MC Initial has created a bit of a buzz around Powell River’s music and club scene lately. The 17-year-old rapper, whose real name is Malcolm Crocker, is releasing an album on local record label Raise Your Voice Records and plays a show Saturday, August 26, at McKinney’s Pub.
Do you remember when you first heard hip-hop?
Yes, I do. I was in grade four. There was a talent show at my school and some kids lip-synced to "Boom Boom Pow" by the Black Eyed Peas. I remember freaking out thinking, “What is this?” I ran home, memorized all the words to that song and then realized there was a bunch of other rap out there with deeper lyrics and inspiring messages, so I dug in and never turned back.
When did you know you could rap?
I always believed in myself, but when I started going to [local producer] Ben Wittrock's studio he inspired confidence to be the best me I can possibly be and he said, “Dude, you can actually rap!” After encouraging me to freestyle on the spot to a beat he laid down, I realized I could actually do this.
What was it like performing for the first time?
It was really awkward because it was a small crowd, a brand new experience and I was very nervous, but the adrenaline rush and sense of conquering those nerves is unbeatable.
What kind of reaction does a 17-year-old rapper from Powell River receive?
People tend to judge it, but then they hear me rap and realize that I really do this.
Do you create your own beats and write your own lyrics?
I like to collaborate, so most of the beats I perform aren't mine. I write all my own lyrics all the time. I focus a lot on wordplay and my message ranges from just having fun on the track and being lyrical to trying to help people who have problems like depression or other mental disorders. I just listen to the beat and let it take me wherever it leads.
Who is your biggest musical influence?
I definitely can't pick one. I'd have to say Lorde, Tupac, Vince Staples, Kendrick Lamar and Jacob McDonald, who I've worked with a few times.
Are you sticking close to home right now?
I've only performed locally, but I'll be performing at the Raise Your Voice Records tour homecoming show with Punk Jams, Razorvoice and Hate the Rich at McKinney's Pub on Saturday, August 26.
