Aspiring rapper wins award for music talents

An aspiring young music artist has been recognised with an award for his burgeoning talents.

Darmani Lewis started his music career less than a year ago when he began writing, recording and performing with his friends and brother.

“It’s a good way to express myself,” Darmani said. “If I’m feeling a feeling, I’ll just start writing down lyrics.”

The 17-year-old takes on extra jobs to fund his weekly studio sessions and saved enough money to produce his own music video.

Darmani, who goes by the stage name Binkz, said:

“My first solo song was a breakthrough moment. Everyone was like ‘yeah, you can rap’ and that was the moment I realised.

“It felt quite normal as everyone who is around me also raps so it’s just natural.”

After being nominated by mum Malita, Darmani has been awarded this year’s Young Performer of the Year Award, which recognises a young person who has displayed creative talents such as singing, dancing, rapping or acting.

The award forms part of the Live Our Best Live Awards – launched by Nottinghamshire Police in 2021 to shine a light on the inspiring work of young people across the county.

Describing the moment he was surprised with the award win by the force’s youth outreach team, Darmani said: “It’s a bit overwhelming to win, but I’m grateful. I’m happy that my mum nominated me.”

Looking to emulate his favourite British rap artists, including Central Cee, Digga D and Dave, Darmani said:

“I’ll make anything to be honest, drill, rap, grime – I can do it all. But rap is my favourite, I think it can relate to me the most.”

Malita Lewis, Darmani’s mum, said:

“He’s very talented, he’s only been doing music for less than a year so he’s quite new to this and I can see him going further with his career doing music.

“I’m so proud. It killed me not to tell him! He was moaning the whole journey here to this surprise. But I’m so happy for him and so proud to give him a little push with his music in the future.

“Darmani is constantly rapping in the house … it can be annoying, but I don’t mind it because it’s his hobby. His brother, grandma and I are his number one fans.”