Category Archives: Interviews

Check Out This Interview with: Raspy Rawls (Rare Royalty!)

Posted on by L Shameless
30

What’s good everyone! I’ve been M.I.A. for so long, from a trip out to Washington state for two weeks, to school,

you name it! – So many things I coming your way (as always – Hey think of it like this, can’t stay I never owe you some sort

of cool post right?).  As always I like to interview artist when I have time. While I enjoy getting the chance to interview some

dope artist, I have to say that this one is truly one of my favorites. If you haven’t heard of the name Raspy Rawls, or

even if you’re familiar with the name, this is a interview you don’t want to miss.  I always believe connecting with fans, and

viewers is important when getting your music out there, but it also plays a huge role in keeping things alive as well.

With that being said, enjoy this interview, as I truly hope you take something positive from it. Also be sure to check out

Raspy Rawl’s music as well!

 

Interview with Raspy Rawls:

LS: Bait, Fisherman of Men without a doubt is proof of your mantra, “Truth With Real Music, Not Kill Music.” The album houses a lot of positivity, and puts forth some real topics. Can you talk a little about this project, and give us some insight to how it all came together?

RR: Let’s see, where should I start. Aite I got ya. In the beginning of 2011 I began actually working on my debut album. Blujai, who is my main producer, and I had just started working together. We were trying to get a feel for one another. At this point, he was in his beat making stage. He’s an artist also by the way. He started sending me these crazy beats that got my created juices flowing. Only problem we had was that he sent more than a few with samples in them. Being that this was going to be for an album and not a mixtape, I knew I did not have the funding to clear them all. All I knew was I had too many great concepts to let those beats go to waste. This is when I decided to put out the Bait mixtape.

LS: It’s safe to say you keep it old school, but weave the sound that it
can resonate with a younger audience, as it’s different from what is on the radio. What influenced that sound?

RR: When you find out, please tell me LOL! Compared to the rest of my team I’m old. Well at least that is what they tell the world every chance they get lol. This project felt more Old School mostly because of the samples that were used. My sound is different than what you hear on the radio because they are not talking about anything important in their music for one. For two, in rap it is a bunch of rap songs being made, instead of music. I can’t rap!!! I’ll be the first to admit it. People look at me funny when I say this, but there is a difference in being able to rap, and being able to write songs and make music. I am great at writing songs. Where the chorus goes into this verse, that verse ends falling into the chorus, and so on and so on to make a complete song. I hold any artist to the same standards I hold myself to. I do not understand how you have a chorus saying one thing, and the verses saying something else. I listen to lyrics, and you must make sense to me in your music. EVERY SINGLE WORD HAS TO MAKE SENSE TO ME!!! Not only does it has to make sense, but it has to be good music. I could give you all the positive lyrics in the world, but if I do not know how to make good music, it’s pointless.

LS: Word!

LS: For those new to hearing the name Raspy Rawls, where did it all begin?
Can you give us a little history of your music?

RR: I was released from incarceration in the fall of 2009. One night while at the barbershop/studio, a few artists were working on a compilation album for the studio. After getting my fresh cut, I told them I would write a verse for one of the songs. They thought I was joking. So they threw on a
beat and rapped the chorus to me. I grabbed a pen, and paper and said give me about 20 minutes. My oldest nephew, Gee, looked at me and said if it was garbage he would clown me. I wrote it, went in the booth to record it, and they pretended like the equipment was tripping. Go figure, LOL. They all left and I was still there, when a close friend of mine, and fellow artist J. Frank came through. I asked if he could record me. He recorded me, but I did not let them know until the next day. I played it for them and my cousin, AJ/owner, told me I had 24/7 access to the studio, and he wanted me in there every day. I chose the stage name, Somebody, at that time. It was because everybody was Somebody to someone. Move along to 2010, a female friend of mine started calling me Mr. Raspy. So I changed my name to Mr. Raspy before the release of my first project, Voice Recognition Street Album. That was June 2010, by October that same year, God woke me and showed me the mission that my life was created for. Once awakened, He started revealing things to me that was embedded in my mind for years. Things I use to wonder why I
even recognized, let alone remembered. I use to have this saying, “ I’m a rare species”. Still don’t know why I was thinking about this that day, but while doing it a name change came to mind. I dropped the Mr., took Rawls from Lou Rawls and his distinctive voice, and said I’m not a rare species. I am Rare Royalty. The official name is actually Raspy Rawls Rare Royalty.
I just use Raspy Rawls for the convenience of it, but my logo has the
complete name on it. That name change came in my mind in under a minute. God made it tailored made to fit!!!

LS: Got to appreciate that you take time to recognize self. I believe people sometimes forget their own greatness.

LS: On the Bait album, you dedicated a song to your upcoming album. What can we look forward to hearing on your next project?

RR: Lol, my lil brother T-Mav be saying he still can’t get over that concept. Let me clear this up, that song is dedicated to my next album, not mixtape. The album I referred to earlier in the interview that I was working on at the start of 2011. That is what that song is dedicated to. Now as far as my next project goes, Politics will be dropping in a few months. No release date as of yet. I don’t want to box myself in. You can expect growth from me as an all-around artist. More comfort in the booth, a totally different lane as far as production, and I slowed down the flow some so you can understand me better. Some of the knowledge was getting overlooked, because
I was rapping fast on some songs. I can’t wait to release Politics to the
world!!!

LS: If someone asked me what separates Raspy Rawls from other artist, I’d have to say your approach to music, and the content. You’re not afraid to be yourself on a track, and I think that is the key element, aside from your voice (hence the name!). What do you think is missing from music these days?

RR: A fight for humanity. I mean a real fight for it. We are letting this
popularity and money get to our heads. Artists walk around like they do not breath the same air as others in a lower tax bracket. Those others you look down on are the ones who probably scraped their money to go to one of your concerts. The gap between the have and the have not’s are widening. But you can’t put all the blame on the artists, because people are the ones who worship them. If you are reading this, I want you to listen to my next words clearly. I am a human like you. It does not matter how popular my
music becomes, do not run up on me with all that hollering and screaming. I am not famous, that would be Jesus!!! Want an autograph or a picture, walk up and ask like a human. You’ve been warned!!!

LS: Speaking of music, the production on the Bait has some very creative moments such as track 15, “Saw The Signs.” More so, it was unexpected. What would you say is your most favorite song from this project to perform?

RR: First let me go on the record about that song, Saw The Signs. That has to be the hardest song I have written to so far. I had to sink into that beat to find a way to come on it. Shout out to my super producer Blujai for always challenging me. My favorite song to perform has to be 1 Love. It is a fan favorite and mine also.

LS:  As mentioned, you did a song as a prelude to a future album. What do you hope that people will get from your next project?

RR: The next project is an empowering project. I am on a mission to empower the everyday human, the percentage of humans that are at the bottom of the barrel, yet it’s that same percentage of people that are the most on the planet. I have a serious problem with that. This makes me seek the knowledge I seek, and write the songs I write. It’s time to wake up the world, and shake up the system. We are at an info war. The less you know, the dumber you are. And I
would love to see a world full of smart people who think for themselves.

LS: I remember we were talking about concepts, which are far, and few from albums releases these days. Will the next project incorporate something
that goes beyond the normal creative process, rather than just the project being labeled as just as a new album?

RR: It wouldn’t be a Raspy Rawls project without it standing out. I’m Rare Royalty, it’s just in me. The concepts are crazy, but nothing I tell you can prepare you for Politics. You knowing the tracklist would not even benefit you, because my mind is in so many places. It is basically
impossible to detect which view point I will write from. As I am writing
this, I just came up with another concept LOL! #WICKED

LS: Nice!

LS: As always, I like to inform everyone of what’s happening with new
artist, or current. Do you have any shows coming up, or anything people should be on the look out for?

RR: First, thanks for interviewing me. It means a lot to my brand, my team, and myself. Thanks to you, the reader, if you are reading this it means you read the entire interview. Hope you enjoyed it and have a better feel for me, and my cause. I’ll be shooting my first video sometime in July. The date is not locked in yet, and I’m not telling which song lol. I am playing in and performing at the Positive Solutions 2nd Annual “Stop The Violence New Orleans” Celeb Basketball Game and Peace Feet. That will be held on July
21st at L B LANDRY HS, 1200 L B LANDRY AVENUE, NEW ORLEANS, LA. If you in the New Orleans area during that time, come out and show some support for something positive. We need to show others that someone really does care.
Thanks to everyone again, and MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL – RASPY

 

Be sure to check out these links for Raspy Rawl’s music!

Also follow him on Twitter, and stay updated!

 

http://www.datpiff.com/profile/RaspyRawls4Rs

http://www.youtube.com/Raspy4Rs

http://www.facebook.com/TeamRaspyRawls<https://www.facebook.com/TeamRaspyRawls>

http://www.reverbnation.com/raspyrawls

–
Follow us on twitter:

http://twitter.com/raspyrawls

http://twitter.com/teamraspyrawls

http://twitter.com/1stclassmuzik

Kero One Interviews with Sparkling Magazine! [Winter 2012]

Posted on by L Shameless
2

Hello Everyone!

Shameless here with one of the many surprises that I’ve been promising at the start of the year (What, what do you mean I’ve been promising stuff since late last year!?!! Lies!!! – You know I haven’t forgot you)! Late last year, Sparkling Magazine got in contact with us at Plug Label about doing an interview with Kero One! If you never caught an interview with Kero One, then this is your lucky day! In this interview, Kero One takes a moment to talk about he got started, his music, touring,  his plans for 2012, and more!

On behalf of Kero One, Plug Label, and myself, we want to send a special thank you to Kero One fan, Andhie To, and Sparkling Magazine for making this happen!!

Enjoy!!!!

 

 

“In All The Right Places,“  Interview with Kero One.

(Sparkling Magazine – Winter 2012)

 

We’re digging the sexy-street sound of pioneer jazz-hop artist Kero One.

By Chinggay Labrador

One of the first independent hip-hop artists to land on the iTunes charts, Kero One is known for spearheading the jazz-hop movement. The San Francisco-based multi hyphenate talks about music, traveling, and how his roots have influenced his unique brand of music.

SM: Your first record came out of do-it-yourself efforts. What sparked the idea of actually coming up with and distributing your own record?

KO: I started as a DJ in the ’90s and back then having your own 12″ record was like dating the most popular girl in school; as a result, people paid more attention to your music. Once I manufactured the records I had to figure out how to get them into people’s hands anyway I could, so I started hustling and reaching out to friends.

SM: Your big break came when your record landed in Japan and was played at a club. What was it like when you got the call from the label exec that was interested in your music?

KO: I couldn’t believe it; I was ecstatic. I knew all the hardcore hip-hop collectors and aficionados were in Japan, so it was a big deal. Ultimately, this break came when I was invited to tour in Japan. At that time I was happy about the music I was making but unsure of how others would react to it, and see the appreciation is always amazing-people waiting for autographs and photos… It was surreal. My second big break came seven years later when will.i.am of The Black Eyed Peas sent me a video message telling me he loved my music. It’s moments like those that always remind me it just takes one person out there to believe in you.

SM: Any differences performing for an Asian audience, and U.S based one?

KO: Asians love waiving glow sticks at shows, haha; it’s cool though. Taipei, Manila, Seoul, and Japan have been unforgettable.

SM: Did your Asian-American background inform your style or your creative process?

KO: I talk about my upbringing a lot when I write lyrics. I grew up as an Asian in a primarily white neighborhood; I did a good job blending in but was always the odd man out at the same time. In some instances I felt like the elephant in the room. In fact I even made a song called “Asian Kids” with Tablo of Epik High and MYK, and Dumbfoundead, illustrating some of the struggles

SM: San Francisco is a pretty diverse city. Has the Bay Area influenced your style, outlook, and process?

KO: Yes. I grew up in the Bay Area all my life. It’s a very diverse liberal, and laid-back vibe there, especially in San Francisco. The Bay has a lot of talented musicians, and most of them are humble bedroom artists who aren’t jaded by the music industry such as in other places like L.A. or New York. Those people have inspired me, because at the end of the day it’s all about the music and authenticity.

SM: Your sound blends influences from jazz and hip-hop. Which artists from these genres have inspired you to come up with your own unique sound?

KO: It’s weird, because when I created my first album Windmills of the Soul; I just made what I liked. Hip-hop in the early ’90s sounded this way (jazzy) but a lot of people had forgotten about it; artists like Digable Planets, Souls of Mischief, and Nas used a lot of jazz. When I started getting very deep into ’70s jazz such as Lonnie Liston Smith, or Bob James, I realized there should be more musicianship in hip-hop because jazz music was never stagnant – it was always changing. Thus I started implementing live instruments into my production, and having long piano solos at the end of songs at a time when hip-hop was just about looping the same beat over and over again. I fell in love with hip-hop at an early age then hated what hip-hop had become; that inspired me to make music.

SM: You’re very hands-on when it comes to your music as well as the business side of being a musician. What are the pros of taking care of everything, from art direction to web design and marketing?

KO: I love being involved because I want my vision to be executed the way I see it and not on someone else’s canvas or timeline. However I realized when I’m too involved in the business, I put my hands in too many pots and spread myself too thin. I’ve now decided to focus more on my craft and making music and not be so involved in the grind.

SM: You’ve collaborated with several artists. Any memorable experiences working with the likes of Epik High, David Choi, Dumbfounded, Far East Movement, Talib Kweli, and the rest?

KO: Performing on tour with Epik High was unforgettable; sold-out shows starting in Japan, Korea, then to the States with Far East movement. I remember fans waiting at the airport, red carpet treatment, press everywhere… It was a huge deal. As for studio collaborations, a lot of them happened over the ‘net. With David Choi, our collaboration started from a message discussing a simple video to something that required hours of editing. He sent me his vocals (which he knocked out very quickly), and I already had the video footage from where I was creating it. We uploaded it not many days later and it reached 300,000 views off his channel. The power of Internet is amazing.

SM: How different is you creative process when working on your own as compared to collaborating?

KO: I started as a solo artist, so collaborating with other artists can sometimes be difficult because there may be a clashing of ideas or visions-in that sense it can sometimes be distracting, I’m so used to doing things my way and compromising is not always good. I will fight for my way if I feel strongly about it. Luckily it’s mostly been smooth collabs so far!

SM: What’s the first song you’ve ever written, and what’s the story behind it? Was it ever released?

KO: I tend to release almost everything that I write. I don’t know what it is; I just think that if I put it down on paper, it’s a waste if I don’t to put it out. The first real rap I wrote was in high school called “Check the Blueprints.” At the time, it was just a nameless rap though. Ultimately, it was a rap I wrote to pass time in some of my boring classes and as years passed it eventually morphed into a real song, a song that took me around the world, if I think about it, its kind of crazy.

SM: Any plans of going on tour soon? How have your previous tour experiences been?

KO: Yes, I’m currently planning a tour with Korean hip-hop groups Dynamic Duo and Supreme Team. We should be on tour in late January. It should be epic.

SM: What challenges do you run into working in the music industry? How different is the scene for Asian Americans now, almost 10 years after you came out with “Check the Blueprints?”

KO: Well, some of the popular U.S. music blogs won’t take you seriously if you’re an Asian hip-hop artist, but I believe that’s gotten a lot better lately. Things have changed so much from 10-years ago- there were only several known Asian hip-hop artists with releases (then), including myself… Now you’ve got tons. You also never had such a thing as an Asian rap group on U.S. commercial radio or TV, and now you’ve got groups like Far East Movement who get played on the radio non-stop. It’s all rather exciting to see.

SM: How did you transition from web design to music?

KO: Working in the IT world, I quickly grew old of the corporate atmosphere. Dressing up to go to work, and oftentimes even falling asleep during meetings. There were even times I’d step out for press interviews on the phone and would think about music and my label for most of the work day; Furthermore, with the success of Windmills of the Soul and after some prayers, I realized pursuing music full-time was calling. I then took that leap of faith, and put in my two weeks’.

SM: What do you do during your spare time?

KO: I like to play golf, bike, drink some scotch whiskey, hang out with friends, and lately I’ve had an absurd addiction to Instagram!

SM: What’s one thing your fans would be surprised to know about you?

KO: My Korean speaking skills are that of a five-year-old, haha. On the other hand I’ve memorized the basic words of over 12 languages, including Tagalog.

SM: What can fans expect from you in 2012?

KO: My new album! I’m very happy about this album; I believe it’s some of my best work.

SM: If you weren’t doing music now, what would you be into?

KO: Maybe a doctor… The human anatomy amazes me.

SM: Which artists would you like you work with in the future?

KO: There are so many. Ever since will.i.am contacted me about working together I was hoping to get something poppin’, but it just hasn’t worked out yet. Otherwise, I’d like to collab with Sade, Outkast, or John Legend.

SM: What are the most played albums/artists/songs/ on your iPod?

KO: Right now its Passion Pit, Jcole, and Tablo’s Fevers End.

SM: How has the rise of social media affected you as an artist?

KO: It’s been an amazing blessing. Back when I started, there was no YouTube, Facebook, or Twitter. When MySpace finally came along I saw the huge opportunity and potential of social media. I was featured on the front page of MySpace years ago and went from 15,000 fans to almost 30,000 fans in one week. Since then, social media has been crucial to my career- I remember many tours came about off my MySpace page.

SM: Any message for your Filipino fans?

KO: Thank You guys for supporting me and reading this interview. I look forward to coming back to the Philippines again soon! You can keep up with me at twitter.com/keroone.

 

Kero One interview with Lands End Canvas

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How’d you come up with your name?
Growing up, I loved graffiti and street art so I came up with Kero as my alias when I was 15 and have stuck with it ever since. Kero is an acronym for “Kinetic Entity Resurrecting Origins” – in my art I always try to look back to the pioneers and how it originated to gain inspiration. The “One” at the end was just a formality graffiti writers used to signify who was the first to use the name..the ghetto copyright.

How does your on-stage style differ from your off-stage style?
I tend to dress up  more for stage but still keep to a look that reflects my personal style, like wearing a traditional pocket square in non-conventional ways. Off-stage, I’m more casual and tend to go through phases that are somewhat affected by the unpredictability of the Bay Area weather system. Lately I’ve been into the fitted puff vest and a flannel shirt for those chilly San Francisco days or a wax parka with a chambray button up and some Sperry top siders for when the rain comes.

We are all about “Authentic Inspiration” – What styles do you like best from Lands’ End Canvas?
BROWN – Men’s Austin Boat Chukka Item # 40013-9X79
Light Navy – Men’s Heritage Striped Chambray Work-shirt Item # 39930-2XA2
Brick – Men’s Slim Fit Chinos Item # 39169-1XA4
Men’s Rain Parka Item # 40073-2XA9
Men’s Washed D-ring Web Belt Item # 38828-3XA0
Canvas 1963 Denim Tote Item # 40160-2XA7

Lands’ End Canvas designers take their cues from everything from architecture to style icons. What was your inspiration for your featured song in New Music Now?

The song “When the Sunshine Comes” is about falling in love, experiencing tragedy but ultimately finding hope with an unusual twist at the end. So the overall feeling of the song is of warmth and sunshine. I drew inspiration from an outdoor bbq in the park with friends on a warm summer night, a smokey jazz club with vintage instruments, as well as personal experience and the loved ones in my own life.

What sets you apart from the other bands out there?
Every musician is special in their own way. For me, I love using my lyrics to tell stories and paint pictures. I also like to be a part of every song from the inception of the idea to the writing and recording of lyrics all the way to production (playing some of the instruments myself), engineering, and mastering. And jazz, I love to infuse jazz into my music!

http://www.landsendcanvas.com

Artist Spot: Interview With Yumiko Kayukawa!

Posted on by L Shameless
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I love music, so much I could talk about it all day: No really, I could talk about it all day, but I also love art. Last month I was on Tumblr checking out a blog when I came across a piece of art work. This piece was beautiful, and very eye catching. So for this blog/interview I decided to go a different route, with that being said, I am pleased to introduce to you, Yumiko Kayukawa, a very brilliant artist! Enjoy!!

-LS

We’re going to start this Interview off with one of Yumiko’s Latest Pieces That She Decided To Share With Us,

Yumiko:

SHINSEKAI – New World

This is a painting from my newest show “Rock you in a Tatami room”. I made this piece with a theme of our current economy shock, incorporated with the history of Japan after WW2. Just like Japan survived and built up again from the ash, this painting is my hope and positive message for the future of the world. The sword is a symbol for Japanese spirit.

Actually the night before the show opening, the Earthquake happened in Japan. I am so shocked about this coincidence….

LS: Thank you for sharing this with Yumiko :)

LS: In your paintings, you fuse Japanese Motifs, with American pop culture. These two elements create something very unique, and stylish. What was your biggest inspiration in creating these pieces? Are there any favorite musicians, artist, or fashion designers?

Yumiko: My inspiration comes from many directions. I love Animals, music, movies, politics, sports etc. Pretty much anything happens in my life.  As for rock bands, I love any kind of long hair rock band from the 60-80s. I’m not aware of any fashion designers since I’m not a brand name type of girl. My favorite genre of music is KAYOKYOKU ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kayōkyoku). My favorite Japanese rock band is the Crazy Ken Band (http://www.CrazyKenBand.com ).

LS:  Every artist is different when it comes to creating works of art.

Could you talk to us a little bit about the creative process when painting a piece?

Yumiko: I usually make title first (I have a list of titles and I add anything to the list that comes to mind. The list is constantly growing).  Once I have a title, I begin sketching on a paper; I then trace it on a canvas or wood board that is the same size.  From there, I paint with acrylic and use a drawing pen to create very thins lines such as the animal hair you see in the paintings.

LS: How would you describe the feeling you get from creating such wonderful pieces?

Yumiko: It’s a joy as well as a surprise. I come up with new ideas in the process, so it’s hard to tell what the outcome is going to be at the end.

LS:  You’re first debut into the art world was at age 16, which is pretty impressive. From what I understand your first piece of work was a Manga (graphic novel) feature. Was there ever a time you thought of becoming a Manga artist?

Yumiko: Some of my manga was published since the debut at 16, and at the time I really wanted to live as a Manga artist. But it was so difficult to survive the Manga world. I was very young and it and Manga requires a lot of drawing. The story put together was subject to the director’s opinion. At the end of my career, I had lost my focus point, and I just couldn’t enjoy what I was doing. I feel much happier creating artwork that tells a story. Maybe someday I’ll draw Manga again, but for now it’s just for a hobby.

LS:  Since 2001, you’ve held many art shows, all of them a success. Which one of these shows would you say has been your favorite, and why?

Yumiko:  My recent show “Rock You In A Tatami Room,” is my favorite. I think I always seem to like newest work, but this collection allowed me to connect my feeling and techniques together with a good balance.

Some of these works from this collection made people laugh, and that makes me happy.

LS: Do you have any new events coming up that you’re excited about?

Yumiko: I’m a part of some group shows coming up overseas. A group exhibition called “You lucky bastard tour” at Ayden gallery in Vancouver, as well as “Enchanted Forest” at Strychnin gallery in Berlin.

http://www.aydengallery.com/

http://www.strychnin.com/

LS:  In an interview you said, “I’d rather my paintings hang next to rock star pin-ups than on museum walls. Ultimately I want to connect with people all over the world on that level.” I love that statement as I think art, and music connects people all over the world, would you agree?

Yumiko: Yes I do. I always feel that music has more power than painting. To enjoy a painting, you need to look at the piece, but music you can just play it, and feel it anywhere you are. It’s more like,
“For Everyone.” I hope my paintings are just as enjoyable for everyone in the world just like music.

LS: I really enjoyed talking with you about your art, and want to thank you for spending time us! Is there something you would like to tell all your fans?

Yumiko: 2011 is my 10th anniversary since I started my career in the US. I truly appreciate of everyone’s big support to keep me being a busy artist.

Thank you so much for everybody. I will keep painting my fingers to the bone with your warm support ;)

LS: Hey everyone, be sure to to visit Yumiko’s website to see her artwork, as well as get information on upcoming shows!

http://www.sweetyumiko.com/artwork.php

Jin Interviews With Plug Label: New Album, TV Drama, And The AIYA Movement!

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Reply

I don’t know about the rest of you, but this man needs no introduction. With a new English album on the way, a role on a TV drama, this man is still very much on his grind! Long time friend, and brother to me, I want to welcome Jin! Please enjoy this interview, and stay on the look out for his new album! Single drops in June!

LS:  Jin, you’ve been making a lot of moves, doing some major things the past few years, and living in Hong Kong. For those who haven’t been able to keep up, how have you been?

 

JIN: I’ve been great. I moved to Hong Kong in 2008. It’s been very productive. I’ve been able to take what originally started out as just a music based career and evolve it into multiple platforms such as film, tv and various endorsements. More importantly, beyond just career breakthroughs, on a spiritual level I’ve just been able to experience some amazing things. God has been overwhelming patient, gracious and loving to me. I am thankful for all His blessings.

 

LS:  Recently, you released the track titled, “Charlie Sheen,” featuring Traphik, and Dumbfounded.  Safe to say, I think you guys beat out a lot of cats to doing the same. For those that didn’t catch your blog about it, how did the concept come together?

 

JIN: I guess what’s cool about is exactly the fact that there was no concept. The three of us were just gonna do a cypher type track. My last bar just happened to be “They say I lost my mind, Charlie Sheen”. The producer/engineer who we were working with at the time, Devcon, chopped that up and made it the hook. The rest is history.

 

LS:  Speaking of tracks, word is you have new album coming up with a single dropping in June of this year, can you tell us a little about it, and for those wondering about the production, who is on the beats?

 

JIN: This will be my first English album in 5 years. The single will be released on June 4th, 2011, which is my 29th birthday. What a way to celebrate! In terms of the production, I’m working with this really dope production team out of VA. It’s like 4 or 5 different individuals. You’ll hear more about them soon. Overall, just talented great people.

 

LS:  What is the Hip-Hop scene like in Hong Kong?

 

JIN: Still growing and evolving. Hong Kong as a city is super small. Which means the Hiphop scene is even tinier.

 

LS: Last year, you held a contest for the Say Something Mixtape, which later was available for download.  The concept of it was great as you took the time to record verses along side those who submitted a track to you. Even now fans are still enjoying that Mixtape, can we look forward to seeing another?

 

JIN: The contest where people submitted tracks was actually for the Hiphop Census Mixtape. The Say Something Mixtape was a separate project. Both can be downloaded at AyoJin.com. It was great working on both of those projects since it had been quite a while since I recorded any English material and lots of people were asking for some. As of the moment, there are no plans for one, but who knows, I might wake up tomorrow and decide to do a mixtape.

 

LS: Ah! My bad lol, got the two mixed up!

 

LS: Aside from music, you mentioned not to long ago that you would be on television again, doing a TV drama. How is that going?

 

JIN: It’s an amazing experience. I grew up watching Chinese TV dramas and now to be able to be in one is quite surreal. Not only is it my first time doing a television drama, it’s my first time doing on in Cantonese. We just started filming so it will be sometime before the release of it. I believe it’s set for later at the end of the year.

 

LS:  Everyone has a slogan, catch phrase, or has been known to start some sort of movement.  Well during the month of March, a new movement was born: AIYA! From what I can see, this movement is really positive, and think a lot of people would truly benefit from adding it to their list of catch phrases. Can you break it down for us?

 

JIN: There is no breakdown. AIYA is something you can say at anywhere at anytime. It doesn’t cost any money. It belongs to everyone.  Say it when you’re happy. Say it when you’re sad. The AIYA is here to stay.

 

LS:  One of the things that I think separates an artist from another is the ability to maintain momentum.  How do you stay focused, and for those who are looking to get into the industry, what would be your advice to that aspiring artist?

 

JIN: What I would share just from my experience is that you really get out of it what you put into it. Just make sure that this is something you really love to do before you fully decide to commit yourself to it.

 

LS: For all your fans out there, the people reading this, what do you want to say to everyone?

 

JIN: AIYA!
LS: God Bless You Jin! Thanks for taking the time to do this interview!

NEW ENGLISH ALBUM ON THE WAY

OFFICIAL FIRST SINGLE DROPPING ON 6/4/11

STAY TUNED @ www.AYOJIN.com

Also check out the below:

http://Youtube.com/AyoJinTV

http://Twitter.com/AyoJin

Charlie Sheen, Feat. Traphik, Dumbfounded, and JIN

Interview: Substantial+Marcus D Are Bop Alloy!!!

Posted on by L Shameless
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For those of you who caught my post about the Peaceland Event, I’m sure you remember me speaking on Bop Alloy, the dope duo who’s sound puts a jazzy feel to hip-hop. Well I’m honored, and pleased to be able to bring this interview to you all.  Bop Alloy!!!

 

Interview with Bop Alloy:

LS: How did Bop Alloy come together?

 

Substantial : We linked up through Myspace back in 2007.

 

LS:  I am very notorious for asking this question, Bop Alloy has such a fresh, “Jazzmatic,” Sound. What, or Who Inspires It? (Shout out to Steph The Sapphic Songstress, laying down those mean vocals!)

Marcus D: Speaking on the production half, a lot of jazz pianists like Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Chick Corea, and a few others definitely helped shape my sound as a whole, but the largest influence for this project I’d have to say would be Nujabes. I was a big fan of Substantial’s “To This Union…” and I wanted to preserve and update that sound with this project, because as a fan, I knew what other fans wanted to hear from him.

 

LS:  I’ve been a long time fan of your work Substantial, since I first heard you on Nujabes Modal Soul Album, but Marcus, it wasn’t till late last year that I first heard of you, thus becoming a new fan.  How long have you been crafting those smooth beats? Tell us a little about yourself?

 

Marcus D: About six years now. I started listening to hip-hop late ’99, but became passionate about it when I heard Sub and Nujabes around 2003. A few years later I started making my own tracks, and naturally they had a big impact on my sound.

 

LS:  I think many are often unaware of the dope artists that come from Maryland. Substantial you rep MD hard on your album, at your shows, etc. – How long have you been doing your thing?

 

Substantial: My debut single, “Lyrical Terrorists” w/ L-Universe and produced by Nujabes, was released in 2000.  I haven’t taken anytime off since then.

 

LS: Remembering Nujabes (Jun Seba, R.I.P.), back in February, Substantial you hosted the Peaceland Event, a wonderful tribute show, to Nujabes.  It was truly an amazing vibe at that show, what was it like for Bop Alloy to rock that show, what was your fondest memory?

Substantial: My fondest memory of the show was seeing so many fans travel from all around North America to celebrate Jun’s musical legacy.  It was an amazing feeling because these fans rarely, if ever, have a place to go to hear these songs played, see these artists perform, or be surrounded by so many others who share their love for his music and our sound.

MD – Performing the acoustic version of Still Think Different and seeing the crowd’s response was moving to say the least. I also had the honor of spinning an hour-long set of strictly Nujabes tracks…something I wish I could do more often.

 

LS: From what I hear, the Peaceland Event has been recognized as an official tribute show. Will we send more events in the future?

 

Substantial: We received permission from Hyde Out Productions to have the show, making it an official Nujabes Tribute Event.  We are in talks right about the possibility of doing it again next year.  But it’s not official yet.

 

LS: One of my favorite tracks on the Bop Alloy is “Still Think Different,” and speaks volumes on the industry trends, etc.  For those that do not understand the movement of Bop Alloy, the message laid within those tracks. What would you say in this interview to encourage people to “Think Differently?”

 

Substantial: I just encourage people to find their own truth and to never be afraid to be yourself.  I knew at a very young age that I was unlike most people from my neighborhood.  I didn’t judge, or ridicule them; I simply found my own lane.  It came at a price.

 

LS: Marcus, Shoshin is an incredible album, with special features from Substantial, Shing02, and Justis. Could you talk a little bit about the album? What made this album truly special?

 

Marcus D: Thank you, Shoshin was sort of an impromptu project that I put together in about three months, start to finish. Since it’s entirely instrumental, aside from the artists mentioned above, I was able to work at my own pace and portray it the way I wanted to. The most memorable part about working on the album was building with Shing02 and watching him write and record “Parallel Universe”.

 

LS:  Substantial, I always felt a huge gratitude towards Hydeout Productions, and QN5 for helping to get your music out, and supporting you the way they do. How did you come into connection with these labels?

 

Substantial: I linked with Nujabes/Hydeout Productions through my friend Sphere of Influence who use to work at Nujabes’ store Guinness Records in Tokyo.  And I linked with QN5 Music after Pack introduced me to Tonedeff.  I signed with Hydeout in 1999 and I later signed with QN5 in 2007.

 

LS: Can we look forward to new release from Bop Alloy, or any solo releases this year?

 

Marcus D:  I’m trying for a mid-summer to early fall release for my 2nd full-length project, Melancholy Hopeful.

Substantial: My 3rd solo album will be dropping this year and we’re releasing a Bop Alloy remix project this summer.

 

LS:  Speaking of releases, and such – Are there any upcoming shows, or events that fans should know about?

 

Substantial: We’re planning a tour for late summer.  Hopefully we will have the details ironed out very soon.

 

LS.  I am really thankful to both of you for taking the time to kick it with Plug, and myself on this interview.  Is there anything you would like fans to know?

Substantial: We’re thankful for the continued support.  Stay tuned, because we have a lot of surprises lined up this year.

 

LS: Check out Bop Alloy @ http://bopalloy.bandcamp.com/

Music Available on iTunes, and Amazon!

 

Interview with Moe Pope: Life After God, Thoughts On Hip-Hop Today, and Depeche Moe!!

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I love good music,  that is no secret, so when I get a chance to interview an artist, its very humbling experience. This time I got a chance to ask Moe Pope some questions about his latest album Life After God, as well as talk about some of his older work, and his upcoming projects! If you don’t know who Moe Pope is,  take this time to get to know him a little, then be sure to buy the album at your local record store, or hit up iTunes! Interview with Moe Pope, Enjoy!!!

-L Shameless.

LS:  For those who don’t know about Moe Pope, can you give us a little background?

MP: I started my first serious song writing with a band called (Crown City Rockers formally known as Mission:)in the late nineties…and had to leave that band to care for my daughter in Boston, joined the group Electric Company with 4 other great Boston mc’s (insight, Daggha, Raheem Jamaal, and Anonymous) in 2004,Project Move (Anonymous, Raheem Jamaal, Moe Pope) was born out of electric really… Me, anon, and Rah just sounded great together and had similar taste in music …it was inevitable!!!! but as you know sometimes things fall apart….Solo…. I went back to the scene of the crime sort of !!!! Headnodic our Producer and Bass player for my band (Mission:) had some free time and in 2008 we recorded and released Megaphone!!!!!!!!

LS: One question I always like to ask, is who influenced you the most?

MP: That’s a really hard question!!!!!!! The first hiphop song I ever really loved was slick rick and dougie fresh (the show) I wasn’t allowed to listen to hip hop in my house…my mom wasn’t having it, but…. other family members would play it at there houses…I don’t think I ever even cared about hiphop till I heard that song, I was amazed by it and it never stopped until this day I love the music now because of that moment…. as far as music as a whole my mom played soul and R&b around the house, my aunts and uncles played rock, punk…Peter Tosh and Bob at there houses, my dad was a drummer…my granddad loved Jazz so I was pulled in every different direction musically as a kid so I dunno…….
actually imma say Memphis Bleek…. yup ………. Memphis Bleek!!!!!!!
LS:  Life After God has got many great reviews on Ughh.com, URB.com, and many other sites, what inspired you the most in the creation of this album?

MP: I had been going threw a lot personally…. family, money issues, and my daughter’s mother…. I was about to quit rapping all together when I got a call from this kat Rain asking me if I needed any beats…. I had no idea how he got my number and I don’t know what made me take him serious and actually go to his crib to hear what he had… but I’m glad I did!!!! With the addition of Rain and Christopher Talkin…I was allowed to let it all out, any pain, anger, sadness, or regret I wrote about it…. I felt at the time like I was being punished by god or being beat up by god emotionally its something I feel like everybody goes threw at one point or another….”life after god” is were that came from!!!
LS: What would you say was the biggest challenge (if any), in making this album?

MP: Like I said man I was going threw some crazy and destructive shit during this time as well as my partners Rain, and Chris…I didn’t set out to make a record it just happened that way… we were just making a couple of songs and it turned into this record…I truly felt like this record saved my life
LS:  I think many would agree with me when I say the production on the album is dope.
What was it like working with Rain & Headnodic?

MP:  Headnod is my family we spent years making music together having been in the band (Mission:) we have laughed and struggled together so its real easy to express myself around him and create…Rain has become a really good friend in a very short amount of time …that same feeling I feel when I hear headnodics beats is how I feel when I hear Rain…. Shit if I need something loud and fuzzed out they got that, jazzy and melodic, they got that, boom bap, check, I don’t I have to worry about beats ever!!!!! p.s Rain makes a mean Chili…………!

LS:  Speaking of Headnodic, you two dropped a classic album back in 08’ titled “Megaphone (which is also the name of the group!)” Might there be a new album in the works from you two?

MP: Headnod and me have been trying to schedule this for some time its definately in the works!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  We want to do it…we talk all the time about it…its going to happen!!!
Psst!!! Megahertz!
LS:  Many may not realize but you’ve been doing so much over the years, in 06’

Project Move released their first album, “Love Gone Wrong/The Butterfly Theory. “

Can you tell us a little bit about that?

MP: Raheem, and Mike (anonymous) and myself, were all in the group “Electric” together and we just bonded …our voices together just worked…. period I love those brothers right there!!!!  one of my all time personal favorites is that record and we made it!!!!  Those two kats are extremely gifted… extremely…. I hope we make another record I really do…. I think when you have a group or a band when things are not going well it’s easy to point a finger at something and say this is why things are not working…. I truly feel some day it will work… but if your solo there is no excuses if you don’t show up, no one is going to do it for you!!! You get what you give, and there is no one to blame but your self…. I think more than any group I was with they taught me the most…. they also taught me that I can stand on my own.

LS:  Personally I never quite agreed with the statement, “Hip-Hop Is Dead.” In every album you’ve worked on, or contributed to, the four elements are always represented.  I can’t speak for anyone else, but I would say that this is the remedy to keeping things fresh.  Would you agree?

MP: Yes very much so!!!! Sometimes you have to go back to go forward!!!! But also not be afraid to digest something new!!!!!!!! Listen, I was a Keith Sweat and New Edition fan as a kid …My mom will say up and down Keith cant fuck with Donnie Hathaway or Marvin Gaye and N.E. cant fuck with the Temptations but I stilled loved those groups!!! Who am I to say hip hop is dead because its different than it was when I was kid, my daughter bumps Drake and Wayne like I bumped Tribe, Jigga and Kane…. its just different…. me personally, I done popped and locked, I got my ups tagging on walls all over the city, I was a beat boxing maniac, I cant scratch worth a shit but I can dj a party and put a smile on your face but that makes me no more hip hop than any one else loves this music or any part of our culture in my eyes …My uncle grew up listening to Kurtis blow and He just bought a Tity Boi album dude…..Fucking  TITY BOI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(LS: LOL)

LS:   Are there any upcoming events/projects fans should keep a look out for?

MP: Depeche Moe next coming very soon!!!!!!!!!!!!! Produced by Headnodic and Rain …if you were a fan of the Mega bjork remix album (http://www.bjorkremixes.com/megabjork/) you are going to lose your shit for this depeche mode remix album!!!!! (http://jumptheturnstyle.com/?p=12148)

LS: I want to thank you for taking the time to do this interview, is there anything that you would like the fans to know?

MP:…Pancakes are my Favorite!!!!

Peep This Video Courtesy Of Brick Records!

“Life After God(Moe Pope & Rain)\” Godzilla/Rock Me Official Video

King Most interview by Neishon

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Interview by TravisNN @ Ninja Neishon.

NN: Can you tell our audience a little bit about who you are and what your music is all about?

King: I’m King Most from The San Francisco/Bay Area. I’m a deejay and producer. My music? I’m not sure actually and I think that’s a good thing. It’s definitely hip-hop and my influences come from a lot of places, like more popular artists like Kanye West & Justice Leauge (Rick Ross) to lesser knows cats like Nottz & Exile. Then of course a lot of old/classic music and definitely current electronic & dance music.

The same goes for deejaying. I play out often and for different type of parties. One night it’s big top 40 megaclub and the next night it’s an all vinyl disco event. I love it, it keeps me on my toes.

I’m also working on my debut full length. So far it has tracks from Aloe Blacc, Blu, Tanya Morgan, and some soul cats as well. I’m hoping to have it done by the summer. And also want to start putting on disco/funk edits, I have a ton I’ve been sitting on but just waiting to unleash on vinyl.

NN: We heard about you from our friends in Japan and have really enjoyed your music ever since. How does the Japanese music scene respond to your work?

King: I haven’t been back since 2007, but when I was out there it was awesome, best time of my life. I need to get back there somehow, someway.

NN: Coming from the Bay area do you receive a lot of local support?

King: Support is sort of relative out here. I get recognized a lot in some circles and in others not so much. As long as I’m progressing and making a living I’m not really worried about “support” from everybody.

I personally try and support local music though especially in the past year or two. There’s a lot of up-and-coming groups coming out and they are doing some unique and interesting music that can hang nationally against other cities. And I say its “good” not because they are local and have decided to stick around the longest but they really are fresh.

NN: What production techniques do you like using the most? Strictly turntables, or are you open to software?

King: For deejaying it depends on the gig. Production wise I still use an MPC but in the 2 years I’ve started using session players to either replay samples or add to the existing tracks. I’m always the last person to adopt to music technologically, not because I don’t want to, but because it takes so much time.

NN: How often do you put out mixes, and can people download them anywhere?

King: The best place is my blog/tumblr page. I’m always doing stuff, actually I’m supposed to release a mix for Kicks Hawaii in the next few weeks.

NN: Who has been your biggest hip-hop influence?

King: Biggest? So many to name. For production: Pete Rock, Kanye West, J Dilla, Dr. Dre, Masters At Work, Moodyman, Theo Parrish, Large Proffesor, Just Blaze, Black Milk, Exile, Nottz, Drummer Boy, Larry Heard, Mannie Fresh, Jake One….see I can go and on

Deejaying it’s DJ Spinna, Rich Medina, Kon & Amir, Larry Levan, Danny Krivitz, Eli Escobar, DJ B-Cause, Cosmo Baker…again so many guys.

NN: What inspired your song ‘Sun Fran to Tokyo’?

King: I’m not sure but I want to say my guy Kero One asked me to submit a song for a compilation and I had a Brazilian Jazz record I always wanted to use. So one day I just made the beat and that’s it. Seriously, I hooked it up and sent it to him. I think I made it very fast as well.

NN: What do you think of the West Coast IDM sound (Flying Lotus, Gaslamp Killer, Nosaj Thing etc.)? Do you ever plan on experimenting with music like that?

King: Good question, I have mutual friends that make that type of music or really enjoy it. I try to keep up with it and there’s a little bit of that influence in my music, but it’s very very limited.

The producers who make that type of music who really catch my ear are Torro Y Moi, Krystal Klear, Machine Drum and maybe even Dam Funk. But then again they are doing their own thing but still going an experimental route.

NN: Have any upcoming projects you want to tell us about?

King: More edits, more mixtapes, and my album.

NN: What is your favorite Ninja activity?

King: It will forever be a mystery.

Interview: with CookBook of Cook&Uno(part of L.A Symphony)

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I don’t know about anyone else, but I think it has been one hell of a year for hip-hop! At the start of the year, Cook & Uno released their album, C&U Factory which has been bumping in the system every since I got it! Hailing from L.A, these two have been making moves, hitting the radio station, doing shows, and keeping their fans updated.  With new material in the works, I had to get at Cook, and get the scoop!

Enjoy!!!

-L Shameless

LS:  C&U has been doing things for a minute, for those that don’t know, can you tell us how you two got started?

CB: We were kids growing up in L.A what I like to call, “hood skaters”,
a bunch of blacks & Latinos who skated in the neighborhood we grew up
in. One of my friends was a dj in jr high, so we would go skate all
day, then go to his house & listen to records. I met UNO during this
time, & we clicked as friends. I always did music my whole life, & hip
hop was a natural musical outlet for me. So me & him decided we’d
start a group. We freestyled a lot, & my mom let us set up the garage
as a little “studio”. We saved, put our money together, & got some
cheap equipment, & started doing it. My parent’s house quickly became
the place to hang out for the local emcees, & out of that was birthed
Cook & UNO, & L.A. Symphony as well.

LS:  When it comes to the music, were there any artist that influenced your work?

CB: Early on, as far as rapping goes, it was Guru (R.I.P.), native
tongues, freestyle fellowship, project blowed, heiro, & Pete rock & CL
Smooth. When I started making beats, it was Pete rock, preemo, dilla,
to name a few. Nowadays, I’m still inspired by a lot of artists…your
favorite, Kanye(LOL), jay, nas, all the greats.

LS: Earlier this year, two released an album titled C&U Factory, thus releasing a video for the hit single, “When You Rock, and Roll, featuring Evidence of Dilated
Peoples,” what was it like working with everyone?

CB: Evidence has been the homey for like 5 years now, so, when we asked
him to get on the track, he was like “without a doubt!” we looked for
the right track for his feature, then JJ Brown gave us a beat cd with
that track, and we were like “Boom, there it is,”
The video was fun to make. We had to get up mad early to start
shooting at 7am, and everyone was cool about it. Styliztik Jones had
us all laughing with all his dances and antics for his part, & the
whole crew was really cool, so it made a long day a very pleasant one!
Big ups to Ev for showing us love on that track!

LS:  Are there any new projects in the works that fans should look forward to? Word around Twitter is that there is a new mix tape in the works.

CB: I’m really excited about my new mixtape entitled “Original Recipies”.
DJ Rhetmattic is mixin it for me, and I have a lot of really great
guest spots on it, including nocando, sunspot jonz, Boac, Ivan Ives, &
open mike eagle to name a few. I’m hoping to have it out by late
January, early February.

LS:  What has this year been like for C&U so far? Recently you two performed in Hawaii with Living Legends.  How was the show?

CB: The Hawaii show was truly the best show of the year, second only to
our album release party last January. Really, that’s what it’s been
about this year…shows, shows, shows!!! The fans have been great and
supportive. I went on tour a few months ago, and the response was
overwhelmingly positive.

LS:  Speaking of tours, are there any major shows, or events coming up?

CB: Right now, we have shows booked all through December & January, & I’ll
be planning some tours for spring on to support the new release. Other
than that we’ll be recording lots of new material!

LS:  With the social network craze, it is very easy for artist to communicate with fans, as well as promote their album.  How
would you say Twitter, or Facebook has played a part?

CB: They’re huge! They have become an essential part of how we as artists
build our fan base. If it wasn’t for social networking, I don’t think
our fans could’ve helped us the way they did earlier this year, to win
the MTVu freshman contest by one of the largest margins they’d ever
seen! 78%!!!!

LS: That was a sure enough victory! I remember voting every day as many times as I could.

LS: Is there anything you would like your fans to know?

CB: Please keep supporting us! Tell your local venues, promoters, clubs,
etc about us! Help CookBook get to your town! If you book me, I will
come……….

Hey everyone, be sure to check out “When You Rock & Roll” on Youtube, Don’t forget to subscribe to CookandUNOTv! And if you haven’t already, be sure to subscribe to Plug Label’s channel to!

Cookbook, and Uno Mas – “When You Rock & Roll featuring Evidence: ”

Favorite Jawn Of The Week: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fY39XNcXFKM

-LS.