Richmond, California-based emcee Locksmith (real name Davood Asgar) dropped a new video for the track “Grime” this week that finds the dexterous wordsmith rapping all over the streets of New York City. His upcoming album, Olive Branch, is Locksmith’s third studio album, following 2014’s A Thousand Cuts and 2015’s Lofty Goals.
After gaining notoriety in the underground hip-hop scene through MTV's MC Freestyle Championship, he’s steadily been crafting a sustainable career while consistently touring with fellow Bay Area hip-hop artists like Zion I.
Locksmith was also a battle rapper on GrindTimeNow. To date, he has battled Dizaster, Passwurdz, Daylyt, and Jonny Storm, however, he has since retired from battle rapping to focus on his solo music career. In between business meetings, Locksmith had a few brief moments to discuss his background, what’s on the horizon, and what makes a dope emcee.
RAPstation (Kyle Eustice): Tell me a little bit about your background. Where did you grow up?
Locksmith: I grew up in Richmond California. My mother is African-American my father is Iranian. Growing up I saw my sister as an example because she was a rapper. I watched her write rhymes. I watched her record. Also she toured Europe. But at that time I didn't think I would be a rapper but I do think it definitely played a part in me pursuing a career as a rapper.
When did you first get into hip-hop?
I started rapping after I graduated high school. I fell in love with hip-hop. I didn't do it because I wanted it to be a career, I just loved writing raps. I just wanted to be the best rapper I could be, that's what motivated me.
How did you start making a name for yourself?
I started making a name for myself in the freestyle battle scene. It's not something that I tried to pursue but I just found out that I was good at it. People started to gravitate towards me because of my skill in that arena.
How did you link up with Zion I?
Zion I and I are from the Bay Area so naturally we met within the hip-hop circles. We just developed a really good friendship, a really good professional relationship. I was honored to go on tour with them last year.
What emcees do you admire?
I came up learning from Nas, Jay Z, Eminem and of course Tupac. But recently my favorites are Childish Gambino, Drake, J Cole, and Kendrick to name a few.
Your flow is crazy—like acrobatic. What makes a dope emcee in your opinion?
A dope MC can do it all. Wordplay, storyteller, songwriter, live performer. You have to be just a well rounded artist.
What do you have coming up?
I have an album titled Ol•ive Branch that's on the way, but don't be surprised if you get something special before that.
