Questions

UK based hip-hop and grime star Knap returns with his latest single ‘Leaving The Endz’.

After releasing his debut Mixtape ‘Just Getting Started’ in 2017, Knap has shown no signs of slowing down, releasing an impressive flurry of singles across 2018, as well as a music video for his grime track ‘Better Run’, and a prolific freestyle on the esteemed ‘BL@CKBOX’ YouTube Channel.

Using his music as a way to say what words cannot, ‘Leaving The Endz’ serves as an ode to all those trying to build a better life for themselves by any means necessary, and draws on Knap’s real-life experiences of growing up in the gritty streets of South-London. In his own words: “Everything I say in my projects songs is 100 percent real. When I wrote the song, I was feeling frustrated, stuck on previous situations, struggling for money, and hanging out with the wrong people. I just realised that I don’t want this life anymore. I am a fighter. I am a warrior. I want to succeed and move to a better place. My goal is to inspire people to overcome any obstacles and follow their dreams''. His authentic talent has not gone unnoticed; as well as having two of his tracks included on digital music platform Link Up TV, he has also had a feature in the popular GRM Daily. Knap continued this winning streak throughout 2020 and 2021, releasing even more freestyles, visuals and remixes, going from strength to strength and further honing his already considerable talents in the process.

Taking influence from a prolific roster of rap artists, including Kano, Wretch 32 and Cadet to name a few, Knap flexes his lyrical prowess and versatility with ease, calling out his critics and naysayers, with a visceral: “Tryna release my pain, this is the thing that keeps me sane, it's got me pumped up I can feel it in my veins, see me and them ain’t the same.”

Knap 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 always into music since I can remember. I was basically born into music. I love all sorts of genres depending on the songs but I loved listening to rap music. When I first paid attention to lyrics etc I got involved in music and when the Grime scene came, that’s when I first started to write lyrics of my own.

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

The artists that influenced and inspired me still influence me are Kano, Wretch 32, Krept & Konan, and Ghetts. Who I would want to work with I am not so sure as I am just focusing on  my own craft right now but there is a selection of artists that I would love to work with in the future.

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

I have a few singles coming up and I might drop a quick EP just to keep the fans going. That's all I can say for now but I have many more to come.

4. How would you describe your sound?

I would say my sound is unique and versatile.

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

My proudest moment to date is a hard one right now because I have a couple now. So far I would say getting radio play of my new single ‘Leaving the Endz’ in America.

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

While I am still learning myself, my advice to anyone trying to get into this music game is just stick to your sound whatever it may be. Whether you sing, rap, or whatever genre it may be, just do you and being consistent is key. Keeping your name out there as much as possible because people seem to forget you if you don't keep the music going. Keep screaming and throwing your name in their faces. Make sure you're here to stay basically.

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

There are a few artists on the radar, some talented artists. But watch out for me, Knap, I have loads of projects coming.

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

The tracks I have on heavy rotation are myself really. Not being big headed but that's what I am listening to at the moment as I am in my zone and fully focused. I have played Drake, Popcaan, Giggs, and a few upcoming artists but 95% of the time I play my own music.

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

What I like to do when not making music is making music. This is my life. I used to do taekwondo which was what I loved doing other than music. I was thinking of getting back into martial arts.

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

The three things I can't live without when I am in the studio are good vibes, my engineer, and beats to do my lyrics on.