Irish rap star Yxng Bless talks on his early beginnings, his debut album Vice City and going Number 1 in the charts

Irish Rap has been gaining momentum over the years with a range of impressive talents rising up across the country and showing their skills, style, charisma and uniqueness. From chart topping acts like Sello, Erica Cody, Tolu Makay, Jyellowl, Chris Kabs and Tomike making noise across the main land, it's safe to say that Irish urban music is popping right now . Yxng Bless is also one of them . From his breakout sound heard on his previous singles like Me and You, Real, Maps and Location and fan favourite Devious Ways, the Dublin based rapper and artist is one to watch surely watch as his makes his way onwards and upwards in the music scene. Celebrating his debut album Vice City which dropped in March early this year. Yxng Bless is a force to recognise in the music industry. Inspired by the big dogs and superstars such as J Cole, Drake and Dave. Yxng Bless is a unique artists who has alot to say. This upcoming superstar made a name for himself as his debut album mixtape went Number 1 in the independent chart and Number 7 in the Irish charts. Expressing his solid flows, wholesome lyrics , wordplay and vibrant visuals Yxng Bless gave us an insight into his world. From the behind the making of his 10-track mixtape , his expectations for listeners, his early humble beginnings and his upcoming projects coming soon. He tells all in his exciting interview.

Stream Vice City on Spotify and YouTube Music

1) Welcome Yxng Bless , congratulations on your debut album Vice City , it's a fantastic project. Could you tell us about how it first came about ?

Yxng Bless : Vice City was years in the making. Me and my best friend, KxngBari, who’s also my main producer had made a habit of turning our studio sessions into therapy sessions. We’d talk about everything from goals, hopes, fears to our relationships & vices. Those conversations made it easy for me to put those same thoughts into songs. For the

mixtape, I knew I had to embrace all of those highs and lows, the turn-up, the flashiness and the lifestyle but also the nagging thoughts that keep me up at night.

2) What do you hope listeners take from the songs, are there expectations from this release?

Yxng Bless: Honestly I made the tape so that the listeners can feel by the end of the listen, that they’ve met the true Bless. Not just the guy on the ‘gram or in my music videos but a fully fleshed out person. I wanted the listeners to know my story. Also, I wanted to show Ireland that I’m one of the premier talents, I’m going to be here for a long time, rapping my ass off and delivering classics.

3) You’ve come a long way from your early days , tell us who were some of the artists you grew up watching, did any them inspire your current sound?

Yxng Bless : I mean I love vulnerability in music. I’m definitely inspired by Drake, J. Cole and Dave. Those three artists in particular were able to paint stories and an upbringing I could relate to but also success I could aspire to reach. I listen to a lot of different type of music to keep my ears fresh. Yes, Rap is my favourite sport in the world but I’m a huge fan of Soul, R&B and Gospel music.

4) Your album Vice City album when Number 1 in the independent charts and Number 7 in the Irish charts. How does it feel to achieve that and this must be a big deal for black irish talent right ?

Yxng Bless : A lot of people use the word ‘surreal’ to describe an out of body experience. I don’t have a word to describe what achieving that success felt like for me. I know that we deserved he success because we worked extremely hard for that spot. We visited damn near every university in the country over the span of two weeks to sell the album live and direct to the consumer. That was a great experience as we were able to build a fan base

in real time.

5) As a Black Irish talent coming up we know it hasn't been easy. What advice would you give young creatives who want to pursue career in music ?

Yxng Bless : You really got to love what you do. Remember every day the reason you started this and try to still be the passionate kid that fell in love with the craft. You also need to be patient because for 99% of us its not going to pop off on day one. You got to be ready for the dog days and the hard times. Being prepared to work overtime for what you love.

6) Lastly, you’ve had a brilliant year so far with your work steadily rising in popularity what can your fans watch out for from you. Could you expect a live show, music videos, a short film or something like that coming soon ?

Yxng Bless : Yeah I’m definitely going to be acting a whole lot more towards the latter half of the year. I’ve got some stage shows upcoming that I can’t speak too much about just yet! I’m currently writing a film at the moment so I’m looking forward to finishing that up. Honestly I just want to keep feeding the people that mess with me and the movement we’re creating with dope content and more music. Just gotta bare with me and watch the magic

unfold!

For more information and updates follow Yxng Bless on Instagram and Tik Tok