His latest project, 6pak, is a bold testament to his journey, packed with six dynamic tracks that showcase his lyrical sharpness, Midwest pride, and unshakable vision. In this candid interview, BLIZZARD-G opens up about the origins of his stage name, the realities behind the bars, and what’s next for an artist who’s doing it all independently.
Interview with BLIZZARD-G aka The MidwestKing
1. You grew up in Chicago but are now based in St. Louis—how have both cities shaped your sound and outlook as an artist?
Chicago and St. Louis both played major roles in shaping who I am. I soaked up the lingo and culture from both cities, which made it easy for me to blend styles and perspectives. It’s given me a unique edge and voice that stands out.
2. How did the moniker “The MidwestKing” come to be, and what does it represent for you personally and musically?
I’ve lived all over the Midwest—Illinois, Wisconsin, Missouri, Indiana, Minnesota—you name it. I’m a natural-born leader, and The MidwestKing doesn’t mean I’m the best, it means I stand out the most. My influence in style and voice speaks for itself.
3. When did you first realize you wanted to rap professionally, and which moment in your early career will you never forget?
I knew I wanted to rap professionally when I saw other artists change their lives—and their communities—with one hit. I’ll never forget when my Uncle DD took me to Soldier Field as a kid. He was playing trumpet and trombone for the Chicago Bears, and that moment lit a fire in me.
4. Walk us through your typical writing session—how do you sculpt those witty bars that cut through the noise?
My bars come straight from experience—what I’ve seen and lived. I’m pretty well-rounded and versatile, so when I write, I draw from real life and add charisma, sometimes a bit of exaggeration to keep it entertaining.
5. 6pak is your latest project—what was the inspiration behind the title, and how did the EP come together from concept to completion?
The idea came from the structure—it’s six powerful tracks that are unique and relatable. Each song packs a punch, and together they form a tight, impactful collection.
6. If you had to pick one song off 6pak that best encapsulates your current reality, which would it be and why?
Definitely “Global.” It’s self-explanatory—I’m bigger than people think. That song captures my ambition and the reality of how far I’ve come.
7. Who did you work with on the beats and production? Any unexpected partnerships or studio moments worth sharing?
Charles Stokes produces most of my beats and records me. Sometimes I make my own beats, rap on them, and record myself. We’ve got a good creative rhythm going.
8. Your bars are known for their wit—what themes or stories recur in your writing, and how do you decide what to tackle next?
I had a rough childhood—I was raised by my grandparents in Chicago’s Parkway Gardens (O Block) and the Wild Hundreds. That upbringing gives me endless material. I often reflect on those times and make it relatable, mixing in a little charisma and flair.
9. Every artist faces challenges—what’s been the toughest hurdle in your journey so far, and how did you push through?
Relocating from Chicago to St. Louis was tough. I didn’t know anyone, and I was homeless at one point. But that struggle inspired me to make something happen—it was fuel for the fire.
10. Describe your live shows: how do you translate the energy of your recordings onto the stage?
My live shows are lit. That’s where I really connect with fans and potential fans. I bring my gritty style and raw energy to the stage—it’s an experience.
11. Which rappers, poets, or other creatives have had the biggest impact on your style and philosophy?
James Brown, for the soul in his voice. ODB (Ol’ Dirty Bastard) for his wild creativity. And my Uncle John John—he had that schizophrenic charisma that stuck with me.
12. How do you engage with your fans off- and online, and what’s one fan interaction that really stuck with you?
I show up in the community—help during natural disasters, give free haircuts to the homeless, just do what I can to rebuild. I believe in real connection beyond the screen.
13. As someone forging an independent path, what advice would you give to up-and-coming rappers trying to break in today?
Never give up. Keep going, even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard.
14. Beyond 6pak, what projects or experiments are you most excited about exploring next?
I’ve got a project coming up with my son, which is special. I’m also working on a solo project featuring artists like T-Rell.
15. Ten years from now, when people look back on BLIZZARD-G’s career, what do you hope they remember most about The MidwestKing’s contribution to hip-hop?
That I was the biggest independent artist ever—and that I always gave back to my community. I want to be remembered as someone who made a real difference.
