Name: Omar Jimenez (AKA OJ Tropicana)
Year: Sophomore
Hometown: Kennesaw, GA
Relationship Status: Single
Major: Broadcast Journalism (Medill)
What sparked your interest in rapping?
It was basically someone telling me rapping was something I couldn’t do. In the context of the conversation it was just another funny joke, so I didn’t really think too much about it immediately, but for whatever reason one night I just kept thinking about it. So the next day I wrote my first rap to the “I’m on a Boat” beat. Everyone I showed it to loved it. So a mix tape and a half later here I am.
What do you like best about making your own music?
There are no rules. The coolest thing to me is that you can literally write or rap anything you feel. I always describe rap as a flow of consciousness, and that’s exactly why I love it so much.
Tell us about your show during Wildcat Welcome.
So right now the show I’m going to be a part of is taking place Friday the 28th at the Rock. I’m supposed to go on around 8 p.m. Honestly, I don’t know what to say about it. I think it’s going to be an awesome time, so I would really encourage people to come out, however young or old. The songs I will be performing come mostly from my last mix tape “Pure Premium,” but there are a few songs from my newest project “No Pulp.” The entire set should last about an hour, so plenty of time to get your daily dose of Tropicana.
Describe your personality.
A cool, calm, collected guy with a sense of humor. I’m always trying to make people laugh no matter how awkward or forced. Don’t get me wrong, behind all the comedy, and “coolness” I think I’m a pretty nice guy. I’m a big “people-person” too so I love to meet new people.
What’s your favorite song of all time and why?
“Not Going Back” by Childish Gambino, no question about it. The lyrics are so powerful, and nearly every word has a parallel in my life.
Who is your biggest music inspiration?
Childish Gambino is by far my biggest music inspiration. Otherwise known as Donald Glover, his situations, now and in the past, mirror almost perfectly what I’ve wanted mine to be and what mine were. As an actor/writer/comedian/rapper his work ethic is unbelievable, and that’s really something I use to inspire me not only as an artist, but also as a person.
Do you have any other hidden talents besides music?
Well I don’t know if this is a hidden talent, but I play basketball for the varsity team at Northwestern, so that has to count for something. If I had to pick something that not many people know though, it would probably be Ultimate Frisbee. Whenever I’m home I play it all the time.