CUBA BRIDGING GAP BETWEEN NIGERIA AND LONDON

Jun 21, 2010

CUBA: A MEANINGFUL RAPPER

Pulse caught up with Sir Cuba, a Nigerian Hip-Hop artist who discusses the many layers of the genre, and his plans for the future

Born in Nigeria, Sir Cuba 27, came to London a few years ago to pursue a career in music, although his story doesn't begin here. Sir Cuba actually began making his dream a reality in The Motherland where he released his first album in 2007. Sir Cuba says that the Hip-Hop industry has rapidly grown in Nigeria with many rappers appearing on the scene to make their mark. For Sir Cuba, Hip-Hop is more that just a type of music, it is a platform to capture and perform ideas, have hopes and make dreams a reality: “In Hip-Hop, you can bring out any concept in life.” And adds: “It's a source of joy, lesson and motivation.”

Sir Cuba is a talented and versatile writer who not only pens his own tracks but also writes movies and poetry, which are all related: “Rap is the combination between rhythm and poetry.”

Sir Cuba admits that at times he has found the industry a struggle but his love for Hip-Hop is what has kept him going. For him Hip-Hop is a dream, and his main objective is to find success both in the UK and Nigeria.

Sir Cuba is currently working on his second album which will be his debut release in the UK. His first single 'Swagger' features Frankie Max and Mr Brown, and focuses on living a carefree and joyful life. The album itself will tackle various themes including songs which look at Sir Cuba's younger years. Not only does Sir Cuba rap, but he sings, and introduces vocals on some of his tracks, creating an RnB sound

One of Sir Cuba's biggest inspiration is the work of George Frideric Handel, a barogue composer of the water music, The Handel Messiah. Within the rap game Sir Cuba's inspiration is 2Pac, and his ultimate ambition is not to become a star but to become a legend: “I want to leave a mark in history.” Sir Cuba has two main objectives for his career, not only does he want his fans to enjoy his music, but he also wants his supporters to take something from it: “Listen to my music and get a message.”

For more information visit: www.sircubaonline.com