Credit
Aaron J. Thornton / Contributor via Getty s
Size
Vic Mensa exemplifies what it truly means to be a multi-talented individual. Emerging in the industry towards the conclusion of the blog era, this passionate, genre-defying rap artist has steadily diversified his skills into acting, modeling, and various other artistic endeavors. His tenacity and knack for continuous reinvention have propelled him to success in multiple domains.
Initially recognized for his raw lyrics and impactful songwriting, Mensa significantly expanded his following through memorable performances in series like Lena Waithe’s “The Chi” and Peacock’s “Bel-Air.” As a musician, he has garnered endorsements from top-tier celebrities such as JAY-Z, Beyoncé, BIA, Ty Dolla Sign, and Ye. While the Chicago rapper prepares for his forthcoming album, which he describes as drawing inspiration from African melodies of the ’60s and ’70s, Mensa is more focused than ever.
In his enlightening dialogue with Rap-Up, the “Liquor Locker” artist shared insights on the distinctions between his roles as an actor and a recording artist, how he has adeptly navigated the evolving music landscape, and the inspirations behind his upcoming album.
Recently, you have been having numerous memorable experiences and traveling extensively. How are you feeling at this moment?
I feel incredibly fortunate and deeply thankful for being alive. I strive to keep myself grounded in gratitude, regardless of the circumstances. Even when things are going well, there’s always a reason to appreciate life.
Portraying Quentin, a prosperous venture capitalist in Season 3 of “Bel-Air,” can you share what makes this experience distinct for you compared to your other roles?
You know “Bel-Air” was an opportunity that came about from a tape I submitted. Just that aspect alone marked a significant milestone for me because I’ve dedicated years to studying acting. I’ve taken classes, sought one-on-one coaching, and participated in both self-taped and in-person auditions. Previous opportunities came through connections, but this was my first instance of securing a role through an actual audition, which is a major milestone in my journey!
Moreover, it’s been an enriching experience. I worked alongside incredibly talented individuals. The cast was filled with young, gifted, multi-faceted artists. Everyone has their music projects, and many are involved in theater as well. It really opened my eyes to the current landscape where artists are no longer restricted to a single art form but can thrive in multiple realms.
Do you consider it easier for a musician to transition into other entertainment fields, or is it more straightforward for an actor to enter the music scene?
I believe it’s typically much tougher for someone who starts in acting to gain acceptance in music.
Having achieved multiple successful roles, how do you think your audience will embrace your next project?
It’s intriguing because many people fail to differentiate between fiction and reality. I haven’t really thought about how my acting performances might influence the way listeners approach my music. Several individuals have said they stumbled upon my music via my television work.
Just recently, I was at a eatery in Paris with a friend, and a couple next to us celebrating a birthday expressed their admiration for my character in “The Chi,” sharing that they found my music after watching me in that show. That was a fascinating insight for me; it revealed an alternative pathway into my artistic world. I don’t view the process as drastically different since I put significant effort into honing my craft. As a writer, exploring different avenues is crucial for me. Whether crafting music or scripts, I attempt to look at topics from various perspectives.
At present, I’m writing a song centered around a whimsical theme. To decide my approach—whether channeling Robin Williams or Tommy the Clown—I explored the myriad interpretations of a painted face. Finding various associations allowed me to weave them together later. These roles are merely my first ventures, and I’m still learning to assess them. I’m integrating my own experiences with the characters I portray, an approach not so dissimilar from my music. I believe as I refine my technique, my abilities as an actor will be recognized just as positively as they are as a musician.
Can you elaborate on your aspirations for your upcoming musical release?
I’ve been crafting this project over the past year. I’m in pursuit of fresh sounds, pulling influences from African musical traditions—not solely Afrobeats. I am inspired by some of the legendary artists from the ’60s and ’70s. My hands have been deeply involved in the production as well. Ultimately, I wish to share something authentic, heartfelt, and, most importantly, sincere, reflecting the Muslim name my aunt bestowed upon me.
I’m narrating tales from my family lineage that I have not previously explored, delving into the intricacies of my thought processes while discussing fame and wealth from angles I haven’t before. I seek to carve my own unique path. I’ve expressed to my friends that I want this to sound as if no one else could have created it. My production is distinctive because I draw from an array of inspirations, ensuring each piece sounds unlike the last.
Your freestyles have consistently garnered significant attention on the internet. Do you adopt a different mindset for freestyling compared to crafting a formal track?
Yes, the approaches differ, and I hope that diversity is echoed in my music. Often, I write multiple verses until I find the one that resonates with me. Occasionally, I even blend aspects of different verses together. To create a compelling freestyle, it must feel personal and ingeniously crafted.
The punchlines ought to be sharp and effectively delivered, akin to how a comedian might present them. They should elicit laughter, provoke thought, and remain politically charged, while also possibly being irreverent at times. When producing albums, I make a concerted effort to ensure that my humor and introspective elements align perfectly while ensuring the punchlines resonate amid the album’s flow.
Who are five individuals that inspire you whom you would take to your preferred dining spot in Chicago?
I’d love to invite Waithe, André 3000, and my sister Aja Monet. That’s three; I might also bring in Sarkodie—the rap icon from Ghana—and Jimi Hendrix. We would dine at a Belizean Caribbean restaurant called Garifuna Flava located on West 63rd. It’s incredibly authentic, purely focused on the cuisine without any fancy decor. The extensive menu showcases dishes from individuals connected to their heritage in Belize, and I’ve tasted some of the finest oxtail I’ve ever had there.
The food is so exceptional that my partner and I felt compelled to travel to Belize just to experience it… We connected with the locals, which made for a delightful cultural exploration. It took some effort; we had to navigate by canoe to reach them as their communication isn’t through the phone. Spending quality time with them was enriching and beautiful. The cuisine was so amazing that we wanted to experience it from the source!