I can’t wait to hit the road

Rapper Tiggs tells how he misses performing live gigs and aims to return to Scotland soon

TIGGS Da Author, the Tanzanian-born now London-based rapper releases his debut album Blame It On The Youts next Friday. Real name Adam Muhabwa, the musician has a unique sound of his own channelling Afrobeat, Afrojazz, Grime, Motown and hip hop.

Five years ago you played Belladrum Festival in the Scottish Highlands. How did you find that?

It was fantastic! My first Scottish festival and I hope to come back soon.

Why did you choose to release your debut album now? Were you wanting to get it right or just taking your time?

A bit of both but mainly waiting till the project was perfect. Some of the songs I have had for years but the tracks have changed a few times and I’ve taken some off and added others. Just as I’ve grown as an artist and person.

Have you managed to go out in Scotland?

There was a time when I was supporting Jess Glynne on her tour. We had a big night out after in Edinburgh. I had a lot of friends performing that night also and we went to a club after the show. That was the best night on the tour.

Do you like any Scots hip hop?

I love Young Fathers’ vibe. I always work with Show N Prove – he’s Scottish. He’s produced the majority of my biggest songs.

Where are you based in lockdown?

Based at home in London. But I’ve been in Tanzania for about six months. There’s good and bad parts to it. I have recorded less music but actually written more so pluses and minuses.

Was your debut recorded before or after

lockdown last year?

They were all written before lockdown. They all differ but generally they are about myself growing up. Coming from Tanzania at a young age, each song is like a chapter in my story. I wrote the songs all over the place but finished them all at Rak studios. If we were in the pandemic I don’t know if that would have been possible as we had so many musicians and singers involved.

Do you think society blames a lot of young people?

Yes, of course, as it is very easy to blame young people. Young people represent progression and change and some people don’t understand it or like change.

I believe you were a footballer but went into music? What happened?

I basically didn’t make it to turn pro. And also I kind of lost interest in football as I gained interest in music.

At first you formed a nine-piece jazz band before hooking up with Sway who released your first EP Evilution in 2013 and helped get you signed to a major. Is he a mentor?

Yes Sway was like a mentor to me and helped me a lot early on. Of course, when the opportunity arises then most definitely I would love to do the same.

Have you been missing doing live gigs?

Massively. I love playing live and I feel like my music is best enjoyed in the live environment. I can’t wait to get back on the road.

What are you plans for the rest of this year and next year?