Based in Boston, fledgling rapper Theresa Sophia spits about what the usual preoccupations of an MC: love, street life, doubters and social observations. The Haitian-American professes to love her roots and culture, and it’s not a coincidence surely that her first EP’s entitled For the Woke. With her poetic lyrics, and deep perspectives, Theresa Sophia is definitely a “woke” raptress.

Kreyolicious: How did hip-hop become such a huge part of your life?
Hip-hop became a huge part of my life recently, I’ve always been a fan of music. I wouldn’t consider myself a hip hop head though. I have really loved and taken in so many genres. But once I started making music, I began to look at hip-hop differently, it became even more powerful to me. It’s consumed by so many and really has the power to create movements culturally and politically. When I started eight months ago I was like, “Wow, I could potentially hold that power.”

Kreyolicious: What would you say is the driving force behind you as an artist?
The fact that I am bringing something a little different than what’s around [this year]. I want to represent, I want to tell my story. I want to be felt. I want to use my voice for purpose.

Kreyolicious: The beat comes first…or is it usually the lyrics?
Usually, I have a topic or story in mind already. Then comes the beat. Then the lyrics.

Kreyolicious: Are you working on anything else currently?
Right now, I am promoting the EP and trying to get better everyday, writing, working on my flow, networking. I want each project to be better than the last.

Kreyolicious: When you’re creating…would you say that expressing yourself is paramount or is it empowering yourself?
Honestly, it’s a combination of both. I feel like most of my songs start off with feelings. How this made me feel, going through the story of how things played out. Then I talk about the lessons and that’s where the empowerment comes from.

Kreyolicious: Life can be aimless without a plan. What can we expect to hear from you?
More music, more poetry, more activism, more shows. Catch me on the next XXL Freshman cover!