B-Town Interview

B-TOWN

B-Town are a trio from Newcastle upon Tyne making major noise in their area! With regular shows booked and a hugely successful debut Mix-tape B-Town are destined to blow up in 2008. Work is already underway on the album and new Mix-tape. Working alongside Def Jam producer Devon, it surely won’t be long before everyone has heard of B-Town!

Give us a breakdown of who B-Town are and what they represent?

B-Town: B-Town is a group from Newcastle, Byker... there are 3 of us... Orkhan, eL and Gil... but Gil is currently away from music for a bit because he is doing football professionally, there was rumours that Gil got kicked out of B-Town... none of that is true, he is still in the group and he is in couple of tracks in our upcoming mix tape The Interview, we represent ourselves, Teknicions Network and Crunk. if it wasn’t for Crunk and Devon we wouldn’t be where we are right now, they helped us a lot!.

Your first Mix-tape release was a massive success in our area, did you expect it to sell so well?

B-Town: The mix-tape was more for promotion, to get our name out in our area. We recorded four tracks and pressed 200 CDs to get some money for studio time and to get our name out there. And we sold all 200 CD’s in just two days!.. We’ve sent emails out to our fans and to all the people that listen to our music and let people know that we would be in town selling the CD’s... and people came and bought the CD’s. The CD was £3! We are really happy with that, we didn’t expect to sell the CD’s that quick.

What projects are you currently working on?

B-Town: We currently working on our official mix tape called The Interview which is produced by Devon and co-produced by Orkhan, which is already recorded, but it’s just getting mixed and mastered. But we got couple of problems with our budget... we doing key fund to press the mix tape. The mix tape got a little bit for everyone, there is different styles on the mix tape... we doing something different on there! Hopefully it will be out soon, so watch out for that one... the Mix-tape is fire!

You get involved with Crunk a lot, would you say the Crunk event is your main stage with regards to getting your music out there?

B-Town: Crunk is the way forward! Our first ever performance was at Crunk... and all the young people in Crunk loved it! Now, whenever we perform at Crunk we always get love from the young people. If it wasn’t for Crunk, all the young kids out there in the North East that listen to hip hop wouldn’t know us. Crunk helped us with a lot of things and they still helping us with things we need.

What are your views on Hip Hop within Newcastle?

B-Town: You know... Newcastle got its own lil scene now! There are a lot of upcoming artists out there. We are 100% sure that Newcastle will blow up soon and the whole UK will know that Newcastle got talent as well. And there are some really good songs and mix tapes are getting made! There are artist like Silver, Toni Marie, Kriss P, Sas, KC2fresh, Pure Harmony, Young Rydaz are doing their thing in Middlesbrough. Supanice. There are a lot... watch out for all of them. We just need our local DJ’s to play the music that is from Newcastle, because most of music that is getting played in clubs is from USA, and some from London, we need people to support our scene, play our music on local radios. If we help each other then we can make it big.

You also like to produce your own music right Orkhan?

Orkhan: Yeah I do, I’ve produced our first Promo mix tape, and I co-produce on our upcoming Mix tape The Interview and produced two tracks on Crunk’s album “Out of Many We are One”. I’ve been producing for about two years now. Right now I do music production in Newcastle College. And I’m working on my own Promo Production CD to get my name out there as a producer too. Im working with people like Sas, Roozy, KC2Fresh, and hoping to work with many more.

What was it like working with Devon (Def Jam DJ)?

B-Town: Oohh man, it’s amazing, we’ve learned a lot from him! When we say a lot, we mean it... we really stepped our game up with Devon, he taught us a lot of things and taught Orkhan about production and he is still working with us and teaching us the things we don’t know, every second next to him is a learning process. Devon is a really clever guy, he is fast learner him self!. He is amazing at production and he is an amazing DJ. Look out for him, he’ll be a big producer / DJ in the UK and Worldwide.

Where do you aim to be in five years time?

B-Town: Obviously we want to get to the top and success in our music in the UK and worldwide. We do music cos we love it. So we hope to get our name out everywhere!

You are originally from Portugal and Azerbaijan right? Is there a big Hip Hop following over there? Do either of you return home much?

eL: Portugal got a big hip hop scene, there are a lot artists out there doing their thing in Portugal. And I try go home (Portugal) every summer.

Orkhan: In Azerbaijan the hip hop scene isn’t that big, but there are rappers out there doing their thing too and I haven’t been home for 6 years now.

You had a feature on the local news not so long ago, what was it like having your face out there for the region to see?

B-Town: It was really good, cos it’s a lot for us, it’s a great feeling because you know that there is people reading about you or listening to you or watching you. The more we get on papers, radio, TV then more people know about us.

Any Shout’s?

B-Town: We want to give shout out to our parents, to all Teknicions Network, Crunk and Crunkerz, to all of our friends and people that supported us and our music, and of course to people that listen and like our music, to our fans!

INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

http://www.britishhiphop.co.uk/

Add - 2 Interview

ADD- 2

Add-2 is an aspiring artist fresh from Chicago’s Southside, although still new to the game he has his mind focussed on the bigger picture and what he wants to achieve as an artist.
Not one to be boxed into a corner or labelled as an artist within a certain genre the MC keeps everything he does fresh new and individual to deliver quality music for the masses.

Add-2 really is an artist above them all and with individuality others can only dream of, not only being a rapper is what has shaped him into who he is today but also the fact that Add-2 is a playwright and one time motivational speaker. With that said it makes you want to go and hear his music and see what all the commotion is about surrounding this artist, I can tell you now you will not be disappointed.

There are many rappers out there that claim to be unique with their style and flow and a lot who demand the attention for this yet Add-2 takes it all in his stride, he knows how to be seen and heard and that is through sheer hard work and determination not claiming to be someone you are not.

We recently caught up with the Chicago native to find out more about the life of Add-2 and what we can expect from him over the months of 2008.

Tell our readers a bit about yourself?

What up, I’m Add-2 from the Southside of Chicago. I’m still kind of new on the scene but I been making a lot of moves with more stuff on the way as well.

Your musical style is very much your own, how would you best describe it?

My style is a blend of a lot of things. I try not to stay boxed in a particular style but I can definitely say its hip hop mixed with some elements of jazz. My flow is kind of hard to describe because it changes with the beat, it can be very rapid at times, but usually it’s lyrical.

You are also a motivational speaker right?

Not as much as I use to be. I’ve really slowed down since I started focusing more on rap because it was getting hard multi-tasking all these different hobbies of mine. I still enjoy public speaking I feel it gives people a chance to inspire others in a more direct way as opposed to putting a message in song, which they may or may not grasp. I would think about how Malcolm X, Huey Newton and Dr. King inspired people to strive for better not only in their own personal lives but also in their communities. I wanted to do the same cause it felt like I was watching my generation become lost within itself and I was seeing the same thing over and over. Senseless violence, drug dependence, teen pregnancy and the revolving door that we call jail. Our generation doesn’t have anyone to guide them or at least help motivate them to better themselves which is really important especially in the times we are living in now.

You had a serious accident as a child. Do you think experiences like that mould you into a stronger more focussed person?

Yea it makes you more appreciative towards life. As far as we know, you only live once so you have to live it to the fullest and not waste it. The surgery left a decent size scar on the left side of my head and when I was younger it made me self-conscious. So whenever I would go out with my friends or my parents I would get stared at and people of all ages would ask me ‘what’s wrong with your head?’ or ‘damn shorty, the barber really messed you up’ so it made me tougher cause when you’re young it hurts to be different and you just want acceptance but at the same time through that same pain with time comes strength and growth.

Did you always have a passion for music?

I have always loved music; everything I did was to music in some form or another. I listened to a little bit of everything from hip hop to old school, video game music to movie scores. To be honest though, I didn’t want to pursue music at all it never crossed my mind until I was in junior high and my best friend Jeremy would tell me to rap and I started getting real good at it then I started writing everyday which I kept up since my freshmen year in high school.

