Author Archives: theonlytobyk

September 29, 2011

Symbolyc One – Interview

By theonlytobyk

“I received the email asking if my passport was ready to go to London and that is when I met Jay Z and Beyonce during the recording of Watch the Throne”

Grammy Award winning producer Symbolyc One, S1 for short, has had a hugely successful 12 months!! To top it off, he produced what is arguably the most acclaimed track on Jay-Z’s and Kanye West’ album; Watch The Throne, in Murder To Excellence. I was given the rare opportunity to put some questions to S1…


Firstly, how are things working with you right now? Things are Great! I am truly blessed!

Getting into it, can you please give us a brief history lesson of Symbolyc One..  I grew up in the small town of Waco, Texas.  I’ve been producing for about 13 years and 5 years of that full time as a career.  I’m a Christian, devoted husband, father, and a person who tries to represent Christ and positivity in everything that I do.

You’re in your early 30’s, when did this all start to pop off, and was there a time when you felt it wasn’t to be?  I would say the “Power” (Kanye West) placement was when my career took off to the next level.  Producing for an International Artist really expands the awareness and brings a lot of opportunity. Definitely been a blessing!

Kanye West – Power

You list yourself as a number of professions, but what would you consider to be your primary occupation?  Being a producer is definitely my primary occupation.

When working with artists, do you present them with a selected number of pre-recorded beats, or do you start from scratch when in studio with them?  Both.  Sometimes I have ideas all ready built but then there are times when I’m in the studio and we create from scratch.

As a devoted Christian, how does it feel when working with a rapper/artist who may use a lot of profanity in their work and perhaps rhymes about subjects that are traditionally seen as sinful?  It feels great because it gives me the opportunity to witness through my lifestyle and conversation to let others know that you can be successful without all the profanity.

You’re obviously starting to get in with the major, major leagues with the Kanyes, Jays and Beyonces…can you tell us a bit how that started to come about, how it is working with them and any future news? It has been an incredible experience working with Kanye, Jay Z and Beyonce. Of course, I began working with Kanye in February 2010 while in Hawaii and that is how the “Power” single came about. Kanye said that soon he would be working on a collaborative project with Jay Z and would want me to be a part of it.  Later on in October 2010, I received the email asking if my passport was ready to go to London and that is when I met Jay Z and Beyonce during the recording of “Watch the Throne”. After London, we went to Australia, then in January 2011 I was flown out to New York to work on Beyonce’s album.  The world will soon hear my story when my documentary releases January 2012.

Beyonce – Best Thing I Never Had

The Watch The Throne track is one of the biggest of the year, you must have been ultra happy when your heard the news they wanted to use it…  It was great.  I was in Australia in the studio with Kanye and Jay when they chose the beat and recorded to it.

What input did Kanye have in the production of the track?  He kept the track exactly how I originally created it.  He didn’t add or take away anything to it.

And, the beat switch up, that took a lot of people by (good) surprise! Was that part of the original track or was that more part of the studio session?  Swizz Beatz produced the first beat and I produced the second half.  They started out as 2 separate songs but when Kanye merged them together it was a perfect fit so we kept them together.

Jay-Z & Kanye West – Murder To Excellence

We seen the Common photo on twitter…what’s good with that?!  Yes, I passed Common a few joints in the studio in NY. Not sure what’s to come out of it though. Time will soon tell…

It sounds as if you use live instrumentation in some of your work, is that the case? Yes, I always try to incorporate live elements to broaden my sound.

What equipment have you been using lately?  I use Reason, Pro-Tools, and Maschine.

Tell us a little about your group Strange Fruit Project… Strange Fruit Project is my family first and my group second.  We have been making music since we first started back in 2002.  We just released a new album “A Dreamer’s Journey” a couple weeks ago.

Each person have a different outlook, but how do you see the music world moving forward in the future years?  I think that there is a selective group of individuals/artist/musicians/etc. who are keeping real music alive.  As long as we have these creative people still around, music will always be a progression.

If you could form a supergroup of 4 members, who would be in it?   This is a tough question..lol  I’m going to be an oddball on this one.  Rick Ross, DeAngelo, Erykah Badu and Hi-Tek (producer)

Are there any UK artists that you have managed to hear and are feeling lately?  I worked with Tanya Lacey who is an extremely talented individual.  There is a lot of talent in the UK.

Any artists that you specifically wanting to work with in the future, and why?  Andre 3000, I have been a big fan of his since I first heard Outkast first album. Brandy, one of my favourite R&B Artists that I would love to work with as well.

Any last words?  God is Great and thanks for the opportunity!

Twitter: @SymbolycOne

symbolycone.com

A big thanks to S1 & Theresa

 

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September 15, 2011

Sak Pase

By theonlytobyk

“I think I’m gonna wake up one day and say..Wait a minute…My name is on the credits of an album that Kanye West and Jay Z did…”

Sak Pase, is one half of the production team The JuggaNauts. They are the producers of Rihannas global smash hit Man Down. Then Sak’ dreams came to reality when he learned that Jay-Z & Kanye West wanted to use not one, but two of his tracks for arguably this years biggest album, Watch The Throne. The two tracks were Who Gon’ Stop Me & Made In America. I had the pleasure of putting some questions to Sak’…

Firstly, how have things been lately, what’s good with you?

I’ve been wonderful lately…I can’t complain much about anything. Just got back from LA collaborating with the producer Boi1da on some music. And was also working at Atlantic Records for the new T.I album as well as ideas for Tank, and B.O.B…

 Could you give us a small history lesson on how you got started and formed your production duo The JuggaNauts?

After I graduated from Full Sail I moved back home and was selling beat CD’s around the city (Ft. Lauderdale, FL)… I had to get a part time job and met Verse (Simmonds) at AT&T…I was booking sessions at a recording studio in Miami. And one night I was having issues with a demo singer who couldn’t sing a song I wrote..So I called Verse at like 1am in the morning.. He came and wrote a song really fast…and after a couple really late recording sessions…I thought to myself this guy is really good…I was in the process of moving to LA to be a staff songwriter/producer for an indie record label. And I told the owner of the label that he should have verse on the team..I basically told myself that either I work with him now, or hope to work with him in the future…Long story short…The owner flew verse out to LA for a week we wrote like 8 songs that week..and he never went back to FL…Everything verse owns is what he has accumulated over time…He left everything in FL…We’ve been working with each other ever since…I’ll produce it.. then he’ll write it…

 Was there a moment when you knew that you were beginning to make this all actually happen?

I still don’t think any of it has hit me yet…I think our careers have taking a huge leap over the course of a year. But our first duties as album producers came in 2006 when we wrote or produced I think 13 out of the 17 songs on the Aksent Album (International).  That was pretty big for us back then but I think God has given me a glimpse of the things I will accomplish so there is a lot of work left.

