The May 2015 Issue of FunktheFormula Magazine

MAY 2015

MAGAZINE

STREETLAMP STUDIOS + JOSH ROSE + 3 O’CLOCK BULLY

WHAT THE FUNK’S INSIDE 5..................THE RUNDOWN

6.................. EDITOR’S NOTE 7................. OUTSPOKEN: Paula Sow 9 ................. STREETLAMP THEORY: Eli Kaplan Interview 15................. Josh Rose Interview

23..... END OF REWIND: 3 O’Clock Bully Interview

Image Courtesy of Yeyo Sounds Productions

E EDITOR-IN-CHIEF C.E. LAWTON CREATIVE DIRECTOR C.E. LAWTON MAY CONTRIBUTORS Almighty Wise, Mario Rivera, III, Paula Sow, Josh Rose.

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COVER: Musician/Singer Songwriter, Josh Rose. Photo courtesy of 4WD. LEFT: Hip Hop duo, Dolomic and Superb of 3 O’Clock Bully

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EDITOR’S NOTE Moving Right Along ...

This month we kept it a little light but not without building up in several areas of the FTF Universe. Summer is around the corner so it’s only right that we heat things up. For the past couple of years we’ve been providing content from various aspects of the art world on a digital platform that has kept you coming back and wondering what’s next and that does not go unappreciated, trust me. Now, as we look towards mid 2015, there’s much more in store, including video interviews to give an even more visually engaging experience beyond the pictures and text that flesh out every feature. We had the pleasure of having Gainesville, FL producer and engineer, Eli Kaplan be our first official video interview as introduction to a new way for our readers to connect with the artists we feature every month. Working along with Darklyght Productions, who shot and edited the video, we couldn’t be happier with the results!

What’s more in this issue is an interview that’s been long overdue with a talented and true hearted friend of mine, singer and songwriter, Josh Rose. I’ve gotten to know Josh over the past 5-6 years since his arrival to NYC with the big dreams of making it big in music. He was my membership councelor when I was looking to join NY Health and Raquet Club and was such a personable person. We got the opportunity to connect on in artistic level when he expressed he was in NY to pursue music, and FTF actually was literally just starting to get its legs at the time when it was a budding apparel company. I was also a freelance designer, so we vibed on the plan to commission me to work on his branding (site, logo and business cards), and from that regular connection and going to his shows, our friendship grew. When he got the call from an agent to go overseas to work on his debut album, it was truly a powerful and inspirational moment to see his dreams really manifest. Though he’s been far away for quite some time, he’s never changed his stripes and is still as genuine and cool as ever. As things look closer and closer towards his US debut, I felt it only right to touch base with him and see what the entire experience has been like for him in more depth.

We’ve got a great feature with hip hop duo, the emcee-producer collaborative, 3 O’Clock Bully (Dolomic and Superb). This in depth interview comes by whay of our main man, Almighty Wise, who got the chance to not only really connect with the group but make music with them himself, so the artistic relationship runs deeper than a sit down.

A final note on what’s to come this month: A few trial runs have taken place since November 2014, and this summer, the extension brand of FTF, FTF Presents will make its monthly mark with a introductory series of open mics that aim to serve the youth and communities in neighborhoods that may not normally get a full blown taste of the arts in such a way. The FTF Presents series is poised to be the community based sector of the FunktheFormula brand, providing various forms of art-based events and activities to communities that would benefit from the exposure. I believe in the power of art as a healer, as a means to empower and enlighten. Through FTF Presents the intent is to touch, move and inspire in a more tangible manner to the world around is. This along with many other exciting things ahead, as we unveil bit by bit, are what can be expected fromthe FTF brand. Enjoy the issue and stay tuned for more!

LIVE. -C.E. Have questions, suggests, comments? Feel free to contact us: info@funktheformulamag.com 6

OUTSPOKEN Your words. Your thoughts.

Out loud.

My Beloved Mother

I

by

Paula Sow

nside of your core,

Beneath your Arm Is a strength, A strong vibration, Inside of you I find that safety, I am nestled inside of solace, Further nourished with a vitality, My very many systems receive that invigorating charge of your blessed souls sacrifice, A beloved mother attuned to the needs and desires of her children, Sweet mother, As you deliver us, One after another You deliver the totality of yourself, You give of your great wealth, Rich and plentiful,

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Darling mother,

And inside your heart grieves

How, how can I repay,

For they won’t,

For up until now I have fallen short of gratitude

The whip continues,

in performance,

Their minds blocked from

Dearest heart My mother,

Mother,

Can You accept my eager heart,

Your greatness alone it stands,

May I offer my intense cry for forgiveness,

To you Mother Africa~!~

Strayed away,

I Celebrate You Mother

Inside of confusion,

Mother Africa!!!

Inside of miseducation, Sweet Mother of all, I fall under you in humility, For I am indebted to your rendering, Your love whole inside of its purity, My sweet mother, Words can not sufficiently author the path of this thanksgiving, Not to This celebratory gathering, longing that I may lay before your door, Tenderness as I happily adorn you through, gift giving, others deny your wit, They will deny your wisdom, And forever turn away from your grace, But dear heart, Mother, Sweet beloved mother of all, I lift my voice in commitment to your care, Your days have been long and I come to service your nights,

Paula Sow

When u weep for The blood of your children leaks and into their far and wide, Their tears fill buckets,

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THE STREETLAMP THEORY Straight out of Gainesville, FL, home of the Gators, producer and engineer Eli Kaplan of music group, Streetlamp Theory and co-owner of Streetlamp Studios, gives a taste of his flavor of Hip Hop.

Eli Kaplan looks to preserve the the heart and spirit of Hip Hop. I gained the opportunity to meet this briefly back in September of 2014 at a special performance I did in his hometown of Gainesville, FL (for those who aren’t aware, I also write and perform music). When it came down to working on my next project with my Gainesville based producer, Thre3, Kaplan was Thre3’s top choice to engineer it, as a specialist in the sound we’re going for. I’m always up for new opportunities and building new relationships so I figured it worth a shot.

I decided to take a week in Florida to not only work on this project but to connect with this brother and see what magic he could create. One of the greatest ways to connect with people and share in their energies, in my opinion, is through the power of connection through music; and it’s even better when you are creators of music. I felt the spirit of what Eli does musically, and the sheer passion behind it not only being his business, but his life.

As a creator of music, it always tends to be an undeniable pleasure to know that others, especially other music makers, vibe with what you’re creating. The creative process with Eli was in depth, and one dedicated to not only supporting the sound coming into fruition, but enhancing it and taking it to levels perhaps not initially fathomed. Once he began “messing around ... and playing with sounds” approximately 8 years ago at the influence of a friend providing him with a music program, that’s was where he found the passion and wherewithal to really connect with the world of music. “I just started kinda messing around with it, and playing with sounds and beginning to hear and see what it feels like to push buttons and be inside the music. And that’s where it started. From there I kind of kept going and developed a style and continued to build more equipment and that’s where we’re at today.”

Once Eli got involved in music production, he managed to connect with a fellow producer and MC, Clif Neal, after hearing him on a track that a friend played for him. Once connecting, they began working on music and developed the sound and team that became the now Gainesville fixture known as Streetlamp Theory. From regularly rocking shows in Gainesville, to touring state-to-state and dropping 3 projects (currently working on the fourth and pushing for a fifth later in 2015), there’s no question that the duo is looking to be more than a theory in the world of hip hop and music in general, but a household name. One of Eli’s finest and memorable moments when performing was opening up for Afroman. “We had a really great time that night. We got to meet Afroman, we got to go upstairs and kick it with him before his set; we had gotten done with our set and he told us that we had rocked it out ... There was a lot of people there, but it was just the feeling in the audience, that, we were on stage and everybody was just so happy and the mood was right. That show really represents what Streetlamp Theory is.” Their most recent album, Out Past Curfew, the 3rd effort by the duo, hosts various production, including notable work from Hip Hop heavyweights including Pete Rock and 9th Wonder.

Eli’s love for Hip Hop grew at age 13, getting his first taste from watching MTV and then expanding his musical taste in public school hrough the friendships he began to build. From there on, Eli’s library, interest and passion began to really manifest itself. When it comes to creating music itself, he sites the catalyst for each creation session as being requent visits to record stores. “That’s where it starts. Just digging and looking for ideas and sounds ... Instruments and vocal samples, taking that home and then listening to those records; me and Clif would just sit down and just listen to records and just vibe and hear melodies and things we’re looking for. That right there is where I get the inspiration to make the music that we do.

It really comes from those records and from the classic hip hop feel that it really gives off.

Combining those together, bringing that into the studio, chopping it up ... And throw it on the MPC, it almost is religious right there. You’re taking that idea that you had, that foundation and you’re turning it into a collage of pieces that you can go and just paint however you want, it’s like painting. I don’t know how much philosophy there is behind my music, but that’s the theory behind the music ... That’s where our sound really comes from.”

It’s always interesting to hear or get an understanding of different artists involved in Hip Hop in regards to their thoughts on Hip Hop in the current mainstream, so with that, I had to see where Eli’s perception lies. “ I think that commercial Hip Hop right now is not actually Hip Hop. I believe that some of those artists that make that music may be a lot more Hip Hop than the music that we hear from them, but the way that society is set up, people want to 11

bounce and hear these songs that are about retarded things. There’s no passion behind that music that I’m hearing in the present Hip Hop right now. The Hip Hop that does have elements that I’m really interested in hearing is the underground Hip Hop scene. 90% of what I listen to either came out in the ‘90s, is not on the radio, is not on Pandora, has 2,000 views on youtube, and it’s just something that I can vibe to and is representing Hip Hop in its own way.”

When it comes to constantly doing shows, entertaining around the country, spending hours in the studio working on project after project, there’s no surprise that “down time” ends up being just that. “I’m kind of a boring guy man (laughs). I enjoy going out to shows and supporting other artists; we have a lot of other artists that we enjoy and go to their shows, they come to our shows, but generally I’m sitting on the couch watching tv on my off time ...

Hanging out with the dogs, or walking around doing stuff in my yard, just anything to kind of get my mind off of the music. I enjoy just sitting on my front porch sometimes; I bring my little bluetooth speaker out there and just jam and listen to Hip Hop. It kind of grounds me back to reality. I used to be a lot more wild and party, but it’s really time to focus and build this business and grind with this music and take Streetlamp Theory and Streetlamp Studios to the next level. To have the world see what we’re doing instead of just our regional area.”

As words of encouragement to budding producers and artists, Eli pushes the importance of passion and what it is to really love what one does and to keep creating. