First up, we spoke with Houston super producers Beanz & Kornbread. Followed by a freestyle the big homie Rob G did after the interview, to an exclusive Beanz & Kornbread beat.

Shouts out to Beanz & Kornbread for taking the time to talk with us. Big shout out to the homie Rob G for hosting and helping out with the series. Expect lots more cool shit to come.

Also, make sure to check back on the 3rd Friday of this month, February 17th, for our next ‘On the Spot Interivew’, hosted by Rob G. Next up: Chingo Bling.

We first ran into Young Sensation a few months back at Turnin Headz: Blank Showcase. Dope music, and a good show. So was looking forward to the interview, and his upcoming tape. After the interview, he previewed the mixtape for us, so I’m including that as well. Make sure to download “Chill” next Friday, November 18th, 2011, which will be available on REUPSpot.com.

Interview recorded at Check Other Outfitters. A dope clothing store that is very supportive of local hip-hop. It’s also where Turnin Headz is now held. Shouts out to Tommy Bumps & the whole crew for the support.

Also, this is the first video we’re releasing that was recorded with our new HD Camera. So you can expect the same quality from all of our videos going forward.

Introduce yourself to our readers (Where you from, What does your name stand for):
I go by the name of Charmingly Ghetto. I was raised in Boston, MA yet my vision for sharing the music extends far beyond the area, the region and even the country. I want my music to reach the farthest corners of the globe. The name Charmingly Ghetto is derived from WEB DuBois’ social theory/commentary of the “double conciousness”. It basically sums up the duality of the life people of color in America are faced with in a struggle created by outside forces. Its also how I define myself; sort of a “jack of all trades” who can navigate through this wilderness we call life while preserving myself, my culture and my values.

How is your new international mixtape “Study A’Broad” different from your mixtape (Overstanding)?
This tape is different on a few levels. Firstly, my first project was solely produced by the Introspective Minds camp (S/O to them for holding the kid down) and this new project is produced by a cast of producers from all over the world; all the way from England to New Zealand and back. I really wanted to harness the power of the internet, the hip hop fans from all over the globe and challenge myself to tailor the direction of the project to be something that people everywhere can feel connected to. The IM family will be featured on this project; they produced the street single we released from the project “Alone in The World” featuring a dope verse by the homie R.E.K.S. from the ShowOff camp (BIG thanks to him for being an inspiration).

How were the responses for your project Overstanding?
People really received my project very well. For an artist that needs to be heard like myself I could not have asked for better love from the people around me. The homies over at RubyHornet.com featured my release on their site back in June and since then people have been downloading it, reviewing it (S/O to The Company Man over at BrooklynBodega.com for the live radio review of the EP) and giving me feedback. I can say that it served its purpose as a blueprint for people to identify my subject matter, gain a feel for my voice and flow and enjoy hearing an MC that loves to rhyme.

What makes you & I.M. gel so well?
I think that it’s the passion for growth that makes us gel so well on the production and rhyme tip. We both strive for a hip hop sound that we either love or that we want to hear; it just happens to come off so clean and so genuine that we continue to collab. I really believe in the talents of those cats and they will continue to make great music and as long as we have a great relationship I will continue to script over their gems. Word up.

What message are you trying to give with your mixtape “Study A’Broad”?
I want to deliver the message of understanding that influence and inspiration may come from the place you may not expect if you don’t allow your talents to let you know where you are loved. The producers on this project pushed me and encouraged me to create and develop this idea because we shared a common goal of creating a hip hop sound that we love and that we missed.

I hope the message that hip hop is a worldwide sound and culture with different influences gets across loud and clear; I guess it will all depend how loud people play it haha.

Any features on Study Abroad that you want to share?
The project is featuring R.E.K.S., the homie K. Sparks and a team of songwriters/singers that I have been blessed to meet up with in my travels by the name of Thee Invisibles. Just enough features added and just the right dash of flavor to add to the mix.

Who you got behind this project (sponsor, hosting)?
The homies at RubyHornet.com will be hosting the project and we intend on reaching out to publications, blogs and sites all over the world. If people need more info or would like to be a part of spreading the word they can shoot an email to CGhettoTheMC@gmail.com or hit the Twitter at @CGhettoTheMC.

Charmingly Ghetto, the Boston native, erupted onto the Hip Hop community with his acclaimed release through RubyHornet.com, Overstanding. The project, produced by Introspective Minds (Atlanta), displayed a raw talent paired with a mature outlook of his surroundings. Building off the tremendous success and global feedback from this first EP, Charmingly Ghetto is endeavoring to take his lyrical insights on the human condition to the next level. The result is a project of global scale, Study A’Broad. Collaborating with producers from numerous countries around the world, Study Abroad is the realization of CG’s goal to express his art to a worldwide audience through the powerful connectivity of the internet. Like the project itself, the message expressed by Charmingly Ghetto is meant for a universal audience, addressing timeless issues affecting societies across the globe.

Producers off of Study A’Broad:

The International Mixtape include:
DTunez and SmoothKingBoehm (Germany), Cypria (UK), Pajozo (Sweden), Abstrakt Idea (Iceland), Introspective Minds (USA), The Enovator (New Zealand), JC_BeaTzZ (Luxembourg; now residing in Spain)

Release Date: Monday, 11/14/11

Current Media (tracks and videos) from Study A’Broad:

Study A’Broad Producer Spotlight: Pajozo (Sweden)

Study A’Broad Producer Spotlight: Cypria (UK)

Study A’Broad Tracklist:

Glory – produced by Introspective Minds (US)
2 The Essence featuring Colo – produced by DTunez (Germany)
I.C.G. (It’s Charmingly Ghetto) – produced by Cypria (England)
From Time to Time – produced by Pajozo (Sweden)
Starter Hats – produced by The Enovator (New Zealand)
Simplicity (Complex Man) – produced by Alli Abstrakt (Iceland)
Pursuit of Happyness (Nice 2 Meet U) – produced by The Enovator (New Zealand)
Alone in the World featuring R.E.K.S. – produced by Introspective Minds (US)
Follow Me featuring Thee Invisibles (Brother O’Hare) on vocals – produced by JC_BeaTz (Luxembourg via Spain)
Put It On – produced by The Enovator (New Zealand)
Lyrical Bliss – produced by DTunez (Germany)
HollyHood featuring K. Sparks – produced by Pajozo (Sweden)
Che Magnifique – produced by JC_BeaTz (Luxembourg via Spain)

Artist Links:
www.charminglyghetto.com
www.twitter.com/cghettothemc
http://www.facebook.com/CGhettoTheMC

Thanks for the opportunity to interview!
Anytime , I got love for REUPSPOT.com Salute 2 yall for having me.

Jersey rep ADG, Introduce yourself and your camp.
Yurrr, its ya boy, ADG (AllstarrDaGreat) reppin for BFAM and 400 Block.

You have “Perception Is REALITY” coming soon…How was it working with CashHits (who is responsible for some great tracks)?
Aww man, Cash is a genius with the production. Its a blessing to have production from a producer who has created for Rick Ross, T-Pain, Trina, Jae Millz and etc. Shows that I’m on my shit and we always create dope records together so its a great feeling.

What other surprises do you have on “Perception Is REALITY”?
Yall trying to have me dry snitch on the suprises to my own mixtape. I still need them exclusives to send yall to make yall go crazy again. LOL. I cant say names all the names but I will say I have CashHits, Lex Luger, Undeniable and Neako production wise to name a few. As far as feature wise lets just say I got a few wit your favorite rapper’s favorite rapper and of course BFAM/400BLOCK.

How would you describe your style? It is much different than you’d expect being in the North.
My style is HARDBODY. I give out bars, street knowledge, swagg and real shit over aggressive azz beats. I differ from the average East Coast artist from the production that I use, but all the supporters know the bars is there. *

What message are you trying to put out there with “P.I.R.”, because you got some wordplay people may miss in your tracks since the beat bangs?
P.I.R is deeper than rap. P.I.R is real life everyday shit. PERCEPTION really is REALITY, so with that being said I live out what I rap everyday. As far as wordplay wise, its cool if they miss it the first time. If you look back in history all of the great things we’ve experienced took time to understand. Im honored to have music that need to be studied for some to understand. Im giving my supporters ME, straight up. Some people still dont understand they own damn self, so it all love. LOL

Release date for “Perception Is REALITY”?
Late October early November. Me and my team are still undecided with a actual date being that new things are coming our way almost everyday. The goal is to give the supporters the best project possible so we working. But i will say this, the Promo for the release date will be so strong that my supporters wont miss it.

Thought provoking lyrics, captivating instrumentals,and extraordinary concepts is what you will find on Curbside Jones latest project Cherry Blossom Effect:Endless Dream Theory. Handling a majority of the production, almost all of the writing, and even engineering the entire project, Curbside Jones orchestrated an incredible work of art. I had the chance interview him and we discussed the CBE, how the project came about, his favorite songs, and much much more. Enjoy.

Above is a sample of the interview with TST

Click Here To Read TST Interview
Click Here To Read Rautten Culture Interview
Click Here To Read Seikyou FLASH Interview

How old where you when you first started to rap (write or freestyle)? Give us a little detail about how and why you got into the game, and about some of your early projects.
I was 6 when i started becoming interested in rap. My brothers would play a lot of rap around me so i couldn’t help but hear it. The first rap album I heard was Redman “Muddy Waters”. I actually started rapping to try and impress my brothers, to which i was successful lol. Around 14 I heard “Food and Liquor” from Lupe fiasco and it was a rap from there (no pun intended). I dropped my first project on 9/09/09. It was called “Bluology”. I was fresh outta high school and ready to take over the world. From there i met people who would change my life forever.

What sort genres of music did you grow up on? What other genres beside rap influence you and your music today?
When it came to music i grew up on 70′s soul, funk and r&b. Its all I know and i listen to that more than i listen to hiphop. I have my mother to blame for that. Today, I listen to alot of electronic music…dubbstep…things like that.





New Orleans it’s sort of unlike all other U.S. cities. It’s got a ton of history and culture, and just has a different atmosphere than most places. How does/did NOLA effect your music? What sort of influence does it have on the sound, or lyrics?
Nola affects my music in the sense that it teaches me to be honest. New Orleans is one of the most dangerous cities in america and were not ashamed of that. we speak our minds…were open…free. That’s my music in a nutshell. The flavor of my city kinda rubs off in my music. Granted, you wont here trombones or trumpets in my shyt but you can hear where i come from.

How’s the Hip-Hop scene in New Orleans? From the other rappers, to the crowds. Y’all have had some huge acts out of New Orleans, does that hurt or help you? (I mean, obviously it’s helpful to get the shine on the city, but does it make people stereotype your sound?)
In new orleans, the scene is growing. Crabs in the bucket is everywhere i suppose and New orleans is no different. But, our scene is starting to garner attention with the likes of K.gates and Dee-1. Being from the south though, people automatically assume your level of intelligence is low. Some of us N.O cats meet that level dead on…some of us surpass it and shock the
crowds we rap in front of.

We first met you in Houston, at the Turnin Headz Monthly Hip-Hop showcase. Do you do a lot of touring outside of Louisiana? What sort of reception do you get, to your music and your stage show? What are some of your favorite places to perform overall?
As of late ive been doing alot of traveling. Thanks to Slangston Hughes i was able to perform where I met you guys. In the last months ive done a few cities in Mississippi, Texas, and of course Louisiana. I travel with Lyrikill, Truth Universal, Tony Scratchere and Slangston Hughes alot. I pride myself off my stage show, and my secret is having fun. Most people like the music that i perform but they love they way i portray it. CD sales translate into people actually taking that next step in support.So in that case, I get alot of love lol.

What do you think of the state of hip-hop in general? And do you feel like people outside the South automatically stereotype you as a ‘trap rapper’, or anything like that? I personally feel like that sort of thing is getting some what better, as the south has shown, especially recently, that we do have rappers than can actual spit. Agree, disagree?
Hiphop is funny right now. investing into a recording studio nowadays is 1/3 of what it costed about 10 years ago. Because of that, there are RAPPERS GALORE. The music industry is flooded and watered down heavily. But with all of that, you get to see many different styles of music. As i stated earlier, because I’m from N.O, people automatically think certain things. Once i do my thing, they are usually shocked or left in awe. Recently, the bigger emcees from the south have shown that there are some spitters down here. Im not to fond of any of them but i respect what they do enough to recognize them and salute.

What rappers/music do you listen to personally? Who are some of your all-time favorite lyricists? I see on your bio a few of them are Eminem, Lupe Fiasco, and Will Smith. Care to expand on the Will Smith part?
Personally, on a major level i listen to Lupe fiasco,J DILLA!, Charles Hamilton, Mf Doom and Will Smith. When im on some underground stuff, I’m pumping Lyrikill, Alevy, G-eazy, D-lain, J-dubble, Citysparks and cats like that. And as for Will smith, I feel like Will is underrated. Keep in mind Will was apart of the first hiphop act to ever win a grammy. Banannas. over 20 years and almost every album he dropped either went platinum or gold. And his songs were cool to vibe to. He’s one of my favs.

Everyone and their mother is a rapper these days. What sets you apart? Why should people listen to your music?
One thing that sets me apart from all the other rappers out is my honesty. And my dedication. From the heart, I would die for my music. I would give up everything I own just to keep making music. Its more than making tracks to get people to listen to…its all from the heart…the happy stuff…the dark stuff…everything. Music is literally all i got…its the only thing to never turn its back on me or anything like that. i love my music…i love making music…so yea…

What sort of topics & subject matter do you like to write about? Anything off limits?
In my music, I touch on things that are going on with me. Like when i became homeless or when i got my 9-5 or me and my women problems…personal stuff. Actually nothing is off limits..i try not to put limits on my music.





What projects do you have in the works right? (Upcoming mixtapes, albums, videos, etc.)
I just dropped the new single “My style” (prod by G-eazy) so me and my Label (Eupham Multimedia) and my management (Rbs) are pushing that. The video for that is coming asap. My next Project is “The Nobodys Monologues 2″. A follow up to the first project that conjured up 5000 downloads, which im extremely proud of.

Whats some random fact that most people probably don’t know about you?
One random fact about me that people dont know is that im very shy. Cant be shy and be a rapper but outside of music I’m extremely shy. Being around people makes me nervous. I crack jokes to try and play it off.

Anything else you want to let the people know? Shoutouts, etc. Also, any upcoming shows folks could check you out?
I wanna shout out my Eupham family, Rbs, The Hut, Inner Recess, C-wizz, Melvin Burch, Truth Universal, Marcel p Black, Chris Concept, Kaye the beast, My Tygah Woods fam, Coke lagrande, Wes-b and everyone in between.

Finally, where online can people connect with you, and check out your music?
http://underdogcentral.net is the best place to go for all Things Lyriqs. @underdogcentral on twitter….thats it!

Welcome back to the hot seat, What Up?

Everything man. The come-up story is unfolding right into my lap haha. Feels awesome.

Our last interview was one of my favorites we have done..We spoke on personal things, you project Goodnight World & many more things…By the way, How much do you still listen or get comments from Goodnight World?

I still listen to Goodnight World every now & then. But I don’t really get as many comments on it as I should because I don’t promote it at all. I’ve sort of put it back in the vault. Not like I’m disowning it, but my progression from project to project is so massive that I almost get embarrassed to put out my older material. Even though it was rated 5 stars from datpiff and all, I still think it doesn’t do myself justice. I’m way better now.

Let’s talk “Thrills“…what genre would you place this as?

Ahh, I’m not too good at placing myself in genre’s per-say, but if I had to choose, to my knowledge it would be House/Alternative/Chillwave/Electro with the right touch of hip hop.
In other words, groovy as shit ha. Palmer Reed(Lovers Quadrant) sums it up as Passport. I think I’m going to run with that.

I could guess a few inspirations on this project..but why don’t you tell us instead?

Definitely Washed Out & Toro Y Moi as far as sound. But lyrically, I don’t have any direct influences. I’m sure there’s artists out there people compare me to. So far from this project i’ve heard Theo London, Blu, and
Pharrell. Which is awesome. But the smooth dreamy approach has always been a part of my arsenal.

“Thrills” production is some of the best I’ve heard on any cd/mixtape/ep..etc, Who did it?

The title track “The Thrills” was produced by Michael Asoka Ramdan, The Lover’s Quadrant & Hey Dreamer – Space Dimension Controller, Wonderful – Trey Hemingway, and Paris France was produced in house by Abjo.

I have a really good ear for production haha

What does “Thrills” mean to you?

The Thrills is just a pocket of life in going through right now. I love it to death. Being a musician on his way to somewhere special but at the same time distracted by all the thrills of a young life. Sex, drugs, and Rock and
Roll I guess. It’s a new muse for my music. Since its unfiltered coming straight from me to the listener, that makes it that much more exciting. More of an innocent, subtle approach opposed to glamorizing some bullshit
club scene.

How do you plan to follow up after such a successful project?

That EP was almost child’s play compared to what I intend to do with my LP haha. For now tho, we’re going to shoot the music videos, do the shows, and keep trucking along.
But the LP, will top “The Thrills” I promise you that ha.

How’s the Kemish & Coolidge clothing line coming along?

Vick it’s been too long man haha, Kemish & Coolidge was a thing I did in Highschool. Pretty much dead ha
Everyone’s doing clothing lines now-a-days, it almost felt cliche for me to have one. Instead, I’m sponsored and working with heavy hitters so I can focus on the music side more.

Embrace The Culture Fashionhouse & Anime4breakfast.tv

Last time you said you may have labels looking at you & I saw the other day you mentioned record label debut…Whats the label talk looking like for you bro?

Well this time around, there is most definitely something brewing ha. It’s only been a week and I’ve already been approached by indies. Since it’s so early, I’m 75% sure that my next release will be label pushed
and 99% sure the label I will sign with is based in the UK.

Right now, what I’ve planned on doing and have been encouraged to do is create. Create, Create, Create.
Create the buzz, Create the following, Create the classic. I’m already half way past that. So expect something beautiful really soon.

Do you spend more work on college or your music?

Well thats the thing, my music and college go hand in hand. I’m going to school for graphic design. So anything i’m learning in the course is being applied to my music haha
And i’m getting paid to do it. So i’m in a real good spot right now.

Anything extra ya want to tell us?

I just want to thank all the avid listeners and supporters I’ve had in my life thus far. Everything that I was talking about and promising is finally coming to fruition. 2011-2012 is going to be a really exciting year for all
of us.

I will not let you guys down.

Download THRILLS (EP)

First introduce the members of [dead] P.o.e.t.s.
Big Rela: Well there is Sgt. Donnie Donogrippz aka Vice Gripp the Broward County Cannibal, Special Forces Operative Squire Zama, and General Rela the Apache.

Vice Gripp: Yeeeeeeessssurrrrrr! Psyko South International / Battle Royale Media in this biiiiiiiitch!

Is Psyko South still a group or now the label since the splitting of a few members?
Big Rela: At this point we have become more of a record label. We have several artist such as JMBlakk, Tommy Gunz da Dark One, and Lu-Struggz. With [dead] P.o.e.t.s. being the flagship artist of the company.

Vice Gripp: Yeah right now the focus is the P.o.e.t.s. and Front Toward Enemy. Once the P.o.e.t.s. are on we can think about doing projects for other artists or doing an official Psyko South compilation album.

How did you (Rela & Grippz) find out about Squire Zama?
Big Rela: Squire Zama started haunting us at the studio one day. It was really fucking weird. He said he wouldn’t leave us alone unless he appeared on our album.

Vice Gripp: It’s like he fukkin haunted the booth yo.. we discovered his verse was there one day while we were on acid. Me and Rela were like who the fuck is this? I mean when we realized who it was we ain’t mess with him cuz he carries this big ass sword lookin like Cloud from Final Fantasy 7 and shit mayne.

How does Broward County influence D.P.’s Horrorcore/Hardcore underground style?
Big Rela: (laughs)…… It doesn’t. Broward County is the very opposite of Horrorcore in terms of the Hip Hop acts we have in our city. If anything it influenced us to run in a different direction and not follow the expectations of what people do out here. We created the Hardcore scene our city needed.

Vice Gripp: That’s in regards to the other rappers out here. We haven’t met any other serious horrorcore acts out here like ourselves. We were raised in Broward so it has influenced us as people but musically we have gone off in our own direction. The only part of Broward that has influenced the P.o.e.t.s. music is the Everglades because it’s hot, grimey, and full of things that can kill you.

Being a group do you challenge each other to write a better verse in the studio?
Big Rela: We constantly test each others lyrical dexterity when we hit the studio. We also feed off of each others energies and ideas to create the madness that goes on in our musical pieces.

Vice Gripp: Exactly. We do everything as a group. I think there is only 1 or 2 songs on the album that all 3 of us didn’t lay vocals for the chorus of the song. All of us look up to each other as emcees and are fans of each other as solo acts as well. It’s all mutual respect on the mic within the group.

Did Call of Duty influence the title of your upcoming project, “Front Toward Enemy”?
Big Rela: Dude, I have had the concept and title of this album for about 5 or 6 years. Our intention is to have a war epic trilogy. This being our first entry in the 3. Although, we play a shit ton of COD: Black Ops, naw it didn’t influence our title.

Vice Gripp: Hahahaha wow.. BUT like Rela said we do get it in on Black Ops so get at us on Twitter or Facebook for the PSN ID’s and we can run one!

Give us a little in sight into the album.
Big Rela: The album is riddled with ridiculous instrumentals all from in house dudes. Most of the album featuring production from Vice Gripp himself. The other bulk of the production was handled by Mitenberg of Germany. We also received beats from Dashius Clay, Nigga Rich, and the Track Burnaz.

Vice Gripp: It was great not only working with original production that was made specifically for this project, but to also collaborate with some of our biggest influences like Esham and Rock of Heltah Skeltah. We also have Quan, K-Rino, and Liquid Assassin on the album as well as Popa Wu from the Wu-Tang Clan who is introducing us to the hip hop world officially.

Tell us about your upcoming shows…
Big Rela: Currently in the works from us is a tour of Florida. We have shows in Tallahassee, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and of course Miami planned out. We are working with other Florida Horrorcore acts to put this together.

Vice Gripp: Hopefully a national tour in the works for this year as well.

Leave us with SHOUTOUTS.
Big Rela: Shouts out to all the fans out their who continue to support us on a daily. We genuinely want to play in your blood while simultaneously playing with a Ouija board. Keep it fucking bloody!!

Vice Gripp: Absolutely, thank you to all the fans who have supported us, who spread the names of Psyko South and [dead] P.o.e.t.s. all over the world. Yall are who we do this for and no one else. We will never sell yall out for no amount of money! So remember KEEP IT WICKIT and always STAY PSYKO! `1`

Check them on FACEBOOK.

Curbside Jones: 1st of all, thanks for sitting down with Reupspot my good sir!! How are things on your end?? Let the people know whats going on with LeVi.

LeVi: no the thanks is all mine, i’m honored for you even picking me for this interview. Hmm.. what’s going on with me? Well, first off I’m currently in the making of my second project “Before the Future” & i’m also shooting a lot of videos as well as producing for some other artists.

Curbside Jones: Quiiiiit being humble! Let your awesomeness flow! Lol what was your inspiration behind this new project?? And how does it differ from “Street Lights”?

LeVi: haha well the inspiration for this one actually came from the project i was originally going to do after street lights, which was called “follow the future.” Follow the future is heavily based on a story & it gets really complicated when you just jump straight into it. As I was going through the songs I realized that the transition to Follow The Future from Street Lights was too abrupt, and i needed a proper “middleman.” Thus, “Before” the Future was born.
Before The Future differs from Street Lights in an entire host of ways… The most noticeable differences have to be the new delivery i have adopted for this project, the extra drive, & the since of “urgency” in some songs.

Curbside Jones: Great minds think alike because my next EP is going to be the “middleman” as you say! Nice play ol chap! Lol so who can we expect to hear on the project and was all the production handled by you or did you enlist some other’s to help you out? Spill the beans sir!

LeVi: Indeed, great minds do think alike! & as of now the only features on this project are with J. Rizzy & Gary Samurai. & for production, i enlisted the genius of a young producer by the name of G3, & another young producer I love working with by the name of Dijon Stylez. I also had some spots on production :D .

Curbside Jones: Sounds like it will be something serious! I swear yall youngins are going to show us older cats up soon lol So where do you draw inspiration to kick rhymes and make beats? Me, I’m more of the “visual” type…I get super amped when I have visual stimulation…you know, art, anime…porn (shrugs) lol

LeVi: HAHAHAHA! you’re definitely a funny guy! I’m cracking up over here! But uhh, i would have to say that I draw my inspiration from Life itself. & the experiences that it brings. I’m rarely inspired, so when I do get inspiration, I have to take in as much as possible. It has to last me for a long time sometimes lol. Some things that have inspired me the most are usually overlooked by others… Such as a nice sunset, a great picture, or a good night on the town. I like to channel those small things into something great, & vast.

Curbside Jones: Life is a very big impact on my art too! I feel the same way, I rarely get inspired (reason why I move like a snail) lol How long have you been putting in work with music? On both the production and writing end…and what made you want to pursue this type of artistic expression?

LeVi: Well I’ve been writing since I was about 11 or so. so that would put me at around 7 years. I’ve been producing for only 4 years. I got tired of waiting on others to send me beats so I took the initiative & did them myself. I think I’m just now getting “good” at it though..

I would have to say that I honestly don’t know what actually “made” me want to do music, or even this type of music. My mom told me that when she was having me God showed her I would do something with music in my life so, I guess it just happened.

Curbside Jones: Say whaaat? Boooy you’ve been putting in slave work lol well…well some people start early at certain things, I should know…stripping aint easy cuh! Smh and that’s heavy! How does your mom feel about your jams? I know she’s proud…heck I am and I didn’t have you.

LeVi: LOL! You stripping?! haha life really does get hard sometimes huh? lol. But uhh, she’s happy about it. She personally thought that by “music” the man upstairs meant “Piano, Guitar or Drums type of thing…” She was surprised to see that it was Hip Hop instead haha. But nevertheless she is proud of me. & that’s a cool thing

Curbside Jones: Yeah man..I have to get it in somewhere bro…good way to promote! Middle aged women love me cuh! lol So…word around town is you’re a gamer…or at least have knowledge of the sport (yes its a sport) what can people find you playing?

LeVi: Ahhh yes, the games haha. I’m not a “hardcore” gamer but i do enjoy some titles. My favorites are ANY Megaman games. Golden Sun is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. & I am known to kick some tail in Super Smash Brothers… MAJOR TAIL.

Curbside Jones: Boy sit down…I’d school you with Kirby any and everyday…I put that on my dojo! Lol and Golden Sun is the shiz can’t front! We should do a super smash bros joint since you already have megaman ones! Well…I guess I’ll ask this since ladies do read interviews…what kind of woman makes LeVi…a happy man (puts on some marvin gaye)…spit your game son!

LeVi: oh nahhhhhh! i’m unstoppable with Luigi dude! like, literally unstoppable! haha & man I’m always working so I’m down! But uh, as far as women go, I like a girl with a good head on her shoulders (no minds in the gutter right now!), one with a sense of humor because I like laughing & one who is driven ya know? I despise the type of girls that sit around waiting for a meal ticket… UGH. But yea, the female seat is somewhat occupied (she knows who she is) so yeah. I’ll leave that alone. lol

Curbside Jones: Well ladies there you have it…he kinda teased yall lol so I see your a pretty fashion forward young lad, what are your fave brands/styles at the moment?

Levi: Hmmm… let’s see, I don’t really have any favorite brands. Whatever looks good, I’m liable to wear! I have some brands that I admire such as Bape but uhh, the whole 18 years old, still in high school with no job thing stops me from buying a lot of that haha. nonetheless though, anytime i go out, I make SURE I look presentable. Always

Curbside Jones: Word the #bumlife is a mofo at times! Lol what are some of your plans for after you graduate? Will you join the ranks of us artist/college students?

LeVi: Great question, as of now, I don’t know… Which is, definitely not good considering the deadlines for college apps are approaching. Honestly, I’m just trying to see where God wants me to be. When he speaks, I’ll move.

Curbside Jones: Good answer!! Lol I just took the college route because I wanted money to fund this music thing! Gotta pimp the system somehow man! But honestly the future looks really bright for you man! When you make it with this music, who would you like to work with and why?

LeVi: I would like to work with more artists “outside” of my genre than ones in it. Such as ( but is not limited to) Arthur Verocai, Janelle Monae, & above ALL I want to work with the Capcom Sound Team. THAT would be a dream come true….

Curbside Jones: So sir, are getting the big picture, and I love it!!! Lol so are there any last motivational words you’d like to give the folks out there? And are there any shout outs you’d like to give?

LeVi: Well in closing I’d first like to thank the team over at ReUpSpot for having me & I’d like to tell all those who dig my music to be PATIENT with me and continue supporting me. God has a lot planned and I intend to see it ALL come true. I’d like to give a shoutout to my team/brothers, Rizzy, Gary Samurai, & FedEx for holding me down. I DEFINITELY gotta say thank you to all the fans & supporters who helped me get this far & also to my bro Orlando. Things are looking good. Follow The Future people… peace & blessings.

Click Here To Download/Stream LeVi’s “Street Lights”

Curbside Jones: Well 1st and foremost I’d like to say what’s hannenin’ (atl voice)…and 2nd of all…thanks for sitting down with reupspot! Tell the world how you’re doing and what’s going on in your life man!

Gary: Ayeeee, lol. & no problem, yo. I’m glad you guys took the time to sit down with ME, lol. Well, I’m actually doing pretty good, just living. Making music & skating. & my life is just chill. Tons of anime, comic books, & horror movies. lol.

Curbside Jones: Oooh!! Anime, comics and horror movies? What are your faves in all the categories?

Gary: Well, my faves for Anime would have to be: Cowboy Bebop, Fooly Cooly, Afro Samurai, Naruto, Fullmetal Alchemist, Outlaw Star, Yu Yu Hakusho, Bleach, Bobobo-bo Bo-bobo, & COUNTLESS others. lol.
Comics: Green Lantern, Hell Boy, Spawn & wayyy more. lol. Horror: A Nightmare On Elm Street (all), ALL zombie movies, & anything that will scare the piss out of me. lol.

Curbside Jones: You named a few of my favorite anime titles, as far as comic book…eh I slack in that area but I do fox with the scary movies hardcore foooor sure! Speaking of Afro Samurai, was he the inspiration behind your latest project “The Way Of The Samurai“? Because you did use a scene from the movie as your cover.

Gary: Yes, he truly was. Just the story behind why he fights relates to me so much. The actual culture of the samurai & whatnot was a basis for my tape, as well. Samurais believe that you’re supposed to live everyday as if you can die in an instant. To live with no regrets. So, I took all of my knowledge on that, & put it into my first project. lol.

Curbside Jones: Maaan, I guess we’re beefing because I live that ninja life cuh! Lol But that’s pretty heavy stuff man, how long did it take you to put together? And since it is your 1st project, do you feel it was a success? And what do you think you could’ve done different?

Gary: Lmao! If that’s what it has to be, cuh! Well, actually it only took me about a month or two to write the entire thing and I recorded the entire tape in all of 6 hours. lol. Yea, I definitely feel that it was a success, I’m glad I could listen to it and bump my own music. Plus, ALOT of people downloaded & listened to it. I was suprised with how great it did. Some things I could have done differently would have been to take way more time recording it, get it mixed better, & possibly do better on “Back From Lemuria.” lol.

Curbside Jones: Damn 6 hours? Trying to do it Jay-z style huh? Lol it takes me 6 hours just to finalize a 3 verse beat! Haha how long have you been writing music?

Gary: Naw, bro. Just pressed for time. & that’s because you’re the illest! Well, I’ve been writing music for about 6-7 years, but I just recently started wanting to put it to music. lol.

Curbside Jones: That’s a very long time! Lol I’m hitting around those years too…as an artist, what inspires you to write? Do you light scented candles and watch reruns of outlaw star in the dark? Or is it more sacred? Lol

Gary: I guess, lol. LMAO! Naw, no candles. I just take whatever happens, or what’s going on & make it into a song. Or, I just make my favorite anime into a song. I like for my music to be real.

Curbside Jones: Maaaan, no candles? You’re tripping bro! Haha so if you WERE to do a soundtrack to any anime what would it be and why?

Gary: Lol, I’m sorry yo! I’ll try it out. Oh, it would definitely be between Afro Samurai, Outlaw Star, or Samurai Champloo. & Just because those are shows that I know my music would be dope for!

Curbside Jones: Sweeeet! So what other things musically do you have in the works? What’s the next big project you’re working on? And who can we expect on it, because “The Way Of The Samurai” only had 1 feature

Gary: Well, I actually have a couple singles that I’m working on right now. I don’t really have a project yet, haven’t had any real inspiration for one. & you can expect tons of people! YOU, LeVi, Self Explanatory, J.Rizzy, Fed Ex, and hopefully all of the people that I’ve met who are anime heads & people I wish to meet soon.

Curbside Jones: Oh yeah brother!!!!! (Hulk hogan voice) sounds like a cool little line up! So being an artist in and from the south, do you feel like the type of music you make puts you at an advantage? Or disadvantage? Because people do expect and want a certain sound from you…believe it or not

Gary: Yea, brotha! lol. Well, the music I make puts me at both. It’s an advantage because my music is way more different & creative. Most people out here aren’t doing anything close to what I’m doing. It’s a disadvantage because most people in the south don’t want to hear anything knowledgeable. They’d rather hear the same song about weed & partying. I’m not into any of that, anymore. I’m trying to push the positivity, feel me? And, I’m also trying to show that people from the south are actually doing something BIGGER than most people realize. I’m cool with the disadvantage, though. lol.

Curbside Jones: That’s what I try to tell people, the region shouldn’t depict what you’re doing! The south, right now is in a revolutionary stage! People fail to realize Outkast is from the south, 9th Wonder is from the south, Little Brother is from the south…so many diff styles and so much content can be found. But that’s good that you don’t sell out because you’re just getting started you don’t want to start off with a cliche image! Are there any last inspirational words you have for the youth of today?

Gary: Oh my god, all of that is so true! If only others understood. & yea man, I try to keeps it real, lmao. I just really want the youth to know that being cool doesn’t mean anything. I was once & still somewhat am, “LAME“. People like to label you something, until you do something that can benefit them. Just always remain YOU. Don’t ever compromise. Oh yea, and read tons of manga, watch anime & horror movies, play video games, and just have FUN! lol.

Curbside Jones: I couldn’t have said it any better myself! Any last min shout outs?

Gary: Of course! I want to shout out anime, all the lame & unpopular kids, LeVi, J.Rizzy, Fed Ex, Self Explanatory, Curbside Jones(lol), KidD Steve, Dylan Tran, The ENTIRE DPF, all the blogs that have supported me & my music, and reupspot for giving me this oppurtunity!

Follow Gary Samurai on twitter! http://twitter.com/GarySamurai

CLICK HERE to download “The Way Of The Samurai”

Whats good Elhae?
Nothing much man. Chillin. Enoying life.

How does Georgia represent you as a person and musician?
I love Georgia. I feel more or less i’m trying to represent for Georgia instead of the other way around. As a musician, my style of music is kind of different opposed to most southern music. I used to think i was obligated to making that type of music, just because of my location, but as i progressed i stop caring, and just started doing me.

You are getting ready to release “Seventh Fall”…what/were your inspirations during this project?
Indeed man Jan. 18th you can download it on my site elhae.com. I feel like the last 2 years of my life have been really challenging, and i can honestly say its been really tough. Drama is not something i’m used to but its reoccurred many times over the last year. Thats what Seventh Fall is all about. Life experiances. It’s relatable to anyone.

I noticed your playlist on your site has a wide variety of music, how do you incorporate all these styles into your music?
I listen to EVERYTHING. I thinks thats what’s shaped my sound into what it is. Taking all of that music, and incorporating small things i hear. Add my touch to it, and you have an Elhae record. Like on my last project ‘The Zero’ i had a ballad on there called “memories of a nobody.” Needless to say i doubt any rapper would add that to a project.

Tell us about the production on “Seventh Fall”.
Not many people know i do all of my productionMy best work yet. The sound is kind of different compared to any of my recent work. I fell in love with distorted drums and you’ll hear that through out most of the project. It also has an orchestrated feel on some records, which comes from my love for symphonies, scores, and compositions, and all that jazz. All in all i was satistfied with every beat.

What does “The guy that never knew how to give up” mean to you?
Man, i’ve had so many things try to get in the way of my dream, and i’m still chasing it. I never want to be that 40 year old guy that looks back saying “what if.” Not only my dream but everything i do, i hate losing. i’m
a sore loser lol.

Seventh Fall vs The Zero, what are the differences and similarities?
Good question. First off “The Zero” was recycled songs, with the exception of like 5 songs. Thats a difference between this and that. Seventh Fall is a brand new start. All the records are brand new. I almost feel like Seventh Fall is my first official project. The Zero was songs I didnt know what to do with lol. Also Seventh Fall is alot more mature. As far as the topics go. Even the covers. You can look at the two and see the difference in maturity. The similarity is that its still my voice haha, the singing, rapping, and writing. Still me.

Leave us with some shoutouts.
Yea most definitely, shout out to my homies blu, thuro, spazz, the sorelosers, killa, tunk, anyone that reps brain gang. hmm…lets see….my homies J-Coop, and Abib Jahleel. My management team Jc, Danny, and Pach. I think thats about it, and of course reupspot.

’88 stand up! What’s going on Skewby?

Everything is going great homie. I got to wake up today and “More or Less” is about 92% done. These are very good times.

We’ve been anticipating the release over here. Briefly describe how you’ve gotten to where you are now from 3rd grade rhyming to producing in ATL back to rhyming…

Basically, I’ve been rhyming since I was a kid. I didn’t know any producers, so I started making beats when I was 12. When I graduated high school I went to Atlanta to try to make my way inside the industry. I knew people weren’t interested in meeting new rappers, so I decided to go as a producer. Things were cool, but I REALLY wanted to be a complete artist. I made that decision and I’ve been following my heart ever since.

The way you got your alias is actually a funny story, please share…

Yeah, the name started out as an insult. When we were kids playing basketball my homies said I looked like Scooby when I got all in to the game. Going to the basket I made these hilarious faces. It started there and
just grew into a nickname over time.

Being from Memphis, how do Three 6 and 8Ball & MJG influence you?

Man, that’s what I grew up listening to. I think they’ve influenced me in ways that I really can’t point out. The music has been in my life for so long, ya know. I’ve always liked 8ball & MJG’s honesty in their records. Three 6 still influences me production wise. I still go back and listen to the beats they did for Pat on “Ghetty Green”. That’s one of my favorite albums.

