Exclusive Interview with Giffy Pluggo

MusicsWeek: How did you get started in music?

Giffy Pluggo: From middle school/high school, listening to different artists, and I started writing poems, then I started writing to beats. I enjoyed the creative process, and it was a way to express myself in a different way. The first album I bought was Fugees “The Score”. I convinced my mom it wasn’t any cursing on there lol, but that album inspired me and got me into rap/hip-hop.

MusicsWeek: What inspired you to become a musician?

Giffy Pluggo: I just really liked how music made me feel, and the reaction you would get when you say a hard line or bar. It’s a way of connecting with people. Music is universal.

MusicsWeek: Can you tell us a bit about your background and upbringing?

Giffy Pluggo: I’m from the south side of Chicago, born and raised. I grew up in a rough environment in Chicago called Roseland. I grew up with both my parents, but primarily stayed with my mother. I have two young brothers who also do music. They have both been on my albums. I had a family that believed in education and going to school, so I ended up going to college and graduating, but I always did something with music throughout my life.

MusicsWeek: What's your favorite memory related to music?

Giffy Pluggo: I would say opening up for Benny the Butcher this second time at SXSW 2025. The crowd’s energy was dope, and Benny told me that it was fire, and Casino was a song I should push. It reassured me.

MusicsWeek: What's your biggest passion outside of music?

Giffy Pluggo: Health and fitness. I try to work out 3-5 times a week and eat healthy.

MusicsWeek: How do you stay motivated and inspired?

Giffy Pluggo: I focus on the positive outcomes and try not to think negatively. And I like to write/record a new song. It’s therapeutic.  

MusicsWeek: What's your favorite song to play live?

Giffy Pluggo: Casino! The beat and energy it gives is unmatched.

MusicsWeek: What's your creative process like when writing songs?

Giffy Pluggo: I listen to the beat and think of rhythms and then lyrics based on how the beat makes me feel.

MusicsWeek: Do you have a favorite album or artist that influences your work?

Giffy Pluggo: I would say Jay-Z, Griselda, Rick Ross, Kanye, and Lil Durk are a few examples of artists that inspire me. Their catalogue is fire and they have the great ability to connect with the audience.

MusicsWeek: What's the most challenging part of being a musician?

Giffy Pluggo: Staying motivated and determining what is the best marketing strategy. You have to have faith and be confident in yourself and know that you are on the right path.