Creator to Creators S7 Ep 62 I.K.P

https://www.ikp.meYoutubeSpotifyInstagramBio K.P. (The Infamous King of Positivity) is a first-generation Honduran American of Garifuna descent and a non-binary rapper and producer whose every move is intentional. From their stage name to their sonic palette, I.K.P. creates with layered purpose.Their latest single “FTW” is a high-voltage anthem built to energize your morning, fuel your workout, or soundtrack your world domination. The track’s rattling drums and bass, combined with an eerie and dominant melody, drive a sense of urgency that perfectly matches I.K.P.’s electrifying performance.“I want them to feel unstoppable. Whatever you’re doing, you’re doing it for the win, and you’reundeniable,” they share.I.K.P.’s writing process is as fluid as it is instinctive. Sometimes they write with pen and pad, other times they record voice notes or use their phone’s notes app.“Inspiration strikes in fragments or floods. As they say, you don’t gotta get ready if you stay ready.”In a landscape where many artists cling to one sound, I.K.P. thrives in versatility. Whether it’s boom bap, drill, reggae, or Latin rhythms, they co-produce and collaborate across styles, honoring Hip-Hop’s hybrid roots and their own Afro-Caribbean heritage.“I gravitate towards a lot of things and I don’t like to be in a box. I do a lot of co-producing with a multifaceted team. I love Hip-Hop so much because you can make all these hybrid styles make sense.”Their sonic range mirrors a life of movement and resilience. Raised in Norfolk, Virginia after their family emigrated from Honduras, I.K.P. also served over five years in the Marines. Growing up near Portsmouth, they drew early inspiration from Missy Elliott’s boundary-breaking creativity.The name I.K.P. represents more than music. It embodies advocacy and empowerment. Their stage name was inspired by their mission to combat the stigma surrounding HIV-positive diagnoses and to use art as a tool for visibility and strength among marginalized communities.“I decided I wasn’t going to let things that happened to me define how I saw the world. I wanted to show people who looked like me and lived like me that they could gain a sense of power. And if they didn’t know how to do it for themselves, I could show them that it could be done.”I.K.P. also explores the intersection of rap, pop culture, and the evolving LGBTQIA+ experience, acknowledging both the progress and the challenges that remain. They reference artists like Kevin Abstract, Tyler The Creator, Lil Nas X, Young M.A, Steve Lacy, and Syd, trailblazers who continue to push the conversation forward.“It’s about self-actualization. Whether you’re Black, gay, and/or queer, you’re often kept out of certain rooms and conversations. I want to show people that you can always take control and be free.”For I.K.P., rap is a ritual, a reflection of joy, pain, and transformation.“I want to continue to speak for those who feel like they don’t have a voice or that their voice is being suppressed. Hip-Hop has always been a tool of progression and evolution, and I just want to continue that tradition,” they said.Their fanbase, affectionately known as #PozFriendlies, can expect a wave of new releases following the success of their fourth full-length project 11:11 | eleven eleven released in 2021. I.K.P. is also expanding their BLOCK SPINNINseries on TikTok and Instagram, a Stereogum-inspired chronicle exploring the history of Billboard Hot 100 hits.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/creator-to-creators-with-meosha-bean--4460322/support.