A rising Austrian hip-hop artist, the 21-year-old Minki has been steadily carving out his own niche in music this year. Armed with tracks like ‘In The Air’, he’s championing a sound reminiscent of artists like The Kid Laroi and Juice WRLD, but also creatively and sonically his own.
His latest single, 'Pay Your Fee', is a near-perfect snapshot of his style and potential. It’s a smooth, pulsing track where each element effortlessly glides over the production. Released in March on 333 Records, the track illustrates Minki's innate ability to push his own boundaries, opening with a subtle, gradual build, supported by tempered beats that exude a smooth, almost melancholic atmosphere.
There’s a wistful, nostalgic vibe that permeates the track, perfectly complementing the understated glitching tones that pepper the soundscape. It’s a nuanced fusion of lo-fi aesthetics and a more assertive, punchy hip-hop foundation, showcasing Minki's versatility and keen ear for production. The true highlight of the song, though, arrives around the minute-and-a-half mark with the introduction of this rolling, funk-laced guitar riff. It’s a moment of pure bliss, injecting a renewed energy into the track and immediately commanding the listener's attention. It's a masterstroke that elevates 'Pay Your Fee' beyond your usual combination of beats and vocals, transforming the track into a virtually unparalleled experience.
Lyrically, ‘Pay You Fee’ sees Minki diving into themes of bygone eras and the increasing weight of responsibility that comes with growing up. The stark contrast between opening lines like "Back when me and my Dad was playing Fallout" and the later, more grounded "nowadays it’s just work and make the most out it" captures the transition from carefree youth to the realities of adult life.
'Pay Your Fee' is more than just a song; it's a reflective journey through personal growth, delivered with the undeniable swagger of a young artist who's just getting started. If this is just the beginning, Minki's future in hip-hop looks incredibly promising.
To keep up with Minki as he continues to carve out his own path in hip-hop, be sure to follow him on Instagram and TikTok
