Artist Spotlight: Roosh Williams
Written by Coog Radio on September 24, 2015
When you think of the Houston rap scene, artists like Bun B, Paul Wall and Slim Thug come to mind. However, it’s 2015 and modern hip-hop has changed the game completely; this is where Roosh Williams comes in. The 26-year-old Houston native released a full-length CD when he was just in 9th grade and never looked back.
I had the opportunity to speak with the Persian prince on a humid Thursday afternoon. He was comfortably decked out in some burnt orange (obviously since he is a Texas Ex himself, class of 2011) with a coffee mug in one hand, warning me that my questions need to make him think. I happily accepted his challenge and proceeded to get to know more about Mr. Roosh Williams.
Growing up Alief, Williams was surrounded by a plethora of people and culture, which retrospectively influenced his outlook on music. “It’s got something for everybody,” Williams said as he continued to explain how moving to Katy, Texas was a huge shift from his childhood inner-city neighborhood. Mase was one of the first artists Roosh ever jammed out to and he thinks that today’s hip-hop music is very different from what is used to be and the “basis of the art form has shifted.” Rightfully so, many people would agree with his opinion after growing up with legendary artists like Tupac and Biggie.
Roosh started taking his music career seriously when he attended UT Austin as an undergrad. After the unfortunate end of a long-term relationship, he decided to focus his energy on making music which led to the release of Attack of the Drobots in April 2010. This mixtape was created in the comfort of a friend’s apartment in Austin, which shows the artist’s dedication even while being a full-time student.
When asked to describe what it feels like to be on stage, Roosh explained that he’s “always a little nervous even though I’ve rocked crowds from seven to 1,500 people.” He loves being on stage performing for people who love music and enjoy supporting artists on the rise. I attempted to make Roosh choose his favorite concert experience and he started listing a bunch, understandably. “Choosing a favorite is like choosing a kid,” Williams said, “you can’t pick one!” We feel you on that one, Roosh.
Closing out my sit-down interview with Roosh, I asked him one final question:
What do you want people to know about Roosh Williams that maybe they don’t?
“I am more than just a rapper and am very aware of what I am and what I am not.”
Well said, Mr. Williams. We look forward to hearing more from the talented artist in the coming months and know he’s onto bigger and better things career-wise and musically.
Support the Houston music scene and follow Roosh Williams on Twitter and SoundCloud.
By Rupal Mehta
