IDEGO Talks “CALLING OUT,” Spiritual Warfare, Underground Rage Rap, and His Rise in the Christian Hip-Hop Scene

Nashville-born artist and producer IDEGO is quickly emerging as one of the most exciting new voices in Christian hip-hop's underground scene. Blending rage rap, hyperpop, EDM, and hard-hitting production, his latest single "CALLING OUT" featuring Kins delivers an explosive mix of intensity and faith-driven purpose.

Inspired by the sounds of artists like 2Hollis and Slayr, the track pairs chaotic energy with a message about calling on God through struggle and spiritual warfare. A graduate of Samford University's Commercial Music program, IDEGO first built his reputation producing for underground artists before stepping fully into his own artistry.

Now, following his selection to the 2026 Rapzilla Freshmen Class, IDEGO is continuing to build momentum with new visuals, an upcoming self-titled EP, and a growing fanbase drawn to both his sonic experimentation and unapologetic faith. In this interview, IDEGO opens up about the vision behind "CALLING OUT," his creative process, and the next chapter of his musical journey. 

To listen to "CALLING OUT," click here.

Q: For readers discovering IDEGO and KINS for the first time, who are you both as artists, and how would you describe the sound and vision behind your music?

I am a Christian artist and producer. My sound blends underground rage hip-hop with hyperpop and EDM influences. Through that sound, I explore themes of faith with a strong emphasis on spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:12 is really the core verse behind my mission and everything I create.

Q: "CALLING OUT" blends rap, EDM, and underground rage influences into something intense and energetic. What inspired the sonic direction of the track?

Honestly, I love music that feels like an aggressive wall of sound, so I keep layering different elements into the beat until it reaches that energy I'm looking for. I also never want a track to feel repetitive or boring, which is why I add EDM-style switch-ups throughout my music to keep the momentum and intensity going.

Q: The song carries a sense of urgency and reaching beyond yourself in difficult moments. What message did you hope listeners would take away from the lyrics?

The main message is that no matter what I'm facing, when I call out to the Father in heaven, I can persevere through hardship and struggle. The strength doesn't come from me-it comes from the Lord.

Q: Artists like 2Hollis and Slayr have helped shape parts of the current underground scene. How have those sounds influenced your approach while still allowing you to create something uniquely your own?

Those artists have definitely influenced my approach, especially when it comes to sound selection. I listen to their music a lot, so naturally I gravitate toward sounds with similar energy and textures. But when I create, I'm never trying to intentionally copy another artist. I just make whatever comes naturally in the moment. What I listen to shapes what comes out creatively, but I still want everything to feel authentic to me and true to my own sound.

Q: IDEGO, your background in music production and your studies at Samford University seem to play a major role in your artistry. How has your production knowledge shaped the way you create and structure your music?

Since I started out as a producer before becoming an artist, I still approach music from the beat first. My production background definitely shapes how I structure songs. At the same time, that knowledge gives me the freedom to experiment creatively and explore a lot more sonically than I could otherwise. It really opens the door for me to push the sound further and try different ideas while I'm creating.

Q: Being named to the 2026 Rapzilla Freshmen Class marks a major milestone. What has this season of growth been like, and what future music or collaborations can fans expect next from IDEGO?

I'm beyond grateful to be part of the 2026 Rapzilla Freshmen Class. This season of growth has honestly been such an unexpected blessing. It's been incredibly encouraging in my pursuit of music and has motivated me even more to keep doing what I'm doing. Right now, the next release is the visualizer for "CALLING OUT," which dropped today, followed by my self-titled EP coming this summer. After that, fans can expect a lot more consistent music releases as I continue growing both as an artist and as a follower of Christ.