You take a lot of influence from the likes of Nas and Jay-Z but your music is so your own there must be influential artists out there in other music genres that you take note from?

Yea I’m inspired a lot by Stevie Wonder, I always wanted to be the hip hop version of him. His song writing ability has always amazed me and the simple fact that he can paint vivid pictures as well as create feelings and emotions in song was something I wanted to create with my music. I also like Terence Blanchard who uses to do a lot of the scores in Spike Lee movies. A lot of my songs have horns and elements of Jazz and God willing in the future I plan on adding more elements to my sound to create something real unique.

Tell us about being a playwright?

It’s a side hobby of mine that I’ve always kind of kept to myself. Not a lot of my fans know I write plays, short stories, scripts and storylines for sitcoms and things of that nature. I’ve been offered to put one on but as it was coming together it ran into some issues so it never came to be as we wanted it. I just always loved to write no matter what it was. Even though people have a tendency to look over theatre it’s still alive and is amazing to see.

Do you think there is a lot of diversity with regards to people’s style in Hip Hop today?

Naw not at all, to be real everybody sound like Wayne and a couple years ago everybody sounded like Jay. Now it’s like the subject matter and flow is so predictable. Maybe because I was coming up during the 94-2000 era of hip hop and I seen so many different styles at one time like Pharcyde, Biggie, Pac, Bone Thugs, Big Pun, Big L, Nas and De La Soul and Mos Def is maybe why I feel the way I feel. But back then the worst thing you could do is bite someone style now everyone does it and everyone’s cool with it, but that shit still wack to me.

What are your views on the Hip Hop world in general?

It’s grown for the good and for the bad cause in the process of growing we’ve lost some of the values we used to celebrate. Like we just said about diversity in style. It’s become more focused on money as opposed to making good music. It is beautiful that we are finally in a position where we can sell millions of records and receive the proper promotion but I would really like to see hip hop get that essence back that it had.

What projects are you currently working on?

Right now I’m in the process of finishing up the new mixtape ‘Tale Of Two’s City Vol. 2’ which is more less an album because it has only 3 industry instrumentals on it and everything else is original. We are definitely putting a lot of work into it and hopefully it gets a good response. I like to take my time with anything I do and make sure its done right. After that I may finish up the independent album "The Rise & Fall" and just continue to work on any other project that comes my way.

You have named your music, music for "everyday people." What do you mean by this?

Not everybody is pushing ki’s or got a lot of money. I choose to write about stuff I feel is more relatable by everybody as well as touch on certain things other people maybe overlooking. So I may rap about issues of a teen pregnancy then I may talk about partying or feelings of depression or acceptance because I want to make songs for every emotion and thought that mostly everybody has. I come from a place in Chicago where I felt like I seen the bad and I seen the good so it gives me a wide range to talk about.

You are also a poet right? Tell us about that venture?

Yea I started out doing poetry because I didn’t have any outlets for rap in high school. Every hip hop open mic was 21 and older so I would go to the open mic poetry spots and would try to adjust my raps to sound like poems. Some of them didn’t sound too good so I started writing poems specifically made for these open mics and it also helped me with my lyrics because at open mics the crowd is genuinely listening to what you are saying and not just the beat. I started getting better and better and that’s what actually led me to getting into public speaking. I was invited to do poetry at a lot of different spots in Chicago and I met a lot Def Poets. Chicago has a really really dope poetry scene.

What advice would you offer to someone out there trying to follow in the footsteps of someone like yourself?

Do what makes you happy, take what makes you unique and highlight it. Don’t follow the next man cause when what he’s doing aint cool no more you gotta find someone else to imitate and then when you want to be yourself it may be too late. Carve your own place. Make the music you want and let the money and shine come when God says its time, don’t force it. Don’t get caught up in what the industry wants or thinks because the real will respect you. Those who matter don’t mind and those who mind don’t matter.

Let the people know where they can find you online?

Always hit me up at www.myspace.com/add2. The new website is on its way soon. I’m pretty good at getting the emails/messages back.

Any final comments?

Check out the new blogs I’ll have with Yo! Raps. Shouts out to my crew the Rascals, Slot-A, Bullet, Vanysh, Jermel, Lottery, Gerald Walker, my homie Reg, Chuck, Pj, my brothers, Dan Solomito, DJ INC, Precise Minds, Kyle and Kris and everybody who keep telling me to keep pushing and of course any other emcee in Chi-City.

INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

http://www.yoraps.com/

Circle City Boy Interview

THE CLASSICAL M.O. RECORDS LTD

The hottest group to come out of Milton Keynes is Mixed Origin, with a unique sound and great lyrical content the groups frontman
'The Future' aka Circle City Boi decided to catch up with us for this exclusive interview.

First up, for those who are not familiar give us a breakdown of who Mixed Origin are?

Yeah, we're an independent entertainment company/group and we're quickly becoming pioneers of the urban scene in Milton Keynes.
We've got 3 members, myself The Future, Daniz and D-lux who is our producer.
As a trio we got our name out by performing at local events such as Music Live, Buddha Blue, Spice Lounge and Nexus where we opened shows for Asher D,
N-Dubz, L Man and Big Narstie.
We recently got in touch with a PR company called 'MK Vibe' who've organised shows at Xscape alongside D-Fam and Vigar & Diddy.
MK Vibe has provided us with regular media attention in newspapers, websites and radio interviews.

You have had quite a journey so far, what has been the biggest obstacle you have had to face and how did you overcome it?

Errr.....examples that i can think of is the fear of facing a crowd for the first time at a UK Unsigned competition outside our endz.
We overcame that by performing at open mic nights, showcases and festivals around the country which helped us gain confidence and experience.
The major obstacle for us is bridging the gap music wise between Milton Keynes and London.
There’s been times when we felt like people weren't taking us serious which felt kinda funny because we moved to Milton Keynes from North Weezy.
We're overcoming the issue by networking with London based artists and collaborating on mixtapes and doing shows etc.

What can we expect from Mixed Origin over the coming months?

Where shall I start....erm ok we're preparing to film and release our first video, we've also recorded our second single and at the moment we're getting the company myspace page reconstructed.
I'm also in contact with 3rd Lens Productions to get our official website designed and have plans to launch a clothing line.
I'm currently working on a mixtape titled 'Back to the Future Volume 1', theres a Radio One DJ who is interested in hosting it with a lineup of Channel U/Base & my very own Circle City artists set to feature.
WATCH THIS SPACE!

You are currently in the process of shooting the video for your “Thru the Front Door” track, how is that coming along?

We were put in a position where we had to change the director and film crew so that caused a delay, I can't give an exact release date right now but the preparation for filming is going well.
The new director for the video is our close friend Nacami of Stallionz Entertainment and filming will be done by 3rd Lens.
We've been in talks with Terry Stone who invited us to a pre-screening of 'Rise of the Footsoldier' who agreed to play the character of Andy White (Rollin' with the Nines) to create a trailer/continuation of the film.
In my opinion it's an excellent idea because we don't want music to be our bread and butter and i felt this could open doors for us in the T.V and film industry as well.

What are your views on the UK Hip Hop scene right now? There are some amazing artists making their voice heard, what makes you different?

On that note some artists that people consider amazing I feel aren't offering enough, they still don't touch the hearts of their audience.
I feel that we have to destroy and rebuild because everybody wants to call themselves an artist, I'm looking at some of these grime ediats and think to myself what’s artistic about saying 'I'll bring beef to your mums house', c'mon that’s just lame.
We need to raise our standards and really think about how UK music should sound so we can present it to listeners worldwide.
The artists I give props to are Asher D, Skinnyman, Craze 24, Mike GLC, Choong Fam, Kano and Sway.
I feel what makes us different as a group or even solo is that we are business minded whereas a lot of these wastemanz think hip hop is a joke or a way to incite unnecessary violence.
Mixed Origin aim to be role models for the youts and reach out to people from all ethnic backgrounds to encourage them to be forward thinking and set themselves goals and targets by using our style and class instead of unwanted preaching messages

There has long been an association between Hip Hop music and violence; do you think Hip Hop music is to blame for the high levels of violence within our society? Or is it simply an area to point blame?

