Words by Rachel June

80purppp just released this smooth banger ‘she want prada.’ A Canadian rapper and songwriter, 80purppp has a unique sound, mixing influences like rap with smooth RnB, hip-hop and jazz elements. The song, produced by Tyler Banditt, is feel-good, groovy and filled with soul. An artistic music video, available here, accompanies it:

1. What are 5 words you would use to describe yourself and your artistry?
   Free, purple, weird, meaning, hard.
2. When and why did you start making music?
   I started making music in 11th grade, I needed an outlet after my crush at the time did me super
   dirty.
3. What’s the story behind your artist name?
   “80purppp” is really an anagram. “80” symbolizes the letters “AD,” an acronym for “A Dark.”
   Then there’s 2 extra ps on “purppp” which stand for “peter pan.” So my name is really “A Dark
   purple peter pan,” but it’s easier to write and say “80purppp”.
4. How do you feel you stand out in today’s music landscape?
   I just try to make stuff that still shows how dope music is through a sound that feels as raw
   possible, then more ppl can relate.
5. What other artists or bands are you listening to? Any artists that have inspired you?
   Listening to a lot of Babyface Ray rn, also MK.Gee, Kelela and OutKast. Piero Picioni too and
   always Sampha.
6. Tell us about your new single “she want prada”. This song really seems to stand out
   amongst your previous releases – Why did you end 2024 with this song?
   I just wanted to have fun. I make a lot of dense music, but the challenge lately is how to
   make that feel light while listening: SWP felt on the opposite end of the spectrum.
7. Who would you most like to collaborate with artistically?
   Sampha for sure, Kaytranada for sure, Kelela for sure.
8. What was the most difficult obstacle you have ever faced and how did you overcome
   Is the truest love staying when you should leave, or leaving when you should go?
9. How does your creative process work – do you work solo or do you collaborate?
   I like to collaborate with producers and other musicians, there’s a lot of talent in my city.
   Process is like I’m jelly fishing hunting in SpongeBob for a vibe yunno.
10. Is there a hidden meaning in any of your music?
11. Definitely, I feel like explaining that defeats the point though lmaoo.
12. Who would you like to see perform live (past or present) and why?
    Michael Jackson obviously cause aura. Xxxtentacion would’ve been insane if I could see him.
    Seeing Sampha would be a dream. Kaytra would be a vibe.
13. What should fans expect next for 80purppp?
    Definitely look out for the numbers 96, I’m taking everybody to Suite 96.

Watch his journey by following him here.