El-Shareef Lives Life, Then Raps

El-Shareef

El-Shareef takes his fans on a lyrical vacation. His laid-back beats are a canvas for him to display his unique wordplay. At 22-years-old, Elamin Shariff intends to become a major player in the ever-changing culture of Milwaukee’s rap scene. He dropped his Retrospective 2:Freeworld mixtape and Nonchalant EP in 2014. He was happy to respond to our questions.

When did you start rapping? 

When I was about 9 or 10 years old.

What are some artists that inspire you?

I’d probably say DMX, Tupac & Jay. There’s more of course.

Where did your name come from?

El-Shareef came from my name Elamin Sharif. My grandma named me, it’s supposed to mean truth and honesty.

How old are you?

I’m 22 going on 40 because I’ve got an old soul.

How would you describe your music?

I would describe it like a trip to the Bahamas or something. People say its chill, or laid back or whatever.

Any local bands you guys really like?

I like what everybody is doing out here, we are shifting the culture and we are coming for everybody. The sounds that are coming from out of the state are crazy.

What are your lyrics typically about?

I live, and then I rap about it. That’s all. So I guess you can say they cover a lot. They cover my life and everything I go through or have seen.

Favorite place to play?

Mad Planet. It’s an imitate spot. I love that joint. Very rare.

Have you toured anywhere?

I have not toured…yet.

Any Albums or EP’s coming out soon?

Absolutely, I have got a few things cooking in the pot at the moment. It’ll be a flood soon.

What are your plans for the future?

My plans are to build my brand and create my own team of people to start a dynasty. A dynasty of real rappers, living out their raps. Taking it back to how music should be. Putting my daughter in private school, all that stuff man.  Living.