Klazik, an artist whose lyrical prowess has already garnered significant acclaim, is on the brink of releasing his latest single, “Get to You,” on September 6th. Known for his profound and emotionally resonant lyrics, Klazik’s journey from Cleveland, Ohio, to Des Moines, Iowa, has been marked by both hard work and remarkable achievements. With accolades including the Iowa Music Award for Best Performance in 2022 and Lyricist of the Year in 2023, Klazik has firmly established himself as a formidable talent in the music industry.
In 2024 alone, Klazik has been making waves with an impressive lineup of performances, from headlining the Media Matters Soundstage at SXSW to opening for DJ Luke Nasty and performing at a halftime show for an Arena Football game in Cedar Rapids. His recent singles, such as “Poker Chips,” and collaborations with notable artists like CF KAINE and Tone Da Boss, further showcase his dynamic range and dedication to his craft. Each project he releases adds a new layer to his evolving musical narrative.
As Klazik prepares to unveil “Get to You,” we caught up with him to delve into the creative process behind the track, his inspirations, and what fans can expect next. Here’s a glimpse into our conversation with the rising star as he shares insights into his latest work and his journey so far.
Interview with Klazik
Urban$ound Team: Who were the first rappers you listened to growing up?
Klazik: I’m from a different era, so DMX’s first album was a big deal for me. I was also heavily influenced by Biggie; “One More Chance” is one of my all-time favorites. I’ve always had a preference for clever, lyrical rap—Busta Rhymes, Bone Thugs, Mase were all big for me. Their styles shaped my approach to writing and performing.
Urban$ound Team: How do you think your hometown or upbringing has influenced your sound and lyrics?
Klazik: Cleveland is a unique melting pot of influences, given its location. It’s part of the Midwest but borders regions with distinct cultures—East Coast, South, and even a bit of Canada. Growing up, the presence of dope boys and East Coast rap dominated the scene. That environment pushed me to craft music that could fit into that landscape while reflecting the diverse cultural backdrop of my city.
Urban$ound Team: Can you name a particular song or album that changed your perspective on hip-hop?
Klazik: Biggie’s “One More Chance (Remix)” was a game-changer for me. The line “heart throb never, black and ugly as ever… however” really hit me hard. It made me realize that even when you’re facing obstacles, you can still push through and succeed. Another eye-opener was Jeezy’s “And The What.” It showed me how impactful simple, straightforward music could be, which broadened my view on what hip-hop could achieve.
Urban$ound Team: What’s your favorite track from your own discography, and what makes it stand out to you?
Klazik: I have different favorites based on the theme of the song. “Whackflowphobic” stands out for its lyrical depth, “Meant for Me” for its introspective nature, and “Never Lose” for its motivational vibe. Each track represents a different facet of my artistry and personal expression.
Urban$ound Team: Can you describe the process you go through when you write your lyrics? What inspires you?
Klazik: I haven’t used pen and paper to write lyrics in over a decade. Instead, I use the voice recorder app on my phone. When I’m in the zone, my thoughts flow faster than I can write, so this method helps me keep up with the creative process. Inspiration can come from anywhere—life experiences, jokes, current events, or even conversations. If my words naturally fall into a rhythm during a regular chat, that might spark new rhymes and ideas.
With “Get to You” poised to make a significant impact, Klazik’s innovative approach and authentic voice continue to push the boundaries of hip-hop. As he looks to the future, fans can expect more from this talented artist who remains dedicated to evolving his sound and delivering compelling music.
For more updates and to catch Klazik’s latest releases, follow him on Instagram , Spotify and check out his YouTube channel for new music and performances.
