Born in Watts and raised in the Antelope Valley, Lancaster, California artist Grim1700 has always been shaped by the places and people closest to him. His story is rooted in family, real-life experiences, and the environments that helped shape the person and artist he is today.
Growing up, Grim1700 describes his upbringing as modest but stable. His mother and stepfather did their best to provide for him and make sure he had what he needed. They were not living a high-class lifestyle, but Grim knew he was taken care of. He had clothes on his back, food on the table, and the opportunity to grow up without feeling like he was missing the necessities.
Two places in particular left a lasting impression on him: his grandmother’s house in Watts and Park Circle Apartments in Lancaster. Both became important parts of his life and helped shape his perspective, memories, and the person he would eventually become.
Music entered Grim1700’s life when he was around 15 years old. At first, it was simply something he played around with. He began experimenting with music and eventually started making beats. Over time, what started as fun became something much more serious.
A major part of that transition came from his big brother. Grim credits him with helping push him toward rapping and believes that without his influence, he might not have pursued music at all. Eventually, Grim realized he wanted to be behind the microphone, not just behind the beats. More importantly, he believed he could do it well.
That confidence became a major part of his approach.
Grim1700’s music is built around energy. His goal is to create records that make people move. Whether someone is riding through the city, turning up with friends, getting money, or simply trying to enjoy life, he wants his music to add to the moment. His sound is meant to make you want to drive faster, dance, turn up, and keep going.
“I want my music to get the people going,” Grim says.
Another part of his process is how much of his music he creates from home. Roughly 80 percent of his music is recorded there, allowing him to work at his own pace and stay close to the creative process.
Now, Grim1700 is continuing to build on everything that brought him here. His most recent release is the “2K26” mixtape, and he recently followed it up with his single “Ladies Night 2” featuring Shady Blu.
For Grim, the journey is bigger than music alone. He sees his ability as a blessing and gives credit to God for giving him the gift and the motivation to continue chasing it. He also recognizes the people who have supported him along the way, especially his big brother, his little brother, and the few close friends who have always believed in him.