I’d be lying if I said no & in some cases I believe the gang culture has been to blame for the loss of peoples loved ones especially this year...2007.
As a rapper I know what I'm saying on a track could influence people to do things they may regret later when there staring at four walls of a prison cell.
I understand hip hop is not just music anymore; it's a lifestyle so I think people within the music circle should think more carefully on what message and image they're putting out. This brings me back to Nasir Jones destroy and rebuild strategy where we need to make changes before more innocent children are killed for unjust reasons.
On the other hand hip hop is not the only reason for the increase in violence within our communities because the same argument could be raised about video games that are sold to underage kids, alcohol, films, drugs, life at home etc. I also believe the media are focusing too much on the negative effects of hip hop rather than the positive and it's causing a stereotype against people within the urban community.
I felt Kidulthood was an accurate account of what’s really going on in a young person’s life where we have been neglected and outlawed by society.
In conclusion people need to know the difference between lyrics and real life because most MC's are just releasing their anger and frustration on a track so that they don't have to do it in the real world.

Do you feel the UK offers our own artists enough support to succeed as a multi platinum selling MC?

Well I feel the UK has still got a way to go yet before we can be talking about multi-platinum status as people are still unconvinced about hip hop in this country and theres only a small percentage of people actually buying the music. Customer’s attitudes have changed and nowadays they'd rather download for free therefore it affects an artist’s sales and profit margins. So no I don't think the UK offers enough support to artists, it can be heartbreaking to know people would rather buy a 50 Cent CD over a UK artist just because it's glossy and sugar coated.
I feel MTV Base could do more for the scene by playing more UK hip hop/R'n'B during the day rather than leaving it till 2am in the morning when no-ones watching.
Also Channel U has been a great outlet but I feel it’s time to select the best and reject the rest.

Any shout’s?

Yeah I'd like to give a shout out to Daniz & D-Lux, Nacami, Sanchez, O.b, Zeddie, Zaheer Music, Andy Jones of MK Vibe, B-Kay & Kazz, Klassik,
Red Dragon, JMC, Sam Jenkins, Justice, Nemesis & Arrogance, Green, DJ Ames,
3rd Lens Productions, DJ Limelight, Terry Stone, Peeks, Origin's Media, My Sis Olivia, Auntie B, Cousins Jason, Jermaine & Paulie plus the rest of my family in Kingston, Jamaica. Big shoutout to Danielle Fear, nyce one!


INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

http://www.britishhiphop.co.uk/

Collect Interview

COLLECT

Give us a breakdown of who Collect is and what he stands for?

I’m a humble hard working man. I’m a leader, I’m a teacher, as well as a scholar. I’m into making good music. As a child I never wanted to be a rapper, I’ve always had a love for music, but I never thought that I would grow up to be a recording artist. I always wanted to grow up and run a record company. But now I’m into music from the business stand point as well as the artistic aspect.

You originally started rapping as part of a group called “Darringer” do you feel your time here helped form you into the artist you are today?

Absolutely, if it weren’t for the time that I spent as part of the group Darringer, there would be no Collect today. Like I said, I never wanted to make music. My cousin started rapping before I did. I used to help him come up with songs and lyrics. I’d tell him, “Yeah, that would sound clean if you said it like this.” It was then that I realized that I had a gift for writing lyrics. It took me a while to nail down my delivery though. I would make songs that had good lyrics but I didn’t know how to spit it right. As the youngest member of my label at that time, I spent a lot of time studying from the older cats around me. Everything was real. We weren’t just talking about selling drugs and carrying guns, we really were. That whole experience changed the course of my life. I love it!

Why did you change your name?

you were originally known as “Cash the Collector”
I decided to change my name because “Cash the Collector” sounded somewhat juvenile to me. I wanted a name that I could keep forever, something that I would grow out of. A name I could take with me around the world. Plus Cash the Collector sounded to similar to a lot of other rappers. So I dropped the “Cash the” and decided to rock with Collect.

Unlike a lot of rappers your musical calling came later in life, what was it that triggered the want to rap and succeed at it?

I’ve actually always had a love for music. As a child I played the Violin, Saxophone, and Clarinet. I always knew I would end up involved with music, I just didn’t think I would be rapping. Once I started making music, I kept challenging myself to make better music. I was never happy with my music because I knew I had way more potential, I just didn’t know how to tap into it. Now I’ve figured it out.

Your debut album “Blood, Sweat, Cry Later” was dropped by yourself right? Why did you never release it?

I don’t know, it was kind of weird. It was like…I had been rapping and making songs, But I didn’t really know how to create an album, as opposed to just 15 songs on a CD. So I didn’t think that it really represented what I was trying to be. I also had other technical issues with computers and hard drives, I lost the masters to the majority of the album and was forced to start over from scratch. I still have all of the old songs. I’ll probably release it on the Internet once I blow up, so my fans can see who I was before I became a star.

You have toured with some big names too right? Tell us about that?

Yes ma’am. I’ve toured with a lot of artists. I could sit here for 24 hours and tell you about all the different artist if toured with and worked with. But that will have to be the next interview. Lol. But yeah, I’ve worked with pretty much every major artist here in the US. Ciara, Lil jon, The Ying Yang Twins, Chris Brown, Lil Bow Wow, John Legend, Akon, I mean, I could literally sit here for an hour and tell you all the major artist I’ve worked with. Put it like this, pretty much the only people I’ve never worked with would be Jay-z and 50 Cent because they’re a little harder to get with. But its cool though, because a lot of times I have the chance to work with artists before anyone really knows who they are, or before they really blow up. I’m getting pretty good at knowing who’s going to be a mega star and who’s going to be a 1 hit wonder.

Tell us about the “Buffalo Soldier” release?

Buffalo Soldier, is crazy. The title of the album comes from the black slaves who were given the opportunity to fight for their country and ultimately fight for their freedom. That’s what this album means to me, it’s the fight for my freedom. Not so much as the vide of the album, but my mind state when recording it. I’ve got pretty much all the well-known artists from the Bay Area on my album, and the production is crazy. The crazy part is I’m still getting better. The artist I am today is only a shadow of the artist to come. I have a lot more that I want to do with my music. I’m on some revolutionary shit right now. In the future I plan to make music that’s more uplifting to my people, society and the world in general. Like a new age Bob Marley, I’m trying to pick up where Tupac left off.

You used to work in The Ambassador Lounge a club owned by E-40, what experiences did you gain from your time there?

Working at the Ambassadors Lounge was a good look for me. It gave me the ability to be in the limelight on a weekly basis. My T.V. show aired on the screens inside the club so I was always in there infront of a camera. Plus every major artist from all over the country would come through there on a weekly basis, so I was always seen with someone famous. A lot of people didn’t know me, they just knew whoever he is, he’s connected. I would always be there with whoever the weekly performer was. I’d be in VIP popping bottles and rubbing elbows. I’d say it was a pivotal point in my career

What was it like touring for the AND 1 Mix-tape 3 years running?

And 1 was another good look for me. Though I’ve stopped touring with them (This year was the first year that I didn’t do it) I think that And 1 is dope. Those guys are amazing athletes. I was able to get to know a lot of those guys personally. Those guys are shitting on a lot of the guys in the NBA they just play a different kind of game you know what I mean?

They say you are ahead of your time, do you feel you are ahead of the rest musically?

