ALBERY POWELL: Brampton rapper stays true to his Sikh heritage
TJ Grewal's latest track seamlessly blends classic Punjabi folk music with modern hip-hop beats
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TJ Grewal has been making waves with his recent music videos, setting himself apart from the Toronto rap scene in more ways than one.
Unlike many of his peers, Grewal proudly wears a turban, representing his Sikh identity and heritage with pride. This distinctive aspect of his persona adds a layer of cultural richness to his music, reflecting his roots in the diverse Brampton community.
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Grewal’s latest music video, Dtv2 Intro (Duniya), served as the opening track to his EP Desi Tapes Vol 2: Kendrick Lehmber, which dropped last weekend.
Produced by Brampton’s own 6ixsr, the track seamlessly blends classic Punjabi folk music with modern hip-hop beats, creating a unique sonic landscape that mirrors Grewal’s dual cultural influences.
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Drawing inspiration from legendary Punjabi folk singer Lehmber Hussainpuri and popular rapper Kendrick Lamar, Grewal’s project embodies a fusion of two worlds. Through his music, he bridges the gap between traditional Punjabi melodies and rap lyricism, inviting listeners on a journey of self-reflection.
In his most recent music video, TJ Grewal sampled Gurdas Maan’s timeless track Duniya Mela Do Din Da.
Grewal challenges his audience to seize control of their destinies and pursue their dreams with lyrics such as: “Know the lion a shikari (hunter), ‘cuz he hunts for his meals, so either you can starve, or you go in for the kill.”
In carving out his own lane within the Toronto rap scene, Grewal follows in the footsteps of trailblazers like the late Sidhu Moose Wala, who have shattered stereotypes and expanded the boundaries of South Asian representation in hip-hop.
With his unapologetic embrace of his cultural heritage and his bold artistic vision, TJ Grewal is poised to make an impact on the music industry.
– Ivan Albery Powell is a music executive and the owner of GMA (Great Music Agency)
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