From Lewisham to Legend: A Deep Dive into Big Premo’s Musical Universe

In the pulse of London’s music scene, there emerges a distinct voice—a maestro of beats and a lyrical wordsmith. Big Premo, the Navy sensation from Lewisham, Southeast London, is more than just an artist; he’s a storyteller shaping his narrative through beats and rhymes. In an exclusive conversation, Big Premo walks us through the labyrinth of his musical journey, sharing the essence of his craft, his inspirations, and his take on the ever-evolving UK rap scene.

Big Premo’s journey into music is deeply rooted in his childhood. His earliest memories involve attempting to coerce his elders into playing specific tunes—a foreshadowing of his future in music. “I’ve always loved sound. The moods that music shapes; the memories…the way it can be used to make your style just pop – as a person,” he reminisces. What started as a childhood fascination evolved into a serious pursuit of music on his 17th birthday. Undeterred by industry norms, Big Premo emphasizes, “I never thought of myself as part of any industry, because I work how I want with who I want to.”

Rap, for Big Premo, transcends genres—it's a cultural exploration, a deep dive into language, and an ode to creativity. Reflecting on his teenage years, he shares, "I’ve always rapped too, to be honest. Me and my brother Novelist grew up clashing each other in the crib. Straight heat, on the spot and off the dome." It was only in his 20s that he rediscovered his love for writing lyrics. "I fell back in love with writing lyrics and the rest is history," he adds, emphasizing the fluidity of artistic confidence.

Describing his musical style as a fusion of Californian rap from the '90s and the raw energy of '90s and early 2000s New York rap, Big Premo delves into the elements that shape his sound. "It has a foundation of the ends. It is gritty, cold, and firm - but I’m a lover, not a fighter," he chuckles, highlighting the duality within his music. He fondly recalls his first public performance on Radar Radio, a moment that marked the inception of his journey. "I sprayed a few lyrics and everyone was so shocked, there were laughs and cheers…and reloads."

Biggest Influences: Unveiling the layers of his musical DNA, Big Premo walks us through the artists who've left an indelible mark on his craft. "My biggest musical influences would be MF Doom, Prodigy, The whole Navy set, Snoop…Dre…the list would go on forever," he shares. His affinity for those who "do things their own way and do it boldly" echoes in his unique blend of sounds.

While acknowledging the strides made within the UK rap scene, Big Premo doesn't shy away from expressing his concerns. "I think it has definitely evolved, and people are able to do so much by themselves, it’s nice to see how someone can grow - even in one summer," he observes. Yet, he believes the scene lacks innovation and variety, emphasizing the need for artists to prioritize skill development over the pursuit of fame.

With an ear attuned to emerging talent, Big Premo spotlights artists who've caught his attention. From Navy Music Group and Jadasea to J Lavaly, Mway, and Recky Packs, he paints a vivid picture of a diverse and thriving scene. His endorsement of Headie One, K Trap, and the anticipation for Chy Cartier's future projects reflects a deep understanding of the evolving landscape.

Creative Process: Delving into the heart of his creativity, Big Premo unravels the intricate process behind crafting his signature beats. "My beats flow through me at this point. I usually don’t even have to think about much in my process," he explains. Whether it's finding that one sound as the cornerstone or experimenting with dirty bass overlays, his process is a testament to the organic evolution of his beats.

In the rollercoaster of a music career, challenges are inevitable. Big Premo shares a pragmatic approach to overcoming hurdles. "Computers breaking…files corrupting or not saving. Got to suck it up and get on with it. Keep going. Recreate it best you can and keep the idea alive," he says. His view of achievements is refreshingly humble, finding joy in the appreciation of his work by the public.

Peeling back the curtain on collaborations, Big Premo takes us on a journey from making the beat for "Dun Know" on Novelist's computer to the spontaneous creation of the "Legit" video. Expressing his desire to work with The Alchemist, he reflects on the evolution of his role as both producer and rapper. "I never planned on that when I first touched the DAW," he admits, showcasing the spontaneity inherent in his artistic growth. Beyond beats and rhymes, Big Premo's music carries a message—a call to stand strong for what is right and an exploration of human emotions. "Being in touch with how you feel is how you best make and understand art," he philosophizes. His approach to addressing social or personal issues reflects a nuanced understanding, balancing deep reflections with the need for informed experiences.

Preparing for live performances involves a spiritual ritual for Big Premo. "I prepare by praying and thanking Jesus for the opportunity," he shares, adding that the best part of being on stage is when the audience sings his lyrics back to him. While tour stories remain untold, the connection with the audience remains a paramount theme. Intriguingly secretive about upcoming projects, Big Premo leaves us with a promise—2024 will witness a surge in creativity. On a personal note, he envisions himself as a father and mentor, guiding others to discover their unique sound and voice.

Published 19th January 2024 By Amber Ling

From Lewisham to Legend: A Deep Dive into Big Premo’s Musical Universe

fOR lATEST UPDATES AND NEWS

Subscribe To OUR NEWSLETTER

BROWSE

JOIN US

EXTRA INFO

© 2024 4L . All Rights Reserved.