Abe Link’n: Staying True to Self and Redefining Success in Hip-Hop 

In a world where authenticity often takes a backseat to trends, Detroit-based hip-hop artist Abe Link’n stands out as a beacon of raw, unfiltered storytelling. His music is not just a collection of songs but a reflection of his life, his struggles, and his triumphs. With a focus on storytelling, lyricism, and realism, Abe Link’n creates music that resonates with listeners on a deep and personal level. His approach to hip-hop is refreshing, as he shuns the superficial and embraces the genuine, painting vivid pictures with his words.

Abe Link’n’s journey into music was anything but conventional. As he recalls, he never planned on becoming a rapper. It was a twist of fate, a persuasive push from a loved one, that set him on this path. His early experiences, including performing a variation of his eighth-grade biography in a song, laid the foundation for his unique storytelling style. Through the years, Abe Link’n has faced numerous challenges and triumphs in the music industry. From performing on renowned stages to navigating label offers, his journey has been a testament to his perseverance and passion for his craft.

Interview with Abe Link’n:

Rox-Tv: How did you first get started in music, and what inspired you to pursue a career in hip-hop?

Abe Link’n: To be honest, I never planned on being a rapper! I wrote a biography about Harriet Tubman back in eighth grade. The woman I was dating at the time was 20 years older than me and yes, I was a freshman in high school. It was her convincing after reading my biography that I had written, that she felt too invested in me, becoming a rapper. Before I knew it three weeks later, I found myself performing a variation of the biography in a song for David Humphries, who was the creator of wars.

Rox-tv: Can you tell us about your journey in the music industry so far? What have been some of the highlights and challenges along the way?

Abe: Just to get where I’m at today, was a long journey far from easy but well worth it. For years, I performed on many stages. With stages like The Belle Isle Band Shell, Ribs n Soul Fest, The Millennium Center, Music Hall and many other venues, it’s been “ALL GO” ever since. Throughout the years many people have signed me or tried to sign me to labels and up until I met ghost house entertainment did I feel it was wasted time with a lot of people.

Rox-Tv: Your song “Thank Nobody” has a catchy title. Can you share the inspiration behind this song and its message?

Abe: Thank nobody was simply my expression of just wanting a support system. Thus far, I have not had a proper support system when it comes to this music career. Of course, there are people like Zitro, Big Sherm, Bake Lo, Histio, Hemic, and a few others who have always been there and accessible. But this song started off as a joke around the household with my parents and my brothers. The 19 years that I’ve been performing, I can count on one hand how many shows each of my family members have been to if any at all. Now, don’t take it as a diss, but more so my heart expressed to creativity.

Rox-tv: What was the creative process like for the music video of “Thank Nobody”? How did you come up with the concept?

Abe: To be honest, I can’t take any credit for the visual. I linked up with Rox- TV and they got me right!!! It was a cold early afternoon, and Bobby and Carlito said let’s walk around downtown with cameras, rolling, and when you hear the music just start performing. If you ask me, it was the simplicity of the finishing touches that made that video everything to me. The craziest part about the whole video is that Roxx TV came to me at the time I was in my deepest, darkest moments, ready to quit and honestly ready to end it all at some point, I’ve never known to be that much of a depressed person, but when I created, thank nobody, I didn’t understand how true and hurt I truly was.

Rox-tv: You’ve collaborated with Rox-Tv for your music video. What was it like working with them, and how did they contribute to bringing your vision to life?

Abe: Roxx TV seems to have this special sauce. I may have given one piece of input and they ran with the vision from there. I can’t do my videos with anyone else due to the love I have for their work. The environment was stress-free. These weren’t producers who are constantly talking on the phone when we’re trying to get things done, I say it was a max of two hours of filming. Now I’m not sure how long editing took, but I know each time I got it back it was tweaked to perfection, and I wouldn’t change that service for the world.

Rox-tv: Can you tell us about your upcoming projects or any new music you’re working on?

Abe: Well, you’ll be the first to know… I’m currently working on my new project, entitled “Just In Time”. Recently, I signed to Ghosthouse Entertainment, and together, we have so much in store to come. The first official show will be March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, in Lansing, Michigan. Following that, I’m back in Ohio in April. In between those times I will be dropping a few tracks, one entitled best for you in which a video will also be filmed and produced by Roxx TV.

Rox-tv: What sets your music apart from others in the hip-hop genre?

