Meet Branko! Ireland’s New Hip Hop Star

LIVE 89FM: Welcome, BRANKO! It’s a pleasure to have you here for this interview. Let’s dive right into your journey and your music.

LIVE 89FM: Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in the world of hip hop?

BRANKO

BRANKO: Of course, Im from Ireland but have been residing in the states for 8 years. I came here to pursue my music and accomplish a lifelong dream. 

I always seen hip hop as an escape for me. I was always good at english class, writing, poetry so that developed overtime once I started listening to hip hop music.

LIVE 89FM: What inspires your music and your lyrics? Are there any artists or experiences that have had a significant influence on your work?

BRANKO: I gotta say Marshall was my biggest influence. I grew up in a single parent home and went through some tough times dealing with my mothers alcoholism. When I got my first Cassette tape with Stan on it, it just took me too a different place. It was my escape. My life experiences all inspire me to create.  

LIVE 89FM: Your latest song has been making waves. Can you share the inspiration and creative process behind it?

BRANKO: Im in recovery. I had my own struggles with alcohol. The song is called ‘Tenfold’ when I say I was in Tenfold in my drinking, I mean I was in Tenfold. So this song just highlights where I was at and some feelings I was feeling at that time- at the same time as showing anyone that you can change that way of life. 

LIVE 89FM: In a competitive industry, what sets you apart from other hip-hop artists, and how do you maintain your unique sound?

BRANKO: I don’t believe any artist has my tone and accent to the sounds I use. I use my Irish accent over blues/ country beats . Keeping it a storytelling vibe to give the listener an insight to my life so maybe they can relate. 

LIVE 89FM: Many artists use their music to convey important messages. Is there a particular message or theme you hope to communicate through your songs?

BRANKO: Absolutely… That they can achieve anything they want if they put the work in. No matter how low your rock bottom is you can turn it around. Trust me Im living proof. 

LIVE 89FM: Collaborations are common in hip-hop. Can you tell us about some of your favorite collaborations and what you’ve learned from working with other artists?

BRANKO: My last record was produced by DJ Scattered Brains (Jellyroll, Struggle Jennings, Yelawolf) he showed me a level of professionalism Id never witnessed before. The sounds he produced was next level. It made me feel right up there with him. It opened my mindset a-lot! Very talented guy. 

LIVE 89FM: How do you handle criticism and feedback, both positive and negative, and how does it impact your music and your growth as an artist?

BRANKO: Ive learned to take criticism with a pinch of salt, positive or negative. People are gona have an opinion on you bad or good no matter what. I think its important not to get sucked into the negative too much as it can drain ya. But also use it as a lesson on future projects. 

LIVE 89FM: What advice would you give to aspiring hip-hop artists who are just starting their journey in the music industry?

BRANKO: Believe in yourself most of all. If you dont believe in you, how do you expect anyone else to .

LIVE 89FM: In the age of social media, self-promotion is key. Can you share some tips for up-and-coming artists on how to effectively promote their music and build their brand online?

BRANKO: Social media is amazing and we are very lucky to have it in the industry. What worked for me was connecting with other artists, producers , musicians even juts listeners. I would set myself a goal to comment on at least 20 people a day on Instagram and check out their work. Maybe even a DM. 

Posting regularly is good and keeps you relevant . Keep on keeping on. 

LIVE 89FM: Can you give us a glimpse into your future projects and what your fans can expect from you in the coming months?

BRANKO: I have recently signed with a management team out of L.A. We have some projects lined up but mostly focusing on this next record for now. But be sure to watch out for alot of music and collabs coming your way!

LIVE 89FM: Lastly, what does hip-hop mean to you, and how do you see the future of this genre evolving?

BRANKO: t got me out of some dark times. I owe alot to it. Its also produced so many amazing talented people for that I am grateful. Right now Id like to see some changes to the sounds. I feel alot of artists are starting to sound the same. But we will see.

LISTEN TO HIS NEW SINGLE “TEN FOLD”