Money or Fame? Murkemz Tells All | This or That Ep.129

This or That Ep. 129 | Murkemz on Lyrics vs Beats, TikTok Rap & Staying Consistent in Hip-Hop 🎤🔥 In this episode of This or That, host DiVoy’e sits down with rapper Murkemz for a high-energy, unfiltered conversation about music, culture, and the grind of being an independent artist. From New York vs Phoenix to TikTok hits vs Underground classics, Murkemz brings insight, humor, and real talk to every choice. He breaks down why performing feels more fun than writing, why lyrics always matter more than beats, and how social media both helps and challenges independent artistry. Murkemz also gets candid about battling pre-show nerves, the difficulty of staying consistent under life pressures, and why money matters more than fame for long-term success. Whether you’re a fan of authentic hip-hop, curious about the indie grind, or just love rapid-fire cultural debates, this episode has something for you. ✨ Highlights: [01:46] Performing vs Writing – energy vs discipline 🎤 [07:38] TikTok virality vs Underground credibility 📱 [10:57] Lyrics or Beats – storytelling first 🎶 [16:42] Studio focus vs Stage energy 🎧 [18:50] Staying creative & consistent as an indie 💡 [20:17] Phoenix grind vs LA networking 🌎 [22:50] Money or Fame 💰 🎥 About the Show: This or That is a fast-paced interview series powered by I Am Root®, where artists, influencers, and creatives face tough cultural and lifestyle choices that reveal their authentic selves. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations with rising talent. 📩 Want to join the show? DM us: @thisorthat.365 🌐 More info: www.thisorthat365.com #ThisOrThat #Murkemz #IndependentArtist #HipHopCulture #LyricsMatter #PhoenixHipHopHighlights [01:46] 🎤 Performing over writing because of the live energy and fun. [07:38] 📱 TikTok virality but also respects underground hip-hop culture. [10:57] 🎶 Lyrics are more important [16:17] 🎧 Studio or Stage [17:26] 😰 Pre-Show Nerves [18:50] 💡 The biggest challenge for Murkemz [20:17] 🌎 Distinguishes his creative work in Phoenix (focused and personal) from collaborative networking in LA. Join this channel to unlock exclusive perks and become part of our creative community: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwTHKfD7tTwT5FwDQU2r6TA/join I Am Root® is a lifestyle brand dedicated to uplifting underground, local, and emerging creatives through events, productions, and collaborations. Rooted in our mission—Inspiring All of Mankind by Restoring Often Omitted Traditions (IAMROOT)—we’ve proudly curated over 150 events across the Phoenix Metro Area and partnered with nearly 500 independent artists. Our work extends to partnerships with organizations such as Maricopa Community Colleges, Arizona State University, and various nonprofits, fostering spaces where art and community thrive. This channel supports and celebrates the I Am Root Brand, Poetry.Hype, This or That 365, and other creative projects close to our hearts. Thank you for being part of our journey. We’re here to inspire, uplift, and grow with you—one story, one event, and one connection at a time. Brand Links: Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/iamrootbrand Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrootbrand Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iargs11 Website: https://www.iamrootco.com Email: info@iamrootco.com Affiliate Links: Amazon Finds: https://www.amazon.com/shop/iamrootco This or That Ice-Breaker Card Game: https://www.thisorthat365.com Poetry.Hype: https://www.instagram.com/poetry.hype This or That on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisorthat.365 This or That Clips Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisorThat.365 Keep it Playa Drinking Game: https://keepitplaya.com Follow our host - https://www.instagram.com/divoyeinc We appreciate your likes and comments as we work to earn your subscription. Let’s grow together! #letsgrow #interview #content #artistcommunity