Chicago’s Hip-Hop Artist Tyre Hakim

Marcus Bouldin CNW Staff Writer

Hip-Hop artist Tyre Hakim grew up in the heart of Chicago’s South Side with his mother and four siblings. Living far from a comfortable lifestyle, Hakim says he and his family struggled to make ends meet. “Growing up in poverty helps build stronger character in people. My siblings and I had to be creative just to have entertainment. I have a great deal of respect and admiration for my mother. I watch her sacrifice her dreams for me and my siblings.” Although Hakim lived with his mother, the same creative fire that burns within his father also burns within Tyre Hakim.

Hakim’s father, a member of Chicago’s rap supergroup, Soliderz At War, and former security for DMX and Jay Z went viral when he traded verses with both DMX and Jay Z during backstage cypher. So, there’s a reason why critics and fans alike say Tyre Hakim is a rising star within Chicago’s hip-hop culture.

Inspired by some of Chicago’s most influential artists, like Kanye West, Hakim has been expressing his love for the art of music as far as he can remember. “When I was younger,” Hakim recalls, “I wanted to be the best rapper around; that’s all I wanted to be known for. I wanted to out-rap legends, no matter who it was.”

Now, the rising hip-hop artist looks to have his music heard worldwide with the official release of his latest album God Body: Vol 1. Hakim’s unique style, exquisite delivery, and audacious lyrics have been a breath of fresh air for the Chicago hip-hop scene. “I come off as different to people because I was born a Muslim and raised in Islam. That’s why my purpose is different than any other artist,” said Hakim.

“God Body: Vol 1” features 10 tracks of Hakim sharing stories and his experiences growing up on the South Side of Chicago. On the single “Last Supper,” Hakim delivers intriguing lyrics referencing his connection with Allah in an introspective essence. The latest single from the ‘God Body’ album to hit the airwaves “FDLA” (First Day in LA), documents Hakim’s journey from the big city light of the Chi to the City of Angels, Los Angeles, California. “FDLA” showcases Hakim’s versatility. “I came a long way from the South Side to Sunset,” says the rising hip-hop MC.

According to Hakim, “God Body: Vol 1 is his coming into a mature state of mind regarding his artistry of music. “I am talking about life,’ says Hakim. “I’m talking about cultivating the God in you. As I matured in my career and music, I started to see how my music affected people. I put together a team to help me transcend to new levels of my musical journey.”

Hakim credits his determination and motivation with having nothing else to fall back on if rapping didn’t work out. “I never saw a plan B or a second option when it comes to the music,” Hakim stated. “There was no other way. I want to do everything with music at the forefront. Chris, my producer, friend, and mentor. I’ve known him since the beginning, and he’s always consistently motivated me to evolve and grow. Giving up has never been an option. I want to use my music to help change the world.”

Tyre Hakim’s retrospective and versatile lyrics, powered by his ability to tell a story, make him a bright spot in the Midwest hip-hop world.