Mad Skillz on His Grammy Nod for 'The Seven Number Ones' and a Career Built on Storytelling
Hip-hop legend and lyrical wordsmith Mad Skillz has carved a unique space in the music industry, and now, his journey has reached an incredible milestone. Nominated for Best Spoken Word Poetry Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards for The Seven Number Ones, Skillz reflects on the experiences, influences, and lessons that have shaped his career. From his introspective writing to his electrifying performances, Skillz has continually redefined his craft.
The Rituals Before the Spotlight
Mad Skillz approaches every performance with a blend of meticulous preparation and heartfelt rituals. “I always pray,” he shares, emphasizing the grounding force of spirituality. Before taking the stage, he listens to music by his favorite artists to energize himself and channel inspiration. Despite years of performing, the butterflies never leave. “I still get butterflies to this day,” he admits. As the show approaches, Skillz goes over the setlist obsessively, ensuring every moment is polished. He also takes extra care to confirm all equipment—from microphones to in-ear monitors—is functioning perfectly. “I’m very particular about those things,” he says.
Songs He Wishes He Wrote
Mad Skillz’s admiration for iconic music shines in his choice of songs he wishes he had penned. Stevie Wonder’s “As” and Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” top his list as masterpieces of emotional resonance. He calls “Stay with Me” by DeBarge “a beautiful song” that captures timeless vulnerability. The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Juicy” strikes a personal chord with Skillz, reflecting the dream-to-reality journey he’s experienced. And with characteristic humor, he acknowledges “Happy Birthday” by Patty Hill for its unmatched longevity, quipping, “The royalties alone would take care of future generations.”
Lessons for the Younger Mad Skillz
Reflecting on his journey, Skillz shares advice he’d give to his younger self about navigating the music industry. His first tip is straightforward: “Don’t spend all your money, save it.” He emphasizes the importance of embracing and mastering new technologies as they emerge, a skill he believes is vital for staying relevant. Learning to play an instrument, he says, would have enhanced his songwriting capabilities. Surrounding himself with good people and remaining a perpetual student of the craft are also lessons he holds dear.
Studio Essentials and Creative Atmosphere
Mad Skillz’s studio and tour setup reflects his commitment to creating a productive and inspiring environment. His must-have items include a quality microphone and a collection of plug-ins to enhance his sound. He also relies on ambient lighting and a muted TV or projector to set the mood. As a self-described “pen and paper kind of dude,” he keeps writing materials close at hand to capture ideas as they flow.
Lyrics That Define His Craft
The art of storytelling is central to Mad Skillz’s music. Among the lyrics he’s most proud of is the opening line from The Seven Number Ones: “First. When something happens for the first time, it sticks with you. That memory hits you and it never leaves.” From his debut album From Where???, the line “Where you from? Virginia. FROM WHERE???” has become an iconic representation of his identity and roots. Another standout is from Made in Virginia, where he writes, “The sky ain't the limit though, that’s just the view.” These lines highlight his ability to weave profound messages with a conversational tone.
Albums That Shaped His Sound
Mad Skillz’s musical influences span hip-hop’s golden era. Albums like People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm by A Tribe Called Quest and Ready to Die by The Notorious B.I.G. helped define his lyrical and rhythmic approach. It’s a Big Daddy Thing by Big Daddy Kane and Paid in Full by Eric B. & Rakim demonstrated the art of wordplay and storytelling. Finally, Nas’s Illmatic solidified his love for creating timeless narratives that resonate deeply with listeners.
The Road to The Seven Number Ones
Mad Skillz’s Grammy-nominated album, The Seven Number Ones, is a testament to his growth as an artist and poet. Blending introspective spoken word with his signature rhythmic delivery, the album captures universal themes of perseverance, identity, and creativity. “This nomination is a reminder that the power of words can transcend genres,” he says.
From his humble beginnings in Virginia to becoming a Grammy nominee, Mad Skillz’s career exemplifies dedication, resilience, and a profound love for the art of storytelling. As he prepares to attend the Grammys, he remains focused on his craft, proving that his voice is one that continues to inspire and innovate in the world of music.