10 questions with rising rap star Caleb Steph

He might be only 20 years old but Virginia native Caleb Steph is already causing waves in the rap scene. His debut track “Can I Talk” was premiered by Zane Lowe on his Beats 1 track and racked up an impressive amount of plays. His next track, “Trapped” is a taster of what’s to come when he releases his EP Bellwood Product in April, named after the apartment blocks that he grew up in. Bursting with fierce, insistent beats and Caleb’s distinct prose it’s a release that is sure to set him apart fro his peers. But before that, we get to know the burgeoning star a little better.

Describe your music in 3 words…

Run that back

Who’s your greatest influence?

My reflection! It be yelling at me all the time when I’m not doing enough haha. But seriously, that and any of the artists/people we talk about today that have had their time on earth and passed. Rest In Peace to all the legends: Tupac, Biggie, Bob Marley, Muhammad Ali, James Baldwin, Prince, Michael Jackson. Just to name a few. The list goes on.

What does music mean to you?

It’s easily the most precious thing on earth. Next to life itself. You can’t introduce me to one person who doesn’t listen to music. I bet your house on it. That in itself is indescribable to me. We’re all connected through the power of music. Simply beautiful, like my dawg Al Free said – another great influence to me as well.

Who’s the last person you called?

Man hold up Hunger Magazine was the feds this whole time?! Gotta go, lmao! But nah I called my brother.

What did you talk about?

I wanted to know if the orange chicken in the freezer was mine or his. I was starving! Good thing it ended up being mine.

One item of clothing you couldn’t live without?

That’s crazy! I can’t go with one. But I will say ain’t nothing like a good sweatsuit. Do silk scarves count too? If my braids ain’t fresh the clothes don’t even matter. I’m staying in the crib. For many, many moons.

One album you couldn’t live without?

“My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” by Kanye West. Life changing album. I think I cried a couple times on different occasions while listening to that one. As if any Ye albums before that one weren’t important enough to me. That one just struck a different chord. I really fell in love with the idea of how musical you could get with hip hop.

What’s your favourite way to spend £10?

Ohhhh no question, it would go on a spicy chicken sandwich meal from Chick Fil A. Sprite with no ice, two Polynesian sauces and two honey roasted BBQ packets.

How about £100?

New books! I love to read man. I’m a nerd on the low. Nothing like sharing the wealth too so I might wine and dine a jonk and go on a lil’ adventure. I can always use some great company. Gotta have enough for more Chick Fil A above all. Two Polynesian sauces and two honey roasted bbq packets. Always remember.

What’s next for you?

Music, music, music and more music coming! Expect the unexpected, I’m telling you. Also continuing to heal and inspire in the process. Caleb Steph: no ego, just a voice of my muthafucking people. Always and forever.

Caleb Steph’s debut EP Bellwood Product will be released on 11th April.