Grime MC, Big Zuu, is one of the most prominent artists helping to bring a new generation of grime to an international audience. He grew up in West London and forms part of the MTP Crew – alongside his childhood friends AJ Tracey, Ets, D7 and more. He featured on a highly impressive track ‘Uncontrollable’ by popular YouTuber, KSI, earlier this year, which now has over 3 million streams.
Talk me through the process of your new song ‘No Breaks’
So I linked up with Scott and Scott (both my producers are called Scott haha!). When I linked them I wanted to make more of an anthem, something that had a message but with the same sound.
What’s your views on grime being mainstream?
It’s half and half. I feel like a lot of things that aren’t grime get called grime because it’s easier to digest in the mainstream. Grime is doing sick, like Stormzy had a number 1 album and Skepta’s been in the charts with ASAP Rocky.
Let’s touch on Grenfell Tower. You were almost a representative for a grieving community. How did it feel having that role?
It was mad. I was connected to the area, I grew up in West and one of my friends passed away in the tower. I felt as a music artist, if this is the thing that I’m doing, I might as well use my power in this to at least have any affect on what’s happened.
Finally, your third headline show is coming up!
Yes! 25th October, O2 Islington. I’m going to have a new project out before that so there will be new music.
Interview by Harpreet Dawett & Aisha Ditta (@aishajourno)
