Nefertiitii Talks Egyptian History, Role Models and Her Favorite Era of Hip Hop
Baltimore based emcee, Nefertiitii recently stopped through to show love to the Hype Off Life crew with an exclusive interview. 🙌🏽 During the interview we learned more about the 2x Baltimore Music Award nominee, like the origin behind her name, influences behind her style and Nefertiitii's views on late 90's Hip Hop as compared to today's times. All in all, it was a dope time thanks to Nefertiitii's charisma and down to Earth demeanor. So, get to know Baltimore's next up and be sure to catch the "Wave" after with her latest music video. ✊🏾
How did you get the name Nefertiitii?
I named myself after the Egyptian Goddess Nefertiti, which means the beautiful one. I did that because for one, I am really into that era in history. This period is one of the only times that people of color were powerful Kings and Queens, Gods and Goddesses. It makes me proud to know that at one point in history, we were Gods! We weren’t what we have become, or what we are portrayed to be in society and in the media. Also, when Nefertiti ruled, she was so powerful that she convinced her people to change their religion and way of life, and they followed her teachings. That’s pretty dope for a woman to have that much influence.
What does she stand for as an artist?
Nefertiitii as an artist is focused on challenging norms, being bold, powerful, influential, and sexy. Helping people reimagine what a strong sexy powerful woman looks and feels like. Creative freedom. Women empowerment. Yup, that pretty much sums it up.
Your style is very dope and different. Where do you draw inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from all over. I’m inspired by what I see on a day to day and life experiences (I’ve been through a lot!). Some of my favorite artists inspire me, like Nas, Missy Elliot, Lauren Hill, Bilal, and Erykah Badu. I channel all of them in one way or another. I also love art in itself, I draw and paint. I also play instruments. I play the keys, clarinet, and I’m learning the guitar. So it’s like any or all of this can inspire me. And I think being well versed in a lot of things is where that “different” vibe comes from. 
What’s your favorite era of Hip Hop?
My favorite era in hip-hop is probably the late 90’s into the early 2000’s. That’s when hip hop was so versatile and influential. I still listen to music from that era today. I do feel like now, hip hop is more influential that it’s even been, the content is just different.
Who were your role models growing up?
One of my role models when I was younger was the youth pastor at a church I went to growing up. Her name was Rev. My. She was so cool, so down to earth, and she gave a lot back to the community. For some reason that I can’t explain, I looked up to her in a big way coming up. I had to be like between 12 and 14. I also looked up to anybody of color with money and power, like Oprah LOL. Corny as hell but she is a boss! I wanted to be a boss just like that. Just not in the same way. My grandmother was also a role model to me, her sweet spirit is inspiring even now!
If you could work with anybody in the game, who would it be? Why?
Some dream features on my list are Badu, Missy, Hov, Pharrell, and maybe Kanye and Wayne. They are all musical geniuses and I know we could make some hits together!
Anything else you want us to know before you go?
I’m currently on a media tour promoting my new single Wave. Follow me everywhere @NeffyRaps to catch me on airwaves near you. I also just found out that I have been nominated for the second year in a row for a Baltimore Music Award for Best Female Rapper. I’m asking all my fans and supporters to vote for me at BaltimoreMusicAwards.com.Besides that I’m working on a new album that I’m so proud of. It’s pretty dope. I’ll be dropping a new single called “Make Love” before the end of the year. The grind don’t stop! Shout out my fam Chris Gotti and Dex Diamond over at Addventures Music.