I’m not a cocky guy, but I’m not modest either. I’ve always been ahead of my time. I’m still not really making the music that I want to make. I’m making the music that people want to hear. But soon enough I will be making the music that I want to make and that’s when I’ll set my mark as a legend in this game God willing. Its crazy though because a lot of the music that is on Buffalo Soldier was actually recorded like 4 plus years ago. And it’s still current, that’s how I know that I make good music, because only timeless music last forever. I refuse to be a fad. I want to make music that people will still be listening to 25 years from now. So to answer your question yes I am ahead of my time.

Who influences your style?

I’ve had a lot of influences in my music. I listen to a lot of different music, from all different genres, I grew up listening to Snoop, E-40, Tupac, Bone Thugs N Harmony and Outkast. As I grew older I got really into Jay-Z, I think he’s a lyrical genius. As far as now a day’s. I make sure that I can swing in the same ring as Lil Wayne, Lupe Fiasco, and Kanye West (oh yea, and Nas). I think those guys are Dope, I cant wait to do a song with any one of them.

What other projects are you currently working on?

Right now, I’m trying to master the mixtape game. My goal is to be able to put out a mixtape every month with a different concept. This month is Lil Wayne, so I’m putting out a mixtape with songs full of all me and Lil Wayne. Next month will have a different concept.

Any Shout’s?

Shout out to the UK, and shout out to you for having me. I’m trying to get out there ASAP. Lets set something up.

Oh yea, shot out to all my myspace fans, anyone who reads this come holla at me. Myspace.com/therealcollect

INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

http://www.britishhiphop.co.uk/

DJ Ames Interview

DJ AMES

Who is DJ AMES?

DJ Ames is a hardworking mixtape DJ that wants to hear new music and enjoys getting new and talented artists the exposure they deserve. I’m also very honest which can not be a good thing as many people easily take offence to the truth.

Did you always want to be a DJ?

I’ve always loved music and loved the US mixtape scene but it wasn’t until I was 18 that I started to make things happen, that’s when I bought my first set of turn table and started building my vinyl collection.

What has been your most successful release to date?

I class everything I release as a success even if it doesn’t make me money I look at the promotion aspects overall. UK – US WE AINT PLAYIN it’s the one I’m most happy with as it’s a transatlantic projects putting both UK & US artists together one album. Which is something not many people will do.

So far who have you enjoyed working with the most?

I have worked with so many people that have been really cool so it’s hard to say, as there so many talented artists that come to me.

You must be sent hundreds of tracks from aspiring artists for your mix-tapes, do you use them all?

No I don’t use them all, I’m very picky. If people send me tracks that have been recorded poorly ill give them advice on what to do and tell them to email with me a better quality. I do try and show everyone love and use there tracks but sometimes with the amount I get it’s hard. I’m also a member of US based dj crew THE FLEET DJ’s so I get a lot f exclusive stuff from the major labels also. Ill get tracks that won’t be heard in the UK for another 6months which is always good to have.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

Hopefully in America as that’s where the mixtape game is buzzin. But we’ll see and ill take each day as it comes, I don’t like getting my hopes built up too much as it avoids disappoint. At the mo I’m still working 9 – 5 which funds all my projects so as long I’m earning money and doing music I’m happy.

Tell us one thing about you we would not know just by looking at you?

I’m more connected in the music industry than people think! (Not being big headed there just people take one look think you’re a no body and don’t give you the time of day)

Is it true you have completed over 100 mix-tapes since 2005?

That’s not true. I only started doing mix-tapes at the back end of December 06. I released my first album Raw Talent Vol 1 in August 2006 and then I did nothing for a few months.
In 2007 I’ve done over 70 mix-tapes and released my second album UK – US WE AINT PLAYIN. So let’s just say I’ve done a lot this year.

Everyone has someone they admire and look up to, who gives you inspiration?

Westwood is one person I’ve always looked up to he inspired me to get into DJ ing, but DJs like Green Lantern, Drama & Kay Slay are well established DJs in the mixtape game.

What can we expect from DJ AMES over the coming months?

More mix-tapes with major US artists and maybe a 3rd album in the summer but that’s T.B.C.

I plan to reach out a lot more so expect more interviews, magazine appearances etc.. I might even do clubs as well.

How can we contact you?

There’s the myspace which is http://www.myspace.com/djamesuk my website is under construction and that will be http://www.djamesuk.com/ when its done.

You can also email me directly at ukmixtapeking@gmail.com


Any shout’s?

Yeah loads lol

My parents first of all, they’ve been very supportive!

Klassik and all The Fleet DJ’s, Big Narstie, Maxwell D, Mad Sabre, 2Nice, cK-Ray, Sladey K, Donatella, Hunny B, Houston Boy, Dan (had to give the interviewer a big shout out), G (Frsh Ent), Will Kay, Spliss Designs, Shaan, Jacob, Nikkis Music Promotions, Stinga D & VC Crew, Nitro, Mel Gates, Downside, Donnie Cross, Grafh, Alfamega, FK, Sniper E, LATE & Tricksta of Wolftown Recordings and everyone that’s been on a mixtape or worked with me!! And finally..

R,I.P J Denzel you will be missed fam!!

INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

http://www.hip-hopkings.com/

Doughboy Interview

DOUGHBOY

Growing up in New York City and moving to Atlanta at an early age, it’s no wonder Doughboy has a sound very much his own. With the release of his first LP back in 2003, it was obvious recognized DJ’s would be calling him to work on projects. Both DJ Drama and Khaled mixed tracks and released mix-tapes with Doughboy, and the rest as they say is history.
What is music from the street, from the heart and soul of someone who has lived the life they have? We asked Doughboy to break it down. Its perfect timing to catch up with the lyrical genius and explore more into what the fans can expect from his next batch of projects.
So without further a due Yo! Raps brings you Doughboy, a sure legend in the making… watch this space people!

Having lived in both Brooklyn and Atlanta your musical style is ‘home-grown’, how would you personally define your musical style?

With me moving to Atlanta when I was 8 yrs old, there isn't much I remember about staying in NY. But with me having a brother that was 6 yrs older than me I grew up listening to a lot of NY rappers like Big Daddy Kane. So for me lyrics were important and with me growing up in the south and being on the streets I was able to put my life in words lyrically. So I would define my music style street but lyrical.

What was it like for you as a child growing up in Brooklyn and then moving south to Atlanta? It must have been a massive change for you?

Well, I was only in the 3rd grade when I got to Atlanta. So for me it wasn't a drastic change.

You released your first LP back in 2003, do you feel you have matured more as an artist since this release?

For sure! Back then I wasn't getting the kind of records that I'm getting now so I made the best of what I had. My music now has more emotion because I have been through a lot of shit since I released my first independent album.

Your LP is currently under construction, what can the fans expect from the finished master piece?

Real quality street music! The streets embrace rappers that are from the streets. In my opinion, the niggas that are getting on are probably from the streets, but that doesn't make you a great rapper. They make good music but I'm a street nigga with the GOD given talent to be able to rap. There is a difference.

You have had some fantastic producers working you such as Jazze Pha and Khao, how did this come about?

Well, I have known Jazze for years just knowing him from the clubs and me coming through studio’s. So I saw Jazze one night In a strip club in Atl (Club Onyx) and I told him that we needed to do a record for my album. He was like I got you. One week later we were in the studio and created a hit. The record is called "So Fly". I met Khao through a friend of mine named Pacaso who manages Khao so he put me in contact with him. We recorded three records for my album.

You released the first Volume of your Mixtape "Da Cookbook" with DJ Khaled. What response did you initially receive from this release?

Niggas kept asking me how the fuck did you get Khaled to do your mixtape and you don't even have a deal?! I heard that shit every day for 2 months straight! But when niggas got a chance to get over the fact that I did have Khaled on the tape, I got some great feedback. The streets love the mixtape! Big shouts to Khaled!

