Hip-hop newcomer Reason has undoubtedly made one of the greatest introductions to hip-hop as a featured artist on Marvel’s Black Panther movie soundtrack. Listed alongside greats like Kendrick Lamar and Schoolboy Q, Reason is surely on his way to success.
Reason took the time to talk to rolling out to discuss exactly how he got a chance to feature on the soundtrack and what’s next for this star on the rise.
How did you get the opportunity to be featured on the Black Panther soundtrack?
My team and I worked extremely hard last year, but it was actually a mix of being in the right place at the right time. Another rapper I won’t mention was supposed to have that verse. They were taking a while to get it over to Kendrick and he reached out through a mutual connection and told me to give it a try. He loved what I did so much that he ran with the verse I wrote and moved it to the end of the song.
What was it like working with Kendrick Lamar and the TDE team?
Really dope experience. I haven’t worked with other members besides [K.] Dot and Rock, but I’ve learned so much from being in the studio with those two. They’re teaching you things without even knowing they’re teaching them to you. Just heavily experienced.
What is the greatest lesson you learned from this project?
To be able to remain yourself within the format of what you’re trying to get accomplished. Dot taught me that. He said he still wanted me to be me and not try to conform to fit the movie. I’ve always rapped about the struggle and he told me to keep it that way, regardless if it’s for the Black Panther movie.
What are you most excited about for the Black Panther movie?
I’m actually most excited about just seeing it. I’m a huge Marvel fan, so to have a Black superhero and predominantly Black movie is huge to me and a big deal for the Black community, in general. I have my ticket already.
Who were your personal superheroes growing up?
I’m a huge Spider-Man fan. That’s by far my favorite superhero and I don’t think it’ll ever change.
How would you describe the sound of your music?
I think my music is extremely soulful. Top [Dawg] used that word when I first met him and it was ironic because I’ve always marketed my music as such. I think it speaks to you and paints pictures as you listen.
What are some of your goals for 2018?
My goal in 2018 is to release two projects and to get them heard on a national scale. We have a lot of things moving and prepared for 2018. Although the Black Panther soundtrack is a huge accomplishment, the soundtrack will not be the biggest thing I do this year.
