How is the hip hop scene like in Queens today?
The rap scene in Queens is just what it has always been, which is a high standard/caliber of rap. There have been various artists from the past and present that have risen out of Queens but overall New York has been killing the scene.
From a French point of view, it seems like the New York female hip hop scene has been booming for the past few years. How hard is it to stand out from the other artists?
It’s really not that hard as long as you are your OWN trend. I emphasize OWN because originality caters to being seen. It’s like fashion, everyone wants the newest and latest trend. Standing out from other artists is basically your OWN style.
Which female artists inspire you?
Well as an artist that sings and raps, I’m influenced by many female artist and emcees. In the pop/R&B genre I would say Britney Spears, Avril Lavigne, Björk, Sia, K Michelle, Brandy, Mya, Beyoncé, Melanie Fiona, Corinne Bailey Rae, Mary J. Blige, Jasmine Sullivan, Marsha Ambrosius, Total, Missy Elliot, Ciara and various others that I can’t name at this time because it’s off the top. As far as the rap game I would start with Lauryn Hill, Lil’ Kim, Foxy Brown, M.I.A., Nicki Minaj, Trina and EVE. I pay homage to all of these women who have set the standard and knocked down doors so females that inspire to be female artists/rappers could get in the door.
Do you consider yourself a feminist? Why?
I do consider myself a feminist. I am PRO FEMALE. I am a female and I understand what it is to be one. I am sympathetic to all females but I still respect all men as our equals.
What made you want to write your first songs when you were a child? Did you receive any musical training?
I started off writing poetry (poems) that eventually I added melody to and just like that my poems became songs. I taught myself how to make hooks. Just always had a love for music since I was a kid. My mom used to play a music box to her belly to settle me in her womb.
What are you listening to these days?
Currently I’m listening to all of the latest music out. Rihanna‘s Anti, Kanye West, Yo Gotti, Taylor Swift, Maroon 5’s Songs about Jane, Sia, Cardi B, Future, Drake, Justin Beiber – his album was amazing – Ariana Grande, Young Thug, Kodak Black, Handsome Balla, Chris Brown, K Michelle, Pusha T and more.
Madame Rap’s favorite is the song “Bottle Service” for its sultry atmosphere. Can you tell us more about how this track?
Well I’m glad that this was one of your favorites. “Bottle service” is from my E.P entitled Club PHYR. On this track, I expressed my need to just party. Sometimes you have the need to have fun and nothing more. Working all week and finally being able to hit the dance floor or VIP. It was a fun song to make and I still vibe out to it from time to time. As you mentioned, the vibe is sultry and I wanted it to make people feel good and sexy. “Bottle Service” is that song you put on you fun playlist.
On your Twitter account you announced the release of a new single “WHIP IT”. Can you tell us when and where it will be available and what it sounds like? Do you have any other upcoming projects?
My next single is actually “Bubblin’ UP“, which I’ve promoted on Twitter along with my other single “WHIP IT” I recently shot the video for “Bubblin’ UP” which was very fun and creative. Both will be available on iTunes and released mid June. Both are uptempo dance tracks while “Bubblin’ UP” is more animated and “WHIP IT” is more seductive.
What do you think about Madame Rap? What should be changed or improved?
I think Madame Rap is dope and I didn’t have a hard time locating your main site through Soundcloud. I initially found you from liking my music from my Soundcloud page. I think Madame Rap doesn’t need any improvements yet because I see all the work that being put into it. The interviews that I read were great. Really focused on expressing who each female artist is and inspires to be. Thank you for the opportunity of this interview. I think it’s cool you are based in France and scouting talent in The United States of America. I would love a copy of my interview in English as well as French.
Find Phyr on Soundcloud, Facebook and Twitter.
