Genre:Hip-Hop / Rap
Throughout film, music, and culture, there have been countless depictions of Miami, FL. Beyondthose typical glossy images of South Beach, there’s a hustling heart just beneath the surface. It’s one marked by a tough tenacity, and it beats inside of North Miami Beach native Se1v1en—pronounced “Seven Eleven.” The MC isn’t from the area traditionally associated with the 305 on-screen and on record, but he represents his city proudly and offers up a fresh perspective from it.Born to Haitian-Dominican parents shortly after their relocation stateside, he embraced his musical muse at a young age even recalling standing up and singing Toni Braxton in the middle of a pre-kindergarten class as his first “performance.” Developing a fixation, he fell in love with hip-hop, studying icons such as Snoop Dogg, Nas, and 2Pac as well as Lil Wayne. With a tough childhood that saw him homeless and struggling at points, he never lost sight of his ultimate goal. Channeling that upbringing, Se1v1en fashioned an intense sound that began to resonate locally in 2014. “I try to do what comes naturally,” he explains. “It’s a mixture of that Southern style, trap, East Coast hip-hop, and even a little pop, because you’ve got to have a hook.”He artfully merges multiple styles into his vision. One minute, Se1v1en can drop “Ven Dale (feat. Yoneiry El Maestro),” a fierce flow over a reggaeton bounce, that captures a Latin spark. In the next, he might sing an impressive refrain emblematic of his range. All the while, he clings to a message of inspiration remarking, “I want to motivate people with my songs.”Florida titan and industry magnate DJ Khaled took notice in 2015 and showed support. Simultaneously, the artist joined bills alongside luminaries ranging from Waka Flocka Flame to Boosie Badazz. BMI signed him to a publishing deal as he began penning songs for other artists in the midst of prepping his summer mixtape. Se1v1en’s official debut single “MIA” properly introduces him though.Merging a thick booming beat and his tight and tense bars, it’s as much of a love letter to his city as it is a declaration of the local hustle chanting those three letters.“People come all over the world to Miami,” he goes on. “I wanted to give the city a call-to-arms that allows everyone a voice. Beyond that regional meaning, it’s meant to inspire people to never give up. I came from the toughest part, and I made myself. I’m proof it’s possible no matter where you are.”His very moniker actually encapsulates that mindset he’s possessed since day one. “I got serious at age seven and got focused at age 11,” he declares. “Now I’m never going to stop.”One thing’s for sure. His city will thank him for it someday.