Empire Kingdom and Beyond: A Journey of Power, Passion, and Progress with Kevin Q
1. Your latest album, Empire Kingdom, marks the end of a trilogy that began with Empire in 2019. What was the vision behind this series, and how has it evolved over time?
"Empire Kingdom concludes a journey that started in 2019 with the first album of the trilogy, Empire. This series has always been about ambition, power, and self-empowerment, told through the lens of punchline-heavy, imaginative rap. Each album built on the previous one, both thematically and stylistically, culminating in a project that feels like the crowning moment of this concept."
2. The trilogy is known for its punchlines, imagery, and over-the-top wordplay. How much of that reflects your personality, and how much is part of the "gimmick" of the series?
"The wordplay, punchlines, and exaggerations are very intentional—they’re part of the series’ identity and its artistic appeal. But they also reflect a side of me that loves to entertain and push lyrical boundaries. It’s a mix of my real personality and the larger-than-life character this trilogy allowed me to create."
3. How do you feel about closing this chapter of your career? Is it bittersweet, or are you excited to move on to new projects?
"It’s a bit of both. There’s a sense of accomplishment in closing this chapter, but I’m also excited to explore new creative directions. The trilogy was a significant part of my career, but I’m ready for the next challenge."
4. The single Alphaprominenz features none other than Snoop Dogg. Can you tell us about how this collaboration came together?
"It actually came through a unique opportunity to acquire non-exclusive rights to previously recorded vocals by Snoop. My team and I decided to go for it, not for clicks or commercial reasons, but purely out of love for hip-hop. Working with the voice of someone I grew up admiring was an incredible experience."
5. You’ve mentioned that this wasn’t about clicks or commercial gains but came from your love of hip-hop. How important is it for you to stay true to your artistic values?
"Staying true to my values is everything to me. At this point in my career, I’m not chasing numbers or trends. I make music that I’m passionate about and that represents my vision. That’s what keeps me motivated."
6. What was it like creatively to work with the vocals of someone you’ve admired since your youth?
"It was surreal. Snoop Dogg is a legend, and hearing his voice on my track felt like a full-circle moment. Even though we didn’t work directly together, it was still an honor to craft something around his iconic sound."
7. All Elite Music has taken Deutschrap legend Azad on board. What role does he play at the label, and how do you see this partnership evolving?
"Azad is a pioneer in German rap, and having him as part of All Elite Music is an honor. Right now, we’re focused on his management and bookings, which is already a huge step for us as a label. It’s a partnership that underscores our commitment to working with the best in the industry."
8. With All Elite Music acting as a management and booking agency, do you envision expanding into other areas of the industry?
"Absolutely. Our goal is to become a one-stop solution for artists, from management to distribution and beyond. We also have our eyes on the international market, and we’re constantly looking for ways to innovate and support our talent."
9. What’s your vision for All Elite Music over the next five years, and how do you plan to compete with the major labels?
"In five years, I see All Elite Music as a globally respected brand and a true alternative to major labels. We want to attract both established names and fresh talent, offering them the freedom and support to create their best work. It’s about building something sustainable and artist-driven."
10. You’ve announced a special Christmas event for those who might otherwise be alone during the holidays. Can you share more about what inspired this initiative?
"This event comes from a place of gratitude. Life has been good to me, and I feel a responsibility to give back to those who’ve had it harder. The idea is to create a warm, welcoming space for people who might otherwise spend the holidays alone—a moment of community and togetherness."
11. You’ve expressed a desire to give back to those less fortunate. Are there other social projects you’re working on or planning in the future?
"This Christmas event is just the beginning. I’m already thinking about future initiatives to support underprivileged communities. Whether it’s through music, education, or direct aid, I want to use my platform to make a real difference."
12. How has gratitude shaped your career and your decisions as an artist and entrepreneur?
"Gratitude has become a guiding principle for me. It keeps me grounded and reminds me why I do what I do. It’s not just about personal success anymore—it’s about creating something meaningful and giving back whenever I can."
13. You’ve hinted at a surprising album coming in 2025. Without giving too much away, can you share what fans might expect from this new direction?
"It’s going to be very different from anything I’ve done before. I want to challenge myself and my listeners with this project. Expect the unexpected—it’s all I’ll say for now."
14. Beyond music, you’re working on a book and exploring opportunities in the fashion industry. What excites you most about branching out into these new areas?
"I’m an artist at heart, and I see these ventures as extensions of my creativity. Writing a book lets me tell my story in a new way, and fashion is another way to express who I am. Both are exciting challenges that I’m ready to take on."
15. You’ve achieved so much already. At this point in your career, what drives you to keep creating and pushing boundaries?
"It’s about proving to myself that I can keep raising the bar. Every project is a personal challenge to be better, to go deeper, and to push my art further. It’s less about external validation and more about staying true to my passion."
