On the Rise: Ziggy Zeus

By The Rap Scout
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Southern hip hop has been changing over the past few years. The change has been obvious with rappers, such as J. Cole hailing from the Southern states. More rappers from the South are looking to break the stereotypes that surround them because of where they come from.

Fort Lauderdale rapper, Ziggy Zeus, is among the new Southern rappers trying to change the opinion of Southern rap. He presents a new style, which has a little to do with his background. Ziggy Zeus is part Black and part Italian.

Even down to his name, Ziggy Zeus is humble but confident. His moniker stands for "all or nothing" and that is the way he feels about the game. The rapper has been performing for years and is signed to Dark Stars Music. He is hoping to push himself to the next level with the new music.

Check out Ziggy Zeus' interview with Hip Hop Vibe below:

What made you become a rapper?
I made up my mind, and I wanted to share my views with the world. My song 'I Am' explains it all...

When did you begin rapping?
A very long time ago, like half my life.

When did you begin performing?
Well, I have family over seas, so while visiting my brother, I performed my first show in Amsterdam, I was only 16 years old.

How long have you been working with Paul Blak?
For a while now our collaboration is very productive.

When did you meet Paul?
I met Paul BLaK while performing in the South Florida area, Paul BLaK is helping artist like me make it easier to tell our hip hop story.

Do you have anything major coming up soon?
Well, yes I have a mixtape dropping in March 2011, and our whole movement DarK*Stars Music will be promoting music all year long.

What inspires you to keep on going?
The reaction the fans give me when I perform and the replies to the music I put on ReverbNation, and Facebook. When fans enjoy my music it motivates me.

How have you taken the negative experiences and turned them positive?
When making the music that tells about those negative experiences, it allows me to help people have more positive experiences.

Was there ever a time when you felt as though you should quit rapping?
No, why quit?, I love my music!

Who inspires you to continue making music?
Me and my fans.

What do you like to rap about the most?
Life and luxury.

Where is your favorite place to perform?
Real places with people who love great music.

How do you plan to win fans over internationally?
By being the most versatile original talent in what I do.