Tyno is a Korean-British rapper who was a contestant MNET’s Show Me The Money 6, a Korean hip-hop survival competition show which rappers and producers like Microdot, Miryo (from Brown Eyed Girls), Cheetah, Bobby (from iKON), Zion.T, and as of last season, Timbaland, team up and compete to win first place! Last season was won by BewhY and producer team Simon Dominic and Gray from AOMG. He took the time to let us interview his thoughts on the show and about his rapping inspirations!

From left to right: Olltii, Tyno, Simba Jawadi

Show Me the Money 6 Experience

Q: How did you find out about Show Me the Money?

A: I’ve been watching SMTM since Season 2 so by the time Season 6 came around, I was quite familiar with the show by then! ^^

Q: What made you want to try out?

A: I came to Korea knowing I wanted to get involved with the music scene here. So when the casting call for SMTM6 was put up, I did not hesitate for one second. I definitely thought that this was the right moment to be involved and make a start in my music career. I know that it is very difficult for rookies trying to get noticed by themselves alone, so I thought partaking in a huge show such as SMTM 6 would definitely give me a kick start to have my name out there. I also enjoy the auditioning and competition aspect of the show, so it gave me even more of a reason to participate!

Q: If you weren’t eliminated, which team would you go to?

A: Teaming up with ANY of the SMTM6 producers would have been a great honour. They are all legends and have definitely made their marks on the Korean Hip Hop and music scene in general. I think each team would have brought out something a little different from me, which would have been interesting to see! I think they all have their own unique styles and it would have been amazing to work with them. Maybe next time!  

Q: Did you know about any of the rappers before competing against them?

A: I was familiar with most of the rappers since a lot of them have made previous appearances on the show, and some others from listening to their music. I wasn’t familiar with a few, however, I said hi and got to know them! ^^

Q: How did you feel when they said you and Ness were the handsome rappers? Were the female rappers really swoon?

A: Hahaha… Well, I literally LOL’ed when I saw the episode, I cringed so bad ^^ I wasn’t paying attention to the reactions of fellow female rappers during filming, so I am not too sure on that! Lol. However, I was very happy about my portrayal on the show, I mean who wouldn’t be? (We all know what SMTM is capable of in terms of editing haha). BUT I think it was a combination of great editing and very nice SMTM staff members ^^

About Tyno

Q: Where are you from?

A: I am from London, UK. I was born in South Korea, but moved to UK with my family when I was very young and have lived there up until now.

Q: Are you working or in school?

A: I graduated from University just before I came to Korea (around 2/3 years ago), and currently work as a teacher here in Korea.

Q: When did you start rapping?

A: I have had hip-hop music influences from a young age, but it’s only been 2 years since I have started rapping and writing my own lyrics.

Q: Do you have any upcoming singles or projects?

A: I have already released my first demo tape called “Rookie” via my Soundcloud and YouTube. The demo tape was my first attempt at recording so I really wanted to show my diversity, I did 5 tracks each with different feels and concepts. One of the tracks called “Still On My Grind” is actually the full track from my Round 3 battle with Ness on SMTM 6. Take a listen if you haven’t had a chance! I am also releasing 2 more single tracks this week with more of my own distinct colour.

Q: What is your motivation?

A: God, Family, Friends, Fans, Music.  

Q: Who is your favorite artist?

A: Skepta, Lethal Bizzle, Chris Brown, Tiger JK, Dok2, Jay Park to name a few!

Q: What is the motivation for your music?

A: My life experiences and definitely some of the British Grime artists out there! I look towards them for motivation and inspiration.

Q: Which Korean hip hop artist would you like to collaborate with, most?

A: Honestly, It would be great to collaborate with any of the hardworking Korean hip hop artists on the scene right now. From well-known to not so well-known, from similar music styles to completely different; I think that every experience will benefit me in some way or another. I believe that I still have a lot to learn and improve. Through collaborating with a lot of different artists, the experience can definitely help me grow as an artist myself and expand my knowledge. If any hip hop artists in Korea want to collaborate, hit me up! ^^

Q: Lastly say something to Mansae viewers and your new fans:

A: To Mansae viewers, thank you and I hope you had fun reading this! I had a lot of fun answering the questions and reflecting back to some of the SMTM 6 moments myself. To my new fans, I really appreciate all the support and the love!! It means a lot to me and gives me the energy to keep going! I will definitely bring out more polished and improved tracks in the near future, so hold tight all my fans! Thank you. ^^