KOMP'L

There are some traits in life you cant learn or pick up from others. Just as there are some features which are often too hard to replicate and imitate no matter how hard you try. Life within the confines of the music industry today is an experience where individuality and ability are characteristics that are imperative to survive. If you are looking to secure longevity, you must be head and shoulders above everyone else.

Hailing from the city which never sleeps and having been raised between the hustle and bustle of Harlem, NY and the more relaxed pace of Newton Grove, NC, comes Divine ‘Komp’l’ Thomas. It was through an education procured from his older sister into the greats of Hip-Hop when a youngster that Komp’l became exposed to the likes of Big Daddy Kane, LL Cool J and Run DMC. This introduction, needless to say, had him hooked. Fascinated by the legends and eager to succeed himself it didn’t take long for Komp’l to start putting pen to paper and mastering the art of rhyme.

Recognizing that today’s industry is void of those who take a chance while displaying originality, Komp’l set to work on his master plan. His first performance ever was a private showcase at the iconic Apollo theatre in the depths of Harlem. It was here where the young wordsmith caught the attention of Hip-Hop icon and affiliate of Melle Mel and Afrika Bambaataa, Busy Bee. Seeing how the select audience reacted to his words only inspired him to continue his assault on the music industry.

But being armed with a bevy of metaphors and punchlines was, as Komp’l himself states, ‘not the only thing that was going to secure him a prosperous future.’ A true advocate of style and fashion, Komp’l has already been snapped by the notorious Japanese magazine 'Custom Low Riding.' "These journalists stopped and asked me if they could interview me  while I was just kicking it in Soho," the subtle fashionista shares. "I guess it was wearing that caught their eye and I can't lie I was flattered." Qualities such as these are what will surely propel this 23 year old further into the spotlight. “I take risks with clothing and treat my wardrobe like my music,” he explains.  “I try to standout and do what others aren’t doing.”

Linking with a group of like-minded individuals in creating GemStars LLC, an emerging indie powerhouse, Komp’l has secured the piece of the puzzle that many up and coming artists fail to develop; a strong team behind the scenes. GemStars is made up of individuals who each bring something different to the table in order to launch their artists to the highest of heights. Through the mechanics of this collective Komp’l has already taken to the stage at some of the most notorious venues throughout NYC such as Don Hills and The Annex.

With the world is sitting comfortably in the palm of his hand and backed up by a competent group of individuals Komp’l is gearing up to release his debut project this fall entitled Tunnel Vision, allowing fans an intricate look into the mindset of one of New York’s freshest voices. Determined to give to Hip-Hop and its fans something original yet invigorating, this style icon has the potential to lead a new generation of artists right into the mainstream, all the while ensuring the culture keeps its authenticity firmly in tact. 

CLICK ON ARTWORK TO DOWNLOAD KOMP'L's DEBUT MIXTAPE TUNNEL VISION