Think you know the Astronomical Kid from X Factor? Think again…The “kid” has grown up and what has emerged is Astro, a supremely talented lyricist and MC. We sat down with Astro in his hometown of Brooklyn to discuss his mixtape Starvin’ Like Marvin for a Cool J Song and his first ever appearance in the BET Hip Hop Awards Cypher. Astro spoke in depth about how much Brooklyn has influenced him and his sound, balancing school and his career, how he stays focused and motivated, his relationship with his mom, why authenticity in his music is so important to him and how he wants to be perceived as an artist NOW. He also blessed us with a premiere of a brand new verse. This is the story of Astro the young man.

Related: Astro – Starvin Like Marvin For A Cool J Song (Mixtape)