NATIVE JAMES INTERVIEW: Native James has been a fixture in the UK rap scene for years, constantly pushing boundaries with his lyrical depth and distinctive flow. Known for his versatility, he’s as comfortable delivering hard-hitting grime bars as he is exploring soulful, introspective Hip Hop. He’s dropped countless acclaimed tracks and collaborations, but today, we’re taking a detour from his own discography to dive into the music that shaped him. We sit down with Native James to talk about his creative foundations, his philosophy on the mixtape culture, and the one project that he considers a masterpiece—the one mixtape that truly changed the game for him.
What’s your favourite mixtape ever?
Wiley – ‘Playtime Is Over’
Why is it so significant to you?
I remember listening to this mixtape for the first time and seeing 50/50 always on Channel U and ‘Bow E3’ the beat is maddd. It was a cornerstone for me wanting to actually rap.
Were there any artists or producers that you discovered through this tape?
Mercston on ‘Flyboy’ – very cold!
Where exactly were you when you heard the mixtape for the first time?
In my bedroom.
Did it come into your life at a significant time?
You could say that it was at the time where I was learning and listening to Grime and I was still finding my sound, and who best to learn from than the godfather himself?
How did the mixtape cover make you feel?
Normal
Describe the mixtape in three words?
Aggressive, energetic, lyrical
What song is your personal favourite?
It’s tough but I would say ‘Eski-Boy’ it’s too gass!!!
If you could put a price on this mixtape, how much would you pay?
It’s priceless.
Did you have a physical copy?
I did have a physical copy! I wish I had another one.
No? Which is your favourite that you have a physical copy of?
I can’t lie I have zero physical copies, I need to fix up haha.
Photo by Cameron Dickson