Volume 2 of the mixtape was mixed by DJ Drama, are there any plans to work with DJ Drama on future projects?

Yeah. Me and Drama most definitely be doing some business in the future. I loved the way Drama blended my tape and the energy he put on the tape. Big shout out to Drama, and the Apphiliates.

There is huge talent within Hip Hop right now, what makes you stand out against the others you are competing against?

I think what is going to make me stand out is the fact that I don't fit in one category of rap, I make music for everyone. And the fact that I am lyrical and can make songs. I have the record for when you’re balling in the club poppin bottles, but I also have the record for when you’re trying to figure out how the fuck you’re gonna pay the rent! I have records for my weight men who traffic blocks and make thousands off of a play, but I also have a record for that hustler who doesn't wanna trap all of his life and doesn't feel as if there is any hope. Trust me there is hope.

Do you feel there is enough support within Hip Hop for rising stars like yourself?

Yeah, I do. The fans embrace new artist as long as the feel as if they won’t be here today and gone tomorrow.

As I mentioned earlier Hip Hop really is packed with talent right now, who for you stands out musically right now?

Right now I would have to say Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, and Jeezy.

Of all the tracks you have recorded over the years which are you most proud of and why?

I'm proud of all of my music. The fact that I'm able to record music instead of being in the streets is the biggest obstacle that i have had to overcome. So every time I step in the booth I'm proud of myself.

Life has it's up's and it's down's but what for you has been the biggest obstacle you have had to overcome in life and how did you get through it?

The biggest obstacle for me was with my Dad dying in 2004. He supported me a lot with my music and loosing some one that you are close to will fuck you up bad. I'm still not over that.

There are many rappers out there who we all know rap about a life they have never lived, what is your take on this? You rap about your own life and experiences, are those that are rapping about a false life simply misleading their audience?

Hell yeah, they are misleading their audience. If you could do a background test on the rappers in the industry the fans would be upset!!! I'm not gonna say that they haven't hustled because I'm sure most rappers have touched something. But the quantity these niggas say the have sold, wow! Liars! Now I do believe that some of the rappers have done what they say they have done, but it’s not many in my opinion.

What plans do you have for 2008?

To come in the game and make noise! I have quality street music and 2008 is the time for the world to hear it.

Any shouts?

Big shout out to Nubreed Ent, PNM and MCG. Czar Ent., B.COX and all of my fans who have been supporting me... Free my brother Conrad, free my nigga Pyscho J and my nigga ZOE.

INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

http://www.yoraps.com/

Sic Osyrus Interview

SIC OSYRUS

Few rappers branch out further than their own nation at an early stage in their career yet Philly born rapper Sic Osyrus is doing just that! With mixtape features in the UK and France as well as his native America this rapper is most definitely one to watch for in 2008.
Taking influence from the late great Tupac Shakur amongst others and with nothing more than the desire to show his son a positive way in life it is easy to see why Sic Osyrus is making noise and getting the people interested.
Defining his musical style as "if my skin could talk" I’m sure we now have your attention! So sit back, relax and take in the inspirational words of a rising star as Yo! Raps brings you Sic Osyrus.

For those unfamiliar give us a breakdown of who Sic Osyrus actually is?

Sic Osyrus is a starving artist out hear to make his mark on the music world, I'm looking to bring real experiences and life's untimely struggles to the forefront.

Tell us about your recent release "Just Heat Part 2" that you hosted for DJ Ophax. What response have you been getting?

Response has been great; you can actually download it at www.myspace.com/sicosyrus1. My overseas DJ's have been supporting my movement heavy. I'm also hosting DJ Bedtyme357's (Remy Ma's and my DJ) "Concealed Weapons Pt 2" and DJ 1 Mic's "Get Down Or Lay Down" which is an all Philly mixtape, and then my mixtape comes mid February, the follow up to my critically acclaimed "Sic-O-Nomics". I was on over 30 mixtapes in 2007, at least that I know about.

Was music something you always wished to be involved in?

Definitely, but I didn't get real serious with it until after my cousin UN passed, and then after I got locked and came home, my team Inasirkl had me running out the gate, 2007 has been an incredible year honestly.

You were nominated at this year 2007 UMA's for Best Male Rap, that is a huge accomplishment for any artist but what does it mean on a personal level for you?

It’s actually very humbling; when someone recognizes your talents on a level like that you can’t help be humbled. It was a great way to expose my brand and for us to get the internet convinced of the Sic Osyrus and Inasirkl Music Group movements.

There is immense talent right now within Hip Hop, what sets you apart from your competitors?

Well first of let me say I don't try to be different or set myself apart, I just do me, because at the end of the day no one is better at being me, than me. What makes me accelerate is my passion for making music and performing as well as having my team support me while my vision is carried out.

You were born and raised in Philly and openly admit you had a difficult childhood, do you think the experiences you had at a young age have shaped you into the Man you are today?

I would be lying if I said they didn't. Everywhere I have been, every single experience that has affected my life has affected me musically. Some call my music 'Pain' music; because Pain is the only emotion you cannot fake. That is something people must respect.

Everyone has an influence in their lives and people they look up to, who gives you inspiration?

Living a life where I don't have to do anything illegal to stay above the water is what inspires me. Living another day, spitting another verse, not getting swallowed up by the system, those are the things that inspire me. Providing a safe environment for my son. You can’t have anything inspire you more than that.

With such a busy lifestyle how do you ever find time to just kick back and relax?

We really just started, all of what we have done really took place in 2007, I was locked for almost a year and a half so we built the foundations late 2006 but all the press, collabs, music, mix-tapes, awards, shows and travels came in 2007. 2008 is going to be there year that is considered the pay off. I’m not concerned with sitting back and relaxing, I want this too bad to kick back. While I sleep, someone else is trying to take my spot, and that isn’t going to happen.

How would you define your musical style?

I would define it as if my skin could talk. If I experienced it and would Tattoo myself with its words, then I lived it and can communicate it. I just do me.

You have featured on Mix-tapes by the UK's DJ Ames, how did that link come to surface?

My team has the internet going crazy, big shouts to Franchyze and Swirv. Ames caught wind of the music and been on Vol. 10, 11 and 19 of his UK to US series, and we definitely plan on doing some things in 08 together. Big shout to DJ Pimp too in France and Germany.

To date which track from your back catalogue do you believe shows you at your truest form?

Man they all have a special place and represent who I am in a well rounded form. I can’t just pick one. But if you want to know me through my music then download the mixtape at www.myspace.com/sicosyrus1 and you can find out everything you would need to know.

If given the opportunity who would you most like to work with and why?

Probably Tupac because I feel we both show extreme passion for our love of music, but realistically I would love to work with some of the people who I looked up to on the way here like KRS-One and Redman because of what they represented and brought to the game.

Where do you see yourself being in 3 years time?

Hopefully alive and living my dream.

Do you feel there is enough support within Hip Hop for up and coming artists like yourself?

Absolutely, but I think it’s within each of us to prove ourselves first. The days of the demos are gone. Labels want to see me stand on my own two first. Plus I got a surprise for them when they come for me.

Got any shout out's?

Most definitely man, shouts the whole Inasirkl Music Group, J. Hatch, Drawzilla, Franchyze, Bedtyme357, Al Bundles, Swirv, Khadeija, Priscilya, Dejha B, Tammy Feliciano, Don Di Napoli, Ariel, as well as my Decepts, Hook, can´t forget Reem, Nice, TFL, Apple, the rest you already know!

INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

http://www.yoraps.com/

Aaron James Cashell Interview

AARON JAMES CASHELL

Born and raised in the North East of England Aaron James Cashell is one of my home town’s biggest rising R n B artists.
With music sincerely from the heart and a perfect attitude to put his best into every track he releases it’s only right he got some spot light this month at British Hip Hop.
So enjoy this interview, Aaron is definitely an artist to watch out for in 2008!


