In 2016, he released his own rap track, Dat Stick, online, instantly capturing the eye of 88rising. Fast-forward to the present, the 24-year-old has transformed from introverted small-town boy, to bona fide global icon.

He says that personal stories conveyed through music are the most important.

"The best way to unlock authenticity is to realize how unique and interesting your stories are," he says. In his song Yellow, Rich Brian sings about young people from Asia and immigrants from all over the world.

"I see myself and many others who, carrying hopes for a better future, embarked on the same journey across the sea to foreign lands. I want to tell kids from all around the world that no matter where you come from, and you can do it."