In a world where industry trends dilute authenticity, LeoStayTrill stands out as a beacon of unfiltered energy. The South London-born rapper, known for his magnetic presence and razor-sharp one-liners, LeoStayTrill has the Midas touch. Alas, Leo’s not just here to ride the wave — he’s here to set the tide.
Breaking down the spark to his lure with GRM Daily, LeoStayTrill exudes the calm confidence of someone who’s been through it all and made it out sharper. In this calm conversation, the ‘Ya Get Dat’ singer leans back and reflects on the journey that’s brought him here.
The road has brought him to be nominated in two categories at the MOBO Awards – Best Newcomer and Song Of The Year – he also performed at the ceremony alongside DJ AG and Pozer. And of course, the viral earworm that is Pink Lemonade (Sr8 Reload) alongside friend and collaborator Mr Reload It.
Leo opens up about his creative process, the pressures of staying true in an industry that thrives on reinvention, and why South London will always be at the heart of his music. Welcome to the world of LeoStayTrill — uncut, unwavering, and undeniably real.
When asked about TikTok’s impact on UK rap, LeoStayTrill highlighted both the benefits and challenges. “I feel like the platform has kind of made it easier for UK rap artists to grow,” he explained, “because it allows them to reach people globally in an easier way than having to sell records by hand like previous generations had to. But I feel like it’s harder because everyone has access to it, which makes it such a saturated market.”
Despite TikTok’s influence, Leo insists his music’s viral moments happen naturally. “I don’t intentionally make music with viral potential. It kind of just happens naturally,” he shared. “I just be rapping and being free. You know, I’m young, like, I don’t have to think about anything too hard right now.”
On the topic of independence versus major label deals, an interesting perspective for an artist who is a beacon of inspiration leveraging social media, Leo offers a grounded perspective: “Live by your means,” he advised. “I could tell you to stay independent, but a lot of people might not have the money for that, so live within your means. “
LeoStayTrill’s biggest influences growing up were Roddy Ricch, Young Thug, and Lil Durk. While he acknowledges a difference between the artists he grew up listening to and those blowing up today, he credits Young Thug for pioneering sounds that resonate with the current generation. “I feel like people like Young Thug were pioneers for a lot of people that make music today,” he reflected.
While still so young in his career, he acknowledges the importance of mutual respect between mature UK artists. Established names have also shown LeoStayTrill plenty of love, from JME to Santan Dave and Central Cee. “A lot of people have reached out,” he noted. “I could sit here and name a lot of them, but those are just a few.”
For LeoStayTrill, earning respect from the older generation holds deep significance. “It makes me feel like I’ve done something right,” he said, “because those are the people that paved the way for us youngers.”
As for what’s next, LeoStayTrill is focused on creating a project that solidifies his status as a future superstar. “What’s next for me involves a project, a body of work, that just shows that I’m here to stay,” he declared. “I want to be global and the best to do it.”
Welcome to the world of LeoStayTrill — uncut, unwavering, and undeniably real.