Mr. Craig Unleashes His Hip Hop Fury: Realness, Rawness, and Redefining the game!

Queens, NY – In the ever-evolving landscape of Hip Hop music, a new star has emerged, destined to make waves and redefine the game. Introducing “Mr. Craig,” an artist and musician from the heart of Queens, New York. With a unique and raw sound, Mr. Craig is set to resonate deeply with audiences worldwide as he tells stories through his music with meaningful punchlines and a captivating flow.

Born and raised in the vibrant borough of Queens, Mr. Craig has embarked on a remarkable journey in the world of entertainment and media. He’s not just a musician; he’s a jack of all trades and a master in his own right. His repertoire includes work in audio, video, voice-over, acting, mastering, producing, and A&R. His unconventional path in music is a testament to his resilience in overcoming trials and tribulations, serving as a guiding light for the next generation.

When it comes to his musical influences, Mr. Craig draws inspiration from the titans of real hip-hop. Icons like LL Cool J, 2Pac, Nas, Big Daddy Kane, Biggie, Wu-Tang Clan, Rakim, Run-DMC, Jay-Z, and DMX have shaped his artistic vision, fueling his dedication to the craft.

Today, Mr. Craig stands as an accomplished musician who produces music that embodies his hopes, dreams, and lived experiences. His music is a powerful means of self-expression and a platform to connect with audiences on a personal level. Grounded in everyday life, Mr. Craig’s music serves as a reflection of his innermost thoughts and emotions.

Mr. Craig has evolved into an incredibly versatile musician, seamlessly blending his talent across various well-known and niche genres. His meticulously crafted lyrics and high-quality production ensure that he will have a lasting impact on the industry, thanks to his multifaceted approach to music.

A Legacy in the Making

Notably, Mr. Craig holds a degree in radio broadcasting and another from NYU in Film and TV Industry Essentials. In 2021, he founded “Inspired Media Works,” a film and production company, and the all-encompassing “Strict-ly Entertainment.” The latter was merged with Image Site & Sound in 2016 to collaborate on video and film projects, marking Mr. Craig’s versatility in the entertainment world.

In addition to his music career, Mr. Craig is deeply involved in publishing, with his own publishing endeavor, “Mr. Shadow Music Publishing.” He has also inked a significant publishing deal with Princess Blue Music for film. With an unwavering commitment to giving back to the community, Mr. Craig aspires to one day build a center for children and the less fortunate, providing a space for guidance and support.

Mr. Craig’s discography boasts several noteworthy projects, including the single “De-press-ion,” a hidden message within its title that reads “I Pressed on.” He also released the album “Inspired,” originally intended as his retirement album. However, after nearly half a decade, Mr. Craig is back, ready to change lives with his latest project, “This Time It’s Personal.”

Today we had an exclusive chance to interview the rising star, Mr. Craig

What is your stage name and how did you come up with it?

Ha. I had many stage names during my career one that is still with me till this day is “Shadow” but I decided to reinvent myself and a friend of mine called me Mr. Craig and from there I decided to use my real name and I go by “Mr. Craig” now!

Where are you from?

NYC from the heart, born and raised in South-side Jamaica Queens also spent time growing up in Far Rockaway as well.

Talk me through your creative process.

I mean it all depends on the mood and the track; I like to be alone when I’m being creative. I have a certain head space that I need to be in and having others around me and writing in the studio is cool, I’ve done it, but I like my creative space. I get into a certain zone when I get in writing mode.

Have you heard the theory that some musicians write their best music while they’re depressed or going through a bad time?

I believe this to be true, I have songs that were written when I was going through stuff or felt a certain way at the time. In my opinion some of my best songs were written during those times. I feel we all go through stuff; this is just my way of releasing it and showing people that listen to my music, that you may not be alone and we may have been through a similar situation and hopefully my music will get them through it or at least help to some degree.

What is still your biggest challenge?

Marketing my music is the biggest issue/concern it takes a lot to build your brand on your own. You need the right networks and finances as well. You can always push harder with the right finances and sometimes life steps in.

What is the most useless talent you have?

Ha! Yeah, that’s easy. I can’t draw to save my life!! I can write, produce, make beats, I can mix your song, shoot your video or edit it as well, write a script, I can direct, and more though. I’m creative on so many levels but I can draw.

What’s your latest release?

I just released a new single called “So Elite” but I’ve been back on the grid since my last full project called “This Time It’s Personal” that I dropped in Nov 2022 and my foot has been on the gas pedal ever since. I have more upcoming projects for the rest of the year. Looking forward to “TTIP2” in December.

Who would you most like to collaborate with?

Well, that’s a list!! I’m all about being creative with another artist independent or not. So, I’d say LL Cool J, Nas, Usher, Chris Brown, Manio, BDK, Joyner, Em, Fab, the list is crazy, I think I can really collab and bounce ideas of many artists together to make an amazing song together. If you look and see how many artists have made hits together, I think I can do the same with them as well.

Who would you say inspired you the most, as an artist?

So, I feel multiple artists have inspired me it all depends on the situation I would go through in life. So, at times 2pac or DMX inspired me, then at times LL Cool J inspired me. The one thing about LL is he can give you that harder side and then throw something out there for the ladies, just like Fabolous he’s one too as well just like Big Daddy Kane, Of course, I have many more that inspire me as the craft of Hip-hop is incredible and it’s in my blood.

What do you want your legacy to be?

How do you want to be remembered? You know I want my legacy to mean I an artist and a guy that “never quits” that mind set is not just music it’s an overall mind-set for me. Those that know me, if I want something, will fight tooth and nail for it. I’m truly relentless, but that can also be a gift and a curse.

Redefining Hip-Hop and Leaving a Lasting Impression

One of the defining features of Mr. Craig’s music is its ability to seamlessly incorporate various elements and switch up his flow, making him a one-of-a-kind artist in the industry. Since the release of his last project, Mr. Craig has shown no signs of slowing down, consistently dropping new music that tackles relatable topics grounded in reality. His music maintains a real and authentic feel, enriched by an edgy and trendy modern sound, poised to impact and influence generations to come.

As Mr. Craig’s musical journey continues to unfold, the world eagerly anticipates the mark he will leave on the Hip Hop landscape. Stay tuned, because the enigmatic rapper is here to stay, making waves and crafting an authentic musical legacy.