ManicFM

BBC 1Xtra’s Bruza is packing some seriously hard puches into the Grime scene. His original, cockney style is turning more than a few heads and judging by the recent success of his singles ‘Get Me’ and ‘Ave Some Of That’, the fight’s anything but over. MANICFM caught up with the 22 year-old MC for a brisk discussion about Nirvana, boxing and bling bling (or lack of it)…

How did you get into MCing?

I started off making tapes with my friends. My uncles were soundboys (for those who don’t know that means sound engineers) so this whole music thing has always come naturally to me. My family’s always been into reggae so I’m just taking what I’ve learnt and applying it to the Grime scene.

What do you love about MCing?

It’s a fun way to make money. So much better than a nine to five!

Who are your main inspirations?

In the music game I’ve got Bob Marley, 2 Pac, Oasis, Nirvana…loads of people! I love Nirvana. My Mum and Dad have inspired me too. Everything inspires me in some way really!

What other UK artists are you feeling?

Sway. He’s hot at the moment. I like his style, his character, everything. He’s versatile too. Very talented individual! Straight. I’m feeling a lot of new producers as well, especially the ones in my camp. Look out for Terror Danjha, Magnum, DLK, Biggie D…loads.

If you could endorse any product, what would it be?

Adidas. Straight. Definitely nothing bling bling. It’s just not me! The only bling bling you’ll ever find me wearing is my house key, round my neck. All the bling bling I’ve ever had I’ve lost! Never again. You’re reading this now yeh…Bruza isn’t bling bling and he never will be.

Who would you like to collaborate with?

Sophie Ellis Bexter and Dido. When I’m big and shotting bare units I want Dido to holla at me. Straight.

What is your ultimate aim music-wise?

Give me the money! I want the money, straight. I love the music but the bottom line is; this is a job to me and I wanna see some P’s. If there was another job available that I knew I could make money from I’d do it. I’m just hustling, that’s it.

Can the Grime scene achieve success in America?

Of course it can. Our music is so road; so underground, so real and so energetic it can go anywhere and do anything. America, Japan, you name it, grime’s coming your way! Energy is its biggest selling point. Go to a rave and you’ll see it for yourself! Kids are going mad over this music, running up and down, banging their heads against walls, swingin’ each other around…it’s crazy!

What do you do in your spare time?

I was gonna say something naughty then but I wont. I write lyrics, write tunes, link producers, link DJs…just keep busy. Sometimes I just wanna get away from all the music stuff so I go to the gym or do some boxing. I like playing football too.

Do you have any advice for MCs starting out in the game?

Just do your thing. Have a trustworthy team alongside you and just keep believing. That’s the most important thing! Don’t let anybody bring you down; if you’ve got the belief inside your heart it’s definately possible.