Hard In The Paint

Atlanta rapper Rich The Kid’s current success is a true testament of hard work and grind. The Quality Control representative’s profile has risen significantly over the last year. Much of it can be attributed to his steady output of quality material that has been released through both solo mixtapes and collaborative efforts with frequent collaborators the Migos and iLoveMakonnen. The ATLien has gone from being known as the guy rapping with the Migos to being able to stand on his own as one of hip-hop’s budding stars. With the innovative 300 Entertainment in his corner, 2016 looks to be Rich’s biggest year yet, one that we’re predicting will see him continue his output of quality music, dive into the mainstream, and a spot on the controversial yet influential XXL Freshman cover.

Rich and a stable of other talent signed to 300 hit the Boston area last night as part as the East Coast leg of the Young Hustle Tour. Following performances from local acts and label mates Tate Kobang, TK-N-Cash, the 23-year-old rapper hit the stage to cheers. In front of the young energetic crowd, he performed a mix of new and old material including standouts like “Plug,” DJ Carnage‘s “WDYW,” “Trap” and “Trap House Jumpin Like Jordan.”

Shortly after his short but sweet set, I sat down with Rich for a few minutes in the restaurant section of Middle. In our short conversation, he gave insight on why he signed to 300, kept hush on his highly anticipated Frank Ocean collaboration, revealed that he did a song with Justin Bieber, and what he wants to do in 2016.

HITP: I’ve been a fan for the last couple of years. We don’t really get alot of Atlanta talent up here so its really dope to see you perform. Right now you’re on for the Young Hustle Tour. Hows the tour been so far? 

Rich The Kid: It’s going well. 

HITP: Thats good. It’s presented by 300 Entertainment, who you’re signed to. What made you sign with them? 

Rich The Kid: It was just the right timing and the support. They’re good people. 

HITP:  Definitely. They have some of the best music executives in the business. You’re big thing has really been consistency putting out quality music. Do you ever think you’re over saturating the marketing?

Rich The Kid: No, not really because the music is good. 

HITP: You’ve been able to be part of some big time collaborations with guys like Wiz Khalifa, PARTYNEXTDOOR, and Ty Dolla $ign. What do you attribute you being able to collaborate with these guys whether its been them reaching out to you or you reaching out to them?

Rich The Kid: I think it’s just about grinding and getting to it with everybody.

HITP: You have an upcoming collaboration with Frank Ocean. To some, it may seem like an unlikely collaboration lanes. What can we expect between you? 

Rich The Kid: I can’t say too much about it, but it’s coming.

HITP: 2015 was a big year for you. You put out a bunch of mixtapes including the joint with Makonnen. What can we expect from you in 2016?

Rich The Kid: I did a song with Justin Bieber. I’m probably going to do a song with Kanye soon. That’s pretty much it. I’ve had the opportunity, but I just want to make sure its right.

HITP: I mean, the way you’re going. That wouldn’t be too much of a surprise if that happened. Of course, everyone wants to be the biggest artist and make alot of money, but what else do you want to do when it’s all said and done?

Rich The Kid: I want to veer off into fashion. Definitely do some fashion stuff like design clothes. 

HITP: Well, thats it. Appreciate it. Good luck on the rest of the tour.