Lykez, Camera, Action

Fresh from supporting Method Man and Redman on tour, Finsbury Park rapper Lady Lykez is set to make a lasting mark on music. Chris found out more about one of music’s hottest young properties.

She’s only 19, but has been performing for seven years and has worked with some big names both at home and abroad. She’s also played Glastonbury, Rise, Hip Hop Kemp, T in the Park and the Underage Festival - and is performing live in Camden Town on 30th November!

Somehow, she squeezed an interview in to her packed schedule...

Did you ever had any formal musical training?

I successfully auditioned and sung with a choir in Old Street when I was 13.  Apart from that, I’ve never had any official training.

When did people start noticing you were talented?

I used to take part in rap battles in the local area whenever I got the chance.  I would battle people in the street, on the bus... anywhere really!  The people I was battling were mainly boys, and usually a lot older than me.  This made people take notice of me – they used to say ‘who’s this?’

What was your first big break?

There have been quite a few things, but one of the first was my collaboration with grime artist Mr Wong.  We made a video which was played everywhere, and it was a really significant step towards making it.

How did people close to you react when you decided to make music more than a hobby?

They were really supportive.  I had performed at my school, and so they knew I was good.  They encouraged me and showed a lot of belief in me.

What are the qualities needed to make it in the music industry?

The main thing is definitely confidence.  You also need drive, motivation, and plenty of ambition. It was different when I started, but it seems you don’t need much talent any more – it’s more about how much you believe in yourself.      

Do you have any advice for someone trying to make it in music?

Master your craft, be the best you can be, and never stop trying.

It’s also important to have a back-up plan.  Some people don’t make it, so make sure you get some qualifications to fall back on.  Uni’s not for everyone – but try to get at least some good GCSEs cos you never know what could happen. 

What does music mean to you?

Everything.  There’s a different type of music for every occasion and to suit every mood.  If you’re broken-hearted, you can listen to love songs; and if you’re in a party mood, you listen to something a bit faster.  There’s always an appropriate style of music.    

You have played at both T in the Park and the Underage festival.  What role does music play in young peoples’ lives?

The artist and the artist’s lyrics give them something to relate to, and they feel a connection.  I have become an idol to some young females, and in that respect I represent them in my industry.  When I perform, that’s the most important thing – I’m representing.   

Lykez is playing live in Camden Town on Monday 30th November.  Get details of the gig now – including how to get on the guest list!

More info on Lykez, including news on her debut album Lykes, Camera, Action on:

Official website
MySpace
Facebook