Basketballer to Beast on The Beat- Lov4Ant has the SKILLS.

It’s Saturday. Breezy and autumn enough to my liking. I sit and groove to the music in Kre8 Place, located in south St. Louis. In walks the quiet, stylish and enthusiastic Anthony Phiffer, better known as Lov4Ant. The 21 yr. old rapper is accompanied by his best friend and fellow rap artist, RJ Swish.

Lov4Ant initially grew up in East St. Louis, Illinois, moved to U-City, and attended Webster Groves school district. “That’s where I met RJ. We’ve known each other since the 2nd grade.” he says. “314 is all I know. We got the best. Imo’s, talent—-but we gotta stop killing each other.” he adds. RJ and I agreed. Ant’s favorite memories from those days were no other than his favorite sport, basketball. “Basketball for me was everything. I’m really laid back, but on the court, I’m a whole different me. Basketball helped to make me who I am.” says Ant. He and RJ played on the same team for Webster Groves High, bringing home the state championship in Ant’s freshman year. “That’s definitely one of my favorite memories.”

Fast forwarding to now, Lov4Ant is making noise in the rap and urban culture, locally and beyond. His debut singles, “Nah Fr” and “Mental Healing” was released in April 2023 on streaming platforms and is making waves in the local rap scene. His anticipated debut album, “Scary Season” is set to be released soon. “Music is like therapy for me. A way to get out of my head.” he says. “It’s my getaway. From others…and myself.” RJ adds. Lov4Ant says he draws inspiration from top artists such as Rod Wave, Lil Baby, and Gunna. Irony to his October birthday, he says his upcoming album is based on real life “scary experiences.” “My biggest inspiration aside from music is probably my dad.” RJ confesses with a slight smile. He says his dad kept him motivated and in a positive, inspiring atmosphere, always encouraging him to succeed.

Be The Motto:

Aside from music, Lov4Ant owns a clothing line, BTM (Be the Motto), and he along with RJ Swish host a podcast by the same name. “Be the Motto means to be yourself every day. Bringing community together with just being real. So, with the clothes, it’s in me and ON me.” Ant explains. RJ confirms that “it’s all about being your authentic self.”

Ant and Swish are currently focusing on perfecting their craft, making quality music and content. Lov4Ant anticipates leaving a legacy of raw talent and an impressive catalog. Shooting for the stars…the ball is in his court.

“When it gets hard, keep going, nothing is easy. Keep real people around you.” -Lov4Ant

IG: @lov4ant @rj_swish @bethemottopodcast