Every region has its voice in hip hop—but few would expect Alaska to be the home of a rising talent ready to make his mark. Lazy Tee is carving out his lane with raw storytelling, boundless energy, and a mission to put his home state on the rap map. From freestyling with his brothers to commanding the stage, he’s proving that passion and persistence can break barriers, no matter where you’re from.

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”?
I realized rap was more than a hobby for me at a young age; I recall different moments I’d be free-styling with my brothers and we’d just be coming up with some straight bangers—the energy would be fire. My first time performing and hitting that stage was when I decided, “this is it.” The energy, the love—all of it was crazy.

When you’re writing, do you start with the beat, the lyrics, or a feeling you want to capture?
It depends. Some days it might be a beat, like I’ll have this dope sound in my head and need to get it out. Or I’ll be playing and drop a bar or two then boom—it’s gas. Other days, it’s my mood. Did something happen I want to talk about? Or am I feeling some kind of way?

Which artists or life experiences have shaped your style the most, and how can listeners hear that influence in your music?
Some of my favorite rappers are Ludacris and a few others who inspired my flow and delivery.

If someone had never heard your music before, which one track should they start with, and why?
“All Alone.” It’s straight gas. I believe it’s smooth and you can actually hear and feel what I’m talking about.

What’s the hardest obstacle you’ve faced in your career, and how did you overcome it?
Managing my own career. It can be challenging sometimes without a good team or support system to back you. I just continue to push and think about why I started rapping in the first place—and where I want to be.

How do you feel about the current state of hip hop, and where do you see yourself fitting into it?
In my opinion, the current state of music is good, but I believe me bringing my own brand could open doors for people like myself. I want to bring back that old West Coast energy and create exposure for more dope artists from Alaska.

What’s the most misunderstood thing about you as an artist or person, and how does your music set the record straight?
I believe people try to put me in one category or genre. They count me out—either due to my looks or where I’m from. Then they hear the diversity in my music, the lyrics, and it’s like, “oh shit, my man’s is gas.”

When people talk about you years from now, what do you want them to say about your impact on the culture?
I want to be known as the first major artist from Alaska. I hope this will impact the culture by bringing that exposure to my people and where I come from.

What’s coming up next that fans should be excited about—whether it’s music, performances, or collaborations?
It’s a little of everything. There’s so much I want to do and present to my fans and myself. I can’t wait!