Matthew Rubinstein
YEAR: Fourth
MAJOR: Psychology
HOMETOWN: Bronx N.Y.
What’s your instrument of choice and why?
My lyrics. Rapping is as much rhythmic as it is vocal. Taking that instrumental aspect is where I find my voice.
What are you involved with musically?
I do a lot of independant work, but I’m also part of Urban Lyrics.
Who are your biggest influences?
Eminem (without saying), Nas, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Earl Sweatshirt and Chance the Rapper. I pull from contermporary and older generations.
Who have you been listening to lately?
A lot of TDE: Kendrick Lamar, Ab-Soul, Schoolboy Q. Artists on the cusp of progressive rap.
What’s your plan for the future?
I’m just getting ready for future Urban Lyrics performances, a Culture Shock performance and the Margaret Wade Lewis Poetry Slam. I’m also working on releasing three EPs with three songs each over the course of the upcoming winter, spring and summer.
Any advice for aspiring musicians?
Everybody starts somewhere. Usually it’s unflattering to start from the bottom but a good artist will invest good time in their work.