Six years ago rapping was a dream for hip hop artist Zpeedie. "Makin it big was the dream. I know where I was, I know where I’m at and I know where I wanna be," says Zpeedie. In six years he has grown into a respected artist within the industry, accumulating a large fan base locally and abroad. " Although music is his passion, there is more to this artist that makes him the man he is today. Zpeedie is young, confident and knows where he wants to go. A rare trait for someone so young. "The cost of not making it is huge and so knowing that….. I have to make it regardless." Zpeedie is a role model for many who listen to his music and no more so than to his 5 younger brothers. "Raising them right and helping mum out is a huge priority. My aim is to make her happy no matter what and if this music thing can bring me success to give her everything she wants and needs then I’m going to do what ever it takes." It is this determination that saw Zpeedie working with one of the hottest producers in New Zealand, Simon Lynch. Mr Lynch has worked with bands such as Ardijah and other world renowned acts. "I know there is a market for my music and it’s just a matter of time before people and more importantly people in the right places begin to take notice and jump on it," says Zpeedie His music is a blend of Somali and English vocals reinforced with a hip hop, R&B, reggaeton and dancehall beats. His Self Titled album “Zpeedie” is due to be released soon and for those who can’t wait you can get a taste of what’s to come on his myspace page. "at the moment we’re working on the finer details and a lot of others things to make sure this album comes out right, plus we’re due to shoot a couple of videos soon so there is a lot of hard work to be done." Growing up in Somalia, music was the last thing on his mind. "Everybody and including yourself has this idea that you would go to school, become a lawyer or a doctor or something respectable ya know," explains Zpeedie. Fulfilling people’s expectations of you and trying to fulfill your dreams is a difficult balancing act, however Zpeedie says he has grown as an individual and realizes the benefits of both. Today, he studies and continues to perfect his art. "You gotta have something to fall back on because nothing is guaranteed in this world." Zpeedie represents the potential which exists within the creative minds of our people. His music has opened a bridge between the first and second generations of New Zealand and other parts of the world. Issues of cultural clashes, barriers and identity are raised through creative metaphors which he manages to do exceptionally. "I’m saying what your thinking but probably wont’ or don’t know how to say. You see this is me and this what I love because while I’m sitting or doing something words and ideas are flowing and popping in my head," explains Zpeedie. "The opportunity to do what I want is great but it comes with responsibility and careful consideration because the choices I make will have an effect on those I love and care for," explains Zpeedie. Things are currently going to plan and Zpeedie expects great outcomes from the hard work he has put in. He is provocative in every sense of the word. He challenges old ideologies and expectations. He is the face of modern teens and more importantly a champion of potential.