One of the UK’s fastest-rising rap talents, Pozer, is opening up about the pain, trauma and survival instincts that shaped both his life and music.

Born Isaiah Sampson, the 23-year-old rapper has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in British rap following the success of his breakout hit Kitchen Stove, which has already amassed over 50 million streams. But behind the success story is a chaotic upbringing marked by instability, violence and emotional scars that still follow him today.

Raised across South London by his single mother while his father moved in and out of prison, Pozer describes growing up in survival mode from an early age.

“Every day felt tense,” he revealed during a recent interview. “I was sad about life for a long time.”

The rapper, who often references knives, crime and street culture in his lyrics, says much of his music reflects real experiences from his teenage years. He left school in Year 9 and became involved in drug dealing, bike theft and street life while navigating an environment where violence had become normalised.

“A lot of people around me died,” he admitted. “That changes the way you think and feel.”

Pozer explained that years of trauma left him emotionally disconnected and struggling with trust issues, adding that he has never gone to therapy despite dealing with the psychological impact of growing up in London’s streets.

“I don’t even know if I’m normal again,” he said.

Despite the darkness in his story, music eventually became his escape route. During lockdown, Pozer began taking music seriously and developed the high-energy sound that now defines his style — blending UK rap with the fast-paced bounce of New Jersey club music.

“I rap how I think,” he explained. “Fast. Chaotic. Constant movement.”

Since then, his rise has been rapid. Following Kitchen Stove, Pozer released tracks like Malicious Intentions, appeared on Later… with Jools Holland, featured in the BBC’s Sound of 2025 list and collaborated with artists including AJ Tracey, Aitch and Chase & Status.

But beyond the streams and chart success, Pozer says his main motivation has always been family.

“With music, I’ve been trying to piece my family back together,” he said.

Now entering a new phase of his life, the rapper says he’s learning to control his emotions and find peace within himself.

“I’ve rebranded as a stoic,” he joked. “That’s my thing now.”

While he admits he still feels alone at times and lacks proper guidance, Pozer says music has become both his therapy and his survival tool.

“My music is basically my inner voice,” he said. “Selfishly, I make it for me.”

Pozer’s new project Crossroads officially drops on May 29 and is expected to further cement his place as one of the UK’s most fearless new voices.

Source: The Guardian / Ben Beaumont-Thomas