Pook Hustle is back with a vengeance, and his latest single, "Grammy," is a force to be reckoned with. The track is a melting pot of hard-hitting drums, atmospheric synths, and silky smooth backing vocals, creating a distinct and infectious soundscape.
But it's not just about the music for Pook Hustle. The track also pays tribute to his deceased stepfather, Mr. John, a kind and charismatic hustler from Harlem who meant a lot to him. By repeating his name in the hook, Pook Hustle infuses the track with a powerful energy that is impossible to ignore. 2012 was a successful year for Pook Hustle, with a sold-out show, three critically-acclaimed singles, a successful music video, and a merchandise drop under his belt. But he's not content to rest on his laurels.
In a recent interview, Pook Hustle revealed that the creation of his latest single, "Grammy," was a spiritual experience, driven by a desire to experiment with his voice and create something that sounded futuristic. As a science kid, he's always been fascinated by the possibilities of sound, and his influences range from Daft Punk to Kanye West's "808s & Heartbreaks" era.
From the opening bars, it's clear that Pook Hustle means business. His unique and much-loved tone cuts through the mix, delivering powerful and heartfelt lyrics with an authenticity that is hard to come by. The track pays homage to multiple genres and influences, with a distinct R&B tinge that adds depth and texture to the sound. The chorus is a standout moment, infusing the track with a powerful energy that is impossible to ignore. It's clear that this song is deeply personal for Pook Hustle, and his passion for the subject matter is evident in every word he delivers.
With infectious passion and a burning desire to succeed, Pook Hustle is poised to take 2023 by storm. "Grammy" is a tour de force of modern hip hop and R&B, a testament to Pook Hustle's talent and dedication to his craft. It's a track that will get into your soul and stay with you long after the final note has faded away. If this is a sign of things to come, then 2023 is shaping up to be an incredible year for Pook Hustle, and we can't wait to see what he has in store.
Welcome to BuzzMusic Pook Hustle. Congratulations on your latest drop, “Grammy.” Can you tell us more about the experimentation with your voice that inspired "Grammy?" How did you develop the distinctive delivery we hear on the track?
Thank you! Sure, I love to sing, and it just so happens that I cracked the code on how to bend my voice the day before recording Grammy. I wanted to see how far I could push myself.
"Grammy" pays homage to multiple genres and influences. Which artists or musical styles were you most inspired by when creating the track? I grew up on many late 90’s & 2000’s R&B, but I also fell in love with Trap in the 2010s. I like to call my combination of both Chill Hype.
The chorus of "Grammy" repeats the name "Mr. John" and is a tribute to your stepfather. Can you discuss his role and how he influenced your music?
Mr. John was supportive of me no matter what I decided to do. When I played basketball, he came to my games at West 4th, and when I started music, he encouraged me to keep going. It still feels that way, even though he’s passed on. He never tried to box me in, so I try not to box myself in, either.
Your unique tone and delivery are a key part of what makes "Grammy" so special. How do you balance developing your own sound with staying true to your influences and the musical styles that inspire you?
By being intentional and keeping an open mind. I’m open to trying new things, but being intentional helps you narrow down what you want to convey & how you want to convey it. A blade is sharpest at its most concentrated point; I’m still finding where that point is for me.
You had a lot of success in 2022 with sold-out shows, critically acclaimed singles, and a successful music video. How does it feel to be entering 2023 with a new single like "Grammy" and a burning desire to push yourself and your music even further? It feels amazing and surreal because I’m thriving creatively, but on another end, the pandemic hit my family and me pretty hard. I’ve had to refine what success looks like for me and take things one day at a time. The Hustle never stops, though.
