Interview with Reuben

Interview with Reuben Cohen: The UK Rapper Redefining Music and Street Fashion

In the vibrant realm of UK rap, few names resonate as powerfully as Reuben Cohen's. With a distinctive sound that fuses gritty realism with lyrical sophistication, Cohen has quickly become a formidable force in the music industry. Beyond his music, his unique approach to street wear fashion has also set trends and sparked conversations. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Reuben to delve into his music, inspirations, and the intersection of his style and artistry.

Magazine: Reuben, it's great to have you with us today. Let's dive right in. Your latest album, Urban Pulse, has been receiving critical acclaim. Can you walk us through the creative process behind this album? How did it differ from your previous work?

Reuben Cohen: Thanks for having me. With Urban Pulse, I really wanted to push my boundaries. The creative process involved a lot of experimentation with sounds and themes. I took a more introspective approach this time, reflecting on personal experiences and societal issues. Unlike my previous albums, which were more straightforward in their themes, Urban Pulse has a more nuanced narrative. I collaborated with some new producers and artists to bring fresh perspectives and sounds into the mix.

Magazine: Your lyrics often reflect both personal struggles and broader social issues. What are some of the themes you’re particularly passionate about exploring through your music?

Reuben Cohen: I'm really passionate about highlighting the realities of life in urban areas—everything from economic struggles to the sense of community and resilience. In Urban Pulse, I wanted to tackle the feeling of being caught between different worlds and the quest for identity. I also touch on mental health, which is something I believe needs more conversation. My goal is to make people feel seen and understood, and hopefully, to spark some meaningful dialogue.

Magazine: You’ve mentioned in past interviews that your musical inspirations range from classic hip-hop to more experimental genres. Can you name a few artists or albums that have particularly influenced you?

Reuben Cohen: Absolutely. Classic hip-hop like Nas’s Illmatic and The Notorious B.I.G.’s Ready to Die have been huge influences—those records taught me a lot about storytelling and lyrical prowess. More recently, I’ve been inspired by artists like Kendrick Lamar and Travis Scott, who blend genres and push the boundaries of what hip-hop can be. I also draw a lot from non-hip-hop genres like electronic and jazz to keep my sound diverse and fresh.

Magazine: Moving on to another aspect of your public persona—your street wear fashion. It’s clear that your style is an integral part of your identity. How would you describe your fashion aesthetic, and how does it influence your music?

Reuben Cohen: My fashion aesthetic is a mix of high and low—street wear with a touch of luxury. I love playing with contrasts, like pairing a designer jacket with something more casual. I think fashion and music go hand in hand; they’re both forms of self-expression. When I’m working on new music, I often find that my mood and the vibe I’m going for in the studio can be reflected in my outfits. If I’m feeling particularly bold or introspective, it often shows up in the clothes I choose.

Magazine: You’ve collaborated with some notable fashion brands and designers. How do you choose these collaborations, and what do you look for in a brand or designer partner?

Reuben Cohen: I look for authenticity and a shared vision. It’s important for me to work with brands that align with my personal style and values. I also enjoy collaborating with designers who aren’t afraid to push boundaries and experiment. For me, fashion should be about creativity and individuality, just like music.

Magazine: Street fashion often reflects and influences broader cultural trends. How do you see the relationship between street wear and music evolving in the future?

Reuben Cohen: I think street wear and music will continue to influence each other more and more. The lines between different cultural expressions are blurring, and I see street fashion becoming even more integrated with musical identity. Artists are increasingly using their style to make statements and connect with their audience in new ways. It’s an exciting time because it allows for so much creativity and personal expression.

Magazine: Lastly, what can your fans expect from you in the near future? Any upcoming projects or plans you’d like to share?

Reuben Cohen: I’m currently working on some new music that’s a bit of a departure from Urban Pulse—exploring new sounds and collaborations. I’m also excited about a few fashion projects that are in the pipeline, including some exclusive drops and a potential capsule collection. I can’t say too much just yet, but stay tuned. I’m always looking for new ways to keep things fresh and engaging for my fans.

Magazine: We can’t wait to see what’s next! Thank you so much for your time, Reuben. It’s been a pleasure.

Reuben Cohen: Thank you. It’s been great chatting with you.