Brooklyn-born rap artist Leikeli47 is known for lack of presence on social media and until recently has chosen not to conduct interviews with the press. Recently she performed at Milk’s Milk Makeup launch party, and prior to the event sat for an interview and photo shoot. On why she kept the press at arm’s length, Leikeli 47 explains, “I think I started doing [interviews] when I felt like I had something to say. When I first came out [onto the music scene], I just wanted to live. I just wanted to actually be a new artist. I hadn’t had the experience yet.”
In the interview Leikeli47 mentions her interest in fashion and lists Alexander Wang, Mark McNairy and Riccardo Tisci as designers high on her list. She also shouts out streetwear brands including Supreme, 10Deep and Lazy Oaf.
Speaking to the launch of Milk Makeup and its place in the industry, Leikeli47 says, “I think [the beauty industry] should take a page from what Milk is doing [with Milk Makeup]. You know, just show the beauty in women, men, trans, gays, straight, bi, period. Just let us in, you know? Focus on that art; when you see it, don’t be scared of it and let us in.”
On her music, Leikeli47 lists Bobby McFerrin as a big influence, and when asked to provide advice for aspiring artists says, “Don’t worry about what’s going on around you. Keep your head down. It keeps you focused on what you have going on. I’m not caught up in what sounds right or what’s going on today—what’s trending, what’s hot.” Read more from the interview here.