But in just a year Alesha Dixon’s 1st single “Drummer Boy”, which didn’t do well, but creatively I think the song was brilliant. Unfortunately it might have been maybe to creative for what people wanted from her. “Ice Cold Summer” which is also on her album is a really great Rock Ballad that I don’t think people got a chance to explore.

Then Rihanna’s “Man Down”, and the two on Watch The Throne. So its happening right now. I guess its safe to say we are “happening” but there is a lot left to do.

Rihanna – Man Down

Not only are you a “producer”, but also a songwriter. Is there one you prefer, or do you feel they go hand in hand?

I actually like producing better. Producing in the sense of arranging and putting a song together. I get the most joy in directing this musical play. Bringing in the writer, presenting a musical piece and trying to capture an emotion. Then you bring in the artist and help direct a performance that an audience can enjoy. I think there is a genius in songwriting that I respect. So I kinda let the writer express themselves. Im just there to make sure all the ideas come together. And make sure the sonics of it all feels right.

How did you feel when you learned you got two tracks on Watch The Throne, and how did it come about?

How would any kid growing up listening to Jay Z / Kanye West feel to hear that news. BLESSED. To say the least.  Like I said I still don’t think its hit me yet. I’m such a fan of music. I really really LOVE music. And I’m excited to hear this piece of music that they put together. Its cohesive. Its classic piece of art. So to be a part of that is incredible. I think I’m gonna wake up one day and say..Wait a minute…My name is on the credits of an album that Kanye West and Jay Z did…

The track Who Gon’ Stop Me has a British dubstep influence. Is that something that is starting to take off in the States? And, what is it about the sound that you’re drawn to?

There is definitely a dubstep undertone to the record. I think dubstep is going to take off at some point in the states. For me dubstep is so fresh. The energy in dubstep is so intense at times. You get these moments where you don’t know whats going to happen. So much personality in the dubstep style when done right. I just hope it doesn’t get watered done. That tends to happen to styles in the states. Last thing I want to hear is a million dubstep influenced songs. Cause then it loses the specialness to it.

Jay Z & Kanye West – Who ‘Gon Stop Me

Then half way through the track, the beat switches, was that part of the original plan, or was it developed whilst laying the track down?

Well there were many great minds involved with the song. Kanye is always in search of transcendence. Perfection can be achieved in Kanye’s world I think that’s why he is one the greats early into his career. But I cant tell you if that was part of the original plan or not. I think it just happened. I think there was a moment where he wanted to intensify the listeners experience with that change. Up until the release of the record i never heard the song in its entirety.

Made In America is the other track you have on the album, which has been getting a lot of praise. Can you tell us a little about that track?

The track is very simple. I actually wanted to add more but Kanye felt that the mood had been achieved. Its not very complex. Just intimate. Its amazing what words can do to a piece of music. And I felt they turned a piece of music into a soundtrack of celebration. It’s a celebratory piece written in retrospect.

Jay Z & Kanye West ft. Frank Ocean – Made In America

The Rihanna track, Man Down, obviously took off, what more can we expect from The JuggaNauts & Ri in the future?

We submitted several songs two of which I believe she really likes. Since the album is not closed I think im gonna go in and lay down so more ideas for her. But I hope that we’re able to be the producers that give her the “authentic” west Indian influenced sound on all her future albums. I think the edge we may have on other producers is that we were born with the west Indian rhythm that Rihanna was born with. So we’ll keep our fingers crossed and hope that she will continue to have a song or two on the album that is true to where she is from.

Off the back of the work done with Rihanna, has that opened even more doors? And, any future work that you can tell us about?

Diggy Simmons, K’naan, did some music with Estelle, alongside Jerry Wonda (Fugees). Working on records for T.I , No Doubt, Tanya Lacey.. And a buncha of names that I cant seem to remember right now.

You have produced for British act Alesha Dixon, firstly how was that, and what other British Acts would you like to work with?

It was amazing working with Alesha. Her voice is one of the most memorable tones Ive heard. She has a classic Rock Voice that I think could be massive if she did the right album to compliment that. I told her that she sounds like a female Rod Stewart and she should really explore making music in that direction. I hope no one takes that idea and runs with it.

I’ve worked with Parade. These girls are SUPERSTARS…. If the label gets it right they can be as huge as the spice girls. THEY HAVE HIT RECORDS. Believe me I’ve done 4 or 5 records that can be HUGE…

Loick Essien…Incredible male vocalist. He is such great talent and just an awesome person overall..I have also worked with Tanya Lacey who’s just an incredible talent. Ive been fortunate to have worked with some great UK Artists. Looking forward to working with many of the bright stars the UK are grooming.

As someone on the “inside”, how do you see the popular music world heading in the near future?

I think with the success of Adele, and great albums such as Watch the Throne. Popular music is headed in the right direction. I feel good about it. I think the need for great music and great albums has arrived. I think its going to force the Labels to be more about the music and less about the business. In the end it works out for the better. If you put out incredible music. I can be successful. Look at Adele’s break out year… there is no trick or gimmick behind making great music.

If you could assemble a kind of supergroup for one LP, who would be included?

That may take at least a month to answer that question!

 Any last words?

Verse Simmonds. I think he is in a great space creatively. Think he has the chance to be huge and I hope I do a well enough job as a producer to make sure he gets to that platform.

Twitter: @Sak_Pase

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July 31, 2011

KAOS – CORRUGATED IRON

By theonlytobyk

“Don’t care about the next ting / Don’t care about the next fad / Just want good music / Stop sayin’ swag!”

West London inmate Kaos dropped his latest offering, Corrugated Iron, this week. Without following the latest hip trends or changing his sound to match his peers, Kaos has put together an album which sees him move forward as a songwriter and as a performer.

Kaos – Menace

15 Tracks deep, there’s deep cuts to stoner soundtracks. Production comes from N.I.Q, Capital B, Slapup Mill & Ill-PrOduct and album artwork by Murab. Stand-out tracks for me being Simmerin’, £££ & Menace.

Kaos – Traffic Lights
Kaos – Standing

Download Corrugated Iron….HERE.

Twitter: @thatskaos

@Capitalbpro

@niqbeats

@murab

Download Corrugated Iron….HERE.

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July 11, 2011

Interview – Nikkiya

By theonlytobyk

“…an ex-boyfriend that was locked up told me to find WillPower if I wanted to do music and I did; the rest is history.”

“- Featuring Nikkiya” is a note that is starting to become familiar within the hiphop world. Her first breakthrough feature was on Yelawolf‘s track Speak Her Sex from the already classic Trunk Muzik album. It was this project that life time collaborator Will Power, aka SupaHot Beats, produced in full. Since, Nikkiya has laid hooks for Wiz Khalifa & Chevy Woods and Tech N9ne, and with more in the pipeline. In addition to features, she’s currently creating her debut solo project, SpeakHer.

UPDATE: Download “Speakher” for free HERE

Firstly, Nikkiya, how’re you right now, what’s good?

