Blanco is the underground rapper making strides with top producers. In a tumultuous period for UK rap, this Kennington artist has remained steadfast, sustaining his independence with a series of impressive releases that combine the drill sound of his youth with a passion for Brazilian music and more.
Wrapping up the year with a feature on Fred again..'s epic single 'solo', Blanco's name has once again come to the forefront. But, to be honest, that's precisely where it should be.
"I’m exhausted!" he chuckles when CLASH connects with him. It's been a hectic year, filled with notable concerts. "The shows have been amazing, though – it’s been quite an experience!"
At present, Blanco is eager to get back in the studio, a space that he considers a creative haven where he can express himself freely. "I’m the kind of artist who enjoys the music while it's being recorded," he claims. "That’s my favorite part of the process. It’s different – it's exhilarating; I love having my fans there… hearing my songs, enjoying themselves. But to be honest, I don’t enjoy it as much as I do when I'm in the studio."
When Blanco performs live, there’s a genuine connection to be felt. As a co-founder of the influential South London drill group Harlem Spartans, he draws in a crowd that has supported him from his early SoundCloud days to his recent EP release 'Paradise On A Lifeboat'.
"Many of them come to the shows, holding their phones out, asking, why don’t you do this or that song? I’m just thinking – this is incredible! There was even a guy I met a few weeks back who had downloaded tracks that aren’t even on YouTube or available on SoundCloud… he had songs that I don’t even have!"
Currently, Blanco is focused on staying in control. He adheres to his own timeline, reflecting the confidence he has in his work. "I’m in a great place," he mentions. "I’m returning to my true self."
Time spent on the road and in collaboration has "given me insight into the type of music I want to create. You can’t help but listen to your fans, because at the end of the day, without the fans… you don’t exist. So if the fans want a particular type of song, I might deliver it."
However, Blanco’s recent work has seen him establish clear boundaries, crafting music that resonates with him authentically. "I’ve wanted to showcase the type of music I aspire to create, the kind I listen to during my downtime, or what I enjoy producing."
Consequently, there has been an uptick in Brazilian influences in his production. It helps that Blanco understands some Portuguese from his family, and standout tracks like 'City Of God' have served as a bridge connecting South London to South America.
"There’s a wealth of talent in Brazil," he points out. "So much talent. I’ve just been enjoying the atmosphere, man."
"I feel like the beats I'm drawn to have just a hint of gringo in them. It’s that Brazilian touch that Londoners adore."
Blanco has traveled to Brazil several times recently, forming genuine connections with local artists. "Everyone is extremely welcoming," he remarks. "The parties last until dawn. The favelas are lively at night too. Everyone plays football! And they’re all much better than I am," he chuckles.
Addressing the notion that "the violence is definitely overstated," he adds, "the artists and producers are really in tune with UK culture. I was surprised – they’d be mentioning UK artists, and I’d think, wow, that’s wild!"
Last year's standout album 'Gilberto’s Son' showcased a Brazilian flair while featuring prominent UK vocalists. Grace Carter appears on 'Trustfall', and collaborating with her was a long-standing goal for Blanco. "I had previously done a song with her, but it never got released. I knew I needed you on this project because you’re incredible!"
Featuring rappers like MizOrMac and Nemzzz, the release highlighted the immense respect Blanco commands in the UK rap scene. "When I collaborate, I prefer to meet face-to-face; it’s crucial for the chemistry. Many people send tracks via email, but you’re not really bouncing off each other that way. It sounds more natural when you can interact directly."
There’s a prevalent online sentiment that Blanco is among the UK’s most underrated rappers – his streaming numbers (four million monthly streams on Spotify) may not match the media attention that other, perhaps lesser, peers receive. Yet the South Londoner takes it in stride, noting, "that’s what keeps it enjoyable… I can still maintain my freedom. Honestly, I don’t think I’d continue in this line of work if I wasn’t free."
At this moment, Blanco's mind is buzzing with ideas. He’s already working
Blanco is the underground rapper gaining traction alongside top producers. During a tumultuous time for UK rap, this talent from Kennington has maintained his composure.