When 14 year old Sky Katz isn’t entertaining audiences as Tess on Raven’s Home, she’s making her mark on the rap scene. Just recently she spit a few verses for Kanye West while record shopping. ECHO had a chance to chat with Skye about her recent single, “Saucy,” the 3rd Season of Raven’s Home and her upcoming June 15 show.
What elements do you think make a great rap?
For me, it’s about a song that you can’t get out of your head after listening to it. Something that makes you want to dance and sing along.
What are you most excited for fans to see on the 3rd season of Raven’s Home?
I think fans are going to love the whole season, it’s really great. Season 3 includes themes of finding your creative outlet and pursuing that passion. Tess, Nia and Booker form a music group called ‘The Chi-Lective”, with Levi as their video director. Since fans loved the music episode in season 2, this season will feature 7 original songs performed by the group!
You have a live show coming up on June 15 in NYC. What are you most excited for?
I am so excited about this show! I love to be on a stage performing, interacting with fans and even better, I get to do it with my friend Annie.
You’re a self proclaimed sneakerhead. What is your favorite pair of sneakers to rock at the moment?
I’ve been wearing my KD 11 Aunt Pearls a lot lately. Pink is my favorite color and these are an especially great, fun, bright shade of pink.
What does your family think of the success you’ve achieved?
My family is so happy and excited for me. My siblings are my biggest cheerleaders and my best friends are so encouraging.
Why do you think it’s so important to be a woman in rap?
I think it’s important because it’s a genre that’s so dominated by men that I like to be part of the growing female presence.
Why do you think it’s important to be authentic?
I always think it’s best to be true to yourself and be who you really are. Fans will see through phoniness and you won’t feel good about yourself if you’re not authentic.
Where do you pull your inspirations for your raps?
I’m inspired by so much. Old school rap, the latest songs that are on the radio and unknown artists that I find on YouTube all influence the music that I make.
What sets you apart from other rappers?
Every artist draws from their lives, from the music and experiences that have affected them. My music follows those rules as well and I’m trying to make music that is fun and easy to enjoy.
You do a lot of charity work. Why do you think it is important to give back?
Both in my career and my personal life, I have been so lucky. It makes me feel good to spend time helping out people who are facing challenges.
Any dream collaborations?
Nicki Minaj will always be my dream collaboration. I love her!
You recently bumped into Kanye West shopping for records. First, what was it like to meet him and rap for him?
I was unsure how he would react to me going up to him but I knew it was too amazing of an opportunity to let it pass by. He could not have been nicer. He was friendly, encouraging and complimentary.
Second, what is your favorite record in your vinyl collection?
My number one record is J. Cole’s 2014 Forest Hills Drive. I’ve been listening to that over and over recently.
Do you have any plans for a full album?
I’m hoping to release an EP in the near future. I’ve been in the studio recording some great music I think people will love.
You released your song “Saucy” along with a music video. Do you imagine what the visuals will look like as you’re writing?
For “Saucy” I imagined the video before the song was completed. I wanted something that was about swag and showing boys not to underestimate girls.
You have new merch coming out that you designed yourself. What was that process like?
I spent tons of time online searching for what I liked best for a product. I wanted it to be something that I would want to buy for myself. As for what’s imprinted on it, I knew from the start what I wanted to do. I’m proud of it and think that fans buying it will love it!
You can catch the next season of Raven’s Home on June 17.
Cover Photo Credit: Jake Clark