Interview With Art Mag Radio 2-3-2011

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I am definitely appreciative of this interview since I don't do interviews much concerning my own music. It is a rarity, so I am definitely proud of this moment!

Click here to go to interview

Interview With Ayvii Armada

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Ayvii Armada is a photographer, music a&r, and a music journalist. She has interviews with a lot of up and coming artists and models in the music and fashion industries respectively. I had the great opportunity of interviewing her...



1. When did you get into journalism and photography?
Ayvii: Last year I realized how many connects I had accumulated over years of working in the music industry, so started my photography company. This year I decided it would be a great business move to combine my photography with Journalism and the rest just flowed.

2. What was your first interview?
Ayvii: My first interview was with Super Model Miguel Perdomo. He's one of the lead campaign models for Sean John and also a really great friend of mine.

3. For all of the people who are getting into photography, what equipment do you use to take pictures and what software do you use to touch up pictures? What did you start out with?
Ayvii: Well I use digital cameras with high resolutions, Nikon's, and cannons. As for re-touching I use PS4 only. I always started out with photoshop, its the best when picture editing skin and lighting.

4. What is your favorite interview and why?
Ayvii: My favorite interview so far was Cinematic/Epic Records Recording Artist Smoke Dza because I liked hearing about him talk about how great it is to get high ha ha

5. What is the worst interview you have conducted?
Ayvii: I actually haven't had and bad interviews. I'm thankful for all of them, and everyone is always so cooperative

6. Any advice for anyone getting into journalism and/or photography?
Ayvii: I'd say practice makes perfect, and when working in the arts, it all has 2 come from the heart!

7. What are a few interesting things that people don't know about you?
Ayvii: Well actually I started off as a rapper since 2002, but I loved to write more than anything. So eventually I became an AnR for 5 years working with Major Labels and Independent. I also did TV commercials because I was also a model for four years.

8. If you weren't doing photography and journalism what would you be doing?
Ayvii: I would def. Be in law school. I studied law for 5 years and part of me is still considering taking it up as a profession.

9. What are your plans for 2010?
Ayvii: I def. Plan on helping out unsigned hype and furthering my photography company and journalism website. I'm always open to meet new people with creative ideas to work with!

You can catch more of Ayvii on: Twitter Myspace and Her Website

Interview With Doggie Diamonds

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Forbezdvd.com is one of the best sites online for videos. I like it because it is real. You know I have my issues with worldstar (Fedstar), so I only rock with Forbez. Doggie Diamonds is the co-owner of the site. He is known for doing interviews in the game and is respected in the game as well. So I was on twitter a couple of hours ago, and @doggiediamonds had asked a question why doesn't he get interviewed. So I stepped up to the plate and asked to interview him. He was real and asked me to send him questions. I did, and hours later I got the interview! Here it is:

1. I know you are the co-owner of Forbez DVD. How did the idea come about?


ForbezDVD was an idea that M.Reck, Jordan Tower and I came up with. Jordan was looking to break away from the Come Up DVD and do his own thing, so we came up with that idea. It was looking like it was going to down, we did a interview with J-Hood when he was leaving D-Block. We also caught the footage with Mobb Deep and Saigon confrontation on the club. If you look on youtube all that footage says ForbezDVD coming soon with release dates. It was never intended to be a website at first, But Jordan made the jump to wackstarhiphop (after I put him on the the website) and we didn't hear from him in a few months. All we saw was his videos on that site and he wasn't answering calls. Reck was like fuck it, so he started COD DVD and put that out. I was like we did too much to build the Forbez name up, let's still run with it. So...we built ForbezDVD.com and here we are today.


2. You are known for having great interviews. What was your first interview?


Well I used to do interviews for a website called Trickology.com (out of business now).The first one was Sun.N.Y. He was the freestyle friday champ on 106 & Park. They were audio interviews and I would have to transcribe them. That shit was wack as fuck to me so I got a camera. So my partner had already put his hat in the DVD game (Outside Hot 97 DVD) so he was like why don't you do the interviews, being that you have a little more hip hop knowledge. The first interview I did on camera was Babs (Making The Band) and it has over 100k views on youtube. I actually got a youtube deal off of that video.


3. What is your favorite interview and why?


It would have to be my Max B interview on the Come Up DVD. I knew I had to do the interview with Max, but I didn't have a contact on him. So I get my dude to ride with me up to Harlem to see if we could find him. So we go to the block he lives on and no Max B. All of a sudden, I see someone walking down the block with their hair blowing in the wind looking like Ron O'Neal (Super Fly). So I'm like, "I know this aint that nigga right here". Sure enough it was him LOL. So I knew it was gonna be special because he was in rare form. And what I liked about Max was he welcomed all questions He didn't give a fuck what I asked him, he just answered. I think that was the interview that really really blew us both up.


4. When did you realize this is what you wanted to do?


Since I was younger I used to walk around with a camera. I had one of those big ass cameras that had the VHS tape in it. I used to tape me and my niggas fucking niggas up, knocking out crack heads and throwing snowballs at people. The we used to film us with all our guns and shit. Then I realized, this shit is some incriminating shit, so I was like we need to do something useful with this camera. So from there I started taping shows and taping my group I was in at rehearsal studio. We used to watch the tapes like athletes do to see how we needed to get better with our shows. But me personally, I used to interview myself in the mirror all the time LOL. Crazy as that shit was it paid off in the long run, because now I know how to ask questions.


5. Any advice for up and coming journalists and bloggers?


Just do you. Don't be a dickrider. Because this worked for him, that doesn't mean it's going to work for you. If this it what you REALLY wanna do, then do this shit day in and day out. Study the game, the pros and cons, the success and the failures and you should be fine. Oh and never let and artist make you believe they're doing you a favor. They need media and if you're on your shit they will respect you and look for you.


6. What do you do other than interview artists?

I'm a music producer. That's what I REALLY do. And it's funny because everyone who knows me, knows me, laughs at me doing interviews. But if I see Lil Fame or Uncle Murda they always ask me for a beat CD. But I don't believe in being the jack of all trades and the master of none. So I wanted to make sure I secured my spot in history with the interviews, then I'm going to let this music go. Some people will be in shock when they hear my beats. Just like my way back crew is in shock when they hear me doing an interview. But I'm happy people care at all. I'll take it how I can get it.


