Calgary rapper The Blue is just off the release of his new album “Things Could Be Worse,” and continues to push for new heights. The album was recently nominated for Rap Recording of the Year at the 2023 YYC Music Awards.
The Blue was introduced to the world of hip hop at the age of nine through the sounds of rap giants The Fugees. His sound reflects a fusion of this early influence and waves of new school. His live experience is definitely a must-see as he and his band exude energy and passion in every second on stage. He has shared the stage with Shad, Grieves, SonReal, and others. He recently joined Sled Island Music & Arts Festival as the festival manager.
Name:
The Blue
Genre:
Hip-Hop
Founded:
2012
# of Albums:
2
Latest Album:
“Things Could Be Worse” (October 14, 2022)
Latest Single:
“A Lot”
Latest Video:
Favourite musician growing up:
Lil Wayne (up until high school)
Favourite musician now:
Shad (from high school and on)
Guilty pleasure song:
The first thing that came to mind is “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton.
Live show ritual:
It used to be having some guava juice haha Now, it’s having a group huddle with my band.
Favourite local musician:
There are a lot! I will say TAYLR right now. The tone of their voice is so beautiful.
EP or LP?
LP
Early bird or night owl?
Both? I wake up really early and tend to be up late for events and shows regardless.
Road or studio?
This is such a tough one. I love creating music, especially with other people, but I LOVE performing and engaging a crowd. I might have to say road by the slightest of margins.
Any shows or albums coming up?
I just wrapped up another instalment of a show series I run called “That Party Last Night” on November 3rd at Festival Hall. We generally have it once or twice a year to feature some really cool artists in the city at a live show. This was Volume 6, and the next one will be in November 2024.
We’ve got quite a bit of new music coming in the new year and shows lined up, so I would just say keep a lookout on my Instagram.
Where can we follow you?
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
Howie’s Pizza! I’ve been going there since grade 10. The owner (Howie) is the greatest. Cool human and good guy.
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
Probably 17th Ave. There are a lot of restaurants and cool spots to go there.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
I would have to say Edworthy Park. I generally go rafting with some friends on the Bow during the summer and stop there for lunch. We also host some fun BBQs there.
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
Ahhh Calgary has some really good venues. I can’t choose one. I will say Palomino and Ship & Anchor because they do an amazing job for our local scene.
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Easily Sloth Records on 17th Ave. The people who run it are some of the nicest people in the city.
