Sambata is a talented Marathi rapper who has taken the music industry by storm. Born and raised in Maharashtra, he grew up listening to a diverse range of music genres, which greatly influenced his unique style. Sambata’s lyrics are a reflection of his life experiences, blending personal narratives with social commentary. His flow and dynamic delivery captivate listeners, making him a rising star in the rap scene.
With his sharp wit and thought-provoking lyrics, Sambata has become known for his ability to address important issues in society through his music. As he continues to gain popularity, Sambata strives to use his platform to shed light on social injustices and advocate for positive change. His passion and authenticity have earned him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim within the Marathi rap community.
In this interview, we get a closer look into Sambata’s journey as a rapper. We explore his early influences, creative process, and the impact he hopes to make through his music.
1. How did you begin as a Marathi rapper? What are some of your earliest memories with rap?
At first, I was as inspired by Hip-Hop from the West as anyone else. However, when I truly began to grasp the true meaning of this genre, I realised that I necessarily don’t need to leave my identity as a ‘Marathi’. I have always loved my culture and grew up with it. For me, I want to represent my people and inspire them… not everyone knows how to rap in English or even Hindi for that matter. We’re all born with our unique vernaculars. I am just expressing it through rap. I started putting together words and turning them into a rhyme, then a verse and a track when I was 14. I guess that’s when rap took control of my perspective.
2. How do you keep yourself in the creative flow?
For me, personally, it’s practice. I work on my writing and always strive to do it with a sense of purpose. That helps me to stay in it. However, I would admit that there are testing times for all of us and I’m no different. At times, I do disassociate myself from rap and just sit back with my people. I always bounce back though.
3. What’s your favorite project so far, and why?
All the records I’ve made are truly close to me. With four very successful singles in, I’ve tested myself and worked hard on all of them. Apart from my music, there are various albums by Nipsey Hussle and YG which top my favourites.
4. Most of your songs are a social commentary on impending issues. How did you come to realise that this needs to be spoken by you?
I’m not the first one to do it and certainly won’t be the last one to. For me, to raise my voice against injustice and represent an India which is very different from the one you see in a boujee hotel room is an inherent part of what I do. It’s not me, it is rap. Hip-Hop rose from poverty, racism and social injustice and caused a revolution around the world. I’m just a product of that revolution. If I have a platform, I must use it for the greater good of the people too. The vanity comes and goes.
5. What have been your best and worst memories on stage?
I feel like I’m yet to hit the road. I haven’t performed that much as well… I was focused on the music. However, since you asked, my performance at Antisocial in Mumbai was dope! The crowd was so hyped and vibed with my tracks, I’ll cherish it for a long time.
6. Who are your biggest musical influences?
Man, there are so many! However, if I had to name a few since you asked, it would be Kendrick Lamar, Nipsey Hussle, Sidhu Moose Wala, Tupac Shakur and YG of course.
7. What interests or hobbies do you have outside of music?
More often than not, I’m writing music or staying close to it. However, I hang around with the boys whenever I want a breather. We usually play basketball or roam around our city. However, rap is a huge part of everything I do.
8. Where do you think the future of the hip-hop industry lies?
Not sure about Hip-hop but Sambata ain’t going anywhere anytime soon.