I’m great! Super excited that you thought of me =)

You’re an artist on the come up, making some big appearances recently. But can you take us back, how did you begin this life as an performer? Small history lesson…

Well, It was all a dream I used to read Word Up magazine…Salt’n'Pepa and Heavy D up in the limousine Hangin’ pictures on my wall…nah, just kidding…but it definitely has always been my dream to perform and sing for others…I was just telling my producer WillPower the other day that I cant remember when I “began” wanting to do this – this is all I’ve ever known, It’s all I’ve ever wanted consistently …boyfriends come and go, jobs come and go, but this thing has been with me forever. My mom used to make me perform little parts of movies and songs for her friends during parties and I loved it; there’s nothing like performing for a drunk crowd!

Which artists in particular made have made an impact on you? And what is it about them?

Anita Baker, Sade, Ace of Base, Whitney, Madonna…the 80s R&B is so classic – my mother used to play it and, sentimentally, I value it for that reason as well. ACE of Base – my fave Euro group – I lived in Italy for years so I came to appreciate Ace of Base, Madonna.

Wiz Khalifa & Chevy Woods – Middle of You ft. Nikkiya

When was it that you began to believe you could make writing and performing into a serious career, or was that the goal from the very beginning?

I never ever thought of this as a serious career until recently – doing features with Wiz and Tech N9ne – surreal, out of body experiences! So it’s just hitting me now that, not only is my work dope enough to coexist with artists that are “on”, but I can actually make a pretty penny! #starvingartistdaysareover #praiseJesus =)

How did you hook up with SupaHotBeats and the Slumerican family?

Supahotbeats is all I’ve ever known; it’s like a first love relationship – all my firsts have been with SupaHotBeats…I guess you can say they took my musical virginity! I recorded my first studio records with Supahot, did my first shows with Supahot, made my first musical duckets with Supahot, etc etc. 10 years ago an ex-boyfriend that was locked up told me to find WillPower if I wanted to do music and I did; the rest is history.

Yelawolf – Speak Her Sex ft. Nikkiya

Explain a typical Nikkiya studio session? (…if there is such a thing is a typical session)

Wow, jammin beats blasting – I LOVE my music LOUD as hell when I’m in a session!!! It’s like I wanna drown in the beat, I wanna breath the music, all I want to feel is me and the music…so usually it’s just me and Will Power in the room, because we’re the only ones that can stand the beautiful pressure!

We’ve heard you feature on tracks with Yelawolf, Tech N9ne, Wiz and a few others, did you get to be in the studio with them, or does Will take your pre-recorded parts to them?

I always work with Yela and Tech live and direct; me and Wiz be on that 2000-and-next shit you know…mp3in’, emailin’ and whatnot. But with Yela and Tech, it’s always organic, like some Motown meets A-town shit…WiLLPower is the new-school Berry Gordy slash Quincy! So he’s always in producer mode!

Tech N9ne – Promiseland ft. Nikkiya

How did the Emilio Rojas sessions go?

Fun! He’s a clown, me and my team are clowns so it was fun times!!!

Anyone that you’d especially like to work with in the future?

Missy Elliott

What’s the news on your own solo, SpeakHer? What can we expect from that?

Speakher will be an excellent representation of everything I am – love, war, street, humble, unsure, wild, crazy…funky, fun. SpeakHer stays in no particular lane, it’s all over the place, but it is so very genuinely me – I guess that means I’m a fockin wreck *inmybritishvoice* ! But it will be totally smashing!

Will there be some sort of warm up project, or you guys going to jump straight into the full length?

We’re about to start droppin songs one-by-one…

Can you speak on any label situation as of yet? Would you rather keep it independent or get involved in a major situation?

No comment *lipssealed*

Nikkiya – When I Was High

On some tracks I’ve heard, there’s a slight darkside to their sound, is that just me, or something that you’ve aimed for?

It does seem that I’m coming with some darker stuff – but ive been working with rappers – I mean, have you seen a smiling-ass-rapper lately!?! So this dark stuff is not on purpose!. Honestly though, for rappers and myself, the music is a natural product of life ya know? Life is heavy and dark sometimes and being a musician/artist it’s my job/ our job to translate that stuff [into music]. But there’s hope my friend! love is life as well and I have some of that coming down the pipe,too!

You recently had your showcase, how’d that go?

It was crack!!! Superdope!!! Got lots of love in a packed house! It was another surreal out of body experience. My brother Wolf came and stamped the situation, I had lots of musical peers there to support…it was such a blessing. PS – I snapped and put on fah my city!!!

Nikkiya Atlanta Showcase

Any plans on going overseas yet, or you just going to keep it Stateside for now?

Definitely headed overseas…God willing, we’ll be there 2012

Is there any British acts that you’ve been feeling lately?

I love love love Duffy! And M.I.A….and I’d be deaf and dumb if I didn’t absolutely adore Adele! #Wecouldahaditaaaaalll!!!

A question I ask everyone, if you could form a supergroup of musicians who’d be included?

WillPower, Dre, Timbaland, Missy, Nikkiya, Lady GAGA

Any last words?

Yep! Im super blessed and humbled to be doing this. The best is yet to come and I thank you for listening to me babble about how crazy I am! SpeakHer…coming soon so stay tuned doll! #GShiT

Nikkiya – Cheater

UPDATE: Download “Speakher” for free HERE

Twitter @Nikkiya

Twitter @SupahotBeats

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June 12, 2011

Estevan Oriol – Interview

By theonlytobyk

Estevan Oriol is globally known for his photographs documenting Los Angeles street and music culture. I’m pretty certain you’ve seen his photography, artwork, clothing somewhere (If you know me personally, you’ll have definatly seen me wear his T-shirts)!

Estevan Oriol

Firstly, you’re here for the Gumball 3000…how’re you feeling about it?

I feel great about it; it’s the third year. Every year is different, the first year it was LA to Miami, last year it was London to New York, and this time it’s London to Istanbul. Every one is a new adventure!

Rosa Acosta

I know you’ve passed through London on previous occasions, do you enjoy it here?

I love London, it’s like another LA or New York to me. A big city, with the transport links where you can get around easy. You don’t have to trip out over language stuff, you can read all the signage, directions, notices, all that haha!

Xzibit & Mr Cartoon

In the beginning, when did you realize you could make a living out of photographs and documenting LA street culture?

I’d say it was when I started getting money for album covers. Back in the day they were good budgets for that. You could actually make money from doing photography. Just doing what I did, but now, you can’t really do it anymore, unless you switch fields. The fashion business still pays money, the movie & film business still pays money. As far as music goes or magazines, it’s over.

Street Life

Which album covers have you done?

A few for Cypress Hill, a few for Snoop Dogg…I also work with (Mr.) Cartoon a lot on the whole design packages.

Snoop Dogg - Ego Trippin'

Can you tell people how you hooked up with Mister Cartoon and a bit about the relationship and JokerBrand/Soul Assassins?

