I’m not normally a massive fan of the rap or hip-hop genres, but when it’s done well, it’s something that certainly piques my interest! Leif Riggs is one such artist, drawing me in with his cool new track, Phantom. I wanted to find out a bit more about Leif so decided to sit down and have a short chat with him. See how we got on below…

By Jane Howkins

You recently released a single titled Phantom. What can you tell us about the track?

It is traditional hip-hop track with many devices used, such as word play, syllable structure, punchlines, and a blending of thoughts. It’s my favorite project that I have worked on so far.

How has the reception to Phantom been so far, and where can the song be purchased?

The song can be purchased on all major platforms, and the reception has been excellent – it’s truly a privilege for me.

Do you plan to release any more singles in the near future?

I have another good one which I plan to release, and there are couple which I will record when the time is right.

Are there any plans to release an album or EP?

Not at the moment. I’m only releasing songs one at a time for now.

Your music has a hip-hop/rap sound. What/who influences you most as an artist? What have you been listening to recently?

I listen to a lot of alt-Z pop music. I think it’s interesting that even though the sound is so different that hip-hop, the lyrical devices have similarities.

You have an honours degree in Mathematics, which is rather impressive (I was hopeless at maths at school). What do you do for a day job?

I’m a systems analyst for a database application.

Do you have anything else exciting coming up this year?

I’m excited for new music, friends, and family.

Am I right in thinking you’re based in San Diego? How is the local music scene faring at the moment?

There is an excellent local hip-hop scene in San Diego that my friends participate in. There are also excellent venues which host great concerts for local jazz and experimental music.

Do you have any tour dates lined up for the UK?

Not at the moment, but I would really enjoy visiting the UK on my next trip out in that direction.