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Vic Mensa epitomizes what it means to be a multi-talented individual. Since emerging on the scene during the twilight of the blog era, this ambitious genre-blending rapper has steadily expanded his proficiency to include acting, modeling, and various other art forms. His relentless drive and knack for continual self-reinvention have contributed significantly to his achievements across diverse domains.
Initially recognized for his raw lyrics and impactful songwriting, Mensa rapidly amplified his audience through standout roles in television series such as Lena Waithe’s “The Chi” and Peacock’s “Bel-Air.” As a musician, he has garnered endorsements from luminaries like JAY-Z, Beyoncé, BIA, Ty Dolla Sign, and Ye. While the Chicago rapper prepares for the release of his highly anticipated album, which he notes draws inspiration from African musical influences of the ’60s and ’70s, Mensa is more focused than ever before.
In a candid exchange with Rap-Up, the “Liquor Locker” artist elaborated on the distinctions between his endeavors as an actor and a recording artist, how he has adeptly maneuvered through the evolving landscape of the music industry, and the inspirations behind his upcoming album.
You’ve been experiencing some remarkable moments lately. How’s your current state of mind?
I feel blessed and deeply appreciative to be alive. I strive to maintain a foundation of gratitude, regardless of the circumstances. Even in challenging times, there’s always something to be thankful for.
As Quentin, a prosperous venture capitalist in Season 3 of “Bel-Air,” what makes this role stand out to you in comparison to your previous ones?
You know, “Bel-Air” came about because of a tape I submitted. Just that achievement alone was groundbreaking for me since I have been honing my acting skills for several years. I have undertaken acting courses, private lessons, and both self-taped and in-person auditions. Prior roles were mostly relationship-driven; I got those opportunities because of connections. However, this time was different — it was my first actual audition, a true milestone!
On top of that, it has been a fantastic experience. The people I collaborated with are incredibly talented. The cast was filled with young, gifted, multi-faceted performers. Everyone is engaged in music, and some are also involved in theater. This illustrated to me how artists nowadays defy definition; they can embrace multiple disciplines and thrive in today’s creative environment.
In your opinion, is it more challenging for musicians to transition into other entertainment realms, or for actors to penetrate the music scene?
I believe it’s likely considerably tougher for someone who starts in acting to later gain acceptance in music.
Having enjoyed various successful roles, how do you anticipate your new project will be perceived by your fans?
It’s intriguing, as people often overlook the separation between television and reality. I haven’t contemplated how [my roles in acting] might influence someone’s interpretation of my music. I’ve heard from individuals who found my music through my television work.
Just the other day, while dining at a restaurant in Paris with a friend, a couple at the table next to us, celebrating a birthday, mentioned their admiration for my role on “The Chi” and how they discovered my music afterward. That was a surreal experience for me; it provided a unique entry point into my world. I don’t perceive it as a drastically different process, as I continuously practice and study the craft. Writing is a substantial part of who I am. While crafting music, essays, or scripts, I explore numerous avenues of approach.
At present, I’m working on a song inspired by a clown-like motif. I analyze various perspectives on the message — whether evoking Robin Williams or Tommy the Clown — as I explore the different meanings associated with painted faces. This helped me weave those concepts together later. Since these are among my earliest roles, I am still figuring out how best to analyze them. I’m synthesizing my past experiences relevant to the characters I portray. It’s not too dissimilar from music. I feel that as I evolve in my acting, I will be perceived similarly as an actor as I am as a musician.
What are your aspirations for your next musical project?
I’ve been crafting it for nearly a year now. I’m on the quest for new sounds, merging diverse influences, not simply Afrobeats but drawing from prominent artists from the ’60s and ’70s. I’m producing the tunes myself. Above all, I’m eager to communicate something authentic, heartfelt, and, most significantly, sincere, which is the name my Muslim aunt bestowed upon me.
I aim to narrate tales about my ancestral roots that I haven’t previously explored, delving into my mental landscape, and discussing concepts like wealth and notoriety in a context I haven’t approached before. I strive to maintain individuality. I want it to be a creation unique to me; I often share with friends that I desire this sound to be unmistakably different from anything else.
Your freestyles consistently catch attention online. Is your methodology for freestyling distinct from crafting a song?
My punchlines need to be sharp, clever, and executed with precision, akin to the technique of a skilled comedian. They should evoke laughter, tackle serious subjects, and sometimes be provocative or irreverent. In crafting albums, I strive to balance my humor and self-reflection, ensuring that my punchlines make their mark while the album takes shape.
If you could dine with five inspirational individuals at your favorite eatery in Chicago, who would they be?
I would love to invite Waithe, André 3000, and my sister Aja Monet. That’s three; perhaps I’d also include Sarkodie — the rap legend from Ghana — and Jimi Hendrix. We would feast at this Belizean Caribbean restaurant named Garifuna Flava located on West 63rd. It has a very authentic, unrefined vibe with no fancy decor. The extensive menu showcases mouthwatering dishes inspired by Belizean heritage — serving some of the best oxtail I’ve ever tasted.
The food is so fabulous that my girlfriend and I felt compelled to visit Belize to sample it! We connected with the locals, experiencing their culture firsthand. It required some effort to find them; we had to canoe our way to their location since they don’t communicate via phone. Spending time with them was a beautiful experience; the cuisine was so incredible that we had to source it directly!