Fatboi Sharif Interview

After his set during Rav’s Exopocalypse tour, I had the opportunity to talk with New Jersey native Fatboi Sharif. Known for his unorthodox flows, haunting deliveries, and creative approach to rap, Fatboi Sharif told me a bit about how he creates his art, his inspirations, and why he does it.

When I asked about the writing process behind Crayola Circles, Sharif emphasized the role of Child Actor, his producer and collaborator on the project. With Child Actor’s help, Fatboi Sharif explored a side of his music he had not previously reached. He explained that the album touched on addiction in his family and struggles from his past.

What interested me most was how he visualizes a story after hearing a beat, developing it in his mind before writing his lyrics. That approach made sense when I learned about his love of film, especially horror. Fatboi Sharif explained that if he heard a beat and closed his eyes, he might imagine a storm and thunder. Those images become the starting point for his songs.

Growing up in a household where many genres of music were played, Sharif developed a love for punk and rock music at a young age. Later, he discovered rap and began blending it with those earlier influences in his own music. When I asked about dream collaborations, he quickly named Beck. The choice surprised me, but I would be curious to hear what they could create together.

He was grateful to return to DC after previously playing DC9. On stage at Pearl Street Warehouse, he looked comfortable and excited to share his art with the fans in the crowd. When I asked what he wants the audience to take away from his live performances, he said he wants them to feel they have seen the best show he can give, through both his experimental sound and his energy. Above all, he wants everyone to leave feeling better than they did when they arrived.

We talked about his home state, New Jersey, and how living there his whole life has shaped his music and his career. Fatboi Sharif described how New Jersey’s dining, party, film, and music scenes have shaped his work. He said that Jersey holds art in high regard and that culture keeps him going.

Sharif was warm and welcoming during our conversation. Offstage, he spent time in the crowd talking with fans. Definitely check out Crayola Circles, which came out in April, and look out for his new album TRUTH UGLY, out October 30.