Some artists carve their name into history with a chisel; Rome Streetz uses a razor blade. A true student of hip-hop, Rome Streetz recently sat down with Sway In The Morning alongside producer extraordinaire, Conductor Williams, to discuss their new project “Trainspotting,” their artistic journey, and the grit it takes to stay true to their craft. The episode was capped off with a fire freestyle that left no doubt about why Rome Streetz is one of the most ferocious MCs in the game today.
The Evolution of Rome Streetz: Bars Born on the Subway š
Rome Streetzā lyrical journey began in the heart of New York City. Born in London but raised in Queens, Long Island, and Brooklyn, Romeās story is one of constant movement. “The train was everything,” he said. “Some of the best rhymes Iāve written were on a train.” He recalled how the subway offered a raw slice of New York cultureāencounters with the city’s diversity, the occasional impromptu show, and moments of solitude that inspired bars destined for greatness.
From riding the subway with a MetroCard to envisioning himself in a Porsche Carrera, Romeās growth epitomizes the hustle. He attributes much of his success to his early dedication: battling MCs all over New York and writing verses in the unlikeliest of places. “I got exactly where I wanted to go by doing exactly what I wanted to do,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in his craft.
Rome Streetz Meets Conductor Williams: A Collaboration of Grit and Vision š¶
The partnership between Rome Streetz and Conductor Williams is magnetic. Known for his grungy, vintage-inspired beats, Conductor Williams has worked with heavyweights like J. Cole and Drake. “I approach music as if itās art on a canvas,” Williams explained. His process, deeply rooted in studies of art history and meticulous attention to sound, aligns perfectly with Romeās raw lyrical energy.
Speaking about “Trainspotting,” Rome described the album as their metaphorical train, a piece of art you would never forget once you see it pass. The title pays homage to both the iconic film and the graffiti-tagged trains of New York, representing culture, collaboration, and unforgettable impact. The two have built a creative synergy that is palpable, with Rome saying, “We just kept working, and by the time we looked up, we had mad songs.”
Lessons from Griselda Records: Authenticity is King š
Rome Streetz credits much of his rise to the influence of Griselda Records, a powerhouse in bringing lyricism back to the forefront of hip-hop. “When I first heard Griselda, I thought, āRapping is back,ā” Rome said. As someone who stayed true to bars even when it wasnāt the trend, Griselda showed him that there was a lane for authentic, gritty hip-hop.
The takeaway? Focus on the audience that supports you. “If 10 people like your music, make it for those 10 people. Those 10 will bring 20, and itāll grow from there,” Rome advised. His journey underscores the importance of perseverance, self-belief, and the willingness to cater to your core audience rather than chasing trends.
Freestyle Fire: Proof of a Ferocious MCš„
When it came time for Rome Streetz to freestyle on Swayās platform, he delivered a lyrical masterclass. Conductor Williams also shared insights into his unique production style, explaining how his beats often stem from a deep, almost spiritual, creative process. “Making beats every day is like proof of life for me,” he said, emphasizing the attention to detail that makes his sound so distinct.
Advice for Aspiring Artists: “Shoot Your Shot” š
Romeās journey offers a roadmap for aspiring artists, particularly those starting from challenging circumstances. Reflecting on his time in jail, which he called his “darkest hour,” Rome shared, “I just felt like God told me to do what I do best. Put your all into what you love, and youāll end up doing what you love.” His advice to others? “Donāt be afraid to shoot your shot. DM that producer, send your music. A lot of my success came from just putting myself out there.”
Conductor Williams echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of communication and collaboration in creating timeless music. “If youāre not willing to communicate as an artist, Iām not willing to work,” he said, underscoring the value of building genuine connections.
The Future is Bright š
Rome Streetz and Conductor Williams are on a mission to redefine hip-hop, one bar and one beat at a time. Their new project “Trainspotting” is more than an albumāitās a statement of artistic integrity and a testament to the power of staying true to yourself. Whether itās brushing up on the history of rap, battling on the streets of New York, or crafting beats in a Kansas City basement, these two exemplify the grind and glory that hip-hop represents.
If youāre in the LA area, donāt miss their live show at Echoplex, where theyāll bring “Trainspotting” to life with a raw, unfiltered performance. To everyone else, dive into the album and let the music speak for itself. Whatās your favorite track on “Trainspotting”? Share your thoughts in the comments below! š¤
