in:
London Last Night
|
September 12, 2011 - 4:50 pm
| by:
Zoe Griffin
Chipmunk has been busy! Other than being the face of the white-hot British rap scene, recipient of countless awards including Radio 1′s Teen Award, and collaborator with Snoop Dog and Chris Brown, the 20-year old hip hop rapper has found time for a little charity work and studying (see above). In an interview with Livelikeavip.com, he revealed all.
As he tells us, the campaign is in partnership with O2′s Think Big programme, designed to help millions of youngsters work hard inside and outside school. It provides study groups and resources for young people to drop in and complete homework assignments in fun and safe work environments. “It’s going good”, said Chipmunk. “Encouraging kids is always good, you know?”
That’s his contribution to academia; what of his contribution to music? With his second and most recent album, Transition, Chipmunk marked a change in style. “Transition is a lot more mature sounding. I’m not getting any younger. It’s darker. I think it’s the better of the two.”
With Transition, and the launch of the inspiring single Born a Champion, came a surprising twist. Wrestling corporation WWE used the song for their reality TV series Tough Enough – and Chipmunk didn’t know anything about it! “I turned on the TV one day and they were playing my song. I don’t know if I’m getting paid for it. I probably am.” So, the important question: does Chipmunk watch wrestling? “I used to, until Kane took off his mask. Then it just got stupid.”
From one form of acting to another, does the rapper hope to branch out into acting like his contemporaries? “My acting skills are top-notch”, Chipmunk boasted. “I’ll start out in the British scene like Plan B. He’s a great all-rounder. Then maybe branch out into Hollywood.” He continued, “But I need some massive hits before that. Need some bangers.”
And what did he have to say about the British rap scene at the moment – who’s the best? “It’s so new”, he started, “that no-one’s got enough albums out to say who’s best.” That might change with Chipmunk’s third album. Keeping it secret, he assured us, “It’s going to be more mature than ever.”
So if his mysterious third album won him accolades, how would he celebrate? “I might finish off my tattoos. Get my stomach done.” Not before you’ve done your homework, Chipmunk.
Chipmunk is working with Marie Perryman, one of four inspirational young people passionate about tackling important issues in our society who are being backed by O2 with support and funding to deliver their campaign and make their voice heard on national level. To find out more about Marie’s campaign visit www.O2thinkbig.co.uk
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