By: Todd “DG” Davis
Rapindustry.com
Hot on the rise native Compton, CA, rap artist, Siete7x returns with his eagerly awaited sophomore collection, Stucc In the Hole [Los Angeles legend RJmrLA’s OMMIO label]. Fueled by a trio of popular entries; “Only Me,” featuring Lefty Gunplay, the Bino Rideaux assisted “Feelin’ Me” and “All My Life,” a collabo with Wallie the Sensei, the 15-track opus arrives fresh on the heels of Siete’s standout appearance on Kendrick Lamar’s globally chart-topping, surprise / sixth studio album, GNX.
Let’s hop right into this second LP, Stucc In the Hole — Conceptually, what does this title represent both to and for you?
Stucc In The Hole represents my section and community. It’s real raw and uncut behind stuck in the hole. People have died, are from, got beat up, mistaken identity, police brutality, and everything in between in the hole.
How then does Stucc In the Hole either differ and / or compare to that of your solo debut?
It compares in the way of I’m talking about the same struggles, but I’m starting to grow so the music is shifting to a different angle. I’m shedding light on the kids and the youth to show them there’s different ways to win.
Stucc In the Hole comes courtesy of EMPIRE — What particular string of events actually led to this signing?
It was a great journey through my first project with EMPIRE, Long Live My Therapy, and I just decided to keep on going with the home-team. Shoutout to Lemmie, Bria, Simran, Bri J, and Jentry for keeping everything on track and giving me a shot.
You also appear alongside Roddy Ricch and Wallie The Sense on “Dodger Blue, ” taken from Kendrick Lamar’s GNX — How did this standout feature even come about?
My friend J-Real hit up Kendrick about my particular sound and cutting through L.A.! with all the music I’ve been making. I was in the Bay to finish my album, and I got a call from J-Real telling me to get to L.A. ASAP, and I did. When I was on the way to L.A., Kendrick called me and let me know we had some work to do. Then the rest is history.
As an emcee, when you sit down to pen your rhymes where do you draw inspiration from?
I listen to a lot of old school music and Gospel music. Growing up, my mom was always listening to oldies, and that’s just something that stuck with me. My process is really not a process, every time I get inspired, I just get in my zone. Lights off, close my eyes, and just express how I’m feeling.
That said, how do you describe and / or define the style of music that you create and / or perform?
I would describe it as truthful, melodic, and inspirational. I hope to make records that inspire the community and youth to let them know that I’m relatable. I speak to the ghetto, fasho.
Where does your moniker originally derive from?
I was born and raised on the 157th, born in 1997, and my birthday is the day after the 7th. It was my ‘hood given name, it all fits.
Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?
I want them to get motivation, inspiration, and find their role in society. The goal is to be something in life, more than your neighborhood. I make music that makes you feel good.
If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
It was Kendrick, but I would love to make music with Lil Baby or SZA. Lil Baby and I talk about the same struggles, and we compliment each other’s sounds. SZA is just the GOAT, she’s hard! Voice is amazing. Also, I would’ve loved the opportunity to make music with Nipsey, RIP!
If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?
Crypto! I’m from Los Angeles, CA. That’s the biggest accolade in L.A. to me.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?
Yes, the West is on top! We back up there. Shoutout Kendrick. The ball is back rolling for us, and people are listening to what we have to say.
What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
Keep doing music, that’s what got me here. Being humble, and maintaining good relationships with my people.
Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?
Fashion and sports. That’s all I would care to do, forreal. I know even doing that, I would rap.
To date, what has been your biggest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?
Coming to EMPIRE was a highlight, and then being on GNX with Kendrick.
What’s an average day like for you?
I be chillin’ if I’m not working because I’m always working. Stimulating my mind and body. I like to go to the movies when I have time. I’m a big foodie, so I’ll always go find spots to eat. Honestly, if I’m not working on music, I don’t feel like doing much else.
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…
I try to show love back whenever people post something or see me in person. It makes me feel good when people recognize me, so I always make sure to say wassup.
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
My favorite part is making the music because that’s what I love. The most fun for me is performing at shows. I like the energy, and just seeing my music connect with my fans. My least favorite is recording music videos. Why does it take 10 hours to shoot a video? I’m not a guy who likes to be in the camera for too long.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Go as hard as you can. Do it consistently. Never listen to other people while chasing your dreams. Stay focused. You can do anything.
Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
I see myself in the billboards, on the charts, selling out venues, and chasing my dreams. Loving my life.
As for the immediate, what’s next for SIETE7X?
Leveled up music, we’re still about to flood. More features, more vibes, and more stories.
Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?
My cousin and I started this music journey together, now that he’s gone I just know he’s proud of my success. I wouldn’t be here if he didn’t push me. With him passing, I knew I couldn’t give up. That’s why I can’t stop and I have to do this.
Lastly, any “parting” words for our readers?
Never give up!
