็นๅปๆญคๅค้ ่ฏปไธญๆ็ๆฌใ
Masiwei(้ฉฌๆๅฏ) from Pixian, Chengdu, China, is the head of the Chinese hip-hop group Higher Brothers. Known for his signature flow, Masiwei released his first solo album Prince Charming (้ป้ฉฌ็ๅญ), last year. We recently caught up with Masiwei to discuss music and Chinese New Year.
The following interview has been lightly edited. Photos by 88rising.
What influences you and your music?
When I first started listening to hip-hop, I listened to 50 Cent, Bow Wow, Fabolous, Nelly, Chingy, Soulja Boy, Big L, Nas, and Jay-Z, a lot. These artists continue to have a massive impact on my music and taste.
How do you celebrate CNY? Do you have any CNY traditions?
The best way to spend Chinese New Year is with my family and friends, playing with firecrackers and getting lucky red envelopes with money, too.
Favorite food to eat during CNY?
My favorite food to eat during Chinese New Year is always dumplings.
Do you have a special fit for CNY?
For my Chinese New Year outfit, everything has to be new. For my sneakers, I like Nikes in the classic OG colorways.
What’s next for you in the new year?
My new album, Dark Horse, releases on February 14th, Valentineโs Day. I put a lot of time into making the lyrics. Theyโre more personal and intricate than ever before, so I hope the album will inspire people to be brave and overcome any obstacles they face. I also have a concert performance with McDonaldโs on their McDonaldโs app. I will perform songs from the album live for the first time during their New Year celebration on February 12th from 7 pm – 9 pm in the US.