How long have you been pursuing your musical gift?

Well been singing since I was a kid so guess been wanting to have as a profession since I was young but now I am confident in talents to be success and hopefully my music will connect with people in a positive way.

Your dad was a boxer yeah? What was that like for you as a child? Did he not want you
to follow in his footsteps?

Me, box never (laughs) No my dad is tough from a young age he show me & my sister how to look after ourselves and I do actually box to keep fit and do the whole sparing too so if you see me with a black eye you know where I have got it from (laughs) but my dad has always supported what I wanted to do and he loves my music so he is happy with the career I have taken.

Of all the tracks you have recorded to date which is the most meaningful to your self and why?

my most meaningful track is PEACE which I have taking off my myspace, so I can rerecord it as its a few years old now, well peace means a lot to me as its about my parents break up, when they argued I used to sit in my bed room and turn my music it, I think I was listening to maxwell when I started to write the lyrics to it. I personally think its my best track too!

Is there an album planned?

Yeah the album is half way finished with me doing the whole prpmo tour thing I have had less time in the studio but with xmas around the corner we needed to get a move on so currently in the studio now.....FINGERS CROSSED it will be done for January 28th

You have your own street team yeah? How did you put that together and give us a break down of what it is a street team actually do?

I am still sorting my street team out now so if your’e interested GET AT ME (laughs) well
I am looking to release my first single in mid January 2008 so preparing now.
What a street team does is hit the street handing flyers about your up and coming
Releases, concerts & PA's basically what every you do they will inform people of it so to me they are a big part of a artist success.

Now you like my self are from the North of England, do you feel there is enough support where we are for aspiring artists like yourself?

I think there is as Newcastle ain’t the biggest scene for R&B music, I have found alot of support for my music which I am very very thankful for, Newcastle fans are loyal.

You recently took a trip to Dubai that was music related right? Did you make any progress?

Yeah dubai was a great trip we done the radio promo over there and I am the fastest CD/Poster giveaway artist they have had this year with in two minute the CD's were gone, apparently It took robbie williams a hour to get rid of his stuff, so I feel really proud about the success I had there, I will be back to dubai hopefully soon I meet a lot of decent people there and the country is so stunning,

Your music is very soulful and truly heartfelt, where do you get the inspiration for your tracks?

You know what my dad asks me that all the time and I really don’t know I just start singing and words just come (laughs) but I do seem to write about my past relationships and family etc my track "Dwell" is about one of my ex girl friends.

What can the fans expect from AARON JAMES CASHELL in 2008?

2008 you will see my first single "YouMe" drop in january and hopefully if I work hard enough we will see a long successful career form (laughs)

Any shout’s?

Yeah BIG SHOUT TO ALL MY SUPPORTERS AND FANS FOR THERE SUPPORT AND I HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL AT MY SHOWS NEXT YEAR...THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU X

INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

http://www.britishhiphop.co.uk/

Will Trax Interview

WILL TRAX

Hailing from NYC the home of HIP HOP, competition must be fierce, how did you manage to climb the ladder so quick?

I have been able to climb the ladder in the Hip Hop game pretty rapidly by making good music, staying active in the studio, and keeping the confidence in myself that my work is relevant. It's really about putting the hard work and effort behind my life long dream of making hit music.
Tell us about your single “one,two,three” it has been receiving air play worldwide yeah?
I made the single One,Two, Three for the ladies! It was about giving them a song they could feel good about, and showing them love and respect.

Your track is also the official theme for the Harlem Wizards, how did you manage to get this link?

I was able to do the official theme song for the Harlem wizards, because my partners in Black Butta Entertainment Jamel Thompson and Eric Jones serve as the MC and showman for the team. The owner heard my music and asked me to put it together, and the rest is history.

As we know HIP HOP was born in New York, who of your fellow New York rappers has inspired you the most?

Some of the New York Rappers that inspired me were KRS 1, Jay-Z, Notorious B.I.G, and LL Cool J. All of these artist made a major impact on the hip hop game, and they all consistently put out good music. I feel the mark of a great MC is to be able to make relevant music, be able to rock shows, and of course sell records.

Tell us about your previous CD releases?

My latest release was a mix CD called United We Stand Indicted we fall. That CD was my wake up call to the hood. The title is self explanatory, If we unite we stand tall, if we fall to the negativity that exists in our society, we will become victims to the system.

Do you have an album planned for 2008?

Well I have enough material for 6 albums, and I am still recording daily. My management team and I are just looking for the right situation to put out my music.

How would you define your musical style to those who have not yet heard your music?

My musical style can definitely be described as feel good music. I want to make the music that you can listen to on your ipod at home, work out with at the gym, or dance to at the club. Its definitely about being well rounded and appealing to a broad audience.

Is it true you have worked with Funk Master Flex in the past? And he recently gave you props for the “one, two, three” single?

I have known Flex for a long time, but it was just recently that we connected in the Bronx and really got to know each other personally. He took a liking to me and my music, and was the 1st one to play my single on the radio. Much love to Flex for showing me that kind of support.

What else can the fans expect from “Will Traxx” over the coming months?

You can expect more good music, plenty of live shows and appearances, God willing an Album release in 08.

Any shout’s?

First and foremost I want to shout out my daughter Paige, I love you. Big shout outs go to my team Black Butta Entertainment for their support and work they have put in on this project. Special thanks goes out to all the DJ's playing my song in the Club and on the radio. I definitely have to shout out my thorough Bourough The Bronx, BX Stand up! To all my fans you can down load my song on my mypsace page for .99c at www.myspace.com/traxxstarrblvd.

INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

www.britishhiphop.co.uk

Blaze Interview

BLAZE

Fresh off the streets of Cleveland Ohio we bring you Kev Blaze. Recently hailed as the King of street R’n’B and with a successful album to his name the young singer is keen to let the world know who he is, and rightly so.
Signed to Imperial Records out of New York City, I decided the time was right to catch up with the underground sensation and discover more about the man himself.


First of all give us a break down of who Blaze is and what sets you apart from the other talented R’n’B artists out there?

Thank You for the opportunity to speak. I am a singers/songwriter/producer of urban music. I started in music at a young age in church, and expanded into songwriting before actually becoming an artist myself., I grew up around music, my uncle is Beloyd Taylor from Earth Wind and Fire.
I think my sound sets me apart. No one has been able to bring the streets to R n B since Curtis Mayfield and Bobby Womack in the 70’s. Most
R n B songs are about love and relationships, mine focus on the struggles of life. Unlike many artists though, I try to keep things positive and uplifting. I want to make music that makes people feel good. Also, I think my sound bridges the gap between hip hop and R n B.


You had huge success with your first album “Smoke n Blaze” for those who have not heard the album give us some insight into its content?

“Smoke N Blaze” is actually my upcoming release. It’s filled with tracks about my personal struggle of getting a record deal, falling into the temptations that come with success and ultimately realizing that material things are not what matters – your family and friends are most important. The album, through the songs, shows really the range of emotions many artists go through as they move forward in their careers. The tracks tell the real story of my life as I have moved along in my music career. I called the album “Smoke N Blaze because most of what you see (money, cars, jewels) I see as smoke – when the smoke clears the real Blaze is what’s left (you, your family and your loved ones).


Your uncle was a member of the world famous group Earth, Wind and Fire, was he an inspiration to you as a child?

He was and still is. He comes out and supports me when I perform live. He’s really been the one to help me see that attaining success in music is possible. He also is the one who pushed me to be a strong songwriter, since he is best known for writing “Getaway” amongst other tracks while with Earth, Wind and Fire.


Both of your parents were ministers so you must have spent a lot of time in Church, you are dubbed as a True Preachers Kid. Did the time in church help you to define the style of music we have come to know from you?

