You might recognize 16-year-old Baltimore rapper Deetranada from season 3 of Lifetime’s hit series, “The Rap Game,” but now the upcoming rap star is working on her new project, Dee vs Everybody. Her confidence and fierce lyrics is what grasped the attention of not only Jermaine Dupri and his special guests, but the millions of viewers whose eyes were locked on the TV screen every Friday night. Currently signed to M.D.M Entertainment, the rising star’s fan base continues to rise as she brands herself all while doing what she loves to do.
When did you know that music was something you wanted to pursue?
I was often bullied in middle school. Back then, the only way I knew how to deal with my oppressors was through fighting and violence. After dealing with the consequences that came with it, I learned to channel my emotions in a different way, which was through rhythm and poetry. Upon writing poems, I realized that accompanied with beats, my words brought on a life of its own and was convinced that music is what I wanted to do, so here I am rapping.
What artists did you grow up listening to/inspired you to rap?
I grew up listening to all kinds of music and admire different artists. I could continue on for days, but just to name a few, I would have to say Lauryn Hill, Chris Brown, Rahkim, and Joey Badass. I don’t really have a particular artist that INSPIRES me, but the artists I mentioned are dope! And, I know they definitely inspire others.
How did the opportunity for The Rap Game come about?
I used to make remixes and coined the term “Deemixes” on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. After a while of tagging, sharing and hash tagging, I garnered the attention of the producers of “The Rap Game” including Jermaine Dupri. They reached out to me to come and be part of the show in Atlanta. The rest is history.
What would you say the biggest challenge competing on The Rap Game was?
The biggest challenge was living in “The Rap Game” house and dealing with the different personalities. It was a minor trial and tribulation, considering that it taught me how to deal with different people who I would eventually come to meet in the industry I want to be in.
What has being on TV taught you?
The thing that I’ve learned from being on TV is the way people start looking at you differently. It seems the people that you used to kick it with will start to respect you more, the people that hated on you hate more, and the people that loved you love you more. I have also learned that with clout comes great responsibility and that you have to learn how to master the game and the industry.
What advice would you give an artist who wants to compete on The Rap Game?
Going on “The Rap Game” was such a learning experience for me, even though, I didn’t achieve the contract. But, what I’d like kids to know is to not get discouraged. Win or lose, you receive the same platform and exposure as everybody on the show, so after you complete your journey in the competition, learn how to utilize and take advantage of the popularity and career boost.
What are you working on now?
Dee vs Everybody is a new music project that I am working on in between shows and performances. Aside from that, I have guest appearances on my schedule as well.
I am also working on collabs with a few up and coming Baltimore Artists. And, I am still promoting my last mixtape project.
– If you could work with any artist and producer who would they be and why?
Kendrick Lamar, because the way he composes music is considered “new school” in this day in age. He sets a foundation for the new generation of hip-hop artists. He’s so creative musically. I would love to make art with him!
Where do you see yourself five years from now?
I see myself as a millionaire with Grammys! It may sound far-fetched but I envision myself achieving this goal. I also plan on helping kids like me who didn’t get the same opportunities I did and lead them to greatness.
What are some of your hobbies?
My hobbies include writing music of course, but when I want to take some time from music, I play video games like a regular kid. I don’t go outside often (I never did) so I’ve been accustomed to doing more inside activities.
Follow Deetranada on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Interviewed by: Simone Grant