Your relationship with your Mom is really strong, does she ever critique your tracks?

Of course! She hears and critiques everything. She’s my biggest supporter, foreal. 9 times out of 10 she’s probably reading this right now.

Can you attribute the way your Mom raised you to you always keeping it REAL?

Definitely. My mother and father did a great job raising me. When I did right, they made me feel good about it. When I did wrong, they disciplined me like great parents do. Those simple things developed a lot of character
in me.

“Proving You Wrong Since 88″ was clearly a huge move for you when it dropped. Looking back did you expect it to gain this much attention (buzz)?

I try not to have expectations. It happens sometimes, but with 88′ I really didn’t have any. I just knew I wanted to share the music with a lot of people. People don’t remember, but it wasn’t big when it dropped. It took about 4 months for everything to come full circle. It was a beautiful experience. Sending emails to blogs, going to different cities and passing out cd’s. I’m thankful for the fans I got from the project, but honestly the
beginning is now.

What is your favorite track off of “Proving You Wrong Since 88″?

C’mon man. You know that’s a question that can’t be answered. Today though, I’ll say “Searching”.

Be honest…How many copies of your feature in The Source magazine do you have around your house? What was your reaction when you first saw it?

I have two, really. I had a lot, but I gave most away to friends and family. I don’t need 10 articles of myself laying around, haha. My reaction was insane. I was in Barnes & Nobles and yelled out that I wanted a moment of silence. Everybody was looking at me crazy! I walked up to a random person and just gave him the magazine and pointed at me. He looked at me and said congratulations dude, lol. I ran out the store and started calling people that had been supporting since day one. Good times, man.

Thats a story to live by. One of your talents is graphic designing, are you currently working on anything and when can we expect your site to be finished?

The site isn’t done because I’m working on the tape. So, as crazy as this sounds, my site might not be done until my cd drops.

2010 was a big year for you with the responses from the late ’09 release, Lil Wayne Farewell Tour, DUB Magazine Show tour…etc. What do you have planned for 2011 to top 2010?
I’m just planning on dropping “More Or Less’ off this month. After that, doing some great shows in front of great people. Everything else is in God’s hands. Gotta love it.

Leave the interview with shoutouts and a quote to inspire the people.
I want to shout out everybody who wakes up and smiles no matter what they’re going through. Destiny isn’t a matter of chance, but a matter of choice. Believe that! (Quote from William Jennings Bryant. Google him) Love! Thanks for the interview homie.

Listen to Proving You Wrong Since ’88: Skewby Bandcamp
Find him on Twitter.
Also check out his website.

First off, God Bless you fam! How is it on the other side of the world?

Man, it’s crazy! So different over here in Asia but it’s a great experience!

Let’s rewind it back to the middle of summer here. Explain the “I Know” video and the responses to it.

It’s gotten great responses and has brought more attention of course to the single itself. Was hoping for more youtube views but it seems to increase by the day so that’s a good thing!

The Hangover was and still is a huge success, are you satisfied?

Absolutely! Thank you to all that downloaded it and are giving it rave reviews…

How will you follow up with The Hangover after you get back from Singapore?

With “CHANGE” the album. Drops January 11, 2011 (1-11-11)!!!

I jumped ahead a little there, so let us know what exactly are you doing in Singapore, how it came about and how long will you be over there?

No prob, I came here in middle August and i’ll be here until the end of February. Thru a friend thru a friend connected me with a performing gig here and parts of Asia and I ended up here lol…

What is the best part of being in Singapore?

It’s a beautiful Country! Reminds you of a little New York / LA

What is the worst part of being in Singapore?

Missing my wife n kids back home! lol

What song of yours gets the best reaction from the crowds?

Feelin Myself… They love that record

Change and the date 1-11-11. What do they have in common?

I wanted to use the 1′s to my advantage.. Just so happen that the 2nd Tuesday of the month fell on that date so I figured i’d use it to my advantage!

Who do you have for production on the album and what about features?

I produced 12 out of the 15 records on the album, includes 2 tracks produced by The Melody Music Group out of Germany and one from TP, my partner in Crime…

How will the album be distributed?

Gonna release this project independently through my partner label Jatis Ent, and my label NV Ent.

Anything else we missed out on?

That’s about it. Getting back to the grind and starting what I call the “1st n 15th” movement. Gonna release a new remix or song (original or collab) every 1st and 15th of the month through Twitter, Facebook & E-Blast!!! Watch out internet world!…

Man school is school…as you know I hate it with a passion! I transferred to Huston Tilloston University in Austin this past semester so I currently have 1 ½ years left in college! The good thing is that I’m in Austin, the music capital of the US!!!!! But other than that life is dandy man, new videogames, new anime, and new music!

Lately you’ve been producing more than rhyming, is it a time issue with school or just your mood?

Let me set the record straight…I have songs!!!! Lol I just don’t want to put them out at the moment because I don’t want to play out “bum life” before it ever gets to see the light of day. I quit doing promo tracks like I used to because yes, school is time consuming and I don’t have any of my equipment here in my dorm room. I record maybe twice a month now, so I try to knock out 3-4 songs a session or however many time permits. My environment does have an effect on my writing ability, for some odd reason I can’t write at school unless it’s in the heat of the moment lol. I guess you can say this is why I’ve been making beats a lot lol I have to find another outlet for my emotions. I left my tripod back in Temple so I haven’t even been on top of my photography game (one of my other emotional releases) like I used to. As a beat maker I feel like if I don’t practice I’ll fall behind the pack and then when I want to get into my zone again I’ll have a hard time adjusting.

Oh yes, the name change from C.B TV to Curbside Jones, why?

Well to simply put it…Curbside Jones is the more self aware part of Jerry Manning that isn’t afraid to open up about personal feelings. C.B TV became a name that was hard to live up to because people failed to realize that outside of being super entertaining I have personal issues and things about me that I’d like to touch on. This is one reason I feel people didn’t appreciate “Endless Waltz”. I opened up my heart and soul for that project and tried something innovative but people wanted my old stuff, which in my opinion will NEVER surpass Endless Waltz. Once I started to realize the difference in acceptance I came to the conclusion that C.B TV needed to be killed off. I became a victim to my own creation thus leaving me with no option but to come up with a new one. Curbside Jones is the person I am RIGHT now in life, not C.B TV. It’s like people who weren’t new to my music wanted the old me and the people who were new to my music wanted what I was delivering all the time. C.B TV is still who I am, but I will go by different alias on every project from here on out.

Give us a little insight into “The Bum Life”.

Well..to me bum life has always been something I’ve embraced because it’s what I live. I play video games, currently unemployed, I’m a slacker when it comes to stuff I don’t want to do, I’ve been classified as a loser, and I can’t seem to find a place to call home mentally. Bum life in my eyes isn’t anything negative or to be ashamed of. A lot of people are unemployed because they CANT find a job, it’s not like they chose to be in that position. I’ve come across girls who say “I want a man who has a job, his own place, and a fancy car! If he doesn’t have that then he can keep it moving, I don’t want no bum ass n***a!” To me it’s like dang, I just have a car but I’m a college student TRYING to obtain all these things and better my life, but yet I’m a bum because I don’t have it now? People who aren’t in college don’t understand how divided a college students time really is, we can’t help it if we don’t have jobs or a steady source income. Now the ones who are really achieving or want to achieve are the underdogs of society…do you see the irony in that? That’s what bum life is…it’s the life the underdogs live because they are prisoners to their situation and environment. People have different meanings to the word “bum”. It could be someone who doesn’t have money, someone who dropped out of school, someone who does drugs, someone who isn’t far along in their music career, heck even someone who doesn’t dress nice can be classified as a bum. All these are reasons why people become outcasts and with this project I want to be the voice for those who are at the bottom with me.

You recently remixed some Kanye beats (very dope job btw), should we expect more remixed beat tapes?