Abe: The simple answer to that is I just have a story to tell! Everything I speak on has everything to do with my life and my life only. The good, bad, the pretty, and ugly. My truth is what I put on wax and it should remain that way no matter what music scene I’m a part of. Also being a newer member of the Juggalo community, my music stands out from those of that genre.

Rox-Tv: How do you approach songwriting and creating music? Do you have a specific process or routine?

Abe: VIBES & VIBES ONLY! I’m always rapping. But to put it on wax, I like to head over to my brother Zitro’s crib. He has Alexa which allows me to say… “Alexa, turn lights purple”. I only record under purple lighting when it comes to setting the mood for my tunes. If we’re lucky the fridge is often filled with drinks. From that point, the session begins. He’d tell you the same. In fact, the song “Best 4 You” is a prime example of that. That song was created off of a vibe, no pen or pad. I’m no Jay Z or Lil Wayne but there are many songs created by me that have no true formula. I love writing but sometimes writing tends to lose the bounce and/or momentum that was intended for it and sometimes you have to wing it. But wing it with your true emotions. During some songs I’ve created and recorded, I’ve even shedded tears due to the content at hand. Music (Hip Hop) made me, raised me, and til this day is still by my side!!!!

Rox-Tv What do you hope listeners take away from your music?

Abe: Simply put, just to be yourself at all times, no matter who’s watching or what’s up against you. You make your own world go round. Be so good that you gain haters before followers. That’s when you know you’re doing it right.

Rox-Tv: Can you share any behind-the-scenes anecdotes or interesting moments from your music career or performances?

Abe: Gathering of the Juggalos 2021 is still the epitome of my performing career. Although it was Zitro headlining, my presence was known and felt. while I’m not the biggest fan of ICP music, their structure taught me a lot of what’s to go into a full blown concert. Our performance allowed me to meet my music crush Lardi B, Whitney Peyton, Danny Brown, and perform the same night with the names mentioned including Three6Mafia, Vanilla Ice, Kid n Play, Ouija Macc, and many others. That night, I was on celebrity status.

Rox-Tv: What are your thoughts on the current state of the hip-hop industry, and how do you see it evolving in the future?

Abe: The current state of hip hop is doing just fine.  It’s the Rap that’s a problem. I’m sick of people rapping about shit they’ve never done. Like people talk about rape, killings, and drug dealing, but don’t know the first rule to any of it. And quite honestly, it makes me sick to my stomach, because most of the people I’m talking about I’ve met or know personally. Shits not cool!!!

Rox-Tv: Who are some of your musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound?

Abe: Listening to lyrical technicians like J. Cole, No Name, Chika, Tobe Ngiwe, and everyone from Dreamville, Funk Volume, TDE and GOOD Music. They all tell a story in their music. If you dissect the music of these artist enough, you’ll find out that true Art is being the most vulnerable version of yourself.

Rox-tv : How do you stay motivated and inspired in your music career?

Abe: At a time of defeat and readiness to give up, a whole team of people inboxed me as if my bad energy was in the air. Roxx Tv started it off with actually wanting to work with me at a time I was stagnant. Following behind that, McGruber and I had a meeting where we discussed a very promising future as teammates, which ultimately landed me my signing with Ghosthouse Entertainment. And once again, my brother Zitro always opens his studio for me and never asked for a dollar. For these people I will forever be grateful!!!

Rox-Tv : Is there a particular message or theme that you try to convey through your music?

Abe: Be You and Stay you!!!! No one else can render that for you. Stop being fucking lazy and get from behind the computer. You’re giving music to people who already have their minds made up of what they like. Get out here and do the leg work, because that very one you’re judging may be your biggest supporter

Abe Link’n’s latest video for “Thank Nobody” premiered in January and is performing well on YouTube. Fans have praised the song for its deep and introspective lyrics, with comments like

@1steschelon Dope.. “Reality is Realizing Self Reliance is the best Flexx!!”,

@marybuwa7067 “My favorite of 2024 so far!”, and

@ogwrestlingfan1789 ” This song and video is deep!! this is what hip hop needs”.

In conclusion, Abe Link’n’s story is one of resilience, authenticity, and unwavering passion for his craft. From humble beginnings to collaborating with industry professionals, Abe has remained true to himself, using his music as a medium to share his life’s journey with the world. His dedication to storytelling and his unique approach to hip-hop set him apart in an industry often dominated by trends. As Abe continues to evolve as an artist, we can expect nothing but raw, heartfelt music that resonates with listeners on a profound level. Stay tuned to Rox-Tv.com for more articles about up-and-coming artists making waves in the music scene.

Article by Art Irving