Toronto’s hip-hop scene continues to thrive, thanks to artists like N1N3 K9, who bring authenticity, lyrical depth, and an unwavering grind to the table.
With a career that spans from early childhood performances to sharing stages with hip-hop icons, N1N3 K9 has established himself as a force in the city’s rap circuit. His latest release, “Time Is Money,” is a high-energy anthem that speaks directly to those on their hustle, pushing forward despite life’s unpredictable turns.
While many tracks in hip-hop touch on the pursuit of wealth, N1N3 K9 takes a deeper approach, emphasizing the connection between time and financial security. The song isn’t just about stacking paper—it’s a reflection on the value of time, a resource far more precious than money. In his own words, the track serves as a reminder that while money flows in and out, time only moves forward, making it essential to use it wisely.
“Every moment not set aside for essential living and rest is an opportunity to attain financial stability for yourself, family, or other responsibilities,” he explains.
Rather than glorifying reckless spending or superficial wealth, N1N3 K9 urges listeners to be mindful of their grind, balance their ambition with self-worth, and ensure they are not overworking themselves for less than they deserve.
From the opening seconds, “Time Is Money” pulls you in with its commanding production, blending crisp percussion, booming 808s, and an infectious melody that fuels its motivational message. N1N3 K9’s sharp delivery and confident flow elevate the track, making it clear that he’s an artist who understands his sound and purpose. His cadence glides effortlessly over the beat, exuding the wisdom of a seasoned artist while maintaining the raw hunger of someone still striving for greatness.
With over 38K views and climbing, the official music video for “Time Is Money” is already making waves. The visuals match the song’s energy, bringing its core themes to life with striking imagery and dynamic storytelling.
Whether he’s delivering bars on the streets of Toronto or capturing moments of the daily hustle, the video embodies the universal grind that so many listeners relate to.
Your musical journey started at a very young age—what was the defining moment that made you realize hip-hop was your calling?
The defining moment that made me realize hip-hop was my calling was when I was 9 years old. I was surrounded by music, specifically hip-hop, from birth. 106 and Park on BET was one of my go-to shows as a kid, maybe when I wasn’t supposed to be watching lol. I knew all the words to most of the songs played. I would rap along while watching the music videos from Lil Bow Wow and 50 Cent with my Popz until he said to me, “you’re always rapping these people's music, we might as well make your own music”. After that moment, my love for the genre grew and im still in love with REAL Hip-Hop to this day.
You’ve shared the stage with legends like Nas and Busta Rhymes—what’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from being around industry heavyweights?
I give all the glory to God for blessing me with that opportunity to share the stage with both of those legendary artists back in 2005 at the Marc Ecko festival. What I grasped being around them, was to really just be my authentic self with my art and to always put my art first. Also to carry myself in a professional manner at all times, even when not working. Like my mom always told me “You only get one chance in life to make a first impression”. So seeing them, how they maneuvered and operated that day, I learned/observed a lot. I apply that to my everyday life because you never know who’s watching.
Beyond music, you also host ‘Tha Hotbox’ on Twitch. How does that platform allow you to connect with your audience in a way that music alone can’t?
Being on Twitch and creating “Tha Hotbox” is probably one of the greatest moves I have
made for myself as an artist,as a creative and socially. The love and organic growth that I
receive from everyone who rocks with what I do and tunes in, it warms my heart and reminds me that I’m not alone in my love for hip-hop. I love the community and value all of the relationships I’ve built as a result. Shoutout to my twitch family! LOVE YA’LL.
“Time Is Money” isn’t just about making money, but about valuing time—was there a specific life experience that inspired this message?
Absolutely! Before I ventured to the sometimes scary world of self-employment and running my own business, I worked for a Fortune 500 company that I felt, and noticed, didn’t value time and work ethic. Not to mention the compensation didn’t equal the actual work that was put in in order for them to grow as a company.
With “Time Is Money” trending and “Ahead of the Game” set to drop soon, how do these releases represent your growth as an artist, and what’s next for N1N3 K9?
These releases represent my growth as an artist because it’s my true authentic self coming through the music. Before I would make music to fit into what was popular, it never resonated with who I truly am, though, which is a “Golden Era” 90s hip-hop lover. As a creative, your art is a reflection of who you are, so now im unapologetically staying true to my roots and delivering the sound that I love and enjoy. I hope my audience feels my vibe and what I’m bringing to the table. What’s next for me? A LOT more music, dope visuals and consistency.