Interview: Tory Lanez is Ready to Takeover

“Consistent, honest and loyal” is how Toronto native Tory Lanez describes himself. The young rapper has been creating a buzz for himself with the release of his mixtape Sincerely Tory, where he raps, sings and produces on all twenty tracks. This kid is more than a one-trick pony. “Regardless of anything, I’m gonna be the biggest artist in the world and prove them all wrong,” he boasts. Get to know Tory Lanez, the rising star from Canada who’s anything but average.

What is the Swavey movement?

The Swavey movement is something so much bigger. It can be used to describe your swag but also a genre that consists of fusing different genres with each other. It’s a genre that everybody can join. It is the next level of talent.

Do you think you being from Canada plays a role in your music?

It’s different being from Canada. The trees, climates and landscape. I’m not from a place that’s known so I have more to prove, much more to prove.

Who are you currently listening to?

I expand the music I listen to. It’s not necessarily the music the radio plays. I’m listening to Bon Iver and James Blake.

You rap, sing and produce. Do you prefer one?

Creating in general is awesome. I have no preference of sound. I’m universal. I just try to branch out.

What do you think makes you stand out as an artist?

I personally feel like there are chosen people. You have to be original when you have that gift. I feel like the music I do is a gift. My creativity is on another level where people won’t go.

When did you know that you wanted to do music?

When I was listening to it. I was introduced it through my dad’s old record collection. My mother passed away when I was eleven so I used music as an outlet.

Your dad is a preacher, so how does he feel about your music?

My dad is the greatest preacher I’ve ever had. He really encourages and motivates people. Regardless of my music not being the typical church music, he encourages it. He understands I have a purpose.

What is the importance of social media in the music industry?

Social media is the greatest thing that has ever happened to mankind. I was discovered off of YouTube so I would have never been heard if it wasn’t for it.

What’s it like for you in the studio?

Give me a mic and a pair of headphones and something great will come out. I came from recording out of a basement so as long as there is positive energy I’m good.

Where do you get your confidence from?

I naturally feel myself. I’m bold enough and have the characteristics to back it up.

What is your biggest flaw?

I am overcritical of myself. When I hear my music, I know I can do better.

What’s next for you?

Expect the unexpected. I like to hit people out of left field.

What do you want your legacy to be?

I want people to say I was one of the biggest artists in the world. I want to make timeless music, music that will live on and make life better.