Hip-hop is a constantly evolving genre, taking on many different forms throughout the years. As of recently, trap music has become a popular trend within the rap community and can be heard on practically every radio station. However, in an industry where most musicians aim to capitalize on the same sound, Tampa lyricist Craig Tillman is breaking the trend by simply being himself.
“I’m like a unicorn,” Tillman said. ”I embrace the oddness.” A far cry from your typical rapper, Tillman uses his eccentricity to his advantage by applying it to his music.
an his love affair with hip-hop. But initially his interest in music wasn’t influenced by rap. As a child, Tillman was drawn into music through the upbeat pop tunes of 90s boy bands like N’Sync.
“My mom raised me on easy listening,” Tillman said. “I was born and raised in the boy band days.”
Although he would later go on to explore a more lyrically driven genre, Tillman was captivated by the vigor of pop music.
“Just realizing the energy that music cultivated is quite amazing,” Tillman said. “I was like ‘Man that’s some energy right there’.”
Tillman’s first EP, titled “The Oddball,” made waves on the Internet in September 2012. The five-track project exemplified his lyrical ability and conscious flow. Since then Tillman has grown both musically and personally. Inspired by the brevity of human life, the lyricist is now more willing to take risks when it comes to his art.
“Life is too short,” Tillman said. “You shouldn’t spend time double guessing. It’s about pushing your craft and being sure with the consistency of pushing your craft.”
Tillman discusses this philosophy in more detail in his forthcoming project, Better Different.
“With the new project I’m claiming my life, my music, and everything around me,” Tillman said.
Better Different features tracks such as “Senioritis,” and “Get A Job Not A Dream” which reflect Tillman’s innermost thoughts and personal growth. The latter discusses chasing one’s dream in light of adversity.
“[“Get A Job Not A Dream”] is all about embracing the unsure and taking risks,” Tillman said.
Through his latest offering, Tillman hopes listeners will gain their own unique affirmation to life and discover who they truly are. “We’re all here to create and be the best that we can be,” Tillman said. “It’s hard becoming the person that we’re meant to be.”
Better Different is slated to premiere exclusively on Tillman’s Bandcamp on Nov. 25. In light of his upcoming project, Tillman is also preparing to release music videos for his singles “Get A Job Not A Dream,” and “She Likes Me.” Until then, the lyricist will continue inspiring others through his work and words.
“Pretty much as humans it is our duty to create in whatever realm we are able to create in, to inspire, and be infinite in,” Tillman said. “And don’t let anything hold us back.”
Kai Miller can be reached at Kai.Miller@theminaretonline.com.