7. How long have you been interviewing for?


2 years, I'm a baby at it LOL. But, I used to do like 7-11 interviews a day. I used to never wanna go home because I was having so much fun doing it. I used to be on my feet for like 12 hours some days with no water or eating like 1 time a day. But I couldn't believe that I was able to make calls and artist would meet up with me because they knew of my work.


8. Where is the craziest place you have interviewed someone?


Spliff Starr. Right on the corner of Church Ave in Flatbush Brooklyn. What made it hot is because I like shit like that. I hate those office or studio interview. If you talk all that shit in you records, let's go to you neighborhood and let me see if the people salute you like that. It's easy to hide in the office, fuck that. I like to touch the pavement and hit the streets.


9. You post interesting videos on Forbezdvd.com. How do you find them?


All over, people send me shit. Some of them are videos I shot or M.Reck shot. Some of them shits are just some stupid crazy shit. But I try to balance it out with something for everyone. But I take pride in the videos we shoot or my interviews.


10. Who do you want to interview that you haven't?


Jay-Z. I'm tired of people like Funk Flex and Angie Martinez getting the opportunity to interview him and all they do is suck him off all day. Ask him some real fucking questions. All that giggling and sucking up gets on my fucking nerves. Jay-Z hasn't been interviewed until Doggie Diamonds interviews him. Because if he lets me ask what I want, we'll finally get the answers to some of the questions people have been asking for all these years. I wouldn't treat him no different from any other interview I did.

Make sure yall check out Forbezdvd.com! And there will be a part 2 to this interview....

Interview With Frank Ramz

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I recently caught up with Frank Ramz on AIM and asked him a couple of questions. I like the homie's music and I had to feature him on the site.... 

Here is the interview (via AIM): 

1. Your newest mixtape falling up was supposed to drop on the 30th. Why did you drop it early?

Frank Ramz: i was only holding it that long to try and get other blogs to post it & help promote it before it came out. but i just said f*ck it, released it early. sh!t, it's my music!!

2. I see in the past few weeks you have had a couple of joints on allhiphop.com as the heater of the day. How do you feel about the reveiws you have received?

Frank Ramz: the reviews have been great and it feels good to finally get credit for something i've been doing for over ten years. to me, it's very humbling and overwhelming and it also makes me want to go harder.

3. I have falling up in my iPod. My favortie songs are superhuman, I got to get it, dr scholls soul and bad luck. What are yours and why?

Frank Ramz: i honestly don't have a favorite song at all, it all depends on my mood at that time. but if it was a life or death situation in which i had to chose, im chosing 'Tired Of You'. it was a reality check in which i spoke to myself one day and basically kept it real with myself

4. When will you be releasing your next project?

Frank Ramz: dont have an exact date for it, but the recording for it will start in May.so it will be sometime after that, maybe June or July. 
so it's safe to say it'll be released in the summer.

5. With all that's going on right now in rap (50 & Rick Ross Beef, Funkmaster Flex not playing any Interscope artists on his set, DJ's in general getting exposed for payola and being required to play new music, etc) how do you think this will affect us up and coming artists?

Frank Ramz: as a artist, especially being on the up and up, you can't let anything affect you. regardless of whats going on in the 'mainstream' world of hip hop you can still independently do your thing. 
so ultimately, it really doesn't affect us

6. How do you feel about websites charging artists to get onto their website? Do you think it is fair and why?

Frank Ramz: i mean, its always been that why. before websites it was dj's and having to pay to get on their mixtapes. unless your sh!t is just undeniably hot or you know someone or you're established. other then that, you always had to pay, that isnt new. so on that note, ima say its fair. i'm not paying for a damn thing tho

7. What are your plans once you get a record deal as far as putting your team out?

Frank Ramz: im not really thinking about a record deal. like i just said on one of the previous questions, im going to just keep doing my thing independently, building up a buzz and my brand for solo. honestly, my team is bullsh!tting in my opinion. i love them dudes to death and will do anything for them, but i'll do something for them once i start seeing them seriously do something for themselves, but ultimately, if i get ON, they'll be ON with me.

8. What would you be doing if you werent making music?

Frank Ramz: school. doing the typical thing and working just to get by. my grades were always good so that wouldnt of been much of a problem

9. Last question, Where do you see yourself at the end of 2009?

Frank Ramz: buzz way bigger, which is already happening. all over the net. getting paid for doing what i love basically...

You can catch more of Frank Ramz at:

www.frankramz.com

welcometomedusaville.blogspot.com

Interview with J. Profit

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Whats going on people? I know it has been a while since I had an interview on the site. I reached out to a homie out west named J. Profit. Here is his bio straight from his page: He was born June 18th, 1976 to an African-American Father & Korean Mother. He has been writing Raps & Poetry since 12. Born June 18th, 1976 to an African-American Father & Korean Mother. Been writing Raps & Poetry since 12 (Off & ..ped my first albulm American Famine early 2003. Check CD BABY (http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/profit) or Amazon.com (http://www.amazon.com/American-Famine-Profit/dp/B000071AZM). Spent parts of 2004, 2005, and 2006 in and out of County due to my lifestyle, got back into recording in the later part of 2007, but i never stopped writing. Dropped The Git Back Theory (mixtape 1) May 2008 (1 thousand sold) about to drop The Mask & Misconceptions (mixtape 2) March this year, which features remakes of Hip-Hop classics. Will be looking for distribution for my Sophmore Albulm (C.P.) early Summer-when its done. (Have been working on C.P. albulm for 4 years, THE ENTIRE ALBULM IS FIRE w/ a few cuts that soothe the soul. It features production from myself (J.Profit), B. Tealer (GA), Promise (S.F.), D. Animal & Aaron "Wax" Ruppert (S.F.), M.Heights (Fla), and Ali Richardson (W. Philly)- that cat plays 10 instruments ALL well, and inspires me. Featured MC's- J.E.T.S. (S.F.), M.Hieghts (Fla), and singers Danielle Herbert (Philly), & Jules Jones (S.F.). The penmanship, hooks, and delivery on the C.P. albulm is outa this world-(check Stay Grindin', BaZzar, & 2 & a Half in my music box for a sample of the upcoming albulm & samples of both Mixtapes).

