If you haven’t heard mentions of Lil Uzi Vert, you’re severely uninformed.
Over the past 20 years, hip-hop heads have fallen in love with Philly natives like Beanie Sigel, Meek Mill, Freeway, Cassidy, Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, and Peedi Crakk.
Despite appearing and sounding like an artist native to a city farther down I-95, after sitting with the 21-year-old rapper, it’s clear that Uzi Vert’s very much a Philadelphia native.
While LUV (acronym for Lil Uzi Vert), born Symere Woods, expresses much respect for his Philly predecessors, the “Safe House” artist attributes his musical influences to artists like Wiz Khalifa (his favorite rapper), Kanye West, and surprisingly, rocker Marilyn Manson.
Uzi Vert stopped by Global Grind’s offices to discuss the concept behind his 2015 project LUV Is Rage, his forthcoming project with EDM star Steve Aoki, and FaceTiming with Kanye and Kim Kardashian.
Uzi also discussed growing up in the North Philly neighborhood of Francesville, being different in a city where everyone’s the same, and not questioning his position in the game.
Watch Lil Uzi’s exclusive interview up top.
