Artist. Nerd. Gemini. GOAT.
“I’m the G.O.A.T.”
Maryland-born, Wisconsin-raised rapper Genesis Renji is an archetype for the multidisciplinary artist. With talents spanning from rapping and songwriting to music engineering and authorship, the Emmy-nominated emcee’s music is powered by lyrical finesse and a zealous knack for constant evolution. His music reflects his astrological mapping, a Gemini who channels his gift of duality by way of introspective verses and anthemic choruses.
Born Elijah Furquan, Genesis Renji’s art is grounded in his DMV roots but elevated by his Milwaukee upbringing. Though he wrote his first rap at 12 years old, Renji’s artistic aspirations wouldn’t materialize until later, when freestyle sessions with his brothers and cousin Pierre, and high school open mics caused him to realize his own potential. Finding inspiration in reflective hip-hop acts such as Drake, Childish Gambino, Kendrick Lamar, Lupe Fiasco, and later, the late Nipsey Hussle, Renji began assembling the building blocks of his own sound, carefully curating a fusion of stimulating bars and thought-provoking storytelling.
In 2011, Genesis released his debut mixtape, A Shot of Gen, the first installment in a three-part series of punchy raps and fast-paced production. His official debut album, 2014’s 2 In The Chamber, served as a looking glass into his world—a 14-track offering from a rapper unafraid to exercise ego if it means being a step closer to inner peace. On his most recent album, E.D.E.N, the Genesis Renji universe swells to new heights, as he recruits subtle melodic flourishes and concepts of romantic vulnerability to cultivate his distinctive genre of noncommittal dreamer music.
With a resume that includes landing song placements on Adult Swim and the OWN drama series Queen Sugar, publishing a self-help book (The Book Of Genesis: GOAT Talk), earning a 2018 Emmy nomination, performing at a Milwaukee Bucks halftime show, spearheading his own indie label (House of Renji), opening for Portland rapper Aminé, and many more accolades, Genesis has proven his vocal dexterity and undeniable star power are one-of-one. As his art continues to flourish and cover new ground, Genesis is only concerned with being the best version of himself, and he’s willing to sacrifice everything in hopes of gaining the world.
When asked what sets him apart from his musical peers, Genesis’ response is confident and straightforward: “I’m the GOAT. That’s what makes me different. I became everything I wasn’t supposed to be because I wanted to be it. I risk losing it all every day because I know I’m destined for everything I want and more.”
DO WHAT YOU WANT. KNOW YOURSELF, LOVE YOURSELF, TRUST YOURSELF.