We had a moment to chat with local Minnesota rapper Bravo. Check out his full interview below and let us know what you think on our Instagram.

Where are you from and how was life growing up? I’m from Liberia, West Africa. Life was good growing up I had some ups, and had some downs But I held on to my morals and values.

How did the artist name come to be? I used to be called Diablo. In my early days I felt deeply that it did not represent my character. So I transformed myself, and Bravo. Came into existence.

Where does the inspiration come from for creating music? Growing up I always felt the urge and desire to be creative doing something I would love. It all started from going to church, singing in the choir, playing the drums, And I knew music is what I wanted to do.

What artists inspired you the most and who do you currently listen to? I would say Big L, LL Cool J, Tupac, Nas, Jay Z, Mobb Deep, The Lox, Canibus, Currently I listen to Papoose.

If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing right now? I will probably be involved with whatever there is that has to do with art. Maybe being the Author of a book, Graphics Designing, A Publisher, Engineering, Motivational Speaker.

What really makes you stand out and different from other artists? My cadence is unique and different. Word play is unlike no other is out of this world. Most of these other artists sound the same. They be saying and repeating the same phrases over and over again. My music speaks volume; it comes directly from my heart and soul.

Tell us your craziest life story: Where I come from There was a Civil war. I was about 5 years old when it took place. My Grandfather was beheaded. Who was the General. At the time next to the president. So me and my family were forced to flee the country, And that’s how I came to the states.

What’s your biggest goal in the music industry? To make powerful inspirational music. That will touch the hearts of many listeners globally. I want to leave a mark that will never be forgotten. That will impact generations to come, in a positive way.

If you could collaborate with one single artist who would it be and why? Papoose. Because I feel his music deeply when I listen to it. I feel we have the same eagerness and aggression. My music resonates like his.

Favorite Artists of all time and why? Tupac. He was truly an artist in his time. I think his mark will continue to go down in history for centuries to come, Because of the powerful messages in his music.

What advice would you give to inspiring music artists? Be true to yourself. Whatever that you do, Make sure it comes from the heart. That’s how you are going to stand out from the crowd. Never quit and continue to write consistently. Be Authentic, not generic and the world will see and know that is genuinely being delivered.