Emerging with raw energy and undeniable talent, Zy’Reque is more than just a rapper—she’s a force of nature. Her journey didn’t start under bright lights or in a recording booth, but in the middle of a classroom. What began as a science project quickly became the spark that set her career in motion, and since then, Zy’Reque has been proving that her artistry is built on resilience, creativity, and a deep love for hip hop culture.
In this interview, Zy’Reque opens up about her origin story, creative process, influences, and what’s next as she continues carving out her lane in the industry.
When did you first realize rap was more than just a hobby for you, and what was the moment that made you say, “This is it”?
After my science class project, which honestly I felt was my first gig. That’s when the magic happened! Where I’m from, you gotta have the confidence to step out or you’re gonna get roasted—they don’t play. So, when I spit my rap for that project and the whole class lost it, I knew I had something special. The energy in the room was unmatched. From that point on, I couldn’t turn back. I started entering local talent shows, and I was winning cash prizes for just performing a few minutes. That’s when I knew this was more than a hobby—it was real, and I dove in full speed.
When you’re writing, do you start with the beat, the lyrics, or a feeling you want to capture?
Sometimes I start with the beat, other times it’s the lyrics first, and sometimes it’s just a feeling that hits me out of nowhere. It’s like cooking without a recipe—you just gotta vibe with it. One day it’s the groove, the next it’s the words, and sometimes it’s the mood that sets the whole thing off.
Which artists or life experiences have shaped your style the most, and how can listeners hear that influence in your music?
Beyoncé was where it all started—fierce, confident, and talented. She taught me to own my space and prove people wrong gracefully. Then I fell in love with Nicki Minaj as a kid, and her flows, punchlines, and wordplay shaped my lyricism. Chris Brown and Michael Jackson taught me that performance is about commanding the stage. My childhood was also full of Disney classics and pop culture moments that made me feel unstoppable. All these influences come through in my style—the confidence, creativity, and energy in my performance.
If someone had never heard your music before, which one track should they start with, and why?
I’d say “Da Baddest” or “Dumb.” “Da Baddest” is about confidence, energy, and claiming your space. “Dumb” is fun, full of double entendres, puns, and metaphors—it’s a vibe for letting loose. Either track gives a taste of who I am and the range of my music.
What’s the hardest obstacle you’ve faced in your career, and how did you overcome it?
I’ve faced loss, trauma, and life-threatening situations from a young age, including losing both parents and having a gun put to my head twice. These could have broken me, but I let them shape me instead. With God by my side, every obstacle became a testimony and another verse in my story. Faith made me fearless.
You’ve probably lived through moments your fans don’t know about—what’s one personal story behind a song that changed how you see life or music?
“Reminisce” changed everything for me. It came from a three-year relationship that ended due to infidelity. I had a rap verse tucked away, and one day in the studio I shared it and freestyled a hook. That energy pushed me to finish the song. Listening to it now feels like opening a photo album—it reminds me that endings make room for new beginnings and that music is how I heal.
How do you feel about the current state of hip hop, and where do you see yourself fitting into it?
Mainstream hip hop isn’t what it used to be, but music evolves. Hip hop is still about culture, storytelling, and survival. I see myself carving my own lane while honoring legends like Missy Elliott, the Carters, and Nicki Minaj—bold, innovative, and undeniable.
What’s the most misunderstood thing about you as an artist or person, and how does your music set the record straight?
People think I have it all figured out or that I come from money. That’s not true. They don’t see the grind, the losses, or the work behind the scenes. My music is my outlet, my diary, my clapback—every verse reflects who I am and what I’ve survived.
When people talk about you years from now, what do you want them to say about your impact on the culture?
I want people to say I stayed true to my purpose, never watered myself down, and opened doors for my community and family. My legacy isn’t about fame—it’s about impact. I want to be remembered for shifting the culture by being unapologetically myself and helping others win too.
What’s coming up next that fans should be excited about—whether it’s music, performances, or collaborations?
I’m working on a new single that’s different from anything I’ve dropped before. It’s fun, expressive, and has an old-school groove that makes you move. I can’t wait to share it because it shows a new side of me and reminds people why we fell in love with hip hop and good music in the first place.
Listen to Zy’Reque’s music here: