As we sat down for a conversation in West London’s serene Kyoto Gardens, SamRecks radiated quiet confidence. Rocking a bright blue shirt, beige shorts and custom tooth caps studded with pink and green gems, he looked every part a rapper who prides himself on his individuality and self-expression. We talked about his new music, video direction and his creative journey since quitting full-time work.

Listen to “BALANCE”…

Read the interview…

Sam! Let’s dive into your new EP, “BALANCE”. Can you tell me a bit more about it?
I’ve been working on this new project for just over a year now. It started right after I quit my job at Amazon; I created my first EP whilst working six days a week. I began this new project with a song called “I Hate This Job”, written literally the day after I left Amazon. It marked the beginning of a new phase for me, where I had no idea what would happen next, but I knew I wanted to pour everything into my music.

What was your role at Amazon?
I did a bit of everything – packing things, moving parcels, you name it. It was draining, and I knew my energy could be better spent on doing something I actually love. Quitting was a real turning point for me. I immediately poured that time and energy into my music and travelling, visiting Paris, New York, and Japan. Those spots really inspired me to take my work to another level.

Japan seems to have had a big impact on you. What was that experience like?
Japan was transformative for me! The people there are so respectful and happy. JUMADIBA and I shot a music video in a park out there for one of the tracks on the EP, and the experience was great – everyone was just so happy to help us. The culture there is amazing, from how they share food at every meal to how they interact with each other day-to-day.

Who or what were your biggest influences for this EP?
The EP is deeply personal, inspired by my own experiences, rather than the style of other artists. I’ve been listening to a lot of R&B and old-school rap, and I think that shows in my beat choices. The songs on the EP are very different from any music I’ve released before – we’re coming into winter now, and I wanted a more mellow sound to reflect the changing seasons. I want this EP to be something people can discover over time, whether it’s now, or five years from now.

How do you view the UK music scene in comparison to other places around the world?
Our underground scene is having a real moment right now! It’s exciting to see. While the UK music industry can be tough, staying focused on your own goals is key. Life is what you make of it – I’m chasing a dream, and whether people support me now or later, I’m not going to stop for anyone.

Some of your biggest songs have blown up on social media. What do you think about using platforms like TikTok to promote your music?
I view social media as a tool, honestly. It doesn’t represent real life, but it connects you with real people. I use TikTok, but I don’t rely on it. It’s about engaging with people and building a strong community. I just focus on living life and try to reflect that in my music. Also, the platforms which are popular at the moment might not be as successful in 100 years, but the music will always be there, which is cool.

You also direct your own music videos under the pseudonym “REKKI.” How did that come about?
I’ve always been interested in directing videos. The first video I was really proud of was for the song ‘Strings.’ I even flew out to Indonesia earlier this year to shoot a video with a local team, and together we created something really unique. Even though a lot of people don’t see the direct benefit of producing visuals for their music, I personally see videos as a way to leave something behind which people will remember me for, and preserve my art over the long term.

Do you have plans for touring or performances after the EP release?
Definitely! I’m planning a headline show in London later this year.

Where do you see yourself living long-term? London or somewhere else?
I want to experience living all around the world! I don’t know where I’ll be in a year or two, but I plan to keep travelling and taking in new cultures until then.

Let’s talk quickly about fashion; how would you describe your personal style?
I try to wear as many unique pieces as possible; I like vibrant colours and clothes which look timeless. When I look at a lot of stuff by streetwear brands nowadays, I can tell exactly what year it was popular, but if I see a cool unbranded leather jacket, for example, that piece could have either been made back in the 90’s, or last month, which is cool.

You were at Paris Fashion Week in January; how was that experience for you?
It was really cool, man. I was sat a few rows back from Chris Brown at the KidSuper show – that was surreal! Lots of amazing, creative people, all in one place. I also managed to record a few songs out there with a French rapper; whether those tracks will ever see the light of day, I don’t know!

There will be a lot of aspiring musicians looking up to both you and your work; do you have any advice for young people trying to make it in 2024?
It sounds cliché, but you really have to put in the hours of work. It doesn’t come easy. When something doesn’t work, don’t give up; change small parts of it, change your approach – find another way. It’s all about balance, staying focused on the positives in your life, and continually pushing yourself creatively.