West Philly hustle on full display

Artist Name: King Shampz

Hometown: Philadelphia, PA

Can you tell us about your background? Where did you grow up, and how has that influenced your music?

I grew up in the streets of Philadelphia. West Philly to be exact. I come from a long line of writers in my family and I now have the privilege to show my talent to the world.  I think that me having a background stemming from the streets gave me a different perspective on how things are and the way the streets can be perceived. I wanted to be a true voice for the Hustler who hasn’t had a voice in a while so that definitely drives my music.

What was your early introduction to music and hip-hop? Do you have any specific artists or experiences that inspired you?

Definitely through my Dad for sure! My Mom is the writer and my Dad is the musician. It was not only hip-hop but pretty much every genre of music. From Sly and the Family Stone to Miles Davis, so I’m well versed in music. Hip-hop was all around me and I grew up in the DVD era, so freestyles, battles, mixtapes, cyphers and everything rap wise. In Philly, it was everywhere and the culture bit me like a bug! My earliest memory of inspiration for hip-hop was watching Jay-Z’s Fade to Black DVD and from then on I knew what I wanted to do. The way he captured the crowd and showed his recording process of the Black album was magical.

When did you start making music, and what was your first project?

My brother Azzan and I started making music in our early teens, so we’ve been doing this for a minute. We’re vets! Our first project together was called Kings of Kings Vol. 1—go check it out!

How would you describe your style and sound? What sets you apart from other artists?

Hustler’s Music. I think my style is something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue! It pays homage to the legendary rappers of old, but it’s done in a brand-new way. It’s flashy and gangsta—a combination of Bad Boy and Death Row, Wu-Tang Clan meets Cash Money, Screwed Up Click meets Mobb Deep. Different styles, just skilled, dope, and unique!

How do you promote your music and connect with your audience? Do you have any tips for other independent artists?

I promote my music through every platform available! If I have any tip for a fellow artist, it’s this: Don’t be afraid to push yourself. YOU ARE THE PRODUCT! Promote yourself at all times—find something that drives traffic and capitalize on it. Realize that this is a marathon, not a race. (R.I.P. Nipsey) Build your following day by day; your time will come!

What has been your proudest moment in your music career so far?

Probably gaining fans for the talent I possess! Being constantly recognized as a dope rapper as well!

Can you tell us about your latest project? What can fans expect from it?

Hustler’s Renaissance is a game-changer—a project with incredible replay value and versatility. Fans can expect to be blown away by the production, hooks, and lyrics. It’s what I call Electric Street music—it won’t put you to sleep like this drumless B.S.!

How can people support you and your music as an independent artist?

You can support me on all streaming platforms, and we’re dropping some incredible merch soon so you can cop some and show love!

Social Media Links

Instagram: @KingShampz

X: @KSHAMPZ

Facebook: @KingShampz