Mir Fontane is an artist unafraid to have fun in music. With themed mixtapes telling the story of adolescence and tributes to nostalgic television, Fontante is adding a fresh and exciting spin in digital rap.
Hailing from Camden, New Jersey, Mir Fontane raps to remind the world that there is more a young Black man can express artistically than the influence guns and drugs have had on urban communities. Before he figured out the ins-and outs of music making he would rap in middle school to pass time and kick jokes with his peers. Fast-forward to 2016, Mir Fontane is blazing the airwaves with freestyles that even veteran Hip Hop personality Sway is impressed by.
With a fusion of bass and high hat-heavy production Mir can makes his music jump with his relaxed yet attention grabbing flow. His standout single “Wanni Wag” is an example of his clever word play and energy behind the mic. Below, we caught up with Mir Fontane to get know the South Jersey rapper a little better.
How did you get started?
I was always a poet but I started rapping in my early years as a joke in middle school. We used to roast each other with punchlines on the spot.
When did you realize it was more than just a hobby or a passion?
I picked it back up in high school to get this girl’s attention. Failed to get her attention but everybody loved it and so did I so I stuck wit it. As I kept doing it I found new ways to perfect what I was doing and figured out the ins and outs of it. It intrigues me that I could use this power to my advantage.
How do you describe your sound/ what you do to people you haven’t heard before?
I think my sound is kind of storytelling mixed with a little of the new school sound that my generation gravitates to. I grew up in the 90s so that plays a heavy influence on who I am as an artist today.
Who are your influences? What is some advice that has stuck with you?
J. Cole, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Lauryn Hill, Tupac of course. I draw inspiration from everything so I can’t pick jus one that I would say sticks out the most. I find beauty in almost everything. Best advice I received is that everyone in your life wants something from you. Doesn’t necessarily mean they want money or anything, they could want your friendship, or they want you to succeed. Then there’s people who want our money, your success, talent, or life. Everybody wants something but it’s up to you to figure out what that is. Makes your life so much easier.
What do you hope people take away from your music?
Hope. Enjoyment. I want people to walk away aware but full of life. This world is ugly, mine especially, but this music is something that’ll last forever. When the guns mole settles this music will remain unscathed.
How long have you been doing what you do?
I have been doing me since forever and rapping for about five years now.
Is there an early memory you’d like to share about getting into your craft?
I remember recording my entire mixtape He So Crazy in my bro Kev Rodgers closet. We used to stay up for hours in this cramped room just cooking up ideas and possibilities. Talking about doing interviews and other possibilities.
How has social media influenced your music and reach?
Social media makes it so much easier to connect to people. You get instant information and direct contact with the people who support what you do. It shapes the culture we live in today. It’s amazing.