It did, but probably not in the way you would think. In my attempt to rebel against my parents, I ran the streets with friends. Eventually, the shooting death of a close friend pushed me to leave that life behind and focus heavily on music. Many of the experiences from then are played out on my album on tracks like “Rep My Hood” and “Prankstas”


Your track “Watch how I do this” features the legendary Krayzie Bone of Bone Thugs n Harmony. How did this link come to surface?

My manager, Blue, put it together. We sent Krayzie the track, and within days he laid his verse. It was really exciting for me because we’re both from Cleveland. Krayzie is a guy I’ve always looked up to. It was great that he liked the track and really brought his “A” game to it.


Your album is that of a lyrical story, each song telling something different about you and your life, which track off the album would you say is the most reflective of you as a person?

“Blaze”, for sure. It’s the first track on my album. That’s the guy I really am. Hungry and confident, without being arrogant, determined to be successful.


What are your plans for the coming months? Is there another album in the midst?

Smoke N Blaze will be out top of 2008. Until then I am doing promotions, and live performances leading up to it’s release. I am also in the studio working on tracks for a very talented and up and coming pop singer, Aubrey Cardilino – she is featured on the track “Don’t Mean A Thing” on my album.

Contact Info?
http://www.blazesings.com/

INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

www.britishhiphop.co.uk

Ms Re' Interview

MS RE'

Tell us about MS RE’?

Ms. Re’ is every woman - I’m a mother, sister, friend, cousin. Ms. Re’ represents strength, perseverance, and truth. Ms. Re’ loves both life and music and fuses them together for herself and others. Ms. Re’ is the epitome of survival.......Ms. Re’ is “Da Boss Baby”......... Whoa!! I like that!! LOL

How do you manage to juggle motherhood and music?

I manage motherhood and music by combining them. I find ways to involve my children in my business, as my family did. I’m a multi-tasker by nature. Besides, I don’t have an option... I just DO IT!

Besides music what else keeps you busy?

Since I’m almost a one woman army over at Boss Baby Entertainment, “Music” is inclusive of writing, recording, mixing, video editing, marketing, promotions, performing – you name it. Besides music, of course, there’s family. I’m very family oriented and I spend as much time possible staying connected to family and friends.

Have you found it difficult to progress and succeed in this industry?

It is predominantly male after all and although there are many female artists out there the men still seem to dominate the airwaves.
It has been extremely difficult to progress in this industry. This industry is dominated by men and their money or desire of. Going against the grain will always be difficult.

Success is a matter of perception...my biggest obstacles to success are my own insecurities and personal limitations......but I’m knocking those out daily!! I’m successful everyday that I don’t have to go to someone else’s job for money – I’m living my dream and loving it!!!

Do you have a strong team behind you?

I have a sincere, talented, RESOURCEFUL team behind me. I’m small staffed, but I believe in them even more than they believe in me. I’ve been blessed with some of the most talented people you haven’t heard of yet.....but we’re going places!!!

Your current single “Walk Like A Model” is a great ladies anthem, what reaction have you been getting from this track?

Walk Like A Model has been crazy. I’ve been able to break many barriers with this track. Racial, cultural, social, and geographical – this one could be the one. I am in awe of the overseas response.

Your first Mix-tape release “Street Sweeper” was a huge street success, what can we expect from the next Mix-tape?

“Da Street Sweeper” set the tone on the streets for me. “Da Sequel” is more of the same - real life stories, club bangers, dat street heat. I’ve challenged myself this go around to sing a few of the hooks and broaden my track selection. I tried to round it out to show my fans that there’s alot more to me. I want to maintain my fan base and earn new fans with each release – so I gotta keep it coming.

When is the album?

The album is slated for a Spring 2008 release. I’m working on the demand for it by getting the streets behind me with the mixtapes and keeping the club/radio singles coming. The album is my heart and soul – it’s the real. Very diverse, something for everyone.
Tell us something about you we would not know just by looking at you?
I grew up funny looking and chubby. LOL

Tell us about B.B.E. TV?

BBE TV is my internet TV show. I broadcast a little of everything there. Thanks to the internet and Youtube, I don’t have to be rich or well connected to let people around the world know what’s going on in mine. I use it as a resource to promote myself and other artists or noteworthy events and businesses. I’ve gotten a great response. There’s even talk of me getting my own local show. Tune in: www.youtube.com/bossbabyenttv


You have been nominated for an award at the 2008 SEA’s how does that feel?

The Southern Entertainment Award (SEA) nomination makes me feel like I’m up for a Grammy!!! Real Talk. I’m so honoured and humbled. “Da Street Sweeper” was my first independent release and for it to put me in the ranks with Gangsta Boo, La Chat and a handful of other talented, due-paying females in the game.... I’m so grateful. It is definitely motivation to keep going and that confirmation that my music is appreciated.

How would you define your style?

Original. Unique. My style is MINE!!! With the game so oversaturated, it’s hard to find anything genuine these days. I’ve always had my own swag – I’m not like anyone I know. My music is no different. For every mood I have (and that’s MANY) I’ve got at least one song to match....LOL

As you know this interview will go out within the UK, how familiar are you with UK Hip Hop? You know the style is very different to the USA.

I am not that familiar with any artist in particular in the UK. I do understand that in the culture (hip hop) is very different – especially the Southern hip hop culture. UK artists seem to have embraced alot of the lyricism and passion hip hop came with. And of course, being from the South (US), we got our own thang..... I am humbled to have fans so far away from home..... much love y’all!!

Any Shout’s?

First shout to YOU for giving me the opportunity! What up Dani.......INTERNATIONAL BABY, INTERNATIONAL!!! Much love to the entire Boss Baby family. Special Shout Out to Tom, Myspace is the bizness!!!



INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

www.britishhiphop.co.uk

Lady Saw Interview

LADY SAW

Born and raised in Jamaica Lady Saw has a career spanning numerous years.
With a unique flow and tracks that are literally fire the Reggae star is bound to hit big time with her newest release.
Featuring addictive tracks like “Chat to Mi Back” and “Walk Out” I recommend everyone check her out!
I caught up with the Star just last week to get a breakdown of what’s new in her world and to see how the Australian tour has been going.

You were born and raised in Jamaica, give us a run down of what lifewas like for you growing up?

Growing up in Jamaica in my district of Gallina was wonderful but thenwe moved away to Kingston and that was the worst part of my life. Dontneed to go into details but ghetto life wasn't for me. How old where you when you first realised your musical talent?At the age of 13-14 when I was in church, I reaslised that I loved tosing and people would tell me I sounded real good. Outside of church Iwould make up songs and remember the words and sing them over and overagain. From there I was fascintaed with the dancehall scenen andstarted to record music and take the mic in dances and literally clashwith men, hence I got the name Lady Saw, cut I would cut the men up onthe mic.

Had music always been something you wanted to pursue?

Yes, even from young age.

You released your first LP back in 1994, did you ever expect that release was the beginning of a brilliant musical venture?

Yes, but even at that time I never imagined I would eventually win agrammy (for my collabo with No Doubt) or travel to so many counrtiesaround the world.

How do you feel you have developed as an artist over the years?

When I first came out I was a singer, but I noticed it wasn't gettingme big recognition. Once I started singing very slack with sexuallyrics then I really bust big. If you listen to al of my albums younotice that even with the explicit lyrics I still have a soft sidewhen I sing, my music has become more personal over the years aswell.

Your style is very much your own and you lyrically bring heat everytrack! If you were asked however, how would you define your musicalstyle?

My stlye ranges from raw and hardcore dancehall to gospel, soit has a range that can't be summed up into one. The track "Chat To Mi Back" has been a huge hit!

Give us a breakdown of what the track is about?

