With his thrilling new project, the beloved UK rap figure hopes to put his city on the map T raditionally, Manchester hasn’t always been viewed as a major UK rap hub – but that has all changed in recent years with the success stories of Bugzy Malone , Aitch and recent NME Cover star Nemzzz . Meekz has joined the ranks too, swiftly carving out his own lane with his raw storytelling. From behind a mask, the performer gives an introspective view of a world that transcends his humble beginnings up north.
He grew up on the unapologetic stylings of southern US hip-hop, citing No Limit soldiers C Murda and Master P as a few of his influences. But don’t get it twisted: Meekz isn’t “going to come with my hat backwards and a boombox on my back”. Meekz is also heavily inspired by seminal names of the UK rap scene: Tinie Tempah , Skepta , Chipmunk – but now, it’s his time to become a guiding light for the next generation of rappers from across the country.
“It was never cool to rap from my city,” Meekz tells NME over Zoom. “There was no respect for artists because no one came from my area. I didn’t think it was possible.
I’ve just proven to a lot of kids that it can actually be done.” Meekz has kept his heart on his sleeve ever since he dropped his ‘Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop’ EP in 2020. When he released his debut mixtape ‘Respect The Come Up’ in 2022, he cemented his place in the rapidly evolving scene, as well as garnering co-signs from Dave and Cen.
