DA REAL3ST is a London-based rapper known for his boundary-pushing sound that fuses UK drill with melodic elements of R&B, afrobeats, and soul. Born in North London, raised in Croydon, and shaped by time spent in Nigeria and the U.S., DA REAL3ST also draws deep influence from his Guyanese roots—which add unique cultural layers to both his lyrical content and musical rhythm. Originally a promising young footballer, his path shifted after the passing of his mother in 2019, leading him to channel pain into purpose. He first rose to attention under the alias RMP (RealMusicPlayed) and earned early acclaim by winning the Unsigned Stars competition, presented by Stormzy. His debut mixtape, Love or Rivalry, showcases his versatility across hip-hop, drill, and afrobeats, with standout tracks like “BET” featuring Sona. DA REAL3ST isn’t just an artist—he’s a storyteller, capturing real life through sharp lyricism, raw emotion, and a global sound that transcends borders. His latest single, “PUSH IT,” reflects this evolution—gritty yet melodic, honest yet empowering.
With “PUSH IT” out now, we took some time to hear from DA REAL3ST. Read below to learn more about DA REAL3ST, the story behind “PUSH IT,” and what’s to come.
Hi DA REAL3ST! Let’s start with—how did you get your artist name?
I started off as RMP (RealMusicPlayed)—that was my first name in the scene. As I grew, both personally and musically, I rebranded as DA REAL3ST to reflect my story more clearly. It’s about staying authentic in every lyric, every move. After everything that I’ve experienced—especially losing my mum—I knew that I had to live up to that name and be the realist in every sense.
What city are you from, and where are you based now?
I’m from North London, raised in Croydon, but I’ve also lived in Nigeria, the U.S., and have Guyanese heritage that’s a big part of my identity. All those places shaped who I am and how I sound. Right now, I’m still based in London—but my music carries a world of influences.
At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music? How did you get started?
I was into football heavy as a kid—I even had interest from clubs like AFC Wimbledon. But around 13, I caught the music bug. MySpace-era vibes, writing bars in school, spitting with friends. After I lost my mum in 2019, music became therapy. That’s when it turned into something much deeper.
How has your upbringing played a role in shaping who you are and defining your sound?
Massively. Growing up between cultures—British, Nigerian, Guyanese, and American—gave me a diverse perspective and sound palette. My mum filled the house with music, from reggae and afrobeats to R&B. Those early sounds stayed with me. And being raised in Croydon, where there’s so much raw talent, gave me that edge. The loss of my mum added realness to the bars. Everything that I’ve been through feeds into the music.
How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?
Genre-fluid. I blend drill with melody, soul, R&B, afrobeats—whatever fits the story that I’m telling. Sometimes it’s raw and street. Sometimes it’s emotional and reflective. I never want to be boxed in. If you’re listening to DA REAL3ST, expect authenticity and range.
Do you have any hobbies outside of music? What do you do to stay creative?
I’m always creating—even outside the studio. Whether it’s visuals, ideas for branding, or just vibing to different styles of music, I stay inspired. Creativity for me is a lifestyle. I also still keep an eye on football now and then—can’t shake it completely.
Who are some of your main musical influences?
Old school: Bone Thugs‑N‑Harmony, OutKast, even some reggae and dancehall influences from my Guyanese side. More recently, artists like Bryson Tiller, Tory Lanez, and Some Underground US Artist—I respect anyone who blends melody with sharp bars and stays real to their roots.
Who would be a dream to collaborate with?
Right now? Definitely Bryson Tiller or Tory Lanez. I respect the way that they blend melodies with raw emotion. I feel like we could make something mad soulful, but still street and raw.
What’s one of the proudest moments of your music career so far?
Winning Unsigned Stars, especially being recognised by Stormzy— the previous winner of the competition that was big. It gave me belief. Also, dropping my mixtape, Love or Rivalry, and seeing the love it got—it made everything feel worth it.
What would you say are the greatest lessons that you’ve learned so far?
Don’t wait on anyone. Trust your vision, back yourself, and move with intention. Also, pain can be power—if you channel it the right way. I’ve learned to turn my L’s into lessons and build from every setback.
Now onto your release, ‘PUSH IT.’ What inspired this song? What is ‘PUSH IT’ about?
‘PUSH IT’ is about drive, pressure, and survival. It reflects everything that I’ve been through—grind, grief, hunger. It’s me reminding myself and others: no matter how hard life gets, you gotta keep pushing. The vibe is drill, but with soulful undertones and real emotion.
What was the creative process like when making ‘PUSH IT?’
The beat instantly spoke to me—had that gritty bounce, but with musicality. I wrote most of it in a few focused sessions. I didn’t overthink. I just poured in everything that I was feeling at the time. Realness, pain, ambition—it’s all in there whilst still maintaining a fun, energetic vibe.
How long did it take to complete ‘PUSH IT?’
Couple days for writing and recording, but mixing and perfecting it took longer. I’m a perfectionist when it comes to detail—every ad-lib, every pause has to feel intentional.
What is your favorite lyric in ‘PUSH IT’ and why?
‘Two L’s, only make one W.’ That line sums up my journey—losses that led to growth. Losing my mum was the biggest L in my life, but it also gave me my why. That’s the W.
What message or messages do you hope fans take away from ‘PUSH IT’ and your music in general?
No matter where you come from or what you’ve been through, you’ve got the power to evolve. I want people to feel seen in my music—to know they’re not alone, and they can push through too. And also, that it’s okay to be vulnerable and still be strong.
What’s next for you? Are you working on any upcoming projects, or do you have any upcoming shows that we should be on the lookout for?
Definitely more singles, visuals, and another project on the way. No official show dates just yet, but I’m building something major for 2026. It’s all about longevity—I’m not here to drop once and disappear.
Where can we follow you on social media?
You can follow me on:
Instagram: @daaareal3st
TikTok: @daaareal3stt
YouTube: DA REAL3ST
Spotify: DA REAL3ST
Thank you for the great interview; wish you much continued success!
