Get to know: Shy Zer0 - Reading's Conscious Rapper Calling For More Meaningful Music

In the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop, new voices emerge with fresh perspectives and a hunger to challenge the status quo. Among them is Shy Zer0, an artist carving his own path with authenticity, thoughtful lyricism, and a commitment to storytelling that resonates. His music blends rap, hip hop, and alternative hip hop into a distinctive sound shaped by experience, self-reflection, and a deep connection to the world around him.

Shy Zer0’s journey into music wasn’t instantaneous, it was a slow-burning realisation that creating was inevitable. "For as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to make music," he shares. "But when I was younger, I never really had the confidence to start. It wasn’t until I got older that I realised the idea of not making music was more scary."

That turning point came in 2019 while he was at university, traveling three hours back to Reading to collaborate with longtime friend and fellow artist, Finessa. Music became not just a creative outlet, but a necessity.

For Shy Zer0, pursuing music wasn’t about following trends, it was about changing the narrative. He recalls growing tired of hearing the same themes in rap and voicing his frustration until his cousin challenged him: "If it bothers you so much, change it yourself." That challenge became the catalyst for his journey as an artist.

Finding balance, however, has been one of the biggest hurdles. Between a full-time job and the financial strain of being an independent artist, maintaining the right headspace to create music requires careful navigation. "No one really tells you how quickly the costs add up when you’re independent," he says, highlighting the realities of pushing forward without major label backing.

Shy Zer0’s style is fluid, shifting with time and emotion. "I like to make conscious music, sometimes with a vibrant spin," he explains. "It depends on the season, in the summer, I want you to dance. In the winter, I want you to think. And everything else in between."

His attention to detail sets him apart. Each song is meticulously crafted, with careful thought given to lyrics and overall messaging. That commitment extends beyond music, he takes charge of his artwork, music videos, and even his website design. As he continues honing his skills, he’s also learning to mix and master his own songs, ensuring that future releases remain fully independent.

The way Shy Zer0 creates music is both structured and spontaneous. Some ideas strike at random, requiring him to scramble to write them down. Other times, it’s a quieter process: finding a beat that resonates, immersing himself in the sound, and waiting for the right lyrics to surface. His songwriting is deeply connected to everyday life, inspired by conversations, books, and personal observations.

One of the most unforgettable moments in his career so far was his first radio play, a feature on BBC Introducing for his collaboration on Reflections with Finessa. "I was in Barcelona when I found out it was going to be played," he recalls. "I had to buy headphones from a dodgy stall in an alley just so I could listen." That moment solidified the growing recognition of his artistry.

Shy Zer0 has built connections with a variety of artists, including Mic Righteous, with whom he has a forthcoming song Thatchanomics on his upcoming seasonal project Winter Crime Waves. "Making a song with Mic was crazy for me," he says, recalling how he had been a fan since Mic’s early Fire in the Booth performances.

Though he dreams of expanding his collaborations, his biggest aspiration is to build a stronger music scene in Reading. "We have some great artists here," he says. "I really want to help develop our scene; maybe even be a bridge between the artists we have."

Fans have much to look forward to, especially with the impending release of Explicitly Polite, a project designed to offer deeper insight into who Shy Zer0 is. "I don’t want to give away too many details," he teases, "but I’m hoping the tape will give listeners more insight into who I am and what I stand for."

As for the future, he sees himself experimenting more, allowing his sound and image to evolve in sync with his personal journey. "I’d like to give anyone who listens to my music the opportunity to understand me in a way that wouldn’t be possible without music," he shares.

Whether he’s making bold social statements or crafting summer anthems, Shy Zer0’s music is built on honesty. His goal? To make an impact, not just as an artist, but as a force for positive change. "Real changes can be made with small steps," he reflects. "If I influence even just a few people for the better, then who knows, I might change the world in my own way."

For now, he’s focused on pushing boundaries and refining his craft, all while staying true to the essence of his artistry. "As an artist, we all just want to feel seen," he says. "So, the fact that anyone takes the time to appreciate the art is something I’m very grateful for."

Connect with Shy Zer0 on Spotify, YouTube and Instagram

www.shyzer0.com