Interview: NYC Based Rapper Gibrilville Discusses His New Music Video "Open Up"

Our next exclusive interview is with NYC based rap artist Gibrilville. This talented emcee of Ghanaian descent has released the visuals to his single "Open Up", produced by QC Funk, that tells his story in the music industry and his struggles as an illegal immigrant in the United States. We connected with Gibrilville to gain more insight into "Open Up", as well as his creative process, and musical goals for the remainder of 2018.

After reading our Q&A with Gibrilville, do your homework before he drops his upcoming album "Black Cadillac Season 3" by listening to Season 1 and 2 on Spotify, as well as some other songs. Also, be sure to follow Gibrilville on his social media.

Tell us about your new video "Open Up". Who directed it and why did you choose to the make a visual for that song?

Open Up was directed by Vishvak Prakkruth. We wanted to show diversity in culture since New York has so many immigrants from all over the world. The idea is to get people to open up to all cultures and backgrounds and also talk about the way authority stereotypes certain religions and culture in NYC. 

How would you say that your Ghanaian culture is reflected in your music?

Ghanaian culture belongs to all Africans. I may wear a traditional garment to let people know where I come from but unless I am writing a song about Ghana it may not be the inspiration behind the subject of all my songs. I write music based of emotions and experience, so my music is not always inspired by country. 

When someone listens to a Gibrilville song for the first time, what do you want them to take away from the experience?

I want them to say wow I been there before. I understand why this song make me feel complete in this moment. Rewind!!!

What are your goals musically for the remainder of 2018?

"Black Cadillac Season 3" is my album; I can’t wait to drop this year. It’s been in the lab for 4 years and it’s almost finished. I am extremely proud of the result and I am sure it will be an amazing experience to my fans.

Describe for us your creative process when it comes to song development. Are you able to write music anywhere or do you need to be in a quiet location to focus?

I spend a lot of time on my songs. I write rewrite freestyle and rearrange until the picture is right. I might want to release a record but if I feel I am missing a musical instrument I wait until I get it. It’s a very delicate process, but I love it.

Stream Gibrilville's music on Spotify

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