I met Cartoon in 1992, I was with my friend DC (Donnie Charles), rest in peace, he had his own record label called Hood Rat Records. He was the manager of WC and the Mad Circle, with Coolio and WC’s brother Crazy Toons. Me and DC went to Eazy-E’s Ruthless Records Penthouse Player record release party…Cartoon was there. Me and Cartoon were the only two Mexicans at that party. My homie was like “come over here, meet my other homie, he’s into lowriding too!’. All three of us were into lowriding, we got along good after that.

Mr Catoon & Estevan Oriol

Anything exciting project that you guys have planned in the coming months?

Oh yeah, we always got projects coming out, we have our company together, SA Studios, we have Joker (Clothing), we work in the same office. I can’t really speak on specific projects because we like to keep everything under wraps. People copy our shit if we let it out!

Nate Dogg

Would you consider doing almost like a tour around the world documenting other countries street cultures?

I’ve been doing a tour for the LA Women book. I went to Mexico, Australia, Brazil and all over Europe. My next book is going to be the portraits and life style I’ve shot in LA. I’m trying to do a LA Women book 2, it hasn’t been confirmed yet, but they the things I’m working on at the moment, as far as books go. I’m still doing the EstevanOriol clothing line collaborations with T.I.T.S and Diamond.

Estevan – LA Women Book promo

How about some of you’re latest videos?

I’ve just done a video with The Transplants (Saturday Night), with Travis Barker, Skinhead Rob and Tim from Rancid. Just done a Tech N9ne publicity shoot, I like Tech’s work, he does good shit, he does his own thing, he’s not copying anybody. And, he puts on a real show. A lot of rapper’s these days seem to be playing a MP3 and lip sync over that, it’s terrible! It’s not what hip-hop was, it’s turning into Milli Vanilli. People use to shit on MilliVanilli and Britney Spears, Ashlee Simpson, the same people who use to shit on all them, are now lip syncing themselves! You go to see a live show, you want to see them doing it live, you don’t want to see them rapping over a fucking CD!

Tech N9ne

I’ve just done another video for a local rapper called Chino Brown. The video thing is like what we were saying earlier about photography, the budget is going! The quality, on the whole, is going down because you can’t afford what you could before. But, you just got to keep it moving, I have to go into other fields, do shit in other genres.

I’ve just done a viral video for a phone company in the States with Snoop Dogg, Brittany Dailey and Warren G.

Estevan Oriol shooting Snoop Dogg, Rosa Acosta and others for Colt .45 drink

I still want to do more Respect (Hip-Hop photography magazine) covers, I did the first cover with the 50 Cent shoot, but they always have new editors who bring in their own peoples.

50 Cent

You’ve taken photos of rappers and bands such as Eminem, 50 Cent, Cypress, Blink 182 and many more…who’ve your favourites been to shoot?

So far, my homies Cypress Hill, that goes without saying. Snoop Dogg is always dope to work with, he always hooks me up with good jobs. Blink-182, I did a lot of great work with them, Travis, Skinhead Rob. Rob introduced me to Travis, and ever since then, it just took off! 50 is always cool to work with, I did more jobs with him in the beginning. It’s who you know at magazines and record labels. You might not like something at a particular magazine, but if you want to work with someone, you gotta kiss their ass. Business.

The Transplants - Saturday Night video shoot

Kim Kardashian, how was that?

I did a Famous Stars & Straps shoot with her and another for a project we are working on, which is still going to come out. Like everybody, I met her at the start, she’s great to shoot, real cool peoples.

Kim Kardashian

You’ve done the Two In The Shirt collabo, any more in the future?

Yeah still doing them, I got some more coming up. Also got some stuff coming up with Diamond Clothing. Me and (DJ) Muggs are going to do a couple of shirts for Soul Assassins. We’ve always got to keep producing shit, because once you’re out of sight, you’re out of mind.

Shooting Brittany Dailey for T.I.T.S...i know you've seen me wear this tee lately

If you could assemble a group photo, consisting of no more than 6 artists, who would be in there?

Eva Mendes, Adriana Lima, Jessica Alba…you can see where I’m going haha! I wanna shoot some girls! It’s cool to shoot dudes, but it’s a lot better to shoot girls! I like that style…the Jessica Albas, the Eva Mendes, some of them Victoria Secret type girls, I love that shit. I’d like to do a Victoria Secret thing in Brazil or something. Imagine a Sports Illustrated special in Brazil…

LA Women

Any last words?

Just want to thank everyone in London for always supporting us, representing. We been coming out here for years, I was talking to Bun B before, we use to come out here with Cypress, we’d do shows in Brixton, we’d do two shows a night in Brixton! Everybody would come out and support. The music scene here is always inspiring, there’s always something different going on here. The pirate radio type vibe, the grime, the dubstep, all that stuff is cool to hear out here.

Eminem

Anyone in particular you’re feeling?

Our friends at D.T.A (Don’t Trust Anyone) in LA did a grime mixtape (By DJ Magic with Scrufizzer, P-Money, Rinse, Roxxxan, Kozzie etc…) , and that whole shit, from start to finish, all raw ‘hood, London shit! That shit was bomb, I still bump that shit today. Actually, Bun B was even asking if anyone bring it to Gumball this year! It was our soundtrack to the race all last year, that was the one CD that we listened to. We’re into that shit.

But, just please keep supporting, Soul Assassins, Joker Brand, EstevanOriol, we’re keeping shit moving! Peace.

Dennis Hopper

The images shown here are just a few out of 100′s and 100′s out there, just type Estevan Oriol into any search engine and you’ll see the results!

Estevan Oriol’s Blog

www.jokerbrand.com

www.estevanoriol.com

Twitter

…and I gotta say, Estevan is one of the coolest out there. Many thanks to him & DJ Muggs for letting me hangout with them all afternoon. True OG’s.

Interview...

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June 5, 2011

Interview – DJ Muggs

By theonlytobyk

DJ Muggs doesn’t really need a lengthy introduction, with 25+ years in the game he’s been there and done it all. Muggs is most commonly known as the main producer for the groundbreaking LA hip-hop group Cypress Hill. He has also worked with everyone from Dr. Dre & Ice Cube to Pearl Jam & Sonic Youth. He’s put out many successful & highly regarded solo and collaborative projects. Over the years he’s set up a number of established businesses and radio shows . In short, he’s a legend.

Muggs in Trafalgar Square credit David S.

I caught up with Muggs the day before the Gumball 3000 Rally in London…

Taking it back, maybe 20+ years, how did you get started on the production tip and with Cyrpess Hill?

I started as a DJ, I was in a group called 7A3. I didn’t produce shit, but I had all the records and ideas for the album. Somebody else produced my ideas and I didn’t like the way it ended up sounding. So when I got a little money I bought a drum machine and said “I’m gonna do this shit my way from now on”.

Cypress Hill – Insane In The Brain (1993)

What big differences and significant changes have you seen the game go through in that time?

