TRURO – A former Truro resident is bucking the main stream East Coast music trend by sinking his lyrical teeth into hip-hop.
Joe Buck was raised in Truro but moved to the Halifax area at age 18 where he launched his rap career.
Tonight, the East Coast Music Awards nominated rapper and recording artist is returning to his roots to perform live for a hometown crowd at the Engine Room Pub, the first time in more than five years. 
“It’s pretty cool being back in Tru-town,” said Buck. “I’m a Truro boy.”
Buck’s interest in music began at an early age and was influenced by family members.
“My grandmother was a music teacher and my mom was an English teacher, so I was always surrounded by music and language,” said Buck.
In junior high the honesty of rap music reeled him into the fold, influenced by the beats of Mace, Biggie and Wu-Tang Clan.
From humble beginnings working as a DJ in metro clubs, Buck honed his rap skills and is now a veteran of the Halifax scene. He has played countless shows, opening for stars such as T-Pain, Necro and Joe Budden. 
“It’s a different art form,” said Buck. “We learned to make music out of things other people didn’t, like the turntable. It wasn’t an instrument, was an appliance.”
Buck will bring his smart lyrics loaded with enthusiasm and inspiration to the hometown audience on the first leg of a Maritime tour to promote his debut full-length album UP.
“It’s all about trying to move up in life, get better, go further, try harder,” said the rapper.
Buck will have albums and T-shirts for sale during the performance.

smartell@trurodaily.com