Boooka, the Oklahoma-born, Austin-based hip-hop artist, has returned with his third studio album, ‘IRL’, a raw and introspective journey into personal growth and the often-blurred lines between perception and reality. Known for his compelling storytelling and witty lyricism, Boooka uses his platform to explore the complexities of relationships and the real-world consequences of our choices.

In this interview, we explore the evolution of his sound, the inspiration behind his latest release, and his unwavering commitment to authenticity. He's not afraid to lay bare his vulnerabilities, and ‘IRL’ is a testament to his dedication to pushing creative boundaries.

It’s great to have the opportunity to speak with you today, Boooka. Let’s dig right in! When did you first start making music? Where did it all begin, and what inspired you?

“I knew I was in love with hip-hop when I heard Lupe Fiasco's ‘Kick, Push’ and Lil Wayne's ‘Hustler Musik’ in 2006. That inspired me early and then maybe a year or two later I decided to try writing my own raps for fun. I would go to school and rap for anybody who would listen. Eventually, I learned how to integrate my emotions and experiences into my music, and it became an outlet just as much as it was hobby. I would wake up before and right after school and get on Audacity and write and record, dropping some new shit every day.”

You have a new album out, ‘IRL’ - can you tell us a bit about it and what it means to you?

“Aw yeah, ‘IRL’ is my latest baby. Carrying on an ongoing theme I have with my previous bodies of work with the acronyms, my first album being ‘NVM’, and my second being ‘BRB’. Both kinda symbolised where I felt I was at the time mentally, just as this one does. ‘IRL’ was made during a time where I felt like I was starting over and trying to rebuild some sort of foundation while being in a new city after moving from Atlanta. It's been rather difficult for me to build relationships and make deep connections while becoming and learning a sober version of myself.”

“I've been able to grab people's attention as an artist, which I am grateful for, but my identity isn't solely in my music no matter how much of myself I put into it. We have to have community and care for each other in real life. Boooka isn't just a stage name, and I want people to know me as everything that I am.”

Are there any standout artists, moments, or experiences that influenced you when writing the new album?

“Ummm, I've recently been introduced to poetry and frequenting more poetry open mic events than I would have ever imagined. I've actually found it a little more inspiring than my normal influences coming from other artists I admire or of course, some tragic event that has to take place in order for me to write something decent. Watching and hearing the poets perform is allowing me to learn theatre really. It has given me more courage to go on stage and let loose and not be afraid of looking a certain way or to embarrass myself. And the stories feel more real more often. The way the stories can be at times, not relatable at all, but when you hear it you feel like you were there with them. I love it.”

What was your songwriting process for the album? How did it all come together for you?

“I stayed in front my laptop day and night. I didn't overthink anything I did. One of God's best gift's to me was getting me in contact with BlanketBoi who mixed the whole project. I am thankful for his patience and clear love of music and wanting to be a part of something special. And really just a desire to grow as an artist, which we both have in common. I learned that these days, people just hop on Discord's and start jam sessions, which was a great and funny discovery for me. But in summary, loving the work that I was doing, and the supportive people around me made this so easy. I write the truth so the songwriting process for myself was easy as well.”

You spoke about your albums reflecting your headspace at the time. How would you described ‘IRL’, and has there been a change in your style since you began making music?

“I'm honestly not too sure how I would describe the sound of ‘IRL’. If I had to say an artist I may sound similar to, I'd maybe Saba, femdot, Kendrick. This album has some jazz in it, some weird sounding drums, some speaker heavy beats, I was really just doing shit. My style has evolved more as I become more sure about my capabilities behind the mic. I don't think its changed, I think it just sounds more seasoned and sharper.”

Is there a central message or theme you were trying to convey in the album, and is there a moment in the release that really captures that idea?

“’MEDSWASPOSED2HELP’ perfectly embodies who I am as an artist and the type of messages I often deliver in my music. My theme is really just visiting unpopular untold truths in the sense of like, "Hey, I've been in this position before and you can't use it to shame me. Instead, let me make it sound cool or relatable...or less lame." Which really fits in my desire to remain authentic as an artist.”

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations as an artist? Where do you see yourself in the next few years, both musically and personally?

“I want to be one of the best or somebody's favourite artist in a world where so much music is created and shared every second. And I'm going to be a leader wherever I call home. I'm gonna use my momentum and platform and pull people up with me and possibly show them things they may not have envisioned on their own. I'm gonna believe in somebody else like I felt I wanted someone to believe in me. In the next few years, I don't know if I'll be loved or hated, but I will be respected and thought of highly as an artist.”

What's next after this album? Do you have any new releases or shows on the horizon?

“I'm appreciative now because shows seem to fall out the sky, even before this release. My goal now is to work with BlanketBoi on creating a project together as he is an amazing producer himself. I have a few features I'm excited for people to hear. Some other things I can't say yet, but lastly, one more album at the end of the year and throwing a release event that will have other artists that I love, and lots of people there.”

What sort of reception have you had to the album so far?

“The reception has been incredible. I've been a victim of not thinking people give a fuck or care about what I have to offer, so to see so many people repost, share, buy, legit proving me wrong and even coming to events that I've announced is such a blessing that I don't take lightly. My favourite memory honestly though is how much my nephew stayed on my ass. He would ask every time I saw him, "When you dropping?" repeatedly. And he only listens to three artists damn near: Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West, and his Uncle Boookie. Oh, and Tyler, the Creator. But he was on my mind the moment the album released. I'm just thinking how much I hope he likes it.”

Is there anything you would like to say to our audience? How can they connect with you and help support you?

“Every listen and share means more to me than word can express. I'm active on Instagram mostly and respond to most things that come my way. I am 400+ days alcohol free and want everyone know that you have the ability to curb any vice that is getting in your way. Once you are truly tired of your own shit, you will know.”

As Boooka shared, ‘IRL’ is more than just an album; it’s a chance to step away from self-imposed limitations and embrace a more genuine version of himself. Moving from Atlanta to Austin, he’s faced the challenges of rebuilding his life and forging meaningful connections, all while navigating sobriety. The album acts as a reflection of this transition, a candid exploration of his experiences and the importance of community in a world often dominated by digital facades. Boooka's desire to be known for everything he is, not just his music, shines through in every track.

In a world saturated with music, Boooka's commitment to authenticity and his willingness to share his personal journey sets him apart. He's not just creating music; he’s building a community, inspiring others to embrace their own truths and strive for personal growth. With ‘IRL’, he's proven that vulnerability can be a strength, and that true artistry lies in connecting with listeners on a deeper level. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to his sound, Boooka's message is clear: be true to yourself, embrace the real, and never stop pushing forward.

For more from Boooka, join him today on Instagram.