Everything, the world has changed as a whole! Things change everyday up here, man. Just like people change. It ain’t the smartest person who wins, It’s the person who’s able to adapt the quickest, ya know, shit moves so quick. If you can’t adapt…those who cease who change, cease to be. It’s all about adaptability, man. To me, I stay true to being an artist and the music…I can never say what’s going to inspire me at what time. I don’t particularly go out of my way for commercial success or to please anybody. I do my shit, if they don’t like it, then you can eat a dick…

Who have your favourite artists been to work with?

RZA, Dr. Dre, Prodigy and the Infamous family, KRS-One, Xzibit, Ill Bill, Sick Jacken.

Xzibit – The Foundation (1996)

Dr. Dre & B Real – Puppet Masters (1997)

Anyone that you haven’t managed to work with, but would like to?

There’s nobody. I’m not about wanting to work with people. If we’re going to work together, we gotta be able to vibe on an everyday level. I’m not on that “put something together” shit, I don’t send too many beats out.

You played a large part in Alchemist’ come up, how’s it for you know watching him out there these days?

He’s amazing, he’s inspired me to do greater things! That’s what it’s all about, helping each other and inspiring each other. We’re on a winning team together! Alchemist, Evidence and myself actually share a spot in LA where we have three separate studios set up, each one where we write and record our different shit, we can bounce ideas off each other whilst there. Like, I might be making an electronic track in my studio, pass through Alc’s or Ev’s studio and then completely change it into a grimy hip-hop track!

Alchemist & DJ Muggs

The Vs Series seems to be where we can hear alot of your hip-hop production these days, who’s up next?

It will be me and Ill Bill & Vinnie Paz for sure. But then I’m like “who’s the next person?”…I want to do Rock Marcy, he’s one of my favourites. Like, people hit me up everyday. I might to another one with Sick Jacken…or maybe one with all the guys that I’ve worked with, do one if all five of those guys. If they just  all gave me two songs. We could work that real quick man. I could do that within a month.

DJ Muggs & Ill Bill – Cult Assassins (2010)

I’ve also noticed that you’re starting to get involved with the Dubstep scene, which is taking off majorly over here, can you explain a bit about that?

The electronic scene globally is amazing. The dubstep scene is ridiculous. Kids are out there banging their motherfucking heads, going crazy!

How about studio time with any UK artists out here?

I was working with Itchy Robot, a dubstep dude, a did a track with him. I sent out a couple of beats for P Money, the guy who did the Slang Like This track with True Tiger, that track is huge! I like P Money alot, he’s dope. I like Sukh Knight, I like his beats, they’re banging! Also, I’m meant to hook up with some drum n bass dudes.

What can you tell us about the London underground scene compared to the LA underground scene

See the underground scene here in London is hard n gangsta style…in LA right now, it’s more fucking faggots…little girls…glow sticks all that shit. Even back when drum n bass was real big out here, I’d go to where Goldie played…everyone was off their faces, smoking up in there, wilding out!!! You know what I love about dubstep though, the fucking fans!! They come out and just loose it!! It’s fucking great! But it’s not aggressive, nobody is trying to fight.

The West Coast is starting to make some mainstream noise, do you think it’s time again?

I mean, outside of Cali, and especially over here in UK, you’re only going to see the mainstream shit. But I think LA, the underground LA, has one of the most progressive music scenes going on right now. It’s ridiculous…kids are becoming sick of the pop shit. Artists on the come up now ain’t even trying to be on the radio or MTV. It’s probably the most avant grande it’s ever been! You can look at everybody from whats going on at Low End Theory (Club night in Los Angeles) and the guys at Alpha Pup Records, what they’re all doing is ridiculous, dope shit!

Muggs ft. Greg Dulli of Afghan Whigs – Fat City (2003)

Not necessarily a huge man myself, but what’s your thought about upcoming Cali cats like Odd Future

For me it’s going to be interesting to see where it goes, they’re at the stage, where everything is cool…like Cypress was right there 20 years ago. But when you get the fame, everyone is going to be telling you you’re better than everyone else. Everyone will start getting separate managers, accountants, lawyers…start getting new girlfriends, and separate friends…let’s see how they handle that.

I know that Yelawolf, did a take on Ain’t Goin’ Out Like That, what you think of him?

Yela’s a real dude. He’s doing something original, a super nice guy. I know he’s worked with Reakwon and hear that he’s supporting Wu-Tang in couple weeks here.

Rock The Bells was announced earlier, I see you’re performing the entire of Black Sunday, you looking forward to that?

Yeah, we’re doing that. But I’ll be back in the UK for the V Festival on the 21st August! When you do festivals playing the electronic music, the DJ’s rate goes way up man, it’s eye opening! Certain artists are making $200,000 a fucking festival DJ’ing for an hour n half. Dudes need one hit song n you’ll make 50, 60G’s on a night at one of these festivals, come every summer, imagine that shit!

No wonder DJ AM and them cats started doing that…

Yeah rest in peace to AM, but the difference is, I’m still doing hip-hop records every year. I can’t leave hip-hop alone!

What else is planned for you this year?

My plan is to put this album out called Bass For Your Face, it’s an electronic record. And then work on my next hip-hop album with Ramel Zee. We gotta wait on who we’ll feature on that one though.

Muggs prepping Bass For Your Face

I know you fuck with a lot of rock music and had your Mash Up series…if you could assemble a dream line up, who would it be?

John Bonham (Led Zepplin) on drums. Jimi Hendrix on guitar. Jack Black and….John Lennon.

Any last words?

Man, I just want to say thank you to everyone who’s lent an ear to listen to my music throughout the years. Everyone who paid a couple of £ to come check out any shows. Thank you to you for taking time out of your day to come interview and hang out, we appreciate it. I’m lucky to be able to make music and travel the world, and motherfucking…live my dream!

@DJ_Muggs

YouTube Channel

Soul Assassins

djmuggs.com

House of Pain – Jump Around (1992)

Cypress Hill – Dr. Greenthumb (1998)

Cypress Hill – Rap Superstar (2000)

DJ Muggs live at the Elementz 2009 tour in Belgium

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May 30, 2011

Interview – Mark Morgan

By theonlytobyk

Last week I went to see an old mate (we’re talking 15 odd years, back to primary school days…good ol Trefonen) perform in a renowned North London venue. For me, it was a slightly surreal. Knowing Mark way back and  seeing what he’s developed into now… it was an expienece! And, of course it was a pleasure, and kind of weird, interviewing him…

Mark Morgan credit http://www.siddifford.com

“We fly to Chicago, we drive down the centre of the States, then back up the East Coast and finish the tour in New York!”

Firstly, what is tonight?

Telescopic Baby night, which is the label I’m signed with.  I’ve performed, along with the other guys on the label Lora Kirk, Where We’re West, AlanMcKim, Andrew Parry and Kate Daisy Grant. We’re doing a monthly residency at The Boogaloo here in Highgate, North London.