I hit the homie up and asked him a couple of questions............ 

1. How did you get the name profit?

The name $tarted out a$ Prophet,but I felt it wa$ a little 2 arrogant 2 name my$elf that, $o I changed it 2 Profit (originally meant 2 be an acronym.) Poor 2 Rich Original Frisco International Thug, or Povertie$ Rea$on Offer$ Freedom In$ide Truth. (The J came later.) After my 1$t albulm, "American Famine late 2002", other Profit$ $tarted poppin' up on Amazon.com & Cdbaby.com-I didn't want 2 drop the title completely $o I ju$t added the J. (That'$ what my real name $tart$ with.) Tho$e I grew up wit' call me by my name, $o it wa$n't given 2 me-it wa$ created by me.

2. You're from the west coast. How do you guys promote out there? I'm from brooklyn and I've never been out there, but I know getting around is more difficult than nyc.

A$ far a$ promotion goe$-$ame a$ mo$t place$ i gue$$. (Flyer$, word of mouth, & $how$). Also, the internet. It all boil$ down 2 relation$hip$ & connection$. My angle at the moment i$ letting the Mu$ic $peak 4 it$elf, & bringing people 2 me.. A$ 4 the tran$portation-be$ide$ N.Y.C. San Francisco has the be$t tran$it in the Nation. Bu$e$, Train$, & all that Jazz. We have Muni (both surface & underground), & Bart tran$it (which travel$ throught the Bay Area.) It aint hard 2 get around out here.

3. When did you start rapping?

I think I wrote my 1$t rap when I wa$ in the 6th or 7th grade. It wa$ about me fighting the X-Men. I u$ed 2 call my$elf MC Agony, & I had a $tarter coat w/ "I'm Taxin'" on the back of it. No one took me $eriou$ then cuz I wa$ a cla$$ clown.

4. What artist made you want to really rap?

I fell in Love w/ Hip Hop when i wa$ 6. The $ong wa$ "The $how", by Doug E. Fre$h & $lick Rick. Later it wa$ N.W.A., but when I heard Hugh E MC'$ "Keep A Bitch Broke", & Cougnut$ (R.I.P.) "$candlou$", I $tarted writing more. (They are both pioneer$ in the San Franci$co Rap $cene.) The day I heard Tupac'$ Brenda$ Gota Baby wa$ the day I $tarted trying 2 put $ong$ together, but it wa$ ju$t a hobby then.

5. I see that you're a ghostwriter. How does that process go as far as getting credited? Who have you wrote for?

Aint gon' be able 2 do it. A$ a gho$twriter i'm paid 2 NOT take credit, & if I $ay who I wrote 4 they might not fuck wit' me no more. Where i'm at in my Life right now I need that little bit ah' change. I will $ay thi$ I havn't wrote 4 any Gold or Platinum Arti$t$-yet, but there are $everal I've writen 4 in thi$ $hort period of time. I've only been doing the My$pace thing 4 two month$ .

6. Where do you see yourself by the end of 2009?

 I $ee my$elf in a very good place in all 4 realm$, ($piritually, phy$icallt, mentally, & finacially.) The albulm will be fini$hed by June of 2009, & the entire albulm iz FiiAH!!! I'm going 2 have 11 joint$ designed 4 radio play. 2009 i$ either gona make me, or brake me. Mo$t likely make me, cuz the albulm i$ 2 $olid 2 be $lept on, & it'$ a documentary of the la$t 5 year$ of my Life. Very truthfull & REAL.

7. Any advice for any up and coming artists?

I would $ay-don't get caught up in the $tatu$ Quo. True Arti$t are needed in thi$ Day & Time, & TRUE Arti$t$ don't fit in a box! The Brighte$t $tar$ $hine cuz they're NOT like the re$t. Al$o, keep people around you who believe in you, & let the other$ fall 2 the wai$t$ide. Don't be afraid or he$itate 2 be your$elf, & remember Life i$ about Growth not ju$t growing old & lookin' fly in the proce$$.

8. How do you feel about hip-hop's influence on the kids? I know when I was younger I wanted to do this like this rapper and wear my clothes like this rapper....

I think Hip Hop influence$ the Young 1'$ more than ever, becau$e of all the acce$$ channel$ that are open. Meaning, radio, $atelite radio, & the Internet. Hip Hop i$ everywhere now, but unfortunately alot of it i$ pop garbage that hold$ no TRUE $ub$tance. Growing up everyone i$ going 2 either idolize or emulate $omeone who in$pire$ them-the challenge i$ 2 be in$pired but maintain a $en$e of individuality. Life i$ about finding our$elve$ amongst the madne$$ that $urround$ u$, & cant no-one find them$elve$ if they're tryin' 2 be someone el$e.

9.  What is the name of your label and what do you plan to do once you get a deal?

The name of the Label i$ Profit Mu$eik, & I can't $ay I necce$arily want 2 be $igned 2 a Major Label, (of cour$e a di$trubution deal i$ ideal-but i'm not foccu$ed on a record deal.) W/ the internet & the Quality Mu$ic i'm makin' right now I have a chance at being $icce$ful as an Independent Arti$t-especially in the Bay! Here it'$ common philo$ophy 2 do 4 $elf. I wouldn't rule out the I, but I don't go 2 bed dreamin' about a record deal.

10. Do you think hip-hop should focus on the outside world and not just its own world?

I think Hip Hop ha$ alwy$ dealt w/ i$$ue$ around the World, becau$e Hip Hop addre$$e$ the $tate of the poor in the, "once wa$ the riche$t country in the World", & $eeing that America got it'$ hand$ in $o much (2 much if u a$k me), we take on baggage wey're not fully aware of, it'$ all connected. PLUS, Hip Hop i$ World Wide now $o it'$ already carrying out it$ Nature. Hip Hop i$ a channel of communication. True, alot of Mc'$ don't re$pect the Root$ of the artform, but that$ $oon 2 change a$ well. Nothing $tay$ the $ame-it either GROW$ or DIE$! Hip Hop will evolve & remain the mo$t powerfull form of Mu$ic, becau$e of the raw element$ & it$ Root$. It'$ ju$t in the rapture $tage right now, when the cloud$ evaporate the artform will be $tronger, & even more Universal.

