XRick SaenzX Reminds Listeners To Have Fun On His New Song “Kickback”
Intro:
XRick SaenzX is today’s featured interview artist who just released one of his latest new singles, “Kickback” last month. Raised in the tough neighborhoods of Los Angeles, he began writing rap at age 13 after getting inspired by artists like Eminem, 50 Cent, and Kendrick Lamar. While attending Cal State University, he started sharing his poetry and rap with fellow students. XRick SaenzX left college in 2019 to pursue music full-time and released his debut single “Alien” in 2020, followed by notable tracks like “Obsession” and “Let Up.” Before reading our brief conversation, make sure you listen to the new XRick SaenzX today below.
Me: What was the creative process like while making this new record? How'd you get inspired?
XRick SaenzX: It was pretty easy. I was already in a groove of writing because I write covers of popular rap songs using their beat but my own lyrics. My engineer, Sickoebeatzz, sent me a plethora of beats & this beat just stood out to me. I wrote the hook in like 40 minutes and the verse in about an hour. I showed the homie OTW (Out The Way) my lyrics, and then he wrote his verse. I’m from LA, so I feel kickbacks are a normal thing over here and something everyone can relate to. We don’t need a special occasion to party. We just do it when we feel we need to kick back and relax sometimes.
That makes a lot of sense based on how LA is usually portrayed! Did you draw inspiration from any specific genres or artists?
Consciously, I did not take any inspiration from anyone that I know of.
And, how would you describe your overall current style of music? Has it evolved over time?
My style started off gritty, grimy, and has evolved to a party type of music with lyricism in it. I definitely see an evolution of myself as an artist, and I’ve definitely seen growth that’s for sure.
What themes or messages do you hope listeners take away from “Kickback” following its release?
Sometimes we need to not take life so seriously. We all need to escape our reality. This is not a song to take too serious. We was just having fun really.
I think that’s a great message that everyone can relate to these days! Now, what was the most challenging part of the recording process for this one?
The most challenging part was creating the artwork. When we got the song, I forgot about that part but we found a way to do it and found a concept for it.
Additionally, where does your stage name originate from? Has it ever changed in the past?
My name is Derrick, and my grandmother’s maiden name is Saenz. People call me Rick from the ending of my first name. My names have definitely changed over times and I’m kind of embarrassed to say what they were. They were cringe.
Any upcoming releases or plans that you're comfortable sharing with the readers?
I’m going to keep performing at venues where I can. I have another song releasing soon too, called “Start Over (Like Hello)”, so be on the lookout for that.
Finally, in your own words, why should a new listener check out this song today?
This song is something most people can relate to. It has a dope beat, good lyricism, OTW does his thang on it. I’ve heard great feedback on it.
