Black Boy Joy Spotlight: Julian Harrell

What would the Charleston Music scene be without the expressive, dynamic, and lyrical prowess of my GHS alum Abstract the Rapper? From impacting the lives of hundreds with his feel good music, to always staying true to his self Julian's personality shines through all in which he does! Check out our one on one interview below!

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your music career?

Well I started writing music during my seventh grade year while I lived in Virginia. I was too scared to rap in front of people so I used to send out massive forwarded messages to all my friends. Soon after that I began working and teaching myself the art of vocal recording and audio engineering. With the help of my mother’s tax return she bought me my first set of recording equipment (XLRs, Interface, Condenser Mic, Headphone, Software, etc). Shoutout to her because (1) she didn’t have to do that due to our situation at the time and (2) by buying this equipment allowed me to have recorded material to start performing. Looking back the music I made probably wasn’t the best but it definitely equipped me with the necessary tools to become a self sustaining artist. Fast forward after years of practice I now can record, write, market, negotiate, and create engaging performances based of my music....and get paid .

2. How would you describe your unique style and type of music?

I would say my style is just as erratic and and enigmatic as my name. But it’s all in the name of hip hop. Though I don’t try to sound like anyone, after shows I’ve been told I have like a Wutang to Andre 300 to even Tyga 🤷🏿‍♂️ so I can’t honestly say what my style is. Whatever people correlate my music to that allows them to have fun to I’m with it.

3. What were you involved in on campus and how has that shaped your college experience?

Leadershape, SPECTRA, ROAR Scholars, Undergraduate Academic Services, Baxter Music Enterprises LLC, 1770 Records and countless others which helped me get involved and meet friends that I know will be a part of my life forever.

4. Any words of encouragement for the men of color?

Don’t let what other people, whether it be those within the same community or outside, stifle anything you set your mind to. People only object things they either can’t envision themselves doing or they haven’t seen done. Lastly, “perception is key so I am king” -Punch, President of Top Dawg Entertainment

Check out Abstract's music below!

https://soundcloud.com/abstractthatrapper

https://www.reverbnation.com/abstractthatrapper

https://m.facebook.com/abstractthatrapper/

https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/abstract-that-rapper/1219739004