It's a bad gyal song, instead of gettingphysical with a girl and fighting it's like saying chat to the hand...but in this case to mi back. It says that I am not one to be messedwith so we can still take it there, LOL...

You have worked with some big names during your career, who has been the most interesting person you have worked with since you first started out back in the day?

Although I have worked with people like Foxy Brown, No Doubt, MissyElliott and Funkmaster Flex the most interesting artists I have everworked with is the people we are on tour with right now. They are outof Australia, the Lilypond crew... They really know how to party and have fun and have exotic costumes and a real wild vibe.

Having been in the music industry for over 10 years now you have vastexperience and knowledge of who's hot and who's not, who are you rocking to right now?

I listen to everything and have a love for allgenres of music, I like Alicia Keys and mostly R & B. I also listen tomy own music most of the time, I have a new song on the Truck Backlabel on the Gear Box riddim called Lord Lord Lord and while on tourit gives me a lot of inspiration.

You also do song production right?

Yes, I have my own label calledHalls Production and have released riddims.

Right now you are slap bang in the middle of an Australia Tour, how's that going for you?

Have you been getting a good response?

It's going real good, Australia is a beautiful place and the people weare touring with are a lot of fun. As for the fans, the response hasbeen overwhelming. There are long time fans that know all my songs andare very familiar with my music and fans that never heard me beforebut still come out and enjoy my performance. They have an overallappreciation for music and live performances so even if they don'tknow of me they still just dance and party while I am working.

Do you have any other tours planned?

There are spot dates all over from Guyana in May to St Thomas inAugust that have been confirmed and more in between but as for longtours like this maybe something is in the works.

What can the fans expect from LADY SAW in 2008?

Well, I have been consistent over the span of my career so fans canexpect some more raw tunes and also some singing but I really want tohave a baby now so who knows, the sky is my limit.

Any Shout's?

To all my fans and friends all over the world thatsupport me and send me love. To my family in Jamaica and abroad, andfor anyone that wants to link me, I have a myspace page that I checkwhen I can... myspace.com/ladysaw.

INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

www.britishhiphop.co.uk

DJ Smallz Interview

DJ SMALLZ

DJ Smallz is undoubtedly one of the hottest DJ’s on the planet right now, with a string of successful mixtapes under his belt and various other business ventures keeping him busy we decided it was time to catch up with the Japan born DJ to see what has been happening over the last 12 months.


Hey Smallz, thanks for taking the time out to do this interview with us, let me get right to it and ask how did the DJ Smallz/ Southern Smoke brand get to the status it is at?

Well my head was really into school. I got a scholarship to collegeand everything. I was DJin' as a hobby ever since middle school and Iwas ready to get my club game poppin in high school. The firstsouthern smoke CD was really a demo for me to get into clubs. It wasthe hottest southern music put together, mixed by me. People passedthe CD around in high school and clubs, word of mouth spread and onething led to another. That's how the southern smoke movement reallybegan.

You work hard and constantly push out new Mixtapes, what is the biggest accomplishment of your career so far?

Touring overseas and really getting a chance to see my fans up close.Last year i DJ'd parties in Canada, Germany, Japan & Switzerland andit was crazy! I just came back from Japan as a matter of fact, i did4 shows there over labor day weekend. Wait until you see the footagewe got for Southern Smoke TV that will be debuting on our YouTubechannel next month (SouthernSmokeTV.com). It's the 2nd time I went ontour in Japan... I was there last summer for several shows in Tokyo.This year I went over there and smashed shows in four major cities inJapan --- Osaka, Tokyo, Fukouka and Okinawa. "It's Southern Smoke youbastards!!!"

Tell us about the College Tour CD, I hear you are pressing up 25,000 just to give away?

Yes, the first annual Southern Smoke College Tour is incredible.We're hitting up 9 major homecomings throughout the South, primarilyin Florida and we are adding on more dates as we speak. It's the firststreet brand with its own tour, and its been in the planning stagesfor the last 9 months. We are breaking artists on every tour date!Flo-Rida (Poe Boy/Atlantic), Kinfolk Kia Shine (Universal Records) andFoxx (Trill Ent/Asylum) are the headlining acts this year, and it'shosted by Delicious & Tango (of "Flavor of Love" & "I Love NY" on VH1)as well as the cast of "College Hill" from BET last season. Inaddition to breaking new artists on the tour, we are also breaking newtalent with 25,000 cds i put together just to give away! I startedthe contest a month ago and received hundreds and hundreds of songsfrom new talent across the South. Throughout this overwhelmingprocess we found 20 records we are really excited about! You candownload the Tour CD for free on djsmallz.com october 20th.

You have had the benefit of working with some of today’s hottest artists, who inspires you within the music world?

Uncle Luke of 2 Live Crew inspired me in entreprenural ways as he isalways promoting a new product or investing into another endeavor.Young Jeezy inspired me by the way he marketed himself incredibly inthe streets and how he invested his money wisely to do so. Lil' Waynehas inspired me as of late, with his constant grind and using hisincredible talent to open doors for his own team (cash money records).These are just a few examples of many.

Did you always want to be a DJ from a young age?

Yes, from about middle school foward. I was actually into thepercussion side of things early on in my career. I can play a 12piece drum set like Travis Barker (laughing). Honestly though, i cantune by ear and read music notes. I've been into music from the verybeginning as long as i can remember.

For those who are no familiar, you were actually born in Japan. When did your family move to the USA?

I was born on a Navy base in Japan where my father was stationed whenhe was serving our armed forces, i moved to Florida when i was 3 yearsold and been here ever since - hurricanes and all!!! (Laughing)

You recently released a track featuring 30 artists, what was that all about? Is there going to be an album to go with it?

It was really hard to keep a record of this magnitude from leaking inthe streets and making this a real industry surprise. This record isamazing, I'm even gonna go all in and call this record a streetsymphony!!! I recorded over 60 different verses for this record from60 different artists across the state, and I only released 30 of themso far... the record took 2 months to create and I produced the trackmyself! It was great to see it finally release during the Ozone awardsin Miami this year. I'm representing every hood, county and artist onthe grind thats the "Future of Florida"... matter of fact, 2 artiststhat were on the gunshine state record signed to major deals after wereleased the record the very next week! Treal from Orlando, FL signedto Universal Republic and Haitian Fresh from Daytona Beach, FL signedto Wyclef Jean's new venture with Universal called Sak Pase Records...I'm really workin right now Florida!!!

If given the chance to work with alongside anyone within the music world who would you chose and why?

I have two artists that come to mind.... Andre 3000 and Scarface.These guys are legends, its only right that we get together and makehistory at some point.

You recently created a link with Underground Promotion UK, tell us about this? How did the link come about?

It was an easy link, especially when i saw Underground Promotion UKdoing its thing from day one, its only right that the #1 DJ in theSouth got with the #1 UK Promotional Company in the UK!!!

What can we expect from you in the future?

Expect the unexpected!!! (Laughing)... Look out for the "SouthernSmoke College Tour" this fall... as well as "Southern Smoke TV" withQD3 (creator of the "Beef" series" at the top of the year... and ofcourse the "Southern Smoke" album summer of 2008, with the firstsingle featuring your favorite rappers leaking very soon. Also be onthe lookout for my production game... I'm shopping beats to a lot ofmajor artists from Ludacris to Young Dro... so be on the lookout forthat as well.

Any shout out’s?

Don't forget to check out the official website DJSmallz.com. I lovebreaking new artists and new music. If you need a CD Hosted hosted oryou need me to DJ your party or event, please send me a messagethrough DJSmallz.com. Big shout to British Hip Hop for holding medown always!!!

For DJ Smallz contact in the UK please visit
www.myspace.com/undergroundpromotionuk
or e mail
upuk@hotmail.co.uk

INTERVIEW ORIGINALLY SHOWN AT:

www.britishhiphop.co.uk