Ez Mil: From Olongapo streets to global stardom
Ez Mil (Ezekiel Miller Sapiera) made the rounds on social media in 2021 with a video of him seamlessly rapping Panalo on the Wish USA Bus. It garnered millions of views within a few days, impressing Filipinos with his impeccable talent and starting his path to fame in the music industry.
More and more started to take notice of him, and two years later, that included rap legend Eminem, who signed the Filipino-American musician in his record label and collaborated with him on Realest in 2023 and Head Honcho in 2024.
To this day, the son of RockStar's Paul Sapiera continues to make a name of himself in the music scene. Earlier this year, he made it to Forbes' 30 under 30 Asia 2024 list.
A relatable star
Ez Mil may be enjoying global success now, but things did not come easy for the 26-year-old rapper.
His story is one that resonates with anyone who dares to dream big. It shows the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one's roots.
"Just like anyone who's an immigrant coming from a third-world country going to America, I guess I've faced some of the same struggles," he muses, acknowledging the challenges he encountered during his transition.
He did not let those setbacks define him. Instead, he channeled them into his music, infusing it with a potent mix of Filipino pride and a fierce determination to achieve his goals.
"I always strive to look back and see the core values that stuck with me growing up. And it always relates back to the Philippines," he shares.
This unwavering connection to his heritage is evident in his music—a powerful reminder that no matter where life takes you, your roots remain a vital part of your identity.
Pinoy pride (and Eminem’s, too!)
Ez Mil's success has not gone unnoticed in the Philippines, where his music has become a source of inspiration for a new generation of Filipino artists.
His fearless embrace of his Filipino identity has sparked a wave of young rappers who are proudly incorporating Tagalog lyrics and cultural references into their music, creating a fresh and vibrant sound that reflects the evolving landscape of Filipino hip-hop.
In 2023, Eminem signed Ez Mil to Shady Records after chancing upon the latter's Up Down (Step & Walk) music video on YouTube.
Home for Christmas
The Filipino-American rapper is set to bring his unique blend of Olongapo grit and global swagger to V1BE Manila this Dec. 3 at SM Mall of Asia Arena. He will be joined by several other artists.
There will also be a meet-and-greet session with him as well as SB19's Pablo and Hong Kong-born K-pop star Lucas.
As for what fans can expect from him at V1BE Manila, he teases: "Wait and see. Expect the unexpected."
Ez Mil's journey is a testament to the global reach of Filipino talent and the power of staying true to oneself.
He is not just a rapper; he's a cultural ambassador, carrying the spirit of the Philippines with him wherever he goes.