Just tell us a bit about how you got started?

Started playing piano when I was seven…

…you actually (maybe your brother) taught me the Beverly Hills Cop tune on piano!

Haha! So yeah, I started out playing Beverly Hills Cop….haha! My older brother, Jamie, played guitar and I kind of picked it off him. Soon after, I began writing songs for myself, playing in school bands and at 17 I started to sing and perform. I worked at a music venue in Oswestry called The Ironworks for a couple of years….played a lot there, developed myself. Then I moved down to Brighton, where I “studied” for about a year. I met Ken Rose, who founded Telescopic Baby, infact, I met a whole bunch of people, which has been great for me.

Mark Morgan – Muddy Road Season

The Telescopic Baby deal…how did it come about and what does that mean for you as an artist?

When I moved down to Brighton, Ken (Rose), he was one of my tutors and…well, it just all kind of happened really. We had a little connection, he liked my songs, and he asked me to do some recordings, we got to know each other. What’s amazing about the label is that it’s totally 100% artistic freedom! I’m not pressured into doing things I don’t really want to

Musically what have you been up to in the past few months?

I finished recording my EP, which is called Muddy Road Season EP (That’s a photo of my dog on the cover too!). So, I’ve recorded that, playing a lot around London at the moment. Doing some support shows for slightly higher profile artists, trying to get my name out there.  I supported Martin Harley in Putney the other day, which is big. They’ve really been helping me out.

How about some of your influences, from starting out, until today?

One that’s always remained is Nirvana! I absolutely love Nirvana. They’re just such an honest performance. A full sound from a three piece.Pearl Jam is another band that I love. Nick Cave, I’m a huge fan of! Mason Jennings too.

When writing lyrics, where do you get inspiration from?

A lot of influence from my own life, the track Watercolours is about my Grandfather. It’s emotional, a tearjerker! I got songs about my girlfriend. If I see or hear something at a moment, I’ll write about it. For instance, Ponys and Ballons is about the recent BP oil spill, I felt inspired about that. I actually make stories up too, Wishing Well is a little murder story I wrote.

Mark Morgan – Watercolours

You’re going to be playing some dates overseas later in the year, where exactly and which one are you most looking forward to?

I’m going to America in October, for a month! We fly to Chicago, we drive down the centre of the States, then back up the East Coast and finish the tour in New York! Looking forward to playing in Nashville!

Did you expect these milestones in your career to come so quick?

I didn’t have any expectations if I’m totally honest. No matter how great Oswestry was for me, moving away did me a big favour.

You made a big decision in leaving your hometown and relocating hundreds of miles away, was it a no brainer, or did you take some time in committing to it?

It was easy, I knew for a year before hand that I was going to make the move. I’ve always known music’s my thing, and this is where it’s all happening.

Would you say there’s a difference when you perform up home and to the rest of the country?

Everywhere you play, even in London, every gig is different to the next. There’s a bit more of a buzz going on down here.  Back home people are really supportive, so I real love playing those shows! But, down here it’s such a buzz, a great feeling to play to brand new audiences who haven’t heard your stuff before. It brings the songs to life all over again!

I know you’re playing the Ironworks in a couple of weeks (June 9th), you looking forward to that?

Yeah it’s going to be great! I’m supporting a guy called Gregory Alan Isakov, from the States, he’s pretty amazing.

Mark Morgan – Ponnies & Ballons

What else do you have planned for the rest of the year?

Just shows, I want to play and play and play. Promoting the EP the best I can, get some good reviews. I’m having an official release for the EP in the next couple of months! Also, we got the digital release on iTunes too. Play around London more, and start getting around the UK. And, getting my band together.

Tell about your band a little bit…

It’s drums, keys, bass. On the EP, I’ve got lots of weird sounds going on. Maybe get strings in too.

If you could assemble a supergroup of living musicians, who would it be?

Dave Ghrol (Nirvana, Foo Fighters etc…) on drums. Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam) vocals.Mark King on Bass (Level 42). Guitar…Chuck Berry can go on guitar!

And musicians who are no longer here?

Kurt Cobain…and a bunch of zombies hahaha!

How can we keep up to date with your latest news?

facebook/markomorganmusic, http://soundcloud.com/markmorganmusic and www.telescopicbaby.com

Any last words?

Go grab my EP, or check out some of the songs on those webpages…come see a show!

Mark Morgan - Live at The Boogaloo, Highgate. May, 2011

facebook/markomorganmusic

http://soundcloud.com/markmorganmusic

www.telescopicbaby.com

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May 23, 2011

Interview – Mr. Adaggio

By theonlytobyk

Mr. Adaggio isn’t your average violinist. Rarely seen without his fitted New Era, Nike high-tops, hood and of course his distinctive gold tooth, he looks more like an extra from a music video, rather than a classically trained musician. I expect at some point you would have heard Adaggio’s strings, either watching Hollywood movies and various TV spots or performing alongside The Game, Macy Gray, N-Dubz, Estelle, Maxi Priest (the list goes on), he’s done most of it…and more.

After just releasing his latest mini project, the sampler album M.I.T.O (definition of the name in the interview), he is set to finally get some recognition of his own.

Mr. Adaggio – Buggin

First off, how are you right now?

I’m good, we’re in Shoreditch, enjoying a few drinks, chilled out.

Taking it back, how did you first get into playing the violin?

I started in primary school, in Hackney, about 7 years old. They were giving free lessons, and I seen Nigel Kennedy, who’s a famous violinist, on TV a couple of weeks before. As soon as I found out that they were giving free lessons, I just got in there…and that’s where it all started!

When did you start to believe you could use your violin over the non-traditional tracks that we hear you on?

At the age of 18, that’s when I stopped practicing classically. I’m a classical violinist originally. By 18 I started going partying, hearing the bass of R&B, and garage at that time. That’s when I was like “Right, I want to put my violins to this!”. If I’m honest, it’s from my raving, that’s how and why I crossed over haha! I was like “Forget classical, I want to move over to something more fun!”. But, I do love classical music as well.

Do you produce the backing tracks too?

Yeah, I’m also a producer, and composer. So I produce my own tracks sometimes, even though I’m known for taking other peoples tracks and doodle all over them with my violin. Like I’ve just posted up the Kelly Rowland/Lil Wayne – Motivation track onto my YouTube channel!

Kelly Rowland ft. Lil Wayne – Mr. Adaggio

What other producers to look up to, or take influence from?

Obviously Dr. Dre is one of my big, big, big influences. I like Ryan Leslie… his creative process, I like how he lets people in on his creative process. i.e his YouTube videos, where he lets you see how he can produce. A producer called Red Spyda (G-Unit, Mobb Deep, Amerie), who’s from Miami, who I like a lot, I like his drum sounds.

What are peoples usual reaction when you describe to them what you do?

