Vancouver Rapper BLAK ACE Conjures Confidence In New Single “Blak Majik”
Vancouver-based rapper BLAK ACE has created a whirlwind of swagger and confidence in his new single “Blak Majik.” Written by himself, BLAK ACE, and the beat was produced alongside DJ KEMO, the song was recorded at Vanguard Music Studios.
Most notably, the track features a fusion of jazzy horns and a steady hip-hop backbeat that compliments BLAK ACE’s resolute rap delivery. Lyrically, the song discusses the personal obstacles that BLAK ACE has overcome in order to get to where he is now before discussing broader issues that affect people’s drive.
“Everyday expedition paid my tuition
I didn’t pass math, but my art was pimpin’
Self-expression they say that we lack
I make them take those words back
When I spit these raps”
Another thing that the lyrics convey is passion, evoking the braggadocio and positivity found in songs like Nas’ “I Can” and “The World Is Yours.” The song takes the passion of hip-hop and uses it as a vehicle to inspire others to pursue their own dreams.
By moving from BLAK ACE’s personal experiences to wider ones, the song aims to connect with a universal audience. The vibe and energy of this record ebbs and flows, magnetically drawing in the audience for more.
Of the song’s production, BLAK ACE states,
“DJ KEMO is a top tier producer, his engineering and musical knowledge of beat mixing makes the music sound flawless. The sound quality from DJ KEMO’s production makes me sound commercial and radio ready. I’m excited to make more music and look forward to the reception of BLAK MAJIK worldwide.”
BLAK ACE got his start with his debut video, “My Passion,” which features him showcasing his music in his Vancouver hometown. He then went on to open for well-known hip-hop artists such as E-40, Jadakiss, and Fabolous. In 2017, BLAK ACE would embark on his own concert tour, “Angelz and Demonz,” and perform throughout British Columbia and Alberta before ending the tour in his hometown.
In addition to pursuing music, he would also develop his own clothing line called BLAK G3AR. BLAK G3AR received immense support from fans and musicians through his lucrative “Body Positive” merchandise campaign and rap artist-driven competition “The Transducer.”
Listen to “Blak Majik” below and learn more about Blak Ace via our mini-interview.
Care to introduce yourself?
Hello, hip-hop world. I’m Blak Ace, an independent rapper and hip-hop recording artist from Canada. Born and raised in Vancouver, BC, I’ve grown to acquire many passions, and today I’d like to share with you my passions for music as a hip hop emcee,.musician, and entertainer.
I started my journey in music through creative writing, and expressing myself through poetry has always been a neat outlet for sharing my thoughts and feelings. I’ve always had an ear for music, playing the piano and trombone growing up. Listening to rap and hip-hop music has inspired me to take my skills to the next level and share my experiences as a recording artist.
I grew up listening to talented MCs, rappers, and rap groups like Tupac, Maestro Fresh Wes, The Rascalz, N.W.A., Snoop Dogg, E40, Jadakiss, Master P, UGK, Too Short, Hot Boyz and T.I. to name a few of my favorites.
My journey as a solo artist started in 2011, recording music at GreenHouse studios with my producer Keegan Clark. My 1st solo album Heavenz Gates had 18 songs featuring talented vocalists like Amanda Maiden, who’s the Goddaughter of Chaka Khan. We promoted the music, and our efforts were rewarded with the opening acts for E40, JadaKiss, and legendary 2 Live CREW at Fortune Sound Club in Vancouver.
A few years later, in 2015, Starving Marvel and I created the music videos for the album. We made four videos for the songs; My Passion, R.O.E., DIRTY, and SiXohFoe. With over 100K streams on YouTube and successful marketing strategies, I’ve continued to build a fan base and following online. In the summer of 2017, I organized and headlined the Angelz N Demonz tour, which was my 1st tour in Western Canada throughout BC and Alberta.
As a solo artist, I’ve been blessed with recording opportunities to create great music. With the help of award-winning producer DJ KEMO of The Rascalz, we’ve been honing the sound of BLAK ACE for over a decade. In 2019 we released our 1st four-track EP together called BLAK SOULZ. As we perfected the sound of BLAK ACE over the years, we’re excited to share with you our 2nd EP, BLAK MAJIK, starting with the single “BLAK MAJIK.” We’re looking forward to releasing three more songs in 2023 for the EP.
Tell us about the process of writing “Blak Majik.”
“Blak Majik” was originally written in 2012; after making a few changes to the lyrical content, I brought it to the studio and showed DJ KEMO my song idea. He played a few beats for me, and we found a beat that complimented the lyrics. After a few adjustments to beats and lyrics, we were able to record and finalize a version that would make the hip-hop industry proud.
What’s it like being a rapper in Vancouver?
Being a rapper in Vancouver is definitely challenging but also very fun. With so many artists and producers to work with, I feel like Vancouver is full of amazing talent and continues to break ground in the Canadian hip-hop market and worldwide.
What’s the industry and fans like?
Vancouver has a tremendous fan base for rap and hip hop, not only mainstream but underground as well. You can go to hip-hop shows from your local pubs doing open mics to larger venues like the Commodore on Grandville street to take in well-known acts and performers. There’s definitely no shortage of hip-hop entertainment from the local hip-hop community.
Who was the first Canadian artist to blow you away?
My first favorite Canadian artist would have to be the one and only Maestro Fresh Wes. When I 1st heard his music on rap city, I had no idea he was Canadian and also from Toronto. My 2nd favorite group would have to be the Rascalz from Vancouver. I spent many nights rapping and freestyling to the beat of Really Living and to now have the opportunity to create music with DJ KEMO. I am blown away by my current opportunity and look forward to making similar waves in the industry.
You’ve been making music for a while now. What’s one piece of advice you can offer to those starting out?
With all the wisdom, experience, and knowledge that I have gained throughout my career as a recording and performing hip-hop artist, I would say this to those starting out;
Fall in love with the music you make. You need to be your own biggest fan, so love yourself and trust the process as you grow as an artist or emcee. Practice performing and writing as much as humanly possible. Improving your skill set will make your experience as a musician more enjoyable overall. Build yourself a team of hard-working and honest individuals who will help you make music and promote it.