I2G: I2G is here with Manzu Beatz. How’s it going?
Manzu Beatz: I’m good, thanks for having me.
I2G: You just dropped your new album with Daniel Son entitled Voci Storiche. Tell me a little bit about the album and how it came together for you.
Manzu Beatz: I first started talking with Daniel Son about collaborating back in 2023, but he was always busy, so we waited until the right moment, when he was ready.
Once he was ready, he reached out to me and we started going through beats.
Whenever he was ready to record, he would call me and play me what he had worked on. He would send me the tracks, and I would start working on them, gradually shaping everything together.
I took on a bit of the creative direction for the project, choosing the features for each track based on who I thought would fit best and complement each song. I also came up with the project title and the track titles, as well as the artwork, which is a modern reinterpretation of a painting by my father, who is an artist and originally painted it back in 1979.
The concept behind the project inspired me to release it in volumes on a monthly basis, leading up to the full album release. It was a way of telling stories and sharing testimonies, which fits perfectly with the title “VOCI STORICHE, Testimonies Through Rhymes and Beatz.”
One day, I was visiting a museum and came across some historical artifacts. Among them were vinyl records belonging to a pioneering Italian collection called Voci Storiche. It was a groundbreaking multimedia series consisting of biweekly issues, each combining a historical magazine with a vinyl record featuring authentic audio recordings from the World War II era.
I2G: Any favorite tracks from the album or great memories that stick out?
Manzu Beatz: I really love this project. I think it has a lot of personality and originality. Every track has its own story and power.
I remember some really great moments during the process, especially when Daniel would get excited after hearing a beat, or after I started arranging it around his verses. Hearing him so hyped and passionate was exciting. That’s real hip-hop essence.
I2G: Do you have any other albums, mixtapes or EPs in the works?
Manzu Beatz: Yes, I’m already working on four projects, almost simultaneously. I know it’s crazy, but I’m on point. It’s harder for the rappers to keep up with my pace!
I2G: Do you have any more upcoming videos or singles?
Manzu Beatz: I have a very dope single with Snotty and Reek Osama that I’m planning to release in December.
As for videos, I’d love to have more time to create more visuals, but unfortunately, I can’t do everything at once. Let’s see..
I2G: What are your current thoughts on the music industry in 2026?
Manzu Beatz: There’s a lot of good music out there, but way too many mercenaries.
I try to build projects with artists who genuinely want to spread the word, push the culture forward, and keep the true love for music alive. Too often, I come across artists who seem to be doing it just for a quick buck. They think they’re the best, but then they disappear after a while because what they’re missing is the real attitude.
I’m still here. I started making music many years ago in Italy, when I was very young. My first international project came in 2010, but my journey as a producer officially began in 2019.
Since then, I’ve produced almost 20 projects and been involved in countless collaborations. I’ve still got a lot more to give.
That’s what it’s all about: truly loving and believing in what you do.
I2G: What is currently playing on your playlist musically outside of your album?
Manzu Beatz: I listen to a lot of music. A LOT! I work out every morning, and that’s the time when I want to listen to everything powerful that’s coming out. I’m always looking for new music and fresh energy.
I also like to really take my time listening to the music that catches my attention, paying close attention to the details and really soaking it all in.
I2G: Do you have any shows or tour dates?
Manzu Beatz: I’m overseas and at the moment I’m working on more music but the future might hold some shows/tours.
I2G: What is your website information?
Manzu Beatz: I mainly use social media to communicate and share my music, especially Instagram @dbtz_of_manzubeatz and X @manzubeatz. I also use Bandcamp whenever vinyl and CD releases are available.
I2G: Appreciate the interview. Any last words or shout-outs?
Manzu Beatz: Thank you so much for the opportunity. It’s always an honor. Much Love and Respect.