Houston artist (in every sense of the word) and ex-Marine Barrett Hustle knows first hand what loss, keeping your shit together and understanding it gets better as life goes on means. After coming home to his mother dead after committing suicide in 5th grade, Barrett Hustle internalized that experience into motivation and was destined to do good in the world which he proves not only through his music, but his artwork as well. Barrett doesn’t shy away from the fact that the Houston music scene needs to do some improving and isn’t afraid of saying he stands out more than most rappers because of how humble he is.
Rayan: How did you first start drawing and where does the inspiration for your drawings?
Barrett Hustle: I can’t honestly remember the first drawing but I started as a child tracing children’s books. I think it developed into the precision I strive to achieve with my work.
R: Motivation seems to be a thing for you, not only in songs of yours but also on one of your blog posts you say, “…If I’m in a storm Id like to know there’s someone willing to share an umbrella. It can be as simple as words that can trigger motivation.” I know growing up you suffered a huge loss with the passing of your mother, is that was triggered the motivation?
BH: It was definitely a monumental & traumatic loss that triggered a lot of emotional instability. Though I know many people have their own personal battles & reaching out to be a blessing is the true joy. I even target some messages to myself when I find myself off track.
R: Houston is known for it’s strip clubs, beautiful women and very “showy” rap scene, does any of this influence your music or do you try to steer very clear from this?
BH: I don’t shy away from the strip club scene. It’s a part of the game. They play our music too & besides it wouldn’t be real if I didn’t include those scenes & the attraction to sex. I’m not a flashy dude but you do love to see your city positively celebrate its culture. Have fun, YOLO right?
R: Did being a Marine affect you and your artwork and music later on at all?
BH: I think it opened my mind up to interacting with different people and cultures. I got introduced to many genres of music that I initially wasn’t into.
R: What are some of your thoughts on the Houston rap scene? Things you enjoy and make Houston stand out from any other city?
BH: I like to demand more out of my city’s rap scene. We have failed to really solidify that next generation of Houston rap music to reach the world. I think we can do more for our underground starving artists to help them shine.
Houston is fast paced but slowed up musically. The slab culture & horse trail rides are very unique down here in block parties. There’s much to down here if you’re open minded & it’s only expanding exponentially.
R: What makes you different from any other rappers on scene nowadays?
BH: I think I am more humble than most. I just do my thing & revolve my music around my life & history. I’m confident, opinionated, but not afraid to admit when I’m wrong.
R: Is rapping what you do on the side or is it your everything? Do you plan on retiring from the game anytime soon?
BH: Art and a few hustles make the money to pursue my music. Preferably, if I had my way I’d never retire from music in general. I don’t give a fuck about that age shit. Rap music is only genre that really is concerned about age. That just shows the immaturity of the game.
R: Is there anything we should be on the look out for? Music or art wise?
BH: I’m working on music constantly but I’m going to milk these previous projects till the tit is dry. Look out for a new album, Passion, in the future. As far as art, I’m always taking custom orders but believe I will definitely have some works coming ASAP!
Take a look through Barrett Hustle’s art gallery below. If you want to know about Barrett Hustle and his artwork hit him up on his twitter @BarrettMusic and his instagram @barretthustle! If you’re interested in buying one of his masterpieces please visit Barrett’s Art Studio on Etsy.
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