This time on The NAS 10 Questions, we get to know Shmadoek, a rap artist from Rwanda with influemces such as Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, and Travis Scott.
The track "LATE NIGHTS" is featured on NAS Playlists.
Link To New Artist Spotlight Playlists:
1. Tell us a little about where you are from and what you are currently doing.
I’m from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. While the country is small, it’s growing in many ways, and I see that reflected in my music. I draw inspiration from our pop culture, focusing on themes that resonate with people. My approach is honest and unapologetic—I create what feels right to me, trusting it will connect with those who understand it. Beyond the music, there’s a sense of chaos in everything I do. That raw energy comes through on my social platforms, where I embrace a chaotic aesthetic in my visuals.
2. What inspired you to start playing and making music?
It’s hard to pinpoint exactly when it started, but I remember writing rap lyrics back in high school. I was fascinated by deciphering hidden meanings in songs. Trap music was huge at the time, and I’d mumble a lot of random lines, trying to keep a flow. I was a big fan of Migos. Eventually, trap started gaining momentum back home, with new artists exploring the genre. I thought, “Why not me?” Then, during the COVID-19 lockdown, I came across a beat and decided to write for it—and that’s where it all began.
𝟯. Who are your biggest musical influences? How would you describe your style or genre?
I don’t imitate anyone when I rap, but I do believe the artists you listen to the most shape your craft. For me, that’s Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, and Travis Scott. Their approach to music as more than just art—but also as a business—really inspires me. Music isn’t just about emotion; it’s a lifestyle. My style is raw, intense, and street-oriented. If you grew up with a silver spoon, you might not fully connect with what I’m saying, but don’t let that stop you from tuning in.
“Don’t chase them; do magical things, and they’ll chase you.”
4. What are your goals in the music industry or as an artist?
I want to build a catalog that I can look back on and say, “Damn, I was in my zone when I made this.” The kind of music you’d proudly re-release on a 10-year anniversary. My goal is to connect with fans worldwide, not just at home, because at the end of the day, the world is a stage, and everyone’s watching. Ultimately, I just want to create art that I’ll be proud of, when success comes my way.
5. Tell us about your creative process when you make new music.
My creative process usually begins with listening to a bunch of beats and picking the ones that really stand out to me. If it’s for a major release, I’ll map out a general theme, but most of my singles happen by accident—just me in the studio jotting down thoughts, finding rhymes, and hopping in the booth. Sometimes, real-life experiences influence me, especially if it’s something that lingers or weighs on my mind. Those moments often shape the overall theme of my work.
6. What is your all-time favorite song by another artist and why?
Double - Offset and Lil Duke, probably one of my most played songs everything about it just clicks to me.
7. What is the best advice you have either given or received in terms of music?
I’m not big on giving advice, but one piece I’ve received about music really stuck with me: “Don’t chase them; do magical things, and they’ll chase you.” That’s become my worldview. I’m not out here begging anyone to notice me—I’ll let my work do the talking.
8. Proudest accomplishment?
When my mixtape, "MADDOEK," hit 50,000 streams across platforms, it was a moment of validation. Knowing I’ve held the attention of thousands of listeners throughout the year reassures me that all my efforts are paying off.
9. Just for fun! What's been your most embarrassing moment so far?
I’m not easily embarrassed, but I do tend to be late a lot. Those stares you get when you walk into a place late—whether it’s school, a function, or work—definitely make me feel some type of way.
𝟭0. Tell us about your lowest and highest points in music so far.
The lowest point for me was when I couldn’t afford quality sound equipment. Sound quality is everything—if the music sounds bad, people won’t listen. A lot of music from that time ended up unreleased. The highest point? Definitely interacting with industry giants at musical conferences. I learned a lot from those experiences.
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Nice meeting you and learning your back story. The truth is in the action not of the words. Keep speaking your dreams to the universe things go with the motion meant for you.
Enjoyed learning about your inspirations and your approach to music, looking forward to seeing what your musical future will bring 🥰
Creating art that you're proud of is the way to be! People will like it because that will come out in your creations!
Great to read this feature and hear about Shmadoek’s work and aspirations!
Great to learn about Shmadoek and his approach to his music. I really appreciated his insight into sound quality. As he so wisely observed, "Sound quality is everything—if the music sounds bad, people won’t listen." He's on the right track and headed very much in the right direction 😎