By: Richard Green
Darren Gregory Piper, professionally known as Optikz, has become an influential figure in the world of hip-hop. A rapper, singer, songwriter, mental health advocate, and entrepreneur, his journey from a skateboarding injury and spine surgery in his teens to a respected artist in both the Australian and Canadian hip-hop scenes is a testament to resilience. Born on February 21, 1983, in Cairns, Queensland, Australia, and later relocating to Guelph, Ontario, Canada, Optikz has managed to channel personal challenges into artistic expression, earning recognition across two countries.
As a teenager recovering from a skateboarding accident that left him with a broken, dislocated, and fractured right ankle, and later discovering a low back disorder, spondylolisthesis, that required major reconstructive spine surgery, Optikz found comfort and direction in hip-hop music. Influenced by local emcees like Noah 23, Baracuda 72, and Sharky, along with Canadian icons such as the Rascalz, Kardinal Offishall, Choclair, and Swollen Members, as well as American underground and mainstream artists like Dilated Peoples, Non Phixion, Bubba Sparxxx, Timbaland, Eminem, and Dr. Dre, he quickly immersed himself in cyphers and battle rap. Over time, he gained recognition in Guelph’s underground scene. His passion led to the formation of the rap group RCR and the co-founding of Royal City Records in 1999, which would become a significant stepping stone for his future.
Optikz’s solo career started to gain momentum after he left RCR. He launched Systematix Records and released his debut album Area Fifty One Nine Covert Ops in 2005. Following this, singles like “Coming From The Cold,” produced by Juno Award winner Classified, and “Rise Up,” produced by and featuring Juno Award winner Marcus Kane, helped cement his position in the Canadian hip-hop scene. His music also gained some airtime on top 40 radio and satellite stations, with his single “Let’s Stay Together” receiving notable attention and even reaching #1 on Galaxie Satellite Radio’s Max Trax The Beat for several weeks.
His career took a significant step forward in 2008 when the music video for his single “Break” was added to MuchMusic’s rotation. That same year, he founded Lions Heart Records and released his second album Focusin which included collaborations with notable figures like Juno Award nominee Manafest and GMA Dove Award winner Zamar. Optikz became more visible on larger stages, performing alongside recognized artists such as Grammy Award winner Nas, Juno Award winner K’naan, and Grammy Award nominee Elephant Man. He also earned recognition by being featured on the cover of ECHO Weekly magazine.
Optikz’s artistry continued to evolve throughout the years. His third album, Destiny, delved into deeper themes, with standout tracks such as “Roadside Fisherman” and “Small Town Kid.” He also ventured into commercial music, composing theme songs and jingles for businesses like Mark’s, Vegehut Bakery Ltd., and Arch. Optikz even created the official theme song “Go Gryphs Go” for the University of Guelph’s varsity teams, the Guelph Gryphons.
By 2018, Optikz had begun working on his debut studio extended play, The Optikz EP, at Metalworks Studios. This led to the release of reflective tracks such as “Love The Child In Me,” which earned recognition as an honorable mention in the 2023 International Songwriting Competition and the 2024 Unsigned Only Music Awards.
Optikz’s journey is one of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to his craft. From underground cyphers in Guelph to gaining airplay on national radio and performing at major events, he has emerged as a strong advocate for artistic integrity and personal perseverance, representing the spirit of hip-hop in both Australia and Canada.
Looking ahead to 2025, Optikz is preparing to release his powerful new single Champion on May 7, which carries an empowering message of resilience and triumph, resonating with his own life experiences. Following that, he plans to release Overnight Success, a highly anticipated single recorded at Grey Wall Sound and mixed by Grammy-nominated engineer Blake Eiseman, who is known for his work with prominent artists. The official release date for Overnight Success will be shared soon via Optikz’s website and social media platforms.
Follow Optikz and stream his music here:
https://linktr.ee/optikzofficial
Published by Jeremy S.
