GET TO KNOW SAIF
Image: Jade D’Amico
With his potent lyricism, undeniable style, and bulletproof bars that fuse conscious hip-hop with jazz drill, Saif is an established and confident performer who’s out to spread wisdom and love.
We sat down with Saif, one of our current Conscious artists, to talk about his musical journey ahead of the release of his single ‘Black Rose’.
Tell Us about yourself and your musical journey.
I first started writing in high school, but actually started making music in my early twenties. My first three years were spent on learning the craft and building up enough confidence to pursue it. I don’t come from a musical background so at first it was challenging, however my passion for music kept me going.
I was going through some tough challenges in life and so I turned to music as a positive outlet for channelling my negative circumstances. I started writing some songs and downloaded beats from YouTube, released a mixtape and uploaded a few songs on Soundcloud. I studied the art and kept sharpening my craft, rocked up to gigs alone to perform and networked with a bunch of different people.
I think the most fruitful part of the journey has been developing as an individual and as an artist. Persevering through your setbacks shapes and carves your character, and I’m thankful I had music to rely on.
WHAT ARTISTS INSPIRE AND INFLUENCE YOUR MUSIC?
I’m inspired by Tupac’s magnetic charisma and how opinionated and honest he is. I love Nas’ storytelling skills and his intellect, and the poetic imagery of Blu. J Cole’s spirit and sincerity, Nipsey Hussle’s entrepreneurial mind and love for community, Lowkey’s politicism and lyrical abilities - so many greats.
FOR SOMEONE WHO HAS NEVER HEARD YOUR MUSIC BEFORE, WHICH OTHER ARTISTS WOULD YOU SAY YOU’RE SIMILAR TO? WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM THE PACK?
I would say J Cole, since my music is heavy on social commentary, storytelling and uplifting the youth.
I feel like I’m set apart because of my background. Being an immigrant kid, you face different challenges than people who would be born here. Experiencing life in a third world environment opens up your eyes to what life can be really like for a lot of people, and shapes your perspective in a unique way.
THE TRACK YOU’VE DEVELOPED FOR THE CONSCIOUS PROGRAM, ‘Black rose’, DROPS ON july 6. WHAT IS THE SONG ABOUT?
The song is about uplifting the listener from a situation they could feel like has beaten them. It’s about energising people physically, spiritually and mentally. It also sheds a bit of commentary about the way the media portray Western Sydney, often highlighting our negative aspects and not bringing to light the positives we have going on or we have to offer. It also speaks to the listener in a way to build a positive message about mental strength and resilience.