“Most niggas want the juice, but can’t concentrate; that’s Minute Maid.”
—Darus Clark
Rapper Darus Clark is trying to tell his autobiography through music. Straight out of Grand Rapids Michigan, he’s currently in the studio working on his full-length, Beautiful Nightmare, and recently dropped the first single, “I’m Good.” The song had a real grand feel to it — and Darus comes out blasting with his A-game, dropping bars like: “rap homicide, and I ain’t bringing flowers.”
The songs raw, and honest dialogue, and the production is quite exciting. Darus seems to be on the right track. He recently sat with AAHIPHOP to talk about his background, his goals, and more. Get to know Darus Clark, bump the new single, and check the Q&A below.
How did you get involved in music?
I got involved with music at the age of the 4. One of the first songs I remember listening was Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg’s “Nothing but a G Thang.” I listened to it multiple times, and that’s when I knew I wanted to be an MC.
Who were some of your influences?
My influences are Common, Talib Kweli, Mos Def, Jay-Z, Nas, Kanye West, Luther Vandross, The Isley Brothers, DMX, Black Star, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Biggie, and Tupac.
Tell me about the music you’re currently recording?
The music I’m recording right now is epic, as far as content, creativity, and originality is concerned. One of the things I always do is write from my personal experience, or tell other people’s stories. I’m in the studio every week recording new material, and it’s all organic. Pretty much, just writing my autobiography through music.
How would you describe your sound?
My sound is very unique far as the art of storytelling — and having that low-key grimy kind of flow that makes people say I stand out. But, I still keep it at a level where my listener can visualize what I rap about.
What are your goals in the industry?
My goal in this game is to — pretty much — get the respect I deserve, as far as being a starving artist. I really never cared a lot about the money or the fame, I just love putting out great music that people love. Being the voice of the my generation, and the ones coming up; that’s my goal.
What do you want people to take away from you as an artist?
I want people to take from me that I’m an artist that’s striving to be a great. I’m a genuine, organic soul that’s trying to tell a story — and be a people’s champ.
Do you want to remain independent or sign to a major label?
To be honest, I could stay independent; but I know there comes a time where you might have to go major to reach certain demographics. So, wherever the good Lord wants me to do, that’s what I’m going to do.
What should we be looking out for from you?
Well, I have my single out called “I’m Good.” That’s off of my latest project, Beautiful Nightmare. Also, the video is coming soon — and I might be coming to a town near you.
