Rapper Teleios the Greek has been making waves in the entertainment arena since stepping onto the music scene in 2020. Like the many rappers who inspired the path he took, he is hoping to someday leave a legacy of inspiration.
Born Michael Rodney, the composer/rapper grew up in Sophia where he spent his early boyhood days in church. Like many children, Michael didn’t always pay keen attention to the preacher. However, one day he heard the preacher mention the word ‘Teleios’.
The word stuck with him all the way home and as soon as he could, he researched the meaning. According to him, he found that the Greek word means someone attaining growth mentally or morally to a point where he feels complete, or fulfilling one’s purpose to where a goal is achieved.
It stayed with Michael and when he was trying to come up with a stage name for himself, Teleios affiliated to his music goals and what he hoped to attain someday made sense, so he called himself Teleios the Greek.
The 21-year-old shared that he no longer practices his faith but he believes in God. He explained that coming from a poverty-stricken community he saw the church as an organisation trying to make a profit.
As a boy, he spent his days outside riding, playing catch, war break, hopscotch, catching fish, and playing football and cricket. He attended Sophia Nursery and Primary schools, and Lodge Secondary. Outstanding academically, Michael was among the top performers of his school. In 2017 he was named Best Graduating Student and was valedictorian.
During this time, he recalled seeing his brother Michael ‘Maximus’ Patoir and his brother’s friend Negus Antho writing and freestyling music. He became fascinated and it was through them that he was introduced to rap. Influenced by the duo, Michael realised that rapping was something he would like to do.
Among his other musical inspirations are Kendrick Lamar, Tupac, 50 Cent, Lil Baby, Future, NBA YoungBoy, Kevin Gates, YNW Melly, and Adele though she doesn’t rap.
Though he first took up music in 2019, Teleios the Greek only moved forward seriously with the art form in March 2020. Owing to him not putting himself out on the local entertainment scene, having to stay inside did not impact him negatively though it did see him having to change some of the plans he had for that year.
By then, Michael had saved up to purchase musical equipment like speakers, a mic, and a computer. With more time on their hands as a result of the pandemic, he and Negus practised constantly.
“When I first started music, I could say it wasn’t my thing. I could write but to deliver that on a mic, I wasn’t ready. The pandemic gave me the time to perfect that skill. During that time I really did improve and accomplish something. People today commend my art. I find the energy and excitement to deliver music as I should,” he said.
Michael and Negus, who has since attained producer status, are still always working on their music together trying to make a name for themselves. Together they have also founded One Tyme Recordz, a music studio.
When he first started, Teleios the Greek uploaded his music to Facebook and YouTube. Today the rapper’s work can be found on other musical platforms like Spotify and AudioMack.
In March this year, the rapper signed to Kast Talent Management. He is slated to perform at HipHop and Poetry Night next month and in Linden over the Caricom weekend.
Thinking of all that is to come, the rapper said, “I’m kind of nervous but it’s all a part of growing and stepping out there. Regardless of how I feel I will go out there and give my all and have fun with it. Ain’t no stopping me.”
With rap not being a genre very recognised in Guyana, it can be a bit of a challenge to get the support. In fact, when he first started out, the rapper said, he didn’t have support from his family. Finance was another issue. “I was discouraged. To do music, it takes a lot. People don’t understand behind the scenes all the effort, time and finance it takes to get music out there,” he said.
Michael pointed out that it’s okay to not follow the crowd but to pursue whatever brings one joy. Even so it is important that one stays connected with artistes of various genres. “Who knows,” he posited, “sometimes networking and collaborating with Dancehall artistes will create a new sound.” But, collaborating with artistes can also be another challenge, the rapper said, as some feel they’ve already arrived and don’t want to consider an artiste who is up and coming.
“I just want to help people. In the next five years, I want to reach a stage where I can help people like other artistes. I’m from a community where a lot of people are struggling. I see myself being under some sponsorship where I can help people in my community. I want my music to reflect my community and Guyana. I see myself collaborating with artistes locally and internationally and owning a successful recording studio,” he said.
“I hope through this I leave a good legacy behind whether for the world or just one person. I hope I can pave a way for the people of my country. I hope I motivate somebody. Someday I would like to sponsor a family or a scholarship for a student to pursue their studies.”
Currently the rapper is working on a mixed tape dubbed ‘Welcome to Greek Town’. The mixed tape shares of events witnessed and experienced by Michael over the years. It is slated to be out by September.
To date, the composer/rapper has released eight rap pieces, one of which is titled “Survive With Enough” and was released earlier this week.
Music aside, Michael is attached to the Ministry of Education.
In his downtime, he likes spending time with his girlfriend and his family especially his nieces and nephews. He also likes playing football.
A foodie, his favourite dish is raisin rice with macaroni and cheese, baked chicken and potato salad. He also enjoys a snow cone every now and again.
The rapper can be followed on the mentioned social media and musical platforms as well as Instagram and TikTok @TeleiostheGreek. For bookings Michael can be reached on social media or via email at teleiosthegreek@gmail.com.
