Songwriter and rap prodigy Tara Lord returns with the unmissable new music video for her hit sophomore single, ‘Praying’. Having been exposed to hip-hop culture through her father, Top Secret of the Sunshine Sound Crew, from a young age, it’s no surprise that Tara’s musical exploits have been a resounding success with fans and listeners from Toronto to London. Still reeling from the success, Tara Lord sits down to discuss the whirlwind journey so far.
For those who have never heard of Tara Lord, could you tell us a bit about your sound and style?
I would describe my style as original, clean and very refreshing. I make music that’s different and stands out from everyone else. My style can vary depending on my mood, I don’t limit myself. I always just let the instrumental inspire me to do me. I have a rhythmic rap style and melodic flows. My singing melodic voice is soft, whispery and soothing but my raps are dominant, lyrical and bold.
The visuals for your newest single ‘Praying’ were recently released, what was the inspiration behind the video?
I wanted the visuals to authentically represent the song. In “Praying” I’m venting about feeling frustrated and feeling alone. But I’m also speaking on my dreams for the future and never giving up. I put a lot of emotion into the making of this song and music video. Knemisis did a great job at directing the video and making my ideas come to life.
You’re the daughter of famed Toronto rapper, Top Secret, do you sometimes worry about living up to his name or being compared to him? Why/ why not?
I don’t worry about living up to his name. I feel pretty confident that I’m already doing that and making him proud with what I have accomplished and what I’m continuing to accomplish. I definitely am compared to him, I get my love of entertaining from my dad and he definitely inspires me the most when it comes to my music.
Who were some of your rap/ hip-hop idols growing up, which sounds influenced you?
I would say Nicki Minaj inspired me to start rapping. She was the first female rapper in my generation that was really starting to pop and make a name for herself. Before Nicki, I would always feel like rap was for boys. But she came out and proved me wrong. I would also say that my music is inspired by a variety of artists but Lil Wayne and Tupac influenced me pretty heavy when it comes to my lyricism.
‘Praying’ is a super personal song with a strong message of hope and resilience, what do you hope that fans gain from this track?
I want people to feel empowered and know that they can do anything they put their mind too. I want them to feel that obstacles are a part of everyone’s journey but you should never let them stop you.
As a young, budding artist what are some career milestones you’d like to achieve within the next 5 years?
Within the next 5 years, I would like to be one of the top rappers in the hip-hop industry. Touring around the world, collaborating with my favourite artists and continuing to make music that inspires others. I’d like to win a music award, build my own label and use my fame to help others by giving back to communities and using my platform to spread positivity.
If you could collaborate with any other rapper who would it be and why?
That’s honestly such a hard question to answer since I have so many favourite rappers. But I would definitely have to say, Drake. He’s the king of the city and I’m tryna be the queen. It would be a crazy accomplishment for Canada and honestly, a dream come true. I really respect his artistry and ability to stay so consistent in the industry for so many years.
Lastly, what’s next from Tara Lord, what can fans look forward to?
I’m currently living in LA, working on a new project which I am super excited about. I just dropped a remix to “Praying“, produced by Dub J and featuring Roney. Fans can definitely look forward to new music, I have a mix of different styles coming. Trap, melodic rap, RnB, you name it!
Listen to Tara Lord – Praying
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