Stay tuned for J. Profit yall!!! I got some of his music and im gonna be dropping it on here!!!

For now you can check out his music at: www.myspace.com/profitmuseik1

Interview With Devvon Terrell

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I know I've been focusing to rappers on the website, but I got singers on deck too. I finally got the chance to interview Devvon Terrell. He is a talented singer from Brooklyn, NY. His myspace is www.myspace.com/devdaceleb. We chopped it up for a few and this is what i got.....

1. How long have you been singing?

I ve been singing for about 12 years which is crazy come to think about it.

2. How do you feel about the state of R&B?

I feel that RnB has changed dramitically, if you really listen to RnB music nowadays it has this 80’s feel to it, and I feel like to create RnB music your creativity has to be at an all time high. Competing with incredible writers like Ne-Yo and The Dream. I like where RnB Currently is.

3. With all that's going on, where do you see r&b in a couple of
years from now?

No one can ever answer that question because someone always develops a new kind of sound, so honestly the only thing I can say is that it can only change not get better or worse.

4. How do you feel about music going digital? Is it good or bad for
r&b?

Its good and bad that music has gone digital because obviously its so easy to pirate music which completely can destroy album sales and killed single sales. We have become a ringtone society its crazy how its changed.

5. I hear rappers getting singed left and right from being heard online
but I haven't really heard much about singers. How do you feel about that? Is trying to get signed on the r&b level just like rap? I go to shows and I don't see singers much unless they're singing on a rappers hook. I don't really know much about the r&b aspect of underground. Fill me in...

Seriously getting signed as an RnB artist or Rapper is difficult, but being signed as a rap artist is definetly a lot harder. Most rappers nowadays have to have a hot single on the radio from some big DJ promoting them to get signed. No one seems to buy any street dudes mixtapes any more,unless you lil wayne or somebody people already relate to.

6. I know you have a video on youtube and the buzz for it is crazy. What are your plans for it?

Yea that’s that “Bedrock” lol From my Delhi college upstate, Chi, And Mr.Smacc. Its from my production company Called Glasz House. My Delhi peeps and I enjoyed making that. We actually really pushing for a college tour since the song had so much success, so we made a video for other schools to see what we were willing to bring to there school. A good time you know lol.

7. What are your plans for 2009?

For 2009 im just working on my upcoming album entiled “Till This Point” which is written produced and arranged all by me, I defintely want to make some major noise this year but it takes time lol.

We will hear more from Dev..........

Dollarz Interview Part 2

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Dollarz Interview Part 1

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Dollarz is another rapper out of Queens who is up and coming. I got a chance to interview him and see what his opinions on the game are. He has a lot of wisdom, so this is only part one of the interview

1 . How do you feel about the state off the rap game?

I feel there is no state. The game is done. Its like rock and roll. One format. Its all auto-tune. Don't call it rap, call it auto-tune.

2. How do you feel about music going digital?

Its a good thing, but its not selling because everything is free. As soon as a song comes out, its downloadable. How niggas gonna go platinum and gold? You don't see the white artists shit on the internet though for free, its on itunes. No one is selling big numbers in the end though. When's the last time someone went diamond? When's the last time you seen someone buy a cd or even the bootleg. Why pay 5-12 dollars when you could limewire it for free?

3. Where do you see yourself musicwise in 2009?

Hopefully me and my niggas take it over, but honestly I'm discouraged because there's too much bullshit and consigning. Why new york don't show no love? When's the last time someone really came out of new york? Fuck this mixtape shit and freestlyes. Its not doing anything. Shit is crazy. Only time will tell. Rap may not be here in 5 years. Everyones gonna be singing on the autotune looking like rockstars piercing everything. We are living in crazy times. I already know I'm creative and have to take it to another level.

4. What is your take on the recession?

There's still many ways to get money. Just find a way. Do what your good at and make your money. This world is too big for niggas not to get money. 09 is gonna be a good year for the block and for me..

5. What do you mean by death before dishonor?

The word speaks for itself. You would die before you disrespect your niggas or your girl. Its loyalty. Actions speak louder than words. For me, I aint disloyal to anybody. Its death before that...

6. With all that's going on, what do you really think killed hip-hop?

Hating. Beef. That whole aspect because hate overpowers love right now and its fucked up. For real. Hate and nothing else. Disloyalty. If someone puts me on, I'm stickin with them because they brought me out and showed me love. I'm not gonna switch sides when shits looking better. Never that. I can't speak for no one else, but if I fucks with you, I'm not gonna switch sides. Wherever I go, you go.

7. You have a crazy internet buzz right now. What do you think is the cause of that?

The music speaks for itslef. People love the music, the team, and the producers. And ima good dude in my personal life, but you don't want to get on my bad side. At the same time the internet killed the game. On some g shit, I'm not even looking for a deal because the odds are scarce for 09. No ones selling so these labels aren't trying to bring anyone in. You gotta be independent, go digital to sell. But if you go platinum and gold now its a bigger deal because of all the downloading on the internet. Shit is changing. The world is changing. You gotta be about your money because it makes the world go round.

Part 2 coming soon..

Interview With S. Elle of NYSD

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Boysandclothes.com by NYSD is one of the best blogspots I have come across in months. The girls in general are definitely putting up great posts and I frequent the website on a daily basis. Today I got the chance to interview one of the members of NYSD, S.Elle. 

1. How long has NYSD been together? How did you ladies link up and form this conglomerate? Tell me what its about...

NYSD is bigger than just a blog. We're actually 3 friends that go way back. We were all writing and posting blogs on our respective myspace pages and Tee decided to make our blogger account. It took us sometime to find our niche as NY Style Diary, but eventually we did. After a while we felt that the blog world was becoming saturated with "fashion" blogs and the copy and paste formula, we wanted to do something that couldn't be copied, thus emerged boysandclothes.com

2. Boysandclothes.com is a great success. I like the website. What do you ladies think about when you post what you post?