They’re usually shocked haha! People don’t get it. Sometimes people don’t believe it until they see it! That’s been my little jinx over the past couple of years. People have to see me to understand it. But people are cool you know. Then they are like “But you don’t look like a violinist!” (High-tops, fitted New Era, hood etc….) But, how is a violinist supposed to look?!

I recently read a tweet of yours saying that you are no longer putting yourself out as a “session” musician, and from now on it will be “Featuring Adiggio”…

This is just an angle for myself since releasing the mixtape. I’m putting myself out there. I’m fed up of doing strings for people as a solo violinist, and not getting any credit. I’m not going to say names, but I’ve been ripped off so many times, and not credited. So I just thought “Right, I’m not doing that no more.”. I’ve had my own MTV Base – About To Blow, put out my own mixtape, had massive features…why should I cast myself as just a session musician.  I’m holding myself back like that. So, from now onwards, I’m going make sure my name is a feature, all the time. If it’s not a feature…you’re not getting Mr. Adaggio.

So, who have you worked with in the past a session musician?

Putting me on the spot…I’ve done Kano, Jennifer Hudson, The Game…a lot of people. I cast session ones as when you’re not getting named.

What Game track was it?

Dreams, it was good. I just got found somehow! That was near the beginning of all this. I think it came about via the record label people. It was a good gig! It was all a live performance, I turned up with my hair all up, rowed, like a Coolio style. I had just come back from New York, so I had a big baggy t-shirt on…I was easily influenced back then!

The Game – Dreams (Produced by Kanye West…ft. Mr. Adaggio;)

How about in the future…is there anyone you would like to session for?

You know what, my musical taste is slipping all over the place. I came across a group called Metronomy. You should YouTube them, I have fallen in love with their music! It’s just some like some indie, some funky. Anyone who’s musical, anyone who’s music has vibes. I’m very anti-vibeless music! If you’ve got a vibe, and it’s warm and stuff, then I’m with it.

When writing a song…do you have a similar approach to a MC, where they have a feeling that they want to express though words and their voice, but you use your strings instead?

Yes, defiantly. I approach the track like a signer. But, also like a MC, where I’m trying to get the vibe. So if the track’s dark, I’m going to play dark. If the track’s bright…I’m going to play bright. If it’s a typical slow jam sound, I’m going to do that. So yeah, I approach it like a singer. I actually hum the melody to myself first. So I’ll turn the beat on, listen to it, get the melody, and then play it on the violin. But sometimes I just freestyle and go crazy on it! There’s no typical Adaggio recording method…unless the track’s boring haha!

When recording with other artists, do they come to you with an idea, and just let you do your thing…or do you build it up together?

Usually what happens is that they’ll press play on the track, I’ll freestyle, then they’ll be like “That bit!”, “That bit!” and “That bit!”. Then we’ll piece it together on the track. Sometimes they’ll have ideas, but usually they’ll leave me to it.

How about with the movie scores?

That’s totally me. There’s nobody telling me what to do. So far all the movies I’ve been working on are American, so they just send the track to me and it’s been up to me what I do. Which is a beautiful thing.

You must have more than a few musical influences, who are some of your main ones?

I’d say, anyone from Stevie Wonder to Coldplay to obviously Michael Jackson. You know, anyone I grew up on. I think I can actually hear in my violin, their kind of voices, and I try and imitate on the violin.

The free sampler/mini album M.I.T.O…firstly what does that stand for?

It stands for Murder In The Orchestra. The meaning behind that is what I see myself as to the violin world. I’m completely different. I’m not saying that in a “look at me” way…I just am different. I’ve got a gold tooth, I got long hair, I party, I party hard. Not saying other violinists don’t party…I just party harder haha! I always say I’m the UK’s number 1 bad boy violinist! That’s my brand.

Mr. Adaggio – Crazy

So why are you, The UK’s Number One Bad Boy Violinist?!

I party ‘till I drop, I speak my mind and I rock out on stage! If you come and see me live, I can promise you that you’ll never have seen a violinist like me before.

Has it been put out to test the water and gain feedback, or did you just feel the need to get something out in the public?

This is the first time I’ve ever put anything out there that’s just me. So it was really to get feedback. But it was also because I’m always gigging and people are like “where’s your material?”, so I want to provide for those people. That’s why I put it out.

Do you have a goal with the release, or are you just enjoying seeing where it takes you?

The goal was the people. Give them something to listen to. Something that was completely me. Something that was organic. Recorded in the bedroom. No high end producers. Just me.

How about live performances, can we expect any?

At the moment, the only live performances that I’ve got are in foreign countries. Over the summer there will be a lot of PA’s. So far it’s just Thailand and Dubai though.

Now that the release has dropped to a lot of positive feedback, solo wise, what else are you planning on doing over the coming months?

I want to release an E.P, which features other acts, and me. So all the tracks will be features. So, basically, Mr. Adaggio featuring…. Also my group, The Element. The Element are like an experimental, R&B, pop, reggae, ballad, it’s everything, it’s very versatile. But, it’s very dark aswell. I’ve got my hand on the production, so I’ve got control on that. Some of the songs are happy, we’re trying to steer our way. What I’d say we are…is like a new version of The Coors…gone wrong haha!…and a bit street too! You can expect to hear something’s over the next few months. And, I’ve got my own video coming for two tracks off the mixtape.

If you could work with 3 current artists of your choice, who would they be?

I’d say…Stevie Wonder, Dot Rotten, and…Two Door Cinema Club. So I’m down for everything! I’m not a musical snob, I like everything! From the most ghetto, ghetto, ghetto beats, to indie, to jazz and piano. I like dark music though, I’m a fan of dark music. I don’t know why. Even dark pop I like!

If you could work with 3 artists who aren’t here anymore?

Mozart, Beethoven….Bob Marley. I’m one of the biggest fans of Bob Marley, I love his music.

Any last words?

Nice interview, thank you!

Mr. Adaggio – E.T

I seriously advise downloading M.I.T.O for free RIGHT HERE!!

@MrAdaggio1

YouTube Channel

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May 7, 2011

Profile – Emilio Rojas

By theonlytobyk

Emilio Rojas

Pronounced E-mil-io Ro-has, mixed Venezuelan-American, has been on the up & up the past couple years, predominately within the New York rap scene.  Moving from Rochester to Brooklyn in 2005 with no money and after years of heavy grind, Emilio attracted the attention of notorious DJ/producer/radio presenter DJ Green Lantern. Green Lantern has since helped with promoting and mentoring Rojas’ fast developing career.

Emilio Rojas – That Time (2008)

Emilio Rojas – On The Ave (2009)

Setting him apart from other MC’s is his ability to rhyme about honest topics and still keep it fresh in the hip-hop manner. Not only is it his content, but also his delivery is significant. In a period where listeners/consumers have very little attention span, it’s important to keep every verse exciting. Emilio has a unique ability to organically switch up his rhyme patterns within his bars without distracting the listener too much away from the song. The replay value is also strong with all of his free albums (I’m going to stop calling them mixtapes), which is a necessary but rare factor with many releases.

Laws ft. Emilio Rojas & Big KRIT – Hold You Down (2010)

Emilio Rojas ft. Jaiden – To The Fullest (2010)

With his latest free album release Life Without Shame, he’s got many hot names to appear and produce…B.O.B, Yelawolf, Big KRIT, Killer Mike, J.U.S.T.I.C.E League, Needlz, DJ Khalil, Dante Ross and of course DJ Green Lantern, to name a few. The album takes it to the next level as far as writing and structure. There’s notable large anthems, which are radio and chart ready without loosing any credibility or forcing an artificial front. And, this is what gets me. A lot of songs that get played on the radio and are requested by the public are just off reputation from a particular artist. Emilio has a sound that is already built to be accepted by the general public, but until a large backing comes from an already popular established artist/house, people will probably continue to sleep. Hopefully, DJ Green Lantern could be the stepping stone between his current steady buzz to a nationwide recognition.

Emilio Rojas – Champion (2010)


Emilio Rojas – Life Without Shame (2010) Free Download

Emilio Rojas – The Natural (2009) Free Download

Emilio Rojas – Recession Proof (2009) Free Download

@emiliorojas

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April 3, 2011

INTERVIEW – Joe Black

By theonlytobyk

(Before posting this, just to let you know that for a few reasons, I’ve been slow with posts lately and will continue with the slow feeding throughout April.)

Joe Black , from Islington, North London, keeps it true by rhyming about what he’s been through and the street life that surrounds him. He’s been praised for his lyrical abilities and his distinctive cold delivery.

Joe Black

A few weeks back I caught up with him at Random Impulse’ Overload EP party…

Firstly, hows your night going?
Yeah we just got here, with a couple of the boys, here to support Random Impulse. We share the same manager and that.
How’d that come about?
I know him from school days!

Am I correct in saying that you’re currently working on your first “proper” album?
I got two mixtapes coming out now, one’s a solo, and the other is with two other solo artists that I work with, Squeeks and Benny Banks. Then I’m gonna work on an EP. The album, I’m slyly always working on the album. It just takes time, I’m not trying to rush the album.
So do you record one song, and think that can go on X or Y?
Yeah after we record it, I’ll know if I want to hold it back, or release it. Sometimes I might want to hold something back, then 3 months down the line, I’ll put it on a new CD. When the album comes together, I think I’ll know its coming together. I can feel it.

What’s it saying, topics, features, producers?…or is it just going to be more of what we’ve already know you for?
That’s a good question. I think, right now, it’s a little too early to tell. I know what I want to do, but obviously, certain things, when you think them and then when you actually do them, it’s two different things. I’m tryna make an album that’s more general. What the public have already heard is more personal, it’s been me, me,me. The album, we’ll make a bit more general. A wider audience can relate to it.

On your previous releases you have had females on the hooks, which I think everyone feels, we gonna hear more of that on the album?
Yeah, if the right female comes along. Why not? It’s all about getting the right people.
Do you write the song, and think of someone who would suit this?
Sometimes, but usually I like to work with an artists where we’re both there in the studio together. You can hear the difference. When they’re together and it’s the same vibe, you can hear the connection. From the UK music I’ve heard, I can tell when the track’s been made together or whether they’ve emailed the track over.

You’ve already put out a collaboration mixtape with Page, was that recorded with you both present in the studio?
Yeah, we did that whole mixtape together! Started off with just us doing one song. It made sense, because our styles complimented each other. It’s not too contrasted.

After the album, will it be live shows?
Yeah man, shows are coming up! Got a show at end of March, April in Slough, and it’s not confirmed yet, but we’re in talks with an U.S. artist who’s coming over in May. We’re trying to make this year our year.

Touching on your relationship with other UK artists; you’re tight with Giggs, how did that come about?
To be honest, it’s through Twitter really. Like, Giggs’ DJ, he’s my cousin, so there’s that link. We just started talking to each other through Twitter. Linked in the studio and just took it from there.
Now that his album finally got released, do you think the public are starting to sit up and take note of the scene and movement?
You know what it is, it’s just music, if the music’s good, it don’t matter what umbrella it comes under. If it’s good music, it’s good music. I just like to promote homegrown music. If it’s good music and it comes from Britain, I’m supporting. I don’t care, I ain’t got nothing against grime artists. I’m not one of them artists who’re like “Fuck grime” n all that. I think they should start to recognise UK rap a bit more, we’re slowly getting there.
Can you see any of your shows running into the same troubles as his?
I don’t think so. From what I know, he don’t get trouble at his shows. He gets trouble because of his background or his past, so they don’t allow him to do the shows. It’s not like with say, So Solid, where there were incidents that were happening, so that’s why they stopped them. Giggs’ shows that I see, there’s never no troubles. The only thing that’s gonna happen by them stopping the shows, is make it go underground. Shows will happen, it just won’t be as mainstream as we’d like it to be.

K-Koke is another close affiliate, and we all know about his recent signings with Roc Nation…has that encouraged you even more to propel yourself into the game?
I wouldn’t say it encourages me anymore than what I already am. It’s a good look, at least we know that people other there are paying attention. In that way, yeah, it does make people step up their game. People know that there’s eyes on us.

Obviously the UK scene is in a good place right now, but what do you think it needs to take it to the next level?
Better organisation, that’s what I think UK hip-hop needs. A bit more solidarity, a lot of people are kind of sectioned! That’s a reason why grime is so successful at the moment, you’ll have 10 different MC’s all on the same stage. You can’t do that with rap, ‘cause this man don’t like this, or that man don’t like that. It’s all opinions.

If you could put together a hip-hop/grime supergroup from the UK, who would it be?
I feel like we got the supergroup right here! Propane, Storm, Squeeks, Banks, Hunt just came home, Westie on the beats! I honestly believe that! As a bunch of rappers that personally know each other…It’s deeper than rap.
From the U.S., right now?
3 Rappers and 1 producer…. The producer, right now, J.R Rottem. Me personally, Rick Ross has to be there, Drake would have to be there and I’d have to put Jay-Z in there, Jay-Z is the best.

Now, Shadrack and Abendigo!….they been talking a lot on the Twitter lately!…do who have any advice or any words for them?!
Boy. Them men are my homies,wanna say free Shadrack and free Abendigo. They’re my homies, obviously homies don’t always see eye to eye! Deep down they’re my brothers haha!

Any last words from you?
Yeah, you can follow me on Twitter @joeblackuk, check out my brand new website joeblackuk.com, watch out for mixtapes coming soon. Make sure you go and cop Random Impulse’ EP! Overload, that’s my joint!! Watch out for the movement and big up yourselves!! Big up London!!

Joe Black – Addicted

Joe Black – Not Guilty

K-Koke ft. Joe Black – From a Place Where

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