Managing school, multiple jobs and a music career, recent University alumnus Kareem Awad proves that he has what it takes to be the next superstar.
Awad began rapping his senior year of high school and has since performed for several local events, including the University’s Back to School Concert in 2014.
Awad, who was born and raised in Baton Rouge, said that his Egyptian background gives him an edge over the competition.
“When you see someone you wouldn’t expect to be a rapper rapping, they immediately catch your attention,” he said. “I can’t look the way I look and make bad music.”
However, Awad said that his heritage is only a small part of why he is successful.
Awad said he started his musical career because he wanted something he could be proud of.
“It made me feel a sense of accomplishment,” he said.
Awad managed to focus on his music, school and multiple jobs simultaneously and attributes his success in all three facets to his intense focus.
“Life is boring when I don’t have stuff to do,” Awad said. “You have to be hungry to work and accomplish your goal.”
Even though Awad works hard to promote his music, 2k Thomas, cinematographer and director of Awad’s new music video, said he has remained humble.
2K Thomas said what he admires most about Awad is his work ethic and his passion.
“[Awad] is one of those guys that takes it a step further and tries to see how people will react to and enjoy his music,” he said.
Some of Awad’s biggest musical inspirations include hip-hop artist Drake, Kanye West and Lil Wayne.
Business administration junior Markcus Brumfield, who sings on some of Awad’s songs, said Awad is persistent and honest with his music.
“He knows how to take the tribulations in his life and turn [them] into a great song,” he said.
Awad said he believes rap is progressive and builds off of history, which is why he often samples songs from different artists.
2K Thomas said Awad’s passion can be heard in his music.
“Every time I talk to him, he’s coming up with something new,” Thomas said.
Awad has one mixtape called “Mind Games” on Datpiff and hundreds of music streams on SoundCloud.
Awad said he believes he has a good fan base for a local artist. His music video for the song “Stop, Drop, and Roll” has over 10,000 views on Youtube.
Awad said his goal is to use his voice to the best of his ability and make a change in his community.
“I want people to take away something from my music and let it impact their lives,” he said. “I want my fans to know that I survived and they can too.”

Gallery • 3 Photos

Mykeil Chambers

Local rapper Kareem Awad shares his passion for music on Thursday, Oct. 13, 2016 at LSU Student Union.