Some rappers might think it is their destiny to be on the screen, but for Indianapolis-based rapper Donovan “Trajik” Short, opportunities to show off his acting chops were a genuine surprise. Known for songs such as “Traptown” and “In Due Time,” Trajik had his acting debut on season 5, episode 2 of “Empire.” In the episode, “Pray for Their Presumptions,” Trajik was a rapper playing a rapper, so he initially thought of his work on “Empire” as part of his music career and not the start of a new endeavor.
“I was thinking, ‘Yo, let me just get on “Empire.” It’s a music show. I make music. Let me get on here and rap,’” Trajik, 33, said. “You know what I’m saying? That’s what I was thinking at first, and then other roles started coming. Other stuff started being pitched to me where I’m not rapping.”
Even though Trajik, did not expect “Empire” to lead to more acting roles, he is still eagerly diving into the new medium. While Trajik appreciates the money and how acting helps introduce more people to his music, he also loves how exploring a new area expands his artistry. To Trajik, the creative processes of music and acting share similarities.
“It’s kind of one and the same, man,” Trajik said. “Just going through life. Obviously, acting you got to be able to pick your emotions out. It’s kind of like music. It’s just in a different form.”
One of Trajik’s latest acting gigs will be on the Fox show “Proven Innocent” that premieres on Feb. 15. The show follows a lawyer who spent 10 years in prison after being falsely accused of murder and now fights in the courtroom for others who have been falsely accused. Trajik said the story even possess educational value about the state of the justice system.
Trajik was tight lipped about which character he plays and any plot details. However, he did share that he will appear in the seventh episode, “Living and Dying in East Cleveland.” Trajik also teased that viewers should expect some action from his character.
Trajik’s new acting career does not mean he is foregoing rap. In fact, he is working on a new album, “Sleeping Giant” that will be available around the summer. Trajik said “Sleeping Giant,” referring to how he is now awake, will feature strong lyrics, his signature flow, incorporation of live instruments and “Midwest flavor with the bounce.”
Currently, Trajik feels blessed to be involved in entertainment during what he believes is a great time for the industry.
“There’s a lot of young Black brothers in this entertainment business, man, that’s stepping up to the plate and doing stuff just great for the culture, putting money back into the community,” Trajik said. “The business aspect right now is great. The creative aspect right now is great. I just feel like the industry is in the best position it’s ever been in right now.”
Contact staff writer Ben Lashar at 317-762-7848. Follow him on Twitter @BenjaminLashar.
