After throwing an incredible party last year, Boiler Room and House of Vans once again partnered for a second round of the their collaborative extravaganza known as House of Vans Berlin. For the occasion, the two brand’s decided to recruit Angel Haze for her first live performance in Germany and her Boiler Room debut. She was joined by the likes of Dâm-Funk, Kode 9, Lapalux and up-and-comers Letherette. We took time before the show to shoot the lyricist and ask her a few questions pertaining to her debut album, Berlin Fashion Week and more.

 

Why is the title of your album Dirty Gold?
That’s how I and a few people coming from a bad situation feel. You have to remind yourself everyday to stay strong and go through shit, like hard work or other private struggles. After all, the bad shit is gone and the dirt is free from you because you’re a great person. Dirty Goldis how I look at life.

Why’d you release your album in December 2013 if it wasn’t supposed to be available until March of this year?
Just to have my album out for the fans. I’m a big believer in keeping your word. For me, it’s really important not to look like “I don’t really give a shit about anything” and the mainstream and the mass music industry. I care a lot about my band and my fans. I care a lot about delivering and staying true to my word, to affect people and to touch them.

You have an intense connection with your fans. How does someone so involved on social media maintain a stable private life? Is it possible?
My worlds are merged so I don’t exactly know what’s private or what’s not, but I guess it doesn’t really matter. It’s all honest.

You recently performed during Berlin Fashion Week, what does fashion mean to you and who are your favorite brands or designers?
I feel like fashion is an expression of who you are, outwardly. Like telling the world this is who I am no matter if you are black or white. I love designers like Givenchy, Rick Owens, Raf Simons, Versace, Helmut Lang, Phillip Plein and some more underground brands like Skingraft and OAK NYC. I also like Ann Kaito because of their superlong T-shirts.

What was your favorite fashion look in the history of rap music?
Kanye West. He is always my favorite. Everything he does.

Interview: Nicolette Scharpenberg
Eyewear: Cast Eyewear