Halifax-based rapper hopes to inspire, motivate with new album

Halifax rapper Basyl’s new project “Love Bomber” comes out Friday.

A Halifax-based rapper is gearing up for a milestone weekend.

BASYL blends R&B melodies with sharp lyrics and a smooth, infectious flow, exploring themes like freedom of speech, oppression and love.

“I’m from Palestine. I was born and raised in Jordan, moved to Canada in 2014. I did environmental engineering, so very different than music,” said BASYL. “Once I graduated, I knew I just wanted to chase my passion and just delve right into music right away.”

The East Coast has become a home away from home for BASYL, who says the region’s music scene has been very welcoming.

“More than I can describe, like greater than I can describe, honestly,” he said in an interview with CTV Atlantic’s Katie Kelly.

“Everybody, you know, producers, artists, people like yourself, it’s just been open arms, smiles. And I lead with love and peace, so it’s like this is just a perfect match.”

The rapper’s latest album, “Love Bombers,” debuts Friday.

“It’s about, you know, holding yourself accountable in a relationship, becoming more emotionally aware and just growth overall,” he said.

BASYL says the focus track, “Church on Wednesday,” is one he is very proud of.

“It’s featuring my brothers, Irene and Keio, and produced by Classified and David Myles, which is a mind-blowing blessing,” he said.

“The process of everything just happened so naturally, which is amazing.”

This weekend marks another special milestone for BASYL – his debut solo show.

“I never got a chance to curate an entire vibe and entire experience, I should say for people. So, I’m really excited to do that this Saturday at Stillwell Kempt Road,” he said.

BASYL hopes his music will not only inspire others but motivate them to chase their own dreams.

“I know it sounds cliché, but it’s a real thing, you know, like, not everybody is living their meant to be life,” he said.

“So get aligned, take that leap of faith, you know, and most importantly, move out of faith, not fear.”