Here’s a Worldtown one to watch: Of Rwandan origin and now living in Vancouver, B.C., Shad’s a hip-hop artist whose style inadvertently draws comparisons to rap from the early 90’s - you know, when it wasn’t a byproduct of autotune and bloghouse effects.  The comparisons to throwback sounds are inevitable when even the title track’s video is a full blown shout-out to that other “Prince” on the block. With a second album and a Juno nomination under his wing, Shad’s in line as repping the under-the spotlight Canadian Hip-Hop scene thanks to artists like K’Naan and Drake.  We ask Shad questions about his influences and future plans and see where the Old Prince stands as sought out hip hop royalty.

Watch Shad’s video for The Old Prince.

Worldtown: How would you describe your music?

Shad: I would describe it simply as hip hop music. I try to make music that’s genuine and creative.

WT: What sets you apart from other artists in the hip hop genre?

Shad: I think just the fact that I, like everyone else, is a unique individual - that sets me apart and ideally I think it should set everyone apart. We all have different ideas and experiences etc. and I think that the sum of all those things - the things that make me who I am - is what makes the music I make unique as well.

WT: Who are your musical influences?

Shad: In Junior High and High School I listened to De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, Common, Outkast, Weezer, Hayden, Rass Kass, Biggie, Jeru… a whole bunch of stuff.

WT: How would you define the word “home” for yourself?

Shad: I think home is where the people you love and who love you are.

WT: Can you tell us a little about your heritage and background– how does it influence your music, if at all?

Shad: Sure. My family is originally from Rwanda, and my parents recently retired and moved back there with my younger brother, Daniel. I was born in Kenya and grew up in London, Ontario. I think my heritage has sort of indirectly but still profoundly affected my music. The values passed down from my parents has helped shape who I am and that in turns affects the way I approach music.

WT: Any upcoming projects you can tell us about? What does the future hold for Shad?

Shad: I’m working on a new album right now. Hopefully it will be out in May.

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SHAD’s album The Old Prince was produced by Black Box Recordings and released in 2008.