Fast-rising US rapper 10k Kobee has dropped his latest single, “Without My Tool”. Hailing from Chicago, 10k Kobee has been going from strength to strength since bursting on the scene a couple of years ago. Previous release “Vlone” was streamed over a million times, and the independent rapper looks set to have his biggest release yet with “Without My Tool”, which has already begun generating huge buzz and reactions online. The track arrives alongside an equally impressive music video produced by No More Heroes.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with 10k Kobee about the latest release, adapting during lock downs, technology and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and how do You describe your style of music?
I’m from the southside of Chicago (Auburn Gresham). I generate different styles of music so it can be described as being unique and versatile. Chicago is known for drill but I wouldn’t categorize myself as a drill rapper at all. I am an artist.
How did you get here? As in, what inspired or motivated you to take on this journey through music and the music biz?
What inspired and motivated me to take on this journey through music and the business was actually having a dream and planning to make the world a more superior place. With music being my passion, I know it helps people cope with things going on in their life. Being a part of poor communities, not having access to a lot of things and barely having opportunities forced me to expose my talents to help make a greater change for me and my family. I was prepared mentally and stood ready for any obstacle that came my way.
How does your latest project compare/contrast with your previous release(s)? Were you setting out to accomplish anything specific, follow a specific theme, or explore different styles of creation?
My latest major project “Without My Tool” compares to my previous major release “VLONE” because they both showcase my creativity as an artist. My visuals are part of my creative process. With the video for “Without My Tool”, I really wanted to do something out of the box visual wise but still give my fanbase a sense of familiarity with the energetic and fun party tracks that I do…but I’m not a one-dimensional artist, and I like trying new sounds to get genuine feedback from all of my fans and supporters. The main goal overall is to grasp attention from different audiences. It’s a known fact that everyone doesn’t like the same type of music, so I tested the market with my smaller releases such as the “Xanny Pop”, “Alarm Me” and “Talkin 2 Me” records as well to see if it’s a lane I should further explore when it comes time to do a larger release.
Name the biggest challenge you faced as a creative during these unprecedented? How did you adapt? How have you kept the creative fires burning during all this?
The biggest challenge I faced and still do as a creator is being different from other artists. I tend to show several different styles and have a variety of flows to create new music, meaning I don’t just stick to one sound. Showing versatility without having a specific sound has its pros and cons, but it was easy for me to adapt and keep my candle lit because everything I put in front of the people came back with 10x more positive results than negative ones. Even though I couldn’t care less what people have to say and think about me, it’s a must that I keep my fans and supporters excited for new music.
What was the last song you listened to?
The last song I listened to was my song, 10k Kobee – “Solo Act”, which is an unreleased song I’ll be dropping real soon.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? 8-tracks? Cassettes? CDs? MP3s? Streaming platforms?
Everyone knows that this is a new era, which has changed a lot over time when it comes to music and the industry. So, with that being said, I’ll have to go with MP3s and streaming platforms. (CDs are cool depending on the reason for having them!)
Where is the best place to connect with you and follow your journey?
The best way to connect with me is on all of my social sites and my music on all streaming platforms…
Follow me on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Facebook and search “10k Kobee” on all streaming platforms.
I really appreciate Your time. Anything else before we sign off?
Equally important, it’s safe to mention that I’m also an actor. It actually feels good to be able to live in both worlds and have success in both career choices, so stay tuned and be ready to see and hear about 10k Kobee from all over. I will become a legend MARK MY WORDS!