
1Lil Manu is an emerging independent Hip-hop artist based in Los Angeles, California. The talented young emcee split his formative years between Anaheim, California and Charlotte, North Carolina. Sadly, the tragic death of his older brother eventually brought the rapper back to the West Coast to stay.
Since moving to LA 1Lil Manu has been working on his personal and artistic growth. He made his first recorded appearance in February of this year on the ensemble track “Nobody” (featuring Tommy Keeyz and Makflaii). Now he is setting out on his own.
“Exodus” is the debut solo single from 1Lil Manu, released worldwide via all major streaming services on May 20, 2022. An acoustic guitar sample opens the track before the beat drops on a slow Trap groove. A subterranean bass rumbles the floor as Manu steps to the mic.
The rapper shows his North Carolina roots when he matches that West Coast jam with quick witted rhymes and a laid back flow. He riffs on the biblical theme of the title with clever rhymes like “I move like an Israelite,” and “…like Christ gave manna.” It brings to mind other cerebral Southern rappers like Ludacris and Andre 3000.
The “Exodus” video was shot atop a tall building. Manu performs with the LA skyline as his backdrop. It’s a great shot. Check it out below. You can also hear the song on the Deep Indie Beat playlist, or listen on your favorite streaming service.
We had the chance to chat with 1Lil Manu about the new single and all the music to come. Check out his answers to our 8 questions below. Follow the links at the end of this article to connect with 1Lil Manu. Get on his profiles and stay in the loop on all that is to come from this exciting new talent.
8 Questions with 1Lil Manu

Where are you from?
I’m from Anaheim California
How long have you been making music?
Since high school but I have been taking it serious for 2 years
Who are the musicians involved in your project?
It’s just me on the single
Who are your biggest musical influences?
Musical influences; Scorey, Nocap, SpotemGotem, Lil Mosey, playboy Carti and more
What is your greatest non-musical influence?
To help my family financially
What inspired you to create this project?
My day to day life and struggles , working 2 jobs, making music and trying to get out of poverty.
What are your plans for the future (musically)?
I would love to be signed and get funding for my album
Is there anything else you would like to say?
I also wanted to thank My brother Danny who passed away about 8 years ago, and my brother Tommy who motivates me and always believes in me.