North London’s Alista Marq has been creating buzz since the release of his debut single “Forest” back in 2015. Blending rap with beautiful melodies, his unique sound has been gaining the attention of many and showing off what the 23-year-old has to offer. Following the release of 2016’s critically acclaimed debut project “Northern Line”, Alista has established himself as one of the most exciting artists in the game and has been repeatedly tipped for greatness in 2017.
His newest offering, “Kid Again”, showcases his unique talent. Mixing guitar riffs with his dreamy rap style, the track was inspired by coming-of-age films and Alista’s goal to make people connect to the song by writing about real emotions. What this results in is a fantastic and intelligent track that is bound to see Alista propelled further into the league of rapping heavyweights.
We managed to catch up with the up and coming star for a quick chat to find out all about what he’s been up to.
For those out there unfamiliar with your work, sell your sound in three words….
Una-polo-getic.
What was the creative process behind your newest track, “Kid Again”?
I had the idea of emotion I wanted to strike with the hook at Nastylgia’s crib, guess he caught the vibe and we got it recorded in a couple days.
You’ve described your track as like a “coming of age movie soundtrack”. What’s your favourite coming of age film?
Drive, Nightcrawler, Superbad and Punch Drunk Love are my favourite films of all time.
The track blends a lot of genres. What musical genres inspire you the most?
Hip-hop, pop and pop-rock were the only genres I gravitated towards growing up, and to be honest I think it’s because of the music videos, the colours were vibrant and the energy artists had in videos would bring the song to life. These days the lines are blurred when it comes to genres because nobody wants to be put in a box. As of recent, I’ve been listening to a lot of dream pop, alt hip hop and alt R&B.
The track follows your 2016 debut project, “Northern Line”. Do you think your music has changed/grown since last year?
The music has taken a slight shift, I started recording “Northern Line” when I was 20, I’m 23 now so you can imagine what I’ve been through in 3 years. Taste, thought process and emotions change, so yeah I would call it growth.
What sets you apart from other rappers on the scene right now?
I dunno, I can’t swim?
What exciting things have you got lined up for 2017?
Currently working on the second project which is therapy for me right now, but until then I’ll be pushing emo tweets out to the universe.
