Pennsylvania native Terrell Pinckney, better known by his stage name Rell, is one of the brightest rays of independent Hip-Hop. Shortly after Rell launched his music career, he took the Hip-Hop scene by storm in his new hometown Columbia and the whole state of South Carolina with his witty lyrics and hard-hitting beats.
Having made a big impact with his mixtapes, Rell is not slowing down until the world takes notice of his clever lyricism, efficient wordplay and irresistible charm. He is currently working on his new mixtape, Your Royal Highness, which is expected to be released in November 2012. Be on the lookout for this dynamic and much talented MC as he embarks on his journey to legendary status.
Having travelled the nation as an army brat how has life in Georgia, Texas, California, South Carolina and Germany helped you to perfect your craft as a recording artist?
I’ve seen all sides of life from East to West, from rich to being broke and from American to foreign. I think it shows in my music, swag and personal life and has made me wiser as a person and artist
How long have you been in the game?
I guess it depends on what you call the game. Hip-Hop has always been my side chick to sports, but I didn't take it serious till 2011. So, I would say 2 years.
What was it that made you want to pursue a career in music?
It’s hard to say. One night I went to sleep and at sunrise I woke up with a plan and dropped out of school [laughs]. Haven’t looked back since but if I had to put my finger on it, it would be between two things. Just being able to be an artist and having the ability to paint a picture with words and competition, I always want to be the best.
What would say sets you apart from other artists in the game today?
It seems like most artists in the game today aren't trying to be the best music artist they can be. They'd rather come up with a gimmick or try and mock another up and coming artist. Where a dude like me, wakes up every day and works on his craft and wants to be the best dead or alive before it's all said and done. So, I’d say that and God given ability.
Can you tell us about your releases thus far?
Smoked Out Time Machine was a joint effort with my homie Lu. It was meant to give us something to build on so we would have some tracks to give us a good jump start. It turned out pretty well and actually did way better online then we thought it would. We had to smoke one to that. Weed Beats And Bomb Lyrics was more of an arrival and letting the world know I’m here by showing them all sides of me and what I can do musically.
You’re currently working on a new mixtape entitled Your Royal Highness, what can we expect to hear from you on there? When will it drop?
Your Royal Highness is definitely going to have more of an album feel to it. But, don’t be worried I’ve balanced mixtape Rell with mainstream Rell fairly well. I’m expecting this one to break some necks. It’s not made for one group of individuals but many and could set it off in a hood spot a rave or the burbs. At the end of the day it’s just good music
Your biography states that, “Rell's unmatched and dedicated artistry puts the heart back into Hip-Hop”. What do you think about the current state of Hip-Hop today?
Hip-Hop is forever growing and evolving. Nowadays it’s hard to put it in any genre or category. I don't think Hip-Hop has any limitations as far as entertainment goes. It’s also a constant reminder of how powerful words can be.
What artists are you listening to at the moment and why?
Let me think what I got in da whip. That new Wiz, Wayne, Big Sean, and some classic Drizzy. Also, a lot of me! Why it’s hard to say I listen too many of the top MC’s in the game, you could catch me riding to any of them at any given moment.
Have any artists had a major influence on you? If so, who and why?
I’ve been influenced by Hip-Hop and music, period. It’s hard to point out one major influence. I believe if you listen to my music you can hear a number of legends in my music.
After the release of your new mixtape Your Royal Highness, what will be next for Rell?
Of course, more great music, some new music videos and I also plan to get my webpage in full force and take my squad We Roll Up to the next level. Stay tuned, it’s going to be a big year.
Having had major features in Hip Hop Weekly, TRUE Magazine, HYPE Magazine, and now Yo! Raps Magazine, how do you feel has this impacted on you and your music?
I still feel the same and I’m still working to get better. I have a long road ahead of me till I reach my goal. As far as my music, I hope it opens me up to a bigger audience and fans that will help me get to the next level and are on the bus.
Have you been doing any shows, if so what is a Rell show like?
Here in Columbia, SC the music scene needs a Red Bull because it’s not the best for shows, there’s not many good venues. So, until the right opportunity shows its face Rell’s shows are rare. But, if you catch one you’ll come for the music and stay for the fun.
Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years from now?
In 5 years I’ll be close to the top of the game and working on my legacy as one of the greatest men to ever live and rolling one up [laughs].
Where can people find more about you and connect socially with you?
Hit me up at www.facebook.com/demiegodrell and www.twitter.com/demie_god_rell. Official website coming soon!
- By Jai Boo
