Rapper Only Zizou Discusses Music as Therapy and Reality Competition Experience

A rapper has stated that participating in a competition, which allowed him over a month to concentrate solely on music, represented an “opportunity not afforded to many”. Only Zizou was a contestant on The Rap Game UK, a BBC program where artists engage in a series of challenges designed to test their musical abilities. The contest, led by artists Krept, Konan, and DJ Target, aimed to discover the UK’s top unsigned rapper, with the winner receiving £20,000 and a mentorship scheme. Only Zizou, who hails from Essex and began making music after completing his chemical engineering degree, remarked, “I see music as a therapy, my form of release.” Speaking to BBC Radio Essex, Only Zizou explained his academic background, saying, “In my house everyone has to go university.” He continued, “As soon as I left college, I knew I had to go into further education… after that it was about doing what I felt comfortable with for the rest if my life.” He also shared, “I get giddy if I can say a double entendre, something witty and sharp that hits the ears right – I get that sense of validation.” Regarding his involvement in the BBC show, Only Zizou described it as “gruelling” at times but also a “blessing” for his career as an up-and-coming artist. He commented, “I got off to a slow start in terms of winning the country over, but I think the music will do more of the talking.” Reflecting on the public’s reaction, he noted, “[The response] was hit and miss. The hit was – it is still viewers and new people knowing me. “The miss was – I didn’t put my best foot forward… I didn’t really get my bars out, but it is a lesson, not a loss.” He encouraged individuals to watch the program, even if they were not “a fan of rap,” but rather “for being a fan of the journey.” He added, “We are all up-and-coming artists trying to put ourselves in better situation so if not for the music, then fall in love with the storyline.” The next episode of Rap Game UK is scheduled to air on Tuesday 19 November at 21:00 GMT. For Essex news, follow BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.