Temz is an emcee with a difference – on the scene since 2016, Temz lives and works in Leeds, joining the growing roster of UK talent pushing back against the London-centrism of the music industry. Having a heavy hitting lineup of features, singles and projects under his belt, this year sees the artist release Rise & Grind – a track and visualiser that has made its debut on GRM Daily.

A key figure in sample-led drill making waves across the UK, TEMZ has collected well over 3.3M streams and 132K dedicated monthly listeners since exploding on the scene – rapidly amassing a cult following as backing from his city spread across the UK and into a busy London atmosphere. We caught up with him to talk all things Leeds, the importance of grinding and what he calls ‘stylish drill’.

Yes Temz. Talk to us about the come up – how did you get into music?
I’ve always loved listening and writing music but I never really pursued it until some of the guys from my area started dropping freestyles on a Leeds based YouTube channel called FirstMedia TV after school and were getting a bit of traction in the city. One day I decided to go with them and sprayed a quick 16 of my own and I ain’t looked back since! 

How has Leeds shaped the way you work and operate?
Leeds is mainly a working class city so we have always been brought up with hard work instilled in our values and way of life. This has allowed me to never be too comfortable or complacent regardless of my situation and always have that drive within me to push for more.

Who are some of the rising Leeds talent we should keep on our radar?
FlyStr8Kiz & Mg10jibz are 2 artists who are part of my Noisy Neighbours record label and are going to rip up the drill scene mark my words! There is also a collective called OTG (Boogie, Lavz, Drippah, Jr Milli) who are currently perfecting their music and getting ready to take up the scene by storm.

Congrats on Rise & Grind – what was your favourite part of making this project?
Probably shooting the music video, it was more of a role play based video this time round which is something I haven’t done before but I enjoyed the process of putting it together, I was really pleased with the end result! 

What’s your favourite lyric you’ve ever written?
“Saucy Ni*** flow like river that’s why they call me Temz” 

What advice would you give to up-and-coming emcees, young people trying to make it?
Don’t give up! The music game isn’t easy especially for those of us miles away from the music hub that is London! Keep releasing consistently, perfect your sound and you’ll see the results eventually.