Thanks! And um….maybe lol those beats are actually pretty old to be honest. I just took them and threw them together on one file so people can have them and hear them. I honestly don’t know if I’ll do another one anytime soon, but if I do…I think I want to tackle some 9th wonder stuff because he is one of my major influences as a sample based producer. It’s just challenging recreating something that you think is already the best thing you’ve heard…I found myself saying “dang, Kanye is a effing genius, idk how he came up with these sample arrangements” and I admit it’s very intimidating. The positive side is you can find your comfort zone as a producer by not only being pushed artistically, but also being able to stay original and not copy someone else’s ideas.

Any plans to turn these beat tapes into mixtapes?

Eh, probably not…I just do it to exercise my beat making abilities lol. If people want to use them they can, just as long as I get credit for it. I’m not that tight yet to where I would compile a mixtape with a all my beats on it and give artists slots and all that jazz.

Any special plans for late 20-10 going into 20-11?

Late 20-10 you’ll experience the release of “Bum Life: The Semi Epic Tale Of Curbside Jones”…uuuuuuhhhhh and I have a project I’m working on right now for 20-11 that I refuse to speak on, it’s nothing outrageous, but it’s something that people will enjoy for sure! My homie Jowin or JoFTW (that’ll be cool) put me on this producer Plue Starfox (@StarfoxProper) who I wouldn’t mind doing a project with…we have some stuff we’re working on and he’s actually the ONLY other producer on “Bum Life”. The track we have together is SIIIIIICCK!!!!! Also I’ll be doing more collabs since I didn’t collab with any during the making of “Bum Life”.

You have also been promoting other artists, any plans on managing in the future?

Well the only artist I’ve been promoting is my homie Sunnie because my site, emptysodacans.com is sponsoring his next release “Another SUNNIE Day In Chicago”. I had a hand in the production process so I thought “why not sponsor it since I have been helping since the beginning of the project?”
He’s always been supporting me and helping me get my music out so I had to return the favor. (Gets off track) And for all you artists who feel some type of way because I won’t post your music on MY site please understand…I help those who help me, I don’t have a problem promoting a track or two that I’ve produced for you. I give yall free beats…I give yall opportunities to make music that I will post…but none of you take advantage of that. Ok…back to the question, had to get that off my chest lol. But as far as managing
people goes, I don’t think that’s for me at the moment. I would love to manage up and coming artists when I retire from recording though, I think that would be extra cool! There are a lot of talented people out there and with the right direction they will go far.

Big Sean – Living Our Dreams (Memories) from Cam Be on Vimeo.

I’m pretty sure there’s a good chance you’re still fairly new to a lot of people other than your credits and friends, why don’t you introduce yourself for the record and future fans.
I go by Chris J. I’m from Dallas Texas, 21 years old and been doing music full time for 2 years now. I produce Hip-Hop, Pop, and R&B. I’m a song writer and sing my own records as well.

What do your production credits consist of?
Well first I got to give a shout out to Slate Stone out in Lubbock Texas. I went to Texas Tech University there and had two records on his local album. That jump started it from there. I have a record called “Party’n and Drink’n” with Cali Stylz who’s on N.A.R.S. Records with producer Danja. For the people who don’t know who Danja is, Danja was Timbaland’s protege. There’s a local artist in Dallas by the name of Dynamic, I’ve done two records with him recently. I also have a couple records with Youtube sensation Maria Zouroudis that will hopefully see the light of day.

What are some of your major influences in production?
Well definitely Timbaland, he’s my biggest influence. He’s the reason I started. I remember I was watching the video to Missy Elliot’s “I’m Really Hot ” off of her “This Is Not A Test” album, it was track six, that’s how much I studied it. The song was simple, two notes in the hook, crazy drums of course, but I remember listening to the record and that desire just popped into me. I’ve studied everybody though, The Neptunes, Just Blaze, Timb, Dre, Alchemist, 9th Wonder, Harvey Mason Jr, and Teddy Riley.

For the listeners that you’ll inspire with your music, we just got to know, what does the lab consist of?
Being in NYC your tight on space so you don’t get to use the huge stuff. I run an M-Audio Axiom 61 key USB keyboard, two Rocket 5 monitors, a MacBook Pro, and I run Logic and Protools both. I know Protools well enough to use it, but I’m more comfortable with Logic, it’s a beast, so I do all my recording in Logic.

I understand this isn’t your first interview. You had a close up on Timbaland’s blog, “The Timbaland Buzz” thanks to the production you did on a single for Cali Stylz, and now this interview. How on schedule do you feel your success as a producer is?
I feel like I’m just starting. Like I said, I’m 21, I spent two years in college, so I feel like I’m just starting to commit myself to doing music. You hear stories like Kanye who spent three summers in his room doing nothing but producing and thats hard for me because I’m real out going, so people are real important to me. I feel like I’m more focused and more committed now than before, so I feel like I’m right where I’d like to be. I produce because I love the music, not to please other people. So I’d say my success is right on schedule.

Your production on that particular single was said to have a Danja feel, how do you feel about this comparison to the Timbaland affiliated producer?
That actually was the biggest compliment ever! Hopefully Danja sees this, but growing up I remember there was a magazine called Scratch Magazine, all for producers. It was only in publication for a couple of years, but there was an article with Timb where you actually first learn of Danja, and I swore I was like, if Danja can be Timbaland’s protege, then I can be Danja’s protege one day. I did that record on Reason so it was a huge compliment to be compared to him.

Well that raps up my questions for you Chris, Shout outs?
Shout outs to Maria Zouroudis, Jimmy Cozia, Jay Hats, istandardproducers.com, all my boys back home, Dynamic, Donald Woods who’s got his music video coming out next week, check him out, drummer for grammy nominated singer Ayiesha Woods, who did I forget…. family, friends, if I forget you I’m sorry, Nikko, everybody I’ve worked with, there’s to many people to name, I love you all.

What’s good homie? Everything is grand these days. Just enjoying the creation process and building my fan base.

You been staying busy, how was the release of your project last year?

Oh yes,very busy! The release of Lady Luck went well for me. The response from people is overwhelming. People are really connecting with Vegas right now. Few great interviews and music conf. I’m loving it baby…..

Why the name “Lady Luck”?

Well when I listened back at the record before completing it, I felt really lucky about the sound and versatility of this record. I knew when any listener heard Lady Luck they would be drawn in by one or more tracks on this record. It has something on it for everyone. So I felt when you roll the dice with Dave Vegas and this Lady Luck album ,you don’t know what your gonna get,but I must say I’m always money!

I’ma be honest..it has a lot to offer and really showcases your versatility as an artist. Was that the point of this project?

Yea to some degree,I was just being me on this project. I can sing,rap and dance,so I felt to combine all those elements on one project. Showcasing my singing skills and rapping skills. Then showcasing singing and rapping together, and some music to make you dance. They are all the elements I want people to take to the heart when listening. I’m an entertainer to the heart.

You have worked along side with Tamar Savage, got credited for work with The Roots and have the shared the stage with many known artists…How do you gather all these experiences and improve from it?

All these artist are successful and I respect their craft. I know to get where they are takes dedication and hard work. I also realize working alongside some of them let me know I was doing something right. So whatever that is I have to improve what I’m doing right and take it to another level. Practicing, writing and performance practice will get me to the level I’m reaching for and beyond.

Your track Paparazzi is wild and mad creative…what was the inspiration behind it?

Well I lived in Los Angeles for a few years and made some good friends and connects. One of those friends was a guy who met up with me on Weds at a club. Long story short, I moved from L A and for a few years and decided to go back to record with a friend. I thought to call some old friends up while there. So I called the friend who went out with me on weds and we wanted to meet at our old spot. So when I showed up, he walked up to me and he had a big camera hanging from his neck. I was like oh,he wants a few pictures with me. But he explained to me he was now paparazzi for the stars. He said man dave this pays great out here. I said wow, are you serious? He said oh yea, this is great money. So at that moment I thought what will happen when I really get successful? Will my friend stalk me cause of the good money it pays or will he respect our friendship. That’s how the creative juices started to flow.

