Behind the Beats: A Conversation with Lil MC

[Urban$ound va]

In the vibrant world of hip hop, few artists manage to weave personal trauma into their art with the authenticity and grace that Lil MC does. Growing up as a first-generation Latina in the San Francisco Bay Area, her journey into music has been as much about healing as it has been about creativity. With a rich background in various musical disciplines and a passion for storytelling, Lil MC channels her life experiences—both painful and uplifting—into her music, making her a voice for those who feel unheard.

Urban$ound recently had the opportunity to sit down with Lil MC to explore her creative process, the challenges she’s faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry, and her commitment to empowering others through hip hop. From her early days writing songs at five years old to her transformative experiences in the local rap battle scene, Lil MC’s journey is a testament to the healing power of music and the importance of community.

Urban$ound: What initially inspired you to start making music and performing?

Lil MC: I’ve been creating music for as long as I can remember. It all started when I was five, writing plays and songs, and by six, I was teaching myself piano. My journey into hip hop truly began in high school, but it wasn’t until I faced some traumatic experiences at 14 that I really turned to music as an outlet. Hip hop allowed me to process my feelings and trauma. Through therapy, I learned that while our minds try to shield us from pain, our bodies carry that trauma. Music became my way of exploring not just my own mind, but the human experience as a whole. It’s fascinating how we can connect with each other and something greater through our shared stories.

Urban$ound: How did your experience in the local rap battle scene shape your career?

Lil MC: I owe a lot to the rap battle scene, particularly Ruckus Revival, an Oakland variety show. After a tough breakup at 22, I felt like I had nothing to lose. I decided to enter a rap battle at a venue I’d never been to before, where I witnessed some wild performances. When I got on stage, I faced doubters, but I channeled years of pain and anger into my verses. I didn’t win that first battle, but I advanced and earned the crowd’s respect. From that moment, I was invited to more competitions, and I eventually became a rap battle champion. It was a pivotal moment that reignited my passion and showed me that I could make a name for myself in this space.

Urban$ound: What was the biggest challenge you faced as one of the few women in rap battles?

Lil MC: Being a woman in a predominantly male space comes with immense pressure. I often felt I had to represent all women and that a loss would reflect poorly on us. There were moments where I didn’t feel safe, especially since I typically went into these spaces with other women, making us more vulnerable. Thankfully, events like Ruckus Revival were supportive and safe, but I’ve encountered harassment throughout my career. It’s a constant reminder that while I’m here to pursue my passion, the environment can be challenging.

Urban$ound: Can you talk about your transition from rapping to music production and singing?

Lil MC: Interestingly, I’d argue I started singing before I began rapping. I invested in vocal training about four years ago, but my focus is more on catchy melodies than being a traditional songstress. I started learning music production in 2018 to create the beats I wanted and to offer more to my students as a Hip Hop educator. My influences range from rock to punk, which I wanted to integrate into my hip hop. During the pandemic, I dove deeper into beat-making, leading to opportunities like contributing to Meta’s Code Remix program, where I taught students to code through music. It’s been a transformative journey that expanded my artistry and educational impact.

Urban$ound: How has your background as an educator influenced your music?

Lil MC: Working with my students has enhanced my music in many ways. Just like learning from hip hop legends has shaped my sound, my students inspire me to approach music differently. I believe in a humanistic teaching philosophy, where understanding my students’ perspectives is key. Hip hop was created by youth, and it continues to evolve through their experiences. This relationship fosters a symbiotic learning environment where we both grow creatively.

Urban$ound: What motivated you to start teaching beat-making and collaborate with Hip Hop for Change?

Lil MC: I’ve been with Hip Hop for Change since 2017. At my lowest point, I saw a video of my friend Unlearn the World leading hip hop assemblies, and I knew that’s what I wanted to do. I reached out, got involved, and dedicated myself to creating engaging curricula. Learning beat-making was essential not just for my growth but to offer my students more than just rapping. Hip hop is versatile; it’s about finding your lane, and I wanted to help them discover theirs.

Urban$ound: How did contributing to Facebook's Code Remix program impact your approach to music and education?

Lil MC: Working on Code Remix was unique and rewarding. We were trained to use block coding to create musical beats, which forced us to think creatively within constraints. Teaching kids across various cities showed me how hip hop can connect us in unexpected ways. It’s amazing how music and coding can intersect, providing a new outlet for creativity. This experience has influenced how I view both education and music production, pushing me to innovate in my teaching methods.

Urban$ound: What role does empowering women play in your career and music?

Lil MC: Empowering women is central to my mission. As a co-founder of the Women’s Empowerment Department at Hip Hop for Change, I focus on teaching the historical context of hip hop through a lens of gender and race. The curriculum prioritizes youth who identify as girls, highlighting women’s contributions to the genre. I also co-founded Queens of the Underground, a showcase for female artists that promotes diversity and counters the hyper-sexualized narratives often found in mainstream hip hop. By equipping women with the tools to succeed, I aim to create a more inclusive space in the industry.

Urban$ound: Can you share a memorable experience from organizing the Queens of the Underground showcase?

Lil MC: One of the most rewarding experiences has been producing events that bring together talented female artists. Seeing these women showcase their skills and celebrate their diversity is priceless. Our events have always fostered a positive atmosphere, challenging the negative stereotypes often associated with hip hop. The feedback from attendees is heartwarming—they leave feeling inspired and uplifted. It’s incredible to create a space where women can shine and be recognized for their multifaceted talents.

Urban$ound: How do you address misogyny in your lyrics, and what message do you hope to convey?

Lil MC: My music often tackles themes of misogyny head-on. In songs like “OMG,” I address sexism with lines that confront harmful attitudes directly. I believe it’s crucial to speak on these issues rather than shy away from them. My track “You Belong To Me” delves into heavy topics like abuse and mental health, but I aim to make it relatable through engaging production. Authenticity in my art is paramount—if we can’t express ourselves freely, where else can we feel safe doing so? I hope my music resonates with others who have faced similar struggles, fostering a sense of solidarity and empowerment.

Lil MC’s commitment to her craft and community is evident in everything she does, from her music to her work as an educator. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many, showing that through creativity and resilience, we can overcome even the toughest challenges. Stay tuned for more from this remarkable artist as she continues to break barriers and redefine the hip hop landscape.

Connect with LIL MC:

• Official Website
• Instagram
• Spotify
• YouTube