Five Fashionable Moments With Roc Marciano

Ignoring the hype surrounding Roc Marciano, the renowned rapper and producer from Hempstead, Long Island, is impossible for any true hip-hop enthusiast. When inquiring about his background, Rahkeim Calief Meyer, the man behind the moniker, offered limited personal details, mentioning his Long Island origins and past residences.

Throughout our conversation, I noticed his reserved nature. This New Yorker embodies a generation that doesn’t readily share their energy with just anyone. While I didn’t expect complete transparency, it’s clear there’s more to his story than he revealed. To truly understand him, one must delve into his extensive musical catalog.

Known as the “Godfather of the Underground,” his distinct lyrical precision evokes hip-hop’s roots, while his production style features heavily sampled, often percussion-sparse beats. Late 2024 witnessed the release of his superb collaborative album, The Skeleton Key, with the Alchemist. He also produced The Round Table by Knowledge the Pirate, further showcasing his studio mastery. His discography, encompassing eleven studio albums, numerous EPs, mixtapes, and guest appearances, is remarkably consistent in quality.

Our discussion covered his career beginnings, dream collaborators, the enduring impact of style in hip-hop, and much more.

Fashionable Moment One

His rap career started around ages thirteen or fourteen, inspired by established artists. He always aspired to contribute to the genre. His professional aspirations were present even then, believing in his talent from a young age. His breakthrough came through working with Busta Rhymes.

Maintaining his prolific output requires a deep love for the art, he says. Remaining relevant in an ever-changing landscape is an honor, fueled by this passion and unwavering hunger. He approaches each project with a sense of gratitude.

Fashionable Moment Two

His dream collaborations include Jay-Z and Nas, hip-hop titans. He’s already worked with most of his other desired collaborators, including D’Angelo. He expressed an interest in creating a soulful album, referencing a Black Moses-inspired project.

When asked about his favorite project, he stated that his most recent work always holds that distinction.

Fashionable Moment Three

His interest in fashion and style has always been present, recognizing it as an integral aspect of hip-hop culture. He cites Rakim’s “I Ain’t No Joke” era style as a significant influence. The stylish ’80s drug-dealer aesthetic was a catalyst for his love of fashion.

His style has evolved with increased access to various pieces. Growth and maturity have also shaped his fashion choices. His on- and offstage attire remains consistent; he favors real-life wearability over stage costumes.

Fashionable Moment Four

Recalling his first significant purchase proved difficult, but he believes it was a pair of Air Jordan sneakers. His most recent purchase involved Linea Rossa Prada pants, which at the time of interview, remained unopened.

During downtime, he enjoys movies and reading.

Fashionable Moment Five

Three essential albums he recommends are D’Angelo’s Voodoo, Ka’s Grief Pedigree, and A Tribe Called Quest’s Midnight Marauders. If limited to one outfit for life, he’d choose a comfortable Gallery Department tracksuit and Chanel sneakers, prioritizing comfort above all.