In a music landscape filled with ever-evolving voices, POEtic Q, also known as The Blackpen, stands out with a refreshing authenticity and deep-seated purpose. Rooted in personal experience and a passion for delivering meaningful messages, POEtic Q’s music is a lyrical journey inspired by life’s trials, triumphs, and transformations. From losing his grandmother to navigating an industry of broken promises, POEtic Q has used both his pen and voice to paint pictures of life’s raw truths. We sat down with him to discuss his journey, his inspirations, and what sets him apart as an artist.
HH1987: POEtic Q, you mentioned that your journey into music began with the passing of your grandmother. How did this experience shape your purpose and approach in hip-hop?
POEtic Q: When my grandmother passed, it was like a wake-up call for me. I needed a way to channel my emotions, and that’s when I turned to writing. In 1984, I started putting my thoughts down, and by 1989, I had honed my craft. My music has always been a place for expressing emotions, but also a tool for delivering wisdom. I don’t just want to make music for the sake of it; I want it to uplift, educate, and heal.
HH1987: You’ve described your approach to music as “EMC2,” blending elements like pain, love, and sorrow. How does this formula play into your songwriting process?
POEtic Q: EMC2, to me, represents the emotional journey we all go through—pain, love, sorrow, and joy. These are the things I experience and reflect on daily. My songs come from these feelings, and I like to think that they can offer solutions or at least comfort to listeners facing similar struggles. I want people to know they’re not alone in this corrupted world, and that’s what I aim to achieve with each track.
HH1987: Many artists cite other musicians as influences, but you credit your parents. How did they impact your creative direction?
POEtic Q: My parents are my greatest influences because they gave me the life that I write about. They allowed me to experience life fully, and that’s where my sound comes from. It’s not just about growing up with music; it’s about how they shaped my perspective and my understanding of the world, which now flows into my lyrics. My words are an extension of their wisdom and love.
HH1987: You’ve had your fair share of challenges in the industry. What has been the toughest, and how have you managed to stay focused?
POEtic Q: I’d say dealing with fake promises and people who don’t keep their word has been a real test. A lot of people talk big, but when it comes down to it, they don’t follow through. I’ve learned to keep my head down, stay consistent, and keep writing two to four songs a week. The grind never stops, and I rely on my own drive rather than empty promises.
HH1987: What do you feel sets you apart from other artists in today’s hip-hop scene?
POEtic Q: My writing is unique because it’s real. I’m not interested in dumbing down my lyrics or following trends. My music has a purpose—it’s about healing, teaching, and showing people the reality of life. While others might focus on glamor, I focus on substance. I see it as my duty to deliver messages that uplift and encourage people to think deeply.
HH1987: What’s next for you as you continue on your artistic journey?
POEtic Q: Right now, I’m focused on releasing my second album, which is ready to go. I plan to keep putting out single after single, exploring rap, blues, and R&B. Collaboration-wise, I’m open to working with artists who are genuinely creative and have something real to say. My goal is to make waves in the industry with my knowledge and my voice.
With his unwavering commitment to authenticity and teaching through his lyrics, POEtic Q, The Blackpen, is carving a unique path in hip-hop, one that’s bound to resonate with those who seek more than just a catchy beat.
Listen to POEtic Q “woke” song on Spotify.
© 2024, Logan. All rights reserved.
