XL the Beast

XL The Beast stands out in a world where music and real life collide. Standing at 6’2, barrel chested, and covered with tattoos, he looks more like someone you would call if you had a problem as opposed to an artist. The Massachussets hardcore rapper and singer/songwriter has made a career out of formulating serious songs with haunting melodies ranging in concepts from secrets and lies to addiction to life changing experiences. These unapologetic themes matched with a powerful dramatic voice has earned him undoubted credibility among his listeners and fellow artists. XL co-founded the Boston-based rap group, “The Kreators”, featuring G-Squared, Jaysaun, and Big Juan(RIP). They would go on to release three albums together that featured guest appearances from Guru (Gang Starr), Pete Rock, DJ Revolution, Edo.G, Big Shug, Krumbsnatcha, Akrobatik and more. After The Kreators came to a halt, XL began crafting solo projects. His latest album, “Heavy Hands” ranges from striking street grit to low emotional bottoms. To align with his vision he recruited notable features from Sean Price & Rockness Monsta (Heltah Skeltah), Reks, Slaine, Skyzoo, Esoteric, Shabaam Sahdeeq, The Arcitype, and more. “For me, the stories tend to come like the lyrics. Whatever energy exists within the music seems to link to a place in my brain that automatically begins a process. Very often when writing, I see the entirety of the song, including artwork, video concept, and everything all at once.” says XL.