Life is the main inspiration behind boysandclothes.com. During our hiatus from nystylediary.com we all grew as adults, taking the time out to pursue different ventures and realizing how much we learned about life and especially love. Boysandclothes.com is us writing from our experiences. There are things to make you laugh and some things that makes you want to say "Damn."

3. Your posts on boysandclothes titled "The Life and Times of S. Elle" is something I frequently read. It is very interesting. What inspired you to post these blogs?

My crazy ass love life!

4. With all that's going on in music, who do you like listening to? If you could compose your own mixtape, what would you have on it?

Well, as of right now, I am so sick of everything on the radio. Lately I've been taking it back and being outside the box. Im listening to everything from Santogold to Mickey Factz to Jay (gotta have some Hov in my life) to the Isley Brothers to Issac Hayes. I couldn't compose a mixtape, I need a playlist...I listen to too much shit!

5. I know for a fact that you draw. What is your favorite piece of art?

I don't have a favorite piece, I have a favorite time period. I absolutely love the Impressionism Era.

6. The holidays are here. What is your ideal gift to get?

I want a fly ass winter coat! A fabulous mink...oooo yeaaaa!

7. Where do you see NYSD in 2009?

All over the muthafuckin world! Holla!

You can check S.Elle out at:

myspace.com/all_day_sha  

twitter.com/mainshain

boysandclothes.com

Interview With PR Part 1

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PR is one of the best artists out of Queens. His sound and his music is something that you need to hear if you haven't heard it already. His team, Blockwork, is composed of some of the best in  NY and even ATL. He has been a student of the game most definitelty. In part 1 of this interview, you will get a glimpse of what he is about.

1. How did u get the name PR?

I got it when I was young. I wasn't too fond of it because I never wanted to be looked at as pretty and it just stuck when I started doing music.

2. How long have you been rappin for?

Since 89-90. I grew up around it. My uncle had a studio so i was always around, and that's how I was introduced to it. 

3. How you feel about rap going digital?

More publicity, and it gives me a chance to put out new music as soon as its mixed down. I go home and put it on myspace.

4. You say you're from the Boulevard of Broken Dreams. What does that mean?

I grew up around a lot of people with dreams, but they are either broken by jail or death. For example Mikey D. He tought LL everything he knew, and he's still in the hood. A whole lot of my niggas is either dead or locked up chasing money and a better lifestyle.

5. Where do you see your crew in 2009?

Different places doing different things. More organized, making real moves. No more confusion, basically evolving. The only thing left is up.

6. How do you feel about rappers that portray an image they don't live or never seen?

I don't care about it, because its not affectin me. What I rap is real, and a lot of people could vouch for that or relate to it because they know the story. I never talk about anything I never did, shit is real.

7. What is your upcoming album called? Who do you have producing for it? Who are you collaborating with?

Its a double disc. Heartbreak Kid/ Cocaine Cowboy. That's my life right now. As far as production goes, I got myself (bojangles that's my producer name), beater, and KL. I'm keeping it in-house. With collaborations, dollarz and ms keyz, but I'm not too sure about ms keyz just yet.

8. Some people say your grind and your sound is similar to 50's before he got signed to shady. What do you have to say about that?

My grind is different, I don't have the pieces 50 had, but who knows what tommorow will bring. One day you with this dude, the next day you're not, its crazy. Reemz, KL and Beater is loyal dudes though. They here whenever, goood or bad. As far as the sound goes, I take that as a compliment because I'm hungry.

Part 2 of the interview coming soon...

You can check out PR at www.myspace.com/getriterick

Interview With Elus

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Elus was born as Malik Darian Sinclair on March 29th, 1985 during the prime time of Hip Hop music which was radically blossoming and gaining worldwide recognition. Despite all this, a combination of trying to fit in and a strong feeling that most rappers in the late 1990s were not producing quality material inspired Malik to write his own music. He started out as battle rapper because he always felt he had to prove himself to gain acceptance. Malik first got involved in Hip Hop as a DJ in 1997. He felt like an outcast because he was periodically misunderstood by his peers. This fueled Maliks unorthodox and unexpected personality. Hence, Malik adopted an alias which perfectly described his individuality: Elusive. As a DJ he spun at local parties and put together rap tapes of himself, his cousin and anyone else around him who participated in the craft.

A couple of years later DJ Elusive became known as ELUS. By this time, Elus gave up DJing so that he could focus on rapping. He began to write rhymes that reflected negative situations that surrounded him Namely, his father coming in and going out of his life, strong feelings of displacement and his mothers struggles from day to day in order to survive.

Elus was always very passionate about rap and this is evident in his lyrics. They have always been filled with intense emotion and intellectual interpretations of life. In a way, rapping was a means of catharsis for him. Elus started receiving a lot of positive feedback about his rhymes from his peers and a tight network began to develop around him. It was as though a separate community was forming.

I got the chance to interview Elus today. Here It Is

1. You have one of the biggest buzzes on the Internet and through word of mouth. How do you feel about that?

"I'm blowing up like ya thought I would, call da crib, same number, same hood...its all good"! Biggie couldn't have said it better...dats why I quoted da brother (R.I.P.)! But yeah that's wassup...I feel honored that people have been embracing my efforts as an artist! I started as a dj...at the tender age of 12, writing music was and is still therapy for me...its how I choose to keep myself balanced in life, so the fact I have people embracing me and spreading the word of my music is very rewarding! I feel I'm just tapping the surface tho...I've put in years of grind and sacrificed a lot for music, I'm starting to see the fruits of my labor now...feels good! Now I'm just waiting for the money to catch up to the fame haha...then I'm really good haha!

2. What do you think your biggest record? And why?

The record I'd be most known for as of this interview would probably be my sister Mala Reignz's "BX Til I Die" record which I'm featured on! We have a video for the record which was on every cable provider's On Demand Video Programming courtesy of Music Choice (we were the first unsigned artist to have our video on their national video service)! Watch the video below



Phat shout to my sister Mala Reignz doing her thing...you can check her at www.myspace.com/malareignz
Haha...I'm always plugging family! Love you sis if you reading this!

