Jackson’s very own Coke Bumaye is spreading holiday cheer with his new mixtape, GIFT RAP, just in time to become the soundtrack for your Christmas parties.
This festive release comes just a month after his previous EP, THE BODY IS TO JAZZ AS HER HEART IS TO ART, and is available exclusively on Bandcamp. The six-track project includes standout songs like the upbeat “SOUTHSIDE SANTA” and the heart felt “HEAVY ON THE HOLIDAYS,” where Coke reflects on the loss of loved ones and the bittersweet emotions that often accompany the Christmas season.
We had the opportunity to chat with Coke about GIFT RAP and his creative process. Check out the full interview below:
The Sipp FM: What inspired you to create a Christmas mixtape, and why did you choose to release it exclusively on Bandcamp?
Coke Bumaye: I always hear Christmas songs that I’ve heard every year and it’s rare that they are from a perspective like mine. I wanted to give my take on this season from a different lens, but with the holidays in mind. I released it on Bandcamp because I wanted to cater to the audience that has always been there for me as a artist.
The Sipp FM: Many artists struggle with or completely avoid seasonal content. How do you balance creating a festive project that feels authentic to your artistic style while also appealing to holiday music listeners?
Coke Bumaye: I just make what I want when I want. I didn’t overthink it—it felt good, so I went with it!
The Sipp FM: What do you have in store for 2025 that fans can be looking forward to?
Coke Bumaye: We are excited about 2025! We plan to continue pushing culture forward through our authentic narrative. We have a short film titled Flower that is set to be released early 2025. We always have music coming! Thank you to everyone that has supported us thus far and we look forward to a big year.
Coke Bumaye’s GIFT RAP is now streaming on Bandcamp, take a listen below. Add it to your playlist and let the holiday vibes begin! To keep up with Coke Bumaye, follow him on Instagram @cokebumaye.