This raptress may have a sweet name but there is nothing sweet about her rap game. She has been receiving a lot of recognition in the east coast underground Hip-Hop scene due to her single “Rose Colored.” pineappleCITI may be known for her unique style and one of a kind melodies, but this artist has a lot more to show and prove to the world. We caught up with pineappleCITI to find out what she has in store for us in the near future.

UHH: Tell us a little bit about yourself?

Pineapple Citi: Well, I’m an artist first, a Jersey native, a positive influencer, a motivational speaker, above all a vessel for God’s work. I’m a Music Artist you should really keep an eye in 2018.

How did the name pineappleCITI manifest?

Citi actually came from my pops. I’ve been rapping since I was 6 years old and being from Newark “Brick City” my pops started calling me Britt Citi. Lol, that was my first rap name. The Pineapple came about from my best friend Fourtee. One day we got some pineapples from a bodega, they were horrible. He looked over at me with a bun in my head and said “yoooo you should call yourself PineappleCITI! Even your hair looks like a Pineapple” lol that shit stuck and here I am.

Why do you want to be a professional rapper?

Music has been a passion of mine forever. I think everybody should be able to make a living doing what they’re good at. More importantly, I believe I can be a positive influence in people’s lives. My influence won’t end with music but it definitely will start there. I think I can change the game. I fit into a bunch of minorities that I’m fighting for. People need to see someone who looks like them prosper. They wanna see someone like them win. I’m here to win for them. I’m also fighting for Jersey. I’ve always said this is more than about me. I’m trying to give the people something positive to believe in.

Who were your biggest influences in music?

Growing up Erykah Badu, Jay Z, Missy, Aaliyah, Michael Jackson and 90's music overall. 

In three words describe your sound?

All My Own

What will set your music apart from the popular music of today?

I come with my own flavor you know? I don’t sound like anyone else and I don’t want to. I want to influence the next wave of sound. I think my sound can have a big impact on the game and how artists sound and move going forward.

When people listen to your music what message will you want to leave with them?

It’s okay to be yourself, to express yourself, & to be positive. This is not to say all my music is super positive but I want to leave room for people to feel comfortable expressing any emotions they feel.

What have you sacrificed so far to pursue a career in Hip-Hop?

A lot. Mostly my sanity lol which is why I try to stay so grounded in positivity, meditation, and prayer. The game will really make you go crazy. I try to stay as far away from pollution as possible. I’ve also sacrificed money, time, and energy. I tell people I’m excellent at being a regular ass person. I’m pretty good at having a regular job and a regular life. But I’ve always sought for more for myself and the people around me.

How do you feel about the way women are portrayed in Hip-Hop?

Sexism is alive and well and a lot of female artists think they have to degrade themselves to prosper. And it’s nothing wrong with being exactly who you are. I just wish more light shined on females who can just really make great music. I’m going to change that.

Tell us a little bit about yourself titled project Pineappleciti.

Mannnn I feel like this album perfectly showcases what I have the potential to do. I don’t like sticking to one style of music. I think being able to transcend genres is what I’m best at. No song sounds like the other. And they could all stand alone as different parts of me. When you listen to it all together I think you can figure me out as a person. This is just a taste of what’s to come. And there’s more coming *hint hint*.

The single “Rose Colored” was one of the hottest independent records of summer 17, how did you handle your new found fame?

I just stay grateful. Occasionally I disappear off the face of the earth so that I make sure I stay true to me. I’ll never let fame get to my head.

It seems like 50 Cent swagger jacked your single “Rose Colored” is it flattering? Or were you and your team upset? Have you spoken with 50 Cent personally?

Haven’t spoken to 50 personally at all no. I spoke to everyone else. But I got all love for 50. Taking a step back I don’t take it personally. I was flattered and upset all in one. But now I’m thankful to 50 for giving me the pep in my step. The best revenge is a great career. We’re going to have lunch one day and laugh about this. I got a good chip on my shoulder now. I’m ready to show the game what they’ve been missing out on.

What advice can you give to someone who is trying to become a rapper? What are the do's and dont's?

Don’t get caught up in numbers and views. Believe in yourself and anything is possible. Manifest what you want out of life. Imagine it every day before you go to sleep at night. Watch “The Secret” I guarantee you-you will come out on top If you just believe.

What can we expect from you in the near future? Tours, New music? Videos?

Allllll of this and more. 2018 is the year of the Pineapple fam. The wait is over.

Connect with pineappleCITI
Soundcloud.com/theyloveciti
Instagram.com/theyloveciti
Twitter.com/pineappleciti