The South Bronx Has A New Hero: Sha EK (Interview)
Bronx Drill has been making waves for a minute now, with no signs of slowing down. Standing at the forefront of the next new wave of urgent, militant and captivating street rap is Sha EK: South Bronx’s up next. Packing booming and serrated, raspy flows wit aggression and emotion reminiscent of 90’s East Coast Hip Hop, Sha EK’s music is a reflection of his upbringing spent observing the harsh realities of his section of the South Bronx.
After surviving a gunshot would while walking in his neighborhood when we was a 15, Sha EK was motivated to record the vivid and visceral drill we hear today. With local support mounting with each record he dropped, Sha EK soon found himself breaking beyond the confines of his neighborhood with 2020’s “D&D”, an energetic, war ready single. The record was a smash hit, racking up over 5.2 million views on YouTube alone, proving the sub-genre’s viability. Fast forward to today and Sha EK is Warner Records' newest signee!
We recently got a chance to chop with up with the young star on the rise for another dope Hype Off Life interview. During our chat, we learned more about Sha EK’s story, drive, compassion for his people and how he stays motivated during dark times. Despite facing obstacles that would make most people fold, Sha EK remains a pure soul. Tap in with him below and @sha_everythingk 📈
Photo credit: George Buford
Thanks for coming through! First things first, congrats on your new deal! How does it feel to be Warner Records’ latest signee?
It’s like a dream come true! Coming from where I come from, it's the dream to get signed or go pro.
Take us back to the grind. What type of hard work and dedication did you put in to land such a huge opportunity?
I had to spend countless sleepless nights recording in the projects in a small hot room, turning nothing into something. I HAD TO believe in myself when nobody did .. especially after everyone started getting their deals.
What’s something you feel artists get wrong about getting seen and reaching their goals?
I feel like people think when they get a deal and money comes, the job is over, and that's not true. Getting a deal is the first day on the job. I made sure that after I got signed to shoot 15 videos and have them ready for the label to drop.
Your sound is very passionate, assertive, and fiery. Where does that spark come from?
That spark comes from always being good to people and not getting that energy in return. I know I have to work hard and get to a point where people have to come and apologize for treating me a certain way.
As someone that’s been through many obstacles and adversities, how do you keep the fire going when times get hard?
I know that my family depends on me to have it when they don’t, so I just keep my head down and go to work on these beats.
So, you’re currently working on your debut project, which you believe will advance the sound of Bronx drill. What new avenues and directions do you see it taking?
I see my debut project as a way to show my fans that I’m here for the long run and show them I started with Drill, but I’m going to turn that aggression into hit records like DMX and NBA Young Boy.
Who else do you see next up in New York’s Hip Hop scene?
I see Bdot Goon, Lefty Goon, PJ Glizzy, ImsorryDexter, and the whole OGE. We'll all be on top soon. Those are all my friends turned artists, and I see us continuing to grow. I’m happy to see everyone do their thing in their way … NY GOT THE BALL RIGHT NOW!!
By the way, how has your Bronx upbringing affected your view of life?
It hugely affected my life. Losing close friends or seeing them end up in jail, all of that motivates me to keep going and make it big for them.
What would you say is the best thing going on in your life right now?
The best thing going on in my life right now is that I’m able to show other people they can really make it happen and also being able to provide for my loved ones.
Where do you want to see yourself around this time next year?
I want to see myself selling out tours, being on the Billboard charts, and giving my fans a good experience. I also see myself doing big business through my company Original Goon ENTERTAINMENT.
Anything else we should know before you go?
Look out For OGE ... we are coming!!!!
