Inherently Talented: Grigsby is One of Denver’s Hottest Rap Artists

Photography by Nathan James

[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap radius”]D[/dropcap]enver is a place where both the culture and cannabis scenes are up-and-coming, and local hip-hop artist Grigsby is the perfect man to spread the good news about both things.

“I guess I’ve been lyrically inclined my entire life,” he told CULTURE. “I used to rap to myself when I was young and never really thought anything of it. The world just kind of looked and sounded like a Dr. Seuss book to me. As I got older it became me and my friends’ favorite pastime and party trick. One day, an older friend presented me a beat and asked me to write to it. Then and there my calling found me, and with rap, I fell in love. As far as rapping goes, I draw inspiration from Andre Benjamin, Yassin Bey, MF DOOM, E-40, Slick Rick, Pharrell Williams, ODB, Phonte, Aesop Rock, Kendrick Lamar, Lauryn Hill and Busta Rhymes.”

Grigsby has a lot of exciting things in the works for the New Year. “My latest release was an impromptu freestyle performance with a guitar-wielding Frenchman traveling through Denver,” he told us. “You can catch that on the social media. I’m currently in the studio working on a project to be released upon the arrival of summer. This project is very unique and completely my own. It’s a surreal experience and I’m super stoked because the entire process has evolved into a documentary. As of now, I have relaxed heavily on shows and public appearances in order to spend time with my family.”

Photography by Nathan James

As far as the rising rap scene in Denver goes, Grigsby sees a lot of potential. “I feel like this hip-hop scene here in Denver is on the cusp of something quite amazing,” he admitted. “Only because there are, and have been, so many individuals doing the groundwork and laying the foundation for over a decade. They really have created the perfect environment for an artist like myself to thrive. That credit goes directly to the OGs.”

Grigsby is also a strong cannabis supporter, and sees the strong connections that can be forged between the cannabis and music communities. “Cannabis has been, and will always be a very intricate part of my lifestyle and creative processes and I’d like for that to carry over into my art,” he stated. “I’m partnering with The Green Solution on several projects to further that cannabis advocacy. The earth gives many gifts and cannabis is one that I am extremely grateful for. I make reference to cannabis quite often in my music. I’d imagine that’s because it’s such a big part of my life. I’m usually describing how I use it and/or expressing how I feel it can be used.”

Check local concert listings for a chance to see Grigsby live in Denver this year, and look out for his new projects and music over the next few months.

www.facebook.com/MufasaGrigsby