3. The group you are in, Triboro, has a great chemistry. How did you guys meet up, and how do you maintain the chemistry?

We'll initially I met Sean Conn 1st back during the 4th Quarter of 2005...I had heard him doing a radio interview with my manager at the time (what up Unique)! I was really impressed by dude's music and at the conclusion of the show...called my manager up to inquire on working with him! About two weeks later we linked up at my studio...in which we did a record called "BX 2 QU"!

Elus & Sean Conn: BX to QU


About 2 or 3 weeks prior Sean Conn had been introduced to Frshaire through his former manager! He had been back to link with Frsh and had let Frsh hear new material and 1 of em was our record...he was feeling it and had wanted all 3 of us 2 do a record! So about top of January...we all linked up in my studio...this was my 1st time meeting Frshaire...we did a freestyle over the 1-900-Hustler beat, we all vibing but at this time we still doing our own thing!

The First Triboro Record: 1-800-DR-Management


A month passes and we all are invited to a dinner meeting at a BBQs on the upper East side...da meeting was a networking meeting setup by Sean Conn's former manager...there was about 20 people at this dinner...sadly to say nothing came to be really of the meeting, but through that meeting Conn's manager at da time had a crazy idea of putting me, Conn & Frshaire together! Dats how Triboro was formed...off da realization of that idea...big shout to Dad Rich for the vision! And Sean Conn's man Mysta ME came up with the name "Triboro Da Squad"...being that we repped Bronx, Harlem & Queens collectively it made sense (sidenote in NYC, the Triboro bridge connects those 3 boroughs together)! That's actually the abridged version of how we came to be a group tho haha! Now as for the chemistry...it has been developed as we went along! When we 1st started as a group...we hadn't known it each other for more than a few months, so it was very challenging early on...but fate has a funny way of making shit work! Two huge factors which attributed to how well we meshed together was 1, we are each extremely talented as solo artists and the 2nd and most important being we each have been through years of hardship and fallouts with teams and groups prior...we agreed to be a group because we all shared the same desire to be successful but on top of the top we shared a common bond of struggling and dealing with half-assed artists in group n team situations prior to us forming the group! No offense to those applicable but it is what it is...if they reading this, they know I'm speaking the truth! The chemistry tightened for us as we went along tho...there were alot of bumps along the way tho haha...

4. What is your motto for 2009?

Well I still "aspire to inspire"...I don't necessarily have a motto for '09...but my outlook is to remain positive in both mind and spirit! Really don't have a slogan or a motto to quote tho necessarily!

5. Your mixtapes on with the show volumes 1 and 2 have received critical street acclaim. What is planned for part 3? Who will we hear on there?

Well artists featured on Vol 1 or 2 will not appear on 3...with the exception of a few artists I'm extremely close to (Triboro included)! Vol 3 will feature mostly artists who haven't been on either of the previous two volumes! Kwan Lee...you have production on Vol 3, I don't wanna mention any names and spoil the surprise...but its definitely gonna be a dope tape when it drops! Oh yeah...while we on da topic of Vol 3, I'd like to speak on the theme for this 1! As Vol 1's theme was real Hip Hop, boom bap and Vol 2 showed my versatility as an artist...Vol 3 is showcasing me as a songwriter! Every song on Vol 3 is my concept and/or direction, so keep that in mind when you listen to it! I am vying to be the Hip Hop version of Ne-Yo, an equally talented writer as I am an artist! Keep listening...I could be behind 1 of your favorite artist's next hit :-)! Just thought I'd mention...about 70% of the Hip Hop artist in the game don't write their own music...Elus is definitely not amongst that percentile! There's so much false truths within this industry...that'll require a totally separate blog entry Kwan...word!

Here is a preview off On With The Show Volume 3:


6. What other projects are you working on besides your own?

Aside my Vol 3 (which is da last of the On With The Show series)...I'm also working on my solo debut album "Ghetto Griot"...that's not a high priority tho...expect it to come out in 2010! But what's high priority is the Triboro & Verse album "Gr8 Myndz Think Alike"! We are nearly 80% complete with it...it features production from some well known producers (for contractual reasons I won't mention at the moment)...we are shopping the album starting 1st Quarter of 2009! I am planning a Best Of mixtapes later on in 2009 as well...will feature music stemming from me early on til the present...to give my core fans a clearer picture of the growth undergone throughout the years! Although it may appear I'm a newbie...I've actually been putting in work for the past decade, the Best Of will just shed more light on that! That's some of the projects to look out for coming from me!

7. How do you feel about hip-hop going digital?

Shit its great in my opinion! It levels the playing field so to speak! As technology advances and the Internet presence in music furthers...it makes it easier for an artist to get his music heard to the world minus the bullshit politics an aspiring artist had to go through 15 years ago, just to be listened to! Also for the fan, its good because you have wider access to music...so you can better find what you want to hear without being subjugated to never-ending programming (hearing da same songs on the radio every hour, seeing da same music videos on every tv network)! With the internet...its much more direct and eliminates the advantages a big budget provides and allows good music to flourish! Without digital advances I'd prolly not be doing this very interview...I'd be in my basement, mad at the world that I'm better than dude on tv but because I don't suck dick or make poison music...I'm not known...dat used to be the reality 15 yrs ago for an artist...nowadays the playing field is leveled!


Just want to end this interview by telling you reading this to never give up on your dream...no matter what! Keep positive and most importantly, when my album drops...buy it! Follow these rules and I promise you a wonderful life...I'm dead serious!


You can catch Elus at the following websites:
www.signmycheck.com
elusnn.blogspot.com
www.teebeerow.com
Call Him At: 917-549-1405

Interview with Patrone

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Patrone is a rapper out of West Palm Beach, Florida. He is 19, and he is definitely someone who can have a future in the industry. He is innovative for his age and I definitely have to give it to him. I wish I was this focused at 19. I got the chance to interview him today.

1. How do you feel about the current state of hip-hop?

Currently I feel like everything is getting repetitive especially topic wise. For example if I turn on the radio 7 out of 10 rap songs will sound the same difference is whose spitting it. Now don't get me wrong I don't mind listening to 'gangster' rap but at what point does a rapper say "I think I need to change the subject"?

