Back in Sierra Leone, there is little need for babysitters because toddlers accompany their parents to parties. Having always been around music, Gandhi Ali has an appreciation for authenticity in art. At age six, he began writing poetry to express himself. Rapping came later. He had older friends who rapped, and after hearing them, he’d go home to work on his own lyrical content and skills. Back then, you had to earn your right to rap. Gandhi’s music is real. He’s not trying to create an image or be perceived any certain way. There are no gimmicks – just him and how he feels. Inspired by greats like Biggie, Jay-Z, and Nas, he also connects with DMX’s aggressive style. The way he says things can make you relate to experiences you’ve never had. While not a fan of the “mumble rap” that has grown popular, he does like artists like Young Thug and Desiigner for the variety they bring rhythmically. Last Spring, Gandhi released his first mixtape, Dirty Work – a huge accomplishment after several years without a solo project. His follow-up, Radio Remix II, is due in late March. A compilation of songs on the radio with a Gandhi Ali-twist, the project will precede Just Wanna Be Heard, which drops around Memorial Day. While Dirty Work served as a raw introduction of Gandhi, Just Wanna Be Heard will be all positivity and good vibes. Gandhi’s favorite song right now is “100 (Remix)” because it speaks to him being accountable for his decisions and responsibilities as a man; and becoming the man his father raised him to be. He wants an audience and genuine feedback, but he’s not worried about his image – everyone loves Gandhi. Rather, he wants him and his producer, Fat Cat, to become ambassadors for the DMV, developing a culture of support for hometown music. It all starts with a following and vibes, though. So, Gandhi is committed to having more shows like the ones he put on at Howard’s Homecoming and D.C. hotspots such as Busboys & Poets and Pure Lounge. To him, if people aren’t entertained, you aren’t a rapper. Performances don’t solely consist of artists performing songs the way they were recorded. People have to feel your vibes, authentically. Gandhi believes in embracing all you are and the chaos that comes with it.