At just 23 years old, Mikal Bonner, known by his stage name itzMikal, is carving his path in the vibrant world of hip hop and R&B. What started as a fun pastime during his teenage years has blossomed into a serious pursuit fueled by passion and inspiration. Mikal’s journey into music began at the age of 19, when he started writing lyrics for himself, predominantly for his then-girlfriend. Encouraged by her unwavering support, he soon realized that his talent for songwriting was a gift worth developing.
“It was just something fun at first,” Mikal recalls. “I recorded a few pieces, and she loved them. She always encouraged me to take it seriously, to grow with it. So, I made the decision to go for it.” This pivotal moment catalyzed his entry into the hip hop genre, embracing the very sounds that resonated with him through his life, while also being unafraid to explore different musical landscapes.
Mikal describes his style as diverse and adaptable. Unlike many artists who adhere strictly to a single flow or genre, he takes pride in his ability to switch up his delivery to suit varying beats. This versatility is a fundamental aspect of his artistry, setting him apart from the crowd. “I can flow on pretty much any kind of beat,” he explains. “I don’t limit myself to one style. Most artists have a specific sound, but I strive to make my music relatable and relevant.”
Relatability is at the core of Mikal’s songwriting. When creating a new track, he often draws inspiration from the titles of the beats he uses. For instance, if he comes across a track called “Close To You,” he might pen a love song expressing his personal desires and emotions. “I want listeners to connect with my music,” Mikal emphasizes. “I aim to give a voice to those who might be feeling similar things but can’t express them. There’s power in sharing experiences.”
The themes that pervade Mikal’s music are deeply rooted in his own life experiences. Having faced various challenges, from relationship struggles to family issues, he channels his pain and joy into his lyrics. This authenticity resonates with listeners who may have endured similar hardships, giving his music a sense of unity and shared understanding. Mikal’s ability to translate personal struggles into compelling narratives positions him as a relatable representative of his generation.
Reflecting on his journey so far, Mikal identifies the release of his first song as a standout moment in his career. “Seeing everyone’s reactions, their surprise at my talent, really made an impact on me,” he shares. “It was an affirmation that I have potential, and it motivated me to keep pushing forward.” This moment ignited a fire within him, propelling him toward a future where he continuously hones his craft.
As he looks to the future, Mikal feels a sense of curiosity regarding the evolution of hip hop. “I don’t really have a definite answer for where hip hop is headed, but I trust that time will reveal it,” he muses. His personal evolution within the genre, however, is more certain. Committed to ongoing practice and refining his skills, he believes that the more effort he puts into his artistry, the more his storytelling and lyrical prowess will grow.
Mikal’s journey from casual lyricist to serious artist is just beginning, with his sights set on expanding his musical horizons. “I want to broaden my catalog and explore different genres,” he states. This drive for musical diversity is essential for him, as he aspires to leave a lasting impact in the industry while remaining true to his roots.
With a birth date of August 14, 2001, and a rapid ascent into the music scene, Mikal Bonner, aka itzMikal, embodies the spirit of the new wave in hip hop. As he continues to develop his craft, fans eagerly await the next chapter in his musical journey. One thing is certain: the future of this emerging artist is bright, and his voice is one that will resonate for years to come.
To keep up with itzMikal and his music, you can follow him on social media and streaming platforms:
- Instagram: itzMikal
- Spotify: itzMikal on Spotify
- YouTube: itzMikal on YouTube