2. As technology is getting better everyday, a lot of music is going digital. Do you think this is good or bad for hip-hop?

As a rapper who does everything from promotion, collaborating, finding beats and other useful things for myself I think it is great. It also gets your songs heard quicker. There is always that thought that says why buy if you can download an album free. You can quote me on this I have never downloaded any album from any rapper. I put myself in their position if I put in work on an album I want people to buy it, not download or burn it and pass it around. So at the end of the day real fans will buy the album.

3. I hear that you're an avid gamer. What is your favorite game right now?

My favorite game right now would have to be Little Big Planet. I know people think its a child's game but honestly no child can create half the things I've seen online. Its brilliant how people can think it and than create it and watch it appear before their eyes. There's not many chances in life itself you can do that let alone a game.

4. How did you get the name patrone?

My name was actually given to me by my Friend/Mentor. He said the way I would lay a verse sounded like I was running things like a boss, which is what it means in spanish. So for those who think I got it from the liquor I didn't , I had this name since I was 15 and I found out sometime afterwards there was a drink called "Patron".

5. I know you are originally from Brooklyn, but moved to West Palm Beach. I don't know much about West Palm, so tell me how life is out there?

Life out here is boring but than again when you come from a big city like NYC to a place that isn't known nor awake 24/7 like NY is there is some drastic changes. For one to do anything you need a car unless you like walking miles in the sun. The way people around my age dress is so distasteful, for instance black rebooks with white knee high socks some giruad shorts a tanktop tunked into the boxers and a gold grill. I don't see how that's style I see that as being ignorant to the people who have to see that.

6. I see that you are a sneakerhead. What is your favorite sneaker this year?

My favorite would have to be the Jordan retro 13's, but my favorite color way for it was the french blue/grey/white.

7. What are your plans for 2009?

The plans are to drop my first mixtape, start putting out some videos, more promotion, more creative topics. Right now I just want to be heard I'm not worried about being the nicest I just want people to bump my tracks and give me some feedback. So for those who are wondering when will the mixtape drop I'd say sometime around march.

You can hear Patrone's music at Myspace.com/patroneiau

Interview With CityMaine

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It's 12:30am, and as most nine to fivers have just drifted away into a deep sleep, he's cruzin' down the Van Wyck Expressway headed towards a undisclosed Manhattan recording studio wearing his signature New York fitted cap and a guaranteed-to-be-fresh pair of Air Force Ones, as the bright city lights of this big city of dreams bounce off his illegal tint black Gucci stunna shades. See, after a long day filled with song writing, mailing off c.d's, and putting the finishing touches on the self-designed cover of his soon to be released third mixtape "The Corporate Hustle", the best part of this self-proclaimed grindaholic's day is just beginning. At this late hour, as one day shifts into another, and the normally fast pace New York City comes to a slow creep in Queens, he's off to do what he does best-make music. "Everyday is a grind" says this city-bred rapper, who, after a few name changes, has settled on a name which seems to fit his lifestyle accordingly. CityMaine, born Jermaine Alston, is a rap star in the making. Though you may not know his name yet, don't sleep on him. At a time when quality NYC street records seem to be missing from record's song rosters, and big name artist are creating t-shirts that state "I'm not a rapper, ' CityMaine proudly claims the title. "I'll go on record and say I'm a rapper, but that's not where it stops for me, " says City, whose many other talents alll seem to revolve around his innate creativity and gift of gab. With his flashy confidence, pure drive and devotion, sheer talent and ability to dream big, I guarantee the world will be chanting his name real soon. I got the chance to link up with CityMaine and ask him some questions....

1. How long have you been doing this?

Been rhyming since I was 15, I use to spend alot of time with my older cousin (R.I.P Brian Alston) him and his friends use to rhyme and I would be there as they created and cypha'd, I just caught on from there and one day started penning my own shit.

2. How did you come up with the name CityMaine?

The name CityMaine, well it's kinda a funny story. I use to rhyme with my right hand at the time, Sonny. So he was kinda using the Son Dance Kid, so I was like fuck it I'm Butch Cassidy my pops nick name is Butch so it kinda worked for me cause people in my family was always calling me little Butch here and there. But then came Snoop with his crew The Eastsidaz, and one of they homies was named Butch Cassidy. So at this point, I'm like fuck it, I'ma drop the Butch and just use Cassidy. Some time goes by and Swizz comes out with a kid from Philly named Cassidy..lol I'm telling you this is a long one. From there I dropped the CAs and started running with just City, but then came Diddy with his making of the band, and they had Chopper City or Yung City and was like fuck it, I'm throwing my name on the end and going by CityMaine, cause Jermaine is my name and niggas in hood all know me as Maine. That was it. Til the death CityMaine.

3. I've heard your mixtape and I like it. Who do you plan to work with in the future?

Who I plan to work with, hmm.. who I'd like to work with musically of course some of the greats like BabyFace, or Prince, Timbo the Neptunes all of those would be a honor of mine. As far as up and coming cats, I'm definitely feeling the nigga Max B, out of Harlem. That's really the only new shit I'm diggin like that. Honestly. There's a few other cats too, but just a few.

4. What is your inspiration?

Life. Music is life for me.

5. Where do you see yourself in the near future?

In the near future, I see myself being exactly where I'm supposed to be in life. I feel I've been blesseed so far, so I can only hope as long as I continue to be me, more blessings are to come.

6. What upcoming projects are you working on?

Upcoming projects I'm working on.... a CD I might potentially drop called "The Simple Things". It's a little concept I'm thinking about right now, right now honestly, I'm focusing on things outside of music mainly and just doing music here and there for fun.

7. What is your motto for 2009?

My motto for 2009 is "Make Everyday Count"

Interview With Paper Stacks

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     Paper Stacks is a very talented hip hop duo from Brooklyn Ny that graced us with their debut in 2007. I have known these guys since 2005 when they were rapping in high school. Spawning from their previous group Spin Siti, Travis "FITZ" Bramble and Kawan "Truth" Greggs took matters into their own hands. They started to participate in various talent shows and showcases, and recieved outstanding feedback from their listeners. Extremely pleased by the feedback received from their mixtape and live performances, Paper Stacks quickly realized that they have what it takes to enter the industry and make an impact in the music business. They also began to take more pride in their craft and the artistic structure of music. Truth became the group's main producer, creating unique but likeable beats that would set their music aside from the norm. With their look, wordplay, wit, and foot tapping head bobbing tracks, Paper Stacks now have all the tools to become memorable figures in the Entertainment Industry. I caught up with them and here is the interview:

1. How did you guys come up with the name paper stacks?

Fitz: Paper Stacks came about because we wanted a name that describes our countless hours of writing and composing music, which is a lot of work. So the name Paper Stacks reflects the stacks of paper used to create our music.

2. What will we expect from paper stacks in 2009?

Truth: You can expect a lot more hits from us amongst other things. We got a lot planned for 09 including the Paper Stacks official album "The Stash" completely produced by Truth. That's all we can give away right now because we like surprising people.

3. How do you feel about the state of hip-hop right now? The game is definitely different now from when I first met you guys.

Fitz: To be honest the game is looking real bad right now compared to a few years ago as far as Hip Hop goes. Its losing its essence and direction, which is a scary thing.

4. Tell me how you guys create your style. A lot of the things you guys were wearing in 2006, I see guys leaning toward now.

Truth: We just dress how we want to dress regardless of the trend. I think thats why we are so good when it comes to style, because we are comfortable with what we wear and we know how to put things together in a fashionable way.

5. Will you guys be doing music based on the recession?

Fitz: I wouldnt put it past us. We are always growing as artists and we are doing more songs related to the issues of the times, so you may hear something like that from us soon.

6. Truth, you have grown as a producer. How will that affect Paper Stacks' music?

Truth: It will change people'ss outlook on our music. They will no longer see us as "J. Armz Instrumental" rappers because we now have an original sound. We can now take more pride in our work because we make every song from scratch.

7. Who do you plan to work with in the near future? Who do you want to work with?

Fitz: We want to work with alot of people. Lil wayne, Eminem, Kanye, Justin Timberlake, Neyo, Common, the list goes on. Basically anyone who understands music like we do.

Interview With Mala Reginz

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Mala Reignz is one of the hottest female mc's to come out in a long time. From the Bronx, her flow on the mic is so distinctive and powerful. I have seen her perform and her energy is unmatched from women and even most men. She already is in the record books, because the single "BX Till I Die" featuring Elus, was the first video on Music Choice On Demand where the artists were not signed to a major record label.  I got a chance to interview her and here it is: 

1. I know you get this question a lot, but how did you get the name Mala Reignz?

My last name is Malave so when I began writing poetry and performing at poetry slams, I decided to roll with the name Mala. Reignz came later cuz I wanted something that sounded fuller. Mala Reignz pretty much describes me as an artist and my style. Mala is spanish for Bad Girl (cuz Im a badass on the mic) and Reignz (Reigns) means having the ultimate power/control. 

2. You have a single out called Whole Club Rockin along with your mixtape Miss Rap Supreme. What do you plan to call your album and when will it be released?

I've been back and forth with album titles for a long time now. I'll be releasing another mixtape before the album. The mixtape will be called "Calm Before the Storm" and that'll be followed by the album called "The Perfect Storm". It kinda plays off my name Reignz since it sounds like Rains. Basically the mixtape will be crazy and the album will be insane. That's what I"m going for. I'm gonna give em something they never heard before. The mixtape is already underway. I'm aiming to drop it in March. The album will take a bit longer since it'll be my first album so Ima take my time with it to make sure I come correct.

3. What is the first record that made you say, I want to rap?

I don't really have one of those. There's too many records and artists that influenced me. Not to mention the fact that I didn't always know I wanted to make music my career. I remember loving to hear the ladies spit and even recording songs from the radio and writing the female's verses so I could know them word for word so I could fully rep when my song came on lol. But there wasn't just one song that influenced me. I started off with the poetry to get me through some rough patches in my life and used to write while listening to Jay-Z, Eminem, Lauryn Hill, Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, The Lox, Big Pun...the greats. I guess listening to them just made me want to be real, relatable, lyrical, witty, clever....great.

4. Who is your favorite person to work with music wise?

There's a couple of really talented artists that I love working with not only because they're dope musically but because they're good people in general. Hecklerhouse, my main producer and engineer, always hits me with bangers that I have to sit on a lot of times cuz they're so hot I actually get a little intimidated like DAMN! LOL
My brother Elus, he's a real genuine dude and a great talent so I love to work with him always. I did this joint with a good friend Opera Steve and yes, he is classically trained and sings opera...the real deal. I loved working with such a different genre and look forward to our upcoming video and working on some new stuff. The most important thing to me is a good vibe and of course, the fun factor. If its not fun then its work and for all that I woulda just kept the 9-5 ya know?!

5. What is your favorite song you have ever done?

That's hard to answer cuz I fall in love with every new song I do. Its still kind of amazing to me to have an idea in my head and actually hear it come to life. I guess my current single Whole Club Rockin' is the favorite for now. Ngage produced it and Alkatraz (Ruff Ryders Latino) makes a cameo on the intro and hook. Its a banger point blank. First one of my joints to get regular club spins so its an exciting time for me.

6. On your album, who would you like to work with as far as rappers and producers go?

Well if I could have my wish I'd have Just Blaze, Will.I.am, Timbaland, Scram Jones, The Alchemist. Then for rappers I'd have Jay-Z, Nas, Lauryn Hill, Andre 3000, Kanye, Joell Ortiz and Joe Budden. Crazy combo right? But I love em all for different reasons and I'd do some sick concepts with each one. All of em are dope in their own right not only for their fan bases but for their creativity and willingness to push the limits. Shit would be crazy!

7. Where do you see yourself music wise in a couple of years from now?

I see myself being a new household name. Performing all over the world. Even though I've been doing music for years now, in a few more years I'll be the new kid on the block to the public. I'll be a fresh voice, a new perspective and a force to wreckon with. All my hard work now will pay off later and launch me into a more comfortable place musically and creatively. 

You can hear Mala on Myspace at: www.myspace.com/malareginz. Go and get her Miss Rap Supreme mixtape on egradioonline.com