Rilla Gauge: From the Projects to the Spotlight, the Story of a Rising Rap Star

When you are from the “projects”, the odds are against you from the start. Society feels like you don’t have anything to offer, and you are constantly reminded how you will never make it to the top because “That’s not where you belong”. But Rilla Gauge hasn’t let this talk stop him from getting where he wants. Rilla has cemented his spot in the US hip-hop scene and now uses his music to encourage and inspire others, showing them that if he did it, they too can.

His approach, unique music style, and sound set him apart in the fiercely-competitive scene. Rilla believes music is one of the most powerful communication tools, and when people feel down or want to have a good time, most turn to music. He uses it to share his story and talk about what is happening in society.  

Rilla grew up in different US states, including the South, and lived in the projects in every state. Growing up in the projects forced him to mature faster as he had to step in and help make ends meet. At 16, Rilla was alone and already fending for himself, which he says motivated him to work harder and look for a way out. 

Rilla explains that being on his own opened him to the harsh reality. It taught him how to survive in and out of the streets and build his brand. At the time, Rilla was already writing music. However, he hadn’t released any. 

Rilla Gauge carved out his own sound and style that helps him perfectly deliver the message. He spreads love, positivity, and hope through his songs, encouraging others in tough situations. 

“Getting to the top will always be hard. But that doesn’t mean it is not doable. You just have to invest in your goal and learn not to listen to what critics say,” Rilla says. He adds the importance of believing in yourself and networking with others in the industry.

Rilla left a rap group to pursue a solo career, which was challenging. He built his name around the group, and when he began his solo journey, he had to start over. While it was difficult, Rilla didn’t stop trying. He started networking with others in the industry who helped him grow his brand and perform alongside icons. 

In 2018, Rilla went on a nationwide tour with top rapper, Fetty Wap, and RGF productions, performing his song “Star-Ledger“, and later being featured on the Star-Ledger newspaper front page, which was a huge accomplishment considering he had just gotten started in the industry. Rilla has written several top tracks, including “Pole”, “Imagine”, “By 3”, “Hood Wishers”, “Divers”, and “Jersey Goats FT Papi Storz and Photo. Rilla says he has others projects coming up and is also looking to have his own label and distribution deal in the coming years. Rilla also has a new project dropping called Skydiver EP dropping next month early February! His new Single “By 3” is on Apple Music 

https://music.apple.com/us/album/by-3/1659162216?i=1659162217

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Hey! I am a California native with a passion for music. I cover up and coming artists from around the world. If you are looking to add a new artist to your music library, follow along! I hope there will be something for everyone.