Local Artist with National Pull
Milwaukee rapper and producer Genesis Renji has been in the music industry for over 10 years, where he has accomplished many things. According to a press release, in 2018 he earned an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Achievement in Interactivity and the Edward R. Murrow Award for Innovation; in 2021 he received Radio Milwaukee’s Best Album Art award; and he holds credits with Nickelodeon, Mark Cuban Company, Queen Sugar, Bel-Air, and Adult Swim.
Genesis Renji recently released his latest album Kissing With Friends, which he has been working on for four years. He said he usually doesn’t spend that much time working on music, but this project took a lot of care and includes more live instruments then previous projects.
Kissing With Friends is about Genesis Renji’s relationship with relationships. Love and relationships are a common theme within his music, so this is right on brand with the Milwaukee artist.
“It’s just reminding myself I get better when I get vulnerable…and it’s healthier,” said Genesis Renji.
Kissing With Friends features 12 songs and will eventually be accompanied by a deluxe version.
To celebrate the album release, Genesis Renji is hosting Friends With Benefits, an exclusive concert experience featuring national artist TeaMarr and Milwaukee DJ, DJ Bizzon. Friends With Benefits will be held on on October 3, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. CST at Canni MKE in Milwaukee.
According to a press release, TeaMarrr is a Boston-born, Los Angeles-based Haitian-American R&B singer-songwriter that has earned recognition from NPR and has collaborated with Issa Rae’s RAEDIO label.
Putting His Best Forward
Sometimes, as people, we can get in our way because we want things to be perfect. Genesis Renji said he released Kissing With Friends this year because otherwise it might never have come out.
He started with 50 songs and chipped away at them over the fours years, until he was satisfied.
“My goal is to be the greatest artist I can be,” said Genesis Renji.
Genesis Renji is apart of the many Milwaukee artists who are not only adding to Milwaukee’s creative scene, but uplifting it as well.
“Milwaukee produces the best art but Milwaukee has to work a little harder to get that art seen,” he said.
To purchase a ticket to Friends With Benefits, click here.
Nyesha Stone founded Carvd N Stone in 2017 to cover positive news while attending the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Stone has a B.A. in Journalism. She has raised over $30,000 to award grants and scholarships. She has also been featured in ESSENCE and worked with the American Black Film Festival.
