Making It As An Artist in Trap-Afrobeats

With sick flows, rolling bass, synth beats and a characteristic triplet flow, it’s no wonder trap style music has quickly gained popularity in the past twenty years. Trap music’s catchy rhythm, fiery lyrics, and the more recent incorporation of electronic dance style fills this genre of music with auditory intrigue. Originating in Atlanta, Georgia in the 90’s; trap influence has made its way into mainstream listening, and it can be found in the styles of artists such as Drake, Migos, Travis Scott, 21 Savage, and so many more. This style of rap is the child of gangsta rap, and the grandchild of 1970’s New York hip hop. The term ‘trap’ was originally used to describe music with the primary topic of drug dealing. Due to the fact that a ‘trap’ referred to the spot in a car where drugs would be hidden, or its more common association with trap houses. Serving as a hub for elicit enterprise, trap houses in the ‘Dirty South' are also the birthplace of bars about the grim lifestyle associated with these spots. It also makes reference to how the cycle of drug use and sale can be entrapping. Modern day trap music was pioneered by producer Shawty Redd and artists such as Gucci Mane and Three 6 Mafia. 

Afrobeats differ greatly from trap music, and it is typically more melodic and smooth. It has a heavy presence of American jazz and soul, fused with West African beats, giving it a buttery quality. Afrobeats lyrical content often contains political messages, and it has been used as a tool to inspire systematic change and unite listeners. This genre has gained a lot of popularity in the United Kingdom, and prominent artists in this genre include Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Mr Eazi. 

A family friend of mine, Isaac Magloire is an upcoming artist who defines his style as a blend of both the trap and afrobeats genres. Growing up in Ottawa, he began casually freestyling with his friends in his late teens. He is a student at Carleton University, but now wants to make music his primary focus and make a name for himself in the trap/afrobeats community, not just in his hometown, but worldwide. I wanted to write this article to showcase a local talent and give MUSE readers insight into a phenomenal genre, and learn about the process of entering the music scene. 

How do you define the trap/afrobeats genre?

I define trap music genre as modern-day hip hop, it used to only be street music, but it has now expanded into something much bigger and diverse. I define the afro beats genre as a diverse genre of true spiritual expression. I feel like afrobeats allows artists and listeners to express and experience profound emotions in a very accessible way, Afrobeats makes you want to move no matter what culture or country you're from.

How did you start making music and what drew you to this particular genre?

I started making music by freestyling with my friends in the cafeteria in my last year of high school and one day we decided to try and make a song.  It was really bad, they all gave up or stopped but I got kind of addicted to it and started to write raps everywhere. I was drawn to trap music because it’s my favourite genre and it was what I was most familiar with. I didn’t start experimenting with afrobeats and dancehall until a couple years ago, I found that the rhythms allowed for more freedom, and I liked the variety. 

Who inspires you (in music or just in general)?

I am inspired by all different kinds of people; I am inspired by anyone who works very hard towards their goals and overcome adversity in the process of self-actualization. It gives me motivation to work harder and continue to believe in myself and my goals.

What are some of the biggest challenges that you face as an emerging artist in the trap/afrobeats genre?

The biggest challenges you face as an emerging artist is standing out from the crowd, marketing yourself effectively, managing to remain consistent with content and dealing with hate/ lack of support early on.

How do you get out of a creative rut?

I don’t really fall into creative ruts no matter what my mood is, I always have something to express but I do become inspired by watching other artists work or seeing something I am working towards like a certain car or images of a condo somewhere I’d want to live or visit.

What is the best part of being in the music industry?

The best part of being in the music industry is meeting other creatives that share the same passion that you do that most people don’t relate to.

What do you envision for yourself and your music career?

I envision myself being an internationally known artist with the versatility to stay in the industry as long as I want. I am most interested in perfecting my craft, enjoying my life, and creating a life of financial freedom for me and my family. I am not motivated by fame.

What do you wish people knew about you as an artist?

I wish that people knew about me as an artist, that I treat my music like true art and pride myself on originality. I have spent a long time developing a unique sound and I think it will begin to show as I release more music.

I’m so happy to have been able to chat with Isaac and learn more about this unique blend of genres. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for him as he secures his spot in the music world. He is definitely one to keep an eye on!

Check him out on Spotify and Apple Music under the name Orion. and find him on Instagram @_orionnnn

Header by: Valerie Letts