Fariz Jabba's path to becoming a rapper is paved with influences from across the globe, a deep respect for the craft, and a persistent drive to break barriers.The 28-year-old Malay-English rapper – whose real name is Muhammad Fariz Abdul Rashid – is a student of hip-hop, a lover of language and a passionate advocate for the Singaporean music scene.
He even tried his hand at singing, but at 16, he found his true voice – not through melodies, but through words. He honed his skills under the tutelage of his brother, a veteran of Singapore’s battle rap scene, learning the fundamentals and rules of the craft. His unique approach led to hits like Masa, Kalah and Ape Sia, incorporating traditional Malay sounds and themes into his music.
Fariz believes this understanding is crucial for sustaining a career in the often-volatile music industry. He sees events like the upcoming Mood:Live festival as vital platforms for both artistic expression and industry education.