Following on from a string of impactful offerings these last few years, Dublin-based rapper Beano recently delivered his eagerly-awaited debut album 'Unsolicited Beef'.
Featuring a wave of previously shared outings, this new eleven-track collection makes for an incredibly immersive listen from start to finish. Brimming with bouncing energy perfectly set to his stellar flow throughout, 'Unsolicited Beef' continues his ascent as one of the more exciting names doing the rounds right now.
So with the new LP available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and influences over the years.
What was the first band or artist you fell in love with?
This would have to be Eminem. Definitely the person who helped spawn my love for hip-hop the most. When I was growing up his music fascinated me. The rawness he was showcasing at the time with his trademark unapologetic style really captured my imagination. It’s definitely had a major influence on my chosen style too. I still have his older stuff in heavy rotation on my playlist to this day.
What has been your primary inspiration in writing music?
My primary inspiration for writing music has really been just wanting to be involved in hip-hop. I’ve been obsessed with it since I was a kid and always wanted to be able to play my part. I have had an affinity with the English language from a young age and a natural talent for story writing. This combined with my love for the genre helps provide a constant inspiration for my music writing. It’s something that I can never imagine wilting.
What is a song you wish you had written yourself?
Big L - Casualties Of A Dice Game. One of my favorite songs of all time. Being a Big L fanatic this was one of the first pieces of his work that I gravitated towards. The storytelling from start to finish is unmatched. The way he effortlessly paints a scene with some of the most hair-raising lines is something which I've always admired. The raw energy and depiction is something that I definitely try to replicate myself.
If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?
This would have to be the launch party for my debut album ‘Unsolicited Beef’ last Sunday 5/5/24. This was my favorite gig I’ve played by some distance. The turnout and support on the night was something I’ve always wanted. The energy in the room was unbelievable and the love I received for my debut album is something that I can’t thank the supporters for enough and that I won’t forget any time soon.
Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?
The artist I would love to have shared a stage with the most would have to be DMX. Even though he has passed, I can’t think of a living artist I would rather have the pleasure of performing alongside. DMX was and still is a massive inspiration to me. The raw emotion and unwavering energy he gave to the audience every time he performed is something that I never saw before and haven’t seen since. I believe every artist whether hip-hop or otherwise, can take some tips from a DMX stage show.
And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?
I would love to collaborate with Datkid. The High Focus Rapper is one of my most played artists for some time now. I love his raw and gritty approach to music. He adds a distinct and unmistakable sound to every track he puts his stamp on. I think we’d complement each other well and it’s definitely something I'm going to look into.
Where do you see yourself in five years time?
In 5 years time I envision myself in a completely different space to the one I'm in now. I believe the fanbase which is already growing at an impressive rate, will have multiplied beyond recognition. I will have dropped multiple albums every year between now and then. A constant supply of limited edition merch and vinyl drops will be provided to dedicated supporters. I want to have crossed over to other countries in Europe and to have my music heard in America and beyond. I really want to push this whole thing beyond any current limit and show that hip-hop artists from Ireland can go global. I believe my current Label ‘Outstraight Records’ will become the biggest hip-hop label that Ireland has ever seen. I believe in five years time, all of the work I put in will speak for itself.
Beano's debut album 'Unsolicited Beef' is out now. Listen to it below.
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