A Tampa-centric, self-proclaimed Afro-fusion artist, Pusha Preme blends rap with electro-soul, layering storytelling, smooth basslines and subtle West African influences. The masked artist has spent years building traction through sharp lyricism and a strong sense of identity, with recent work favoring a head-nod, rap-along sound that feels raw, yet polished.
His approach to the rap scene has earned real traction: in 2021, Money In the Grave, a compilation featuring Preme’s track “Heaven At Night,” peaked at No. 18 on Billboard’s compilation albums chart and hit No. 1 on the iTunes Top 40 US Hip-Hop Albums chart. His immersive live performances also won “Best In-Public Therapy Session” in Creative Loafing’s Best of the Bay 2023.
Beyond the stage, Preme has upcoming community-centered collaborations, including a Black History Month fusion with 1920 Ybor and WuzHere Coffee tied to his nonprofit, Nawlaj Is Power, and a partnership with the University of South Florida, bringing students their first Afro symphony, signaling a seasoned artist still building momentum.
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This article appears in Jan. 29 – Feb. 04.