What are you currently working on for your future?

I’m working on a new ideas right now. I have to narrow in on a sound right now for this next project. Don’t want to make it so wide this time. I’m picking a few topics and sticking to them for the next record. I’m also working on making clothes for myself. Taking old clothes, leather and fur and making new creative outfits. I’m also working on a European tour this summer. I met a company production company in Hamburg, Germany. They want to add me to there roster of artist to tour all around Germany. So I’m nurturing that relationship as well.

What inspired you to go the music route with your life?

Well it all began when I was four years old. My mother used to dance around the house with me standing on her feet. We would dance to Diana Ross and Stevie Wonder. That’s what started my flame for music and entertainment. I knew from those moments I wanted to do something with music.

Funk, Soul, R&B, Gospel, Pop, Rap…etc What genre is Dave Vegas?

To be honest,I have a touch of them all. They all have an affect on my life and growth as an artist. I would say Dave Vegas is hiphop soul music…. Hip hop music has a big influence in my life. I deliver from the soul though. I give you my life with no excused or gimmicks. Whatever you hear me talk about in my music I’ve done it.

Thanks for your time Dave, leave with some shoutouts…

Shout out to JTL Artist Management,Q-ball,Pat Price, Mastering House, Eternal Image Tattoo,Salon Fiber,Sinatti Pop,HoodFamous,The High Street Music Company,Poppin Parties,Reclaim Clique,My skunskis in Germany,Cool Breeze…. Join The Movement!!!!

Yoooo Kardi, Whats going on bro?
What’s good, Vick.

Introduce yourself to the fiends…
They call me Kardi, I’m the best MC under 18. If you’ve never heard me, check your girl’s iPod.

You have skills to be under 18, when you hit the legal age?
I’m turning 18 this October.

Where you come up with the name Kardi?
My name is Karamo, and when I was growing up, kids on my block couldn’t pronounce my name, so somehow they got Bakardi from that. Then when I met my manager Thiz about 6 years ago, he dropped the ‘Ba’ and now I’m Kardi.

How was opening up for Wale at the Milton?
The Wale concert was real dope, it kinda established me as an artist so to speak. Before that, I really only had a (real small) presence on the internet and nowhere else. But the Wale concert, especially me performing this song “I Hate Prep School”, really put me on the map so to speak. The crowd was real into the performance, too.

Did you meet Wale (I’ve seen him live once), if so how’d that go?
Nah, I didn’t meet Wale, while I was backstage before the show he was sleeping on the tour bus and being mad antisocial. Karma catches up to people though haha, that’s all I have to say.

Promote Kardiology for us and explain the project..
Well, the word cardiology is the study of the heart, and -ology in Greek is the study of, so my little play of words makes it “The study of Kardi”. Pretty much, the mixtape was just a lyrical showcase, me, my manager Thiz and my DJ, Nasty, just holed in a brownstone in Harlem for 3 days straight and churned out track after
track. The purpose of it was basically to show that I’m one of the better lyricists out, which I believe I am. And regarding the circumstances, that the entire project wasn’t made professionally, just 3 teenagers, it came out pretty dope overall. I went over new tracks like Wale’s “Chillin’” to Junior MAFIA’s “Get Money”, and
without being too boastful, I murdered em.

What you got lined up for 2010?
Well, I’m starting out doing a couple shows at New England prep schools this spring. In a couple weeks, I’m going up to McGill University to do my first college show. Then this summer, I’m going to do some shows overseas. This is all before I turn 18, by the way haha. And of course, I’m working on my 2nd project “The Valedictorian”, which should be out by July.

Shoutouts?
Shout outs to Thiz, Nasty, Modi at DCtoBC, Ricky at iGoon, Fordham, Dan Weisman, Supreeme, Relly, K-Salaam & Beatnick, XV, and everyone that supports me. If I forgot you, it wasn’t intentional, I don’t even remember what I ate for breakfast. And all the niggas that hate, I love yall too.

What’s up MarkY?
Nothing much, just tryna get my fame up lol. I’m coolin tho..

You excited about McNabb coming to the RedSkins nation?
Ha! Yeah I am. It seems to be lifting the spirits of my fellow Washingtonians in the area. Good stuff. I’m looking forward to September.

Today is the release of “Journey to Markyland, USA: Rest Stop 1″, before I get you talking about it…why 3 EP’s before “43 Miles to Markyland, USA”?
The reasoning behind this is mainly because I have this disappearing act I do, right.. So one minute you see me, the next you don’t. In my case, it’s not a bad thing. It’s actually been working out pretty good for me because once I re-surface, the music is better than ever! I didn’t wanna release 2/3 songs then my final mixtape without touching as many ppl virally as possible beforehand. Therefore, the 3 EP’s gives new listeners that are gained a chance to catch up and anticipate a FINAL product before my debut album. You get that?..

How will the 3 Rest Stops during the Journey to Markyland compare to “Nothing is 43ver”?
I think “Nothing is 43ver” was a side of me that ppl up to that point was use to hearing from me. I’m a lot more in-depth with my music and use it as a mirror to reflect how I may be feeling about something or situations or life. The 3 Rest Stop’s will include a wide variety of music coming from me and just show my versatility.

From the 3 leaked tracks off of Rest Stop 1, you’ve shown your versatility with making songs…Will all 3 EP’s show off your skills or will they become more theme based as we go along the Journey?
Good Question. They’re all based of that, my skills. Not so much to showcasing what I’ve got – just displaying good music, and my way of making music. The songs have different messages in them, and different
characteristics. So there won’t be any formula to the EP’s such as girls song, deep joint, go-in joint lol. All the music was/is apart of my journey. Everybody is witnessing it as we speak so the theme is reality of my
journey.

Now..tell us what the first EP has to offer.
The 1st Rest Stop offers charisma, soul, and “daaaaaaamn” (Chris Tucker) lol. From the cover songs I laced to the “In The Morning” cut where I give you something thats easy to listen and ride to. This EP is the sun peaking over the horizon post “Nothing is 43ver”.

Is including “43″ in your project titles a pay of respect to Studio 43?
Absolutely.

How’s your relationship with fellow DMV rapper, Wale?
It’s cordial.

Any big collaborations involving you in the near future?
Definitely. I really can’t say who right now because some songs may be re-tweaked a little, but just stay tuned in to see. Don’t you hate those answers!? lol I know I do from a fans perspective.

That “I’m The Shit (DC MIX)” was my summer jam…what does the song “Shelia” mean to your career?
“Sheila” meant a great deal to my career. You know what, I think that “Sheila” will re-surface after I pop and become a bigger sensation. “Sheila” is a type of song that I love to create because fun songs like that helps me to transcend from edgier songs that I have about the music industry and how things are in this world. My little sister and her friends loves them songs of mine, and could care less about my lyrical wit about life and the moon lol. It also gives ppl a reference as to who I am and to not feel so threatened by little ol’ me lol. But at the sametime, I hold my own firmly.

What impact do you want “43 Miles to Markyland, USA” to have on the game once released?
Honestly, I just want it to solidify my spot. Point blank. The game now is what we all make it. So if we say is sucks, it sucks. On the flip, if we say its great, then will be that. I just want to stand over here in my own
lane and do my thing. I don’t want anyone with a “name” co-signing me or anything like that. I want to stand on my own 2 and be an empire all in my own stature.

Thank you for your time during your 1st rest stop…hit us with your shoutouts!
No doubt, thanks for the interview! Shoutout to God first and foremost, the entire SRC/Uninversal Staff, Studio43, JB, Diego, Jerry, Big Ken, Jay, my parents, everybody that’s supporting me on all of the websites & blogs, the twitter nation, and you (viewers) that’s reading this. Thanks.

Download Marky’s Rest Stop 1 here.