Three seconds into a Wic Whitney song and you can’t help but smile. The Chicago-via-Arkansas rapper glides through verses of lush horn lines and dreamy beats– you get elements of R&B, hip hop, and so much positivity. The artist has already released a handful of solid songs this year, with more on the way. Check out one of his summer Sofars, or his appearance on the Listening Room, and then read a little more from the Wic Whitney himself, below. If you’re wanting even more Wic (we don’t blame you), we’ve also covered him in our New Music Alert posts.
What’s your go-to album at the moment?
I’ve been stuck on The Tree of Forgiveness by John Prine. It came out in 2018 but I just found it and haven’t been able to put it down. It’s an old feels folk/country album that makes me think of home. I guess I’ve been missing my town and family recently.
Can you describe your music style in six words?
Fresh grape jelly on warm toast.
Name an accomplishment you are most proud of.
I swam with a pod of wild dolphins once. They came upon me and accepted me as one of their own without any violence.
What are you working on right now?
I’m working on an album called Afternoon Tea, which will be my first official full length project! It’s more personal than anything I’ve put out there, so I’m extremely excited, but a bit nauseous thinking about it.
Are there any specific albums or artists that have had a big influence on your music career and style?
Oh yes. Malibu [by] Anderson .Paak, Section.80 [by] Kendrick Lamar, Mama’s Gun [by] Erykah Badu, Barbra Streisand’s Greatest Hits, Aquemini [by] Outkast.
Dream collaboration and why?
Andre 3000, because I’ve gotten the most out of his music than anyone else’s. If I could just be weird with him in a room and make something honest, I would be peak happy.
If you could play a Sofar show anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you want it to be?
New Zealand, because they seem to have it all together. Plus I’m a fan of Hobbits and would love to grab dinner with one.
Who are three rising artists you’re excited about right now?
Ken Cheech, B. Heard, and Ellie Banke. They are all fantastic artists and friends who I’ve been lucky enough to know and learn from.
