Tekkiisue

April 17, 2024

Interview By: Kardarious Brown

Courtesy of @shotby.rashag via Instagram

Tekkiisue, also Juvon Thomas, is a rapper with nearly a decade of expertise of releasing music and performing shows. He is from Hurtsboro, Alabama, and his flows will go worldwide. As time has progressed, so has his music. In this interview we discuss his music and views on rap culture. 

I know you dropped your first project in 2017, but when did you first know you could rap?

I was 7 years old, rapping with my brother and dad who were doing music for a long time . My sister writes some as well. I was raised around the family hustle.

Talk to me about the writing process.

It depends on the time and the vibe. Different songs have a different vibe. I sit back and just put my thoughts out. I’m trying to make ‘em feel me. To get that feeling everyone can relate to.

I feel that. Which of your albums is your favorite?

I would say my unreleased, future project. At the end of the day,  I’m better than I was before. 

What’s a song you would recommend to a first time listener? 

Bag Different (Brag Different) , because it’s a club track. And if you’re into love songs, I’d say my latest single, Exactly Where Home Is , I make music for all feelings.

What separates you from another artist?

My versatility. I can tap into both Hip-Hop and RnB. I do audio engineering on my tracks as well as preview different sounds on my TikTok. Everyone can’t do what I do. 

How does Alabama’s sound in Hip-Hop differ from other states? 

Tekkii: Alabama’s sound is more melodic. The south has its own beats. We have a story to tell that is not always violent. There will be strife in rap. But the most highlighted artists; Rylo Rodriguez, Big Yavo and Flo Milli don’t promote that. We’re about having a good time. Ya smell me?

How does social media and the internet affect rap culture?

It’s major. I started out doing music on SoundCloud. It’s easy to get on, but can be harder for those who were doing it before social media’s blow-up. Sometimes a gimmick can be sold, but I’m not knocking it.

Who do you write your music for?

That’s a good question. I write music for everybody. I don’t promote violence. If I’m going through heartbreak, here’s your heart-break song. Next time I could be flexing money at the club. It’s a vibe. Ya smell me?

What do you say to someone looking to pursue music?

I would say to keep going and stay consistent. I came from tens of views to thousands of views. Don’t give up on you. God’s timing is not your timing.

Who is a dream collab? We’re manifesting this.

I’d have to say Lil’ Wayne.

That’s a legend of the South for sure! That’s solid.

He molded a whole wave.

I challenged the rapper to a round of “This or That”.

Studio or Stage?

The stage, you can feel the room. I like to be seen and try to give a show you will remember. 

Rap beef or rap collabs?

(Laughs) Collabs because I feel like we can come together. War costs!

Fame or money?

If you would’ve asked me when I was younger, I would have said fame. The older I have gotten, the answer has changed to money.

Cherished or respected?

Cherished, because people will lift you in hard times. Being well respected comes with a harder fall.

Words or actions? 

Actions!

Opening act or a closing act?

A Closing Act, save the best for last.

The ambitious artist’s latest project “Rare Breed” has a track list of emotional lyrics paired with chill-type instrumentals. The project’s self-titled track has good vibes as it tells the tale of the underdog. Songs like G.M.A.B. and D.P.W.H. are hyphy, dance tracks. The body of work let’s listeners in on Tekkiisue’s emotional side. 
Stream his music on all major platforms. Follow Tekkiisue on Instagram , YouTube , and Facebook. His website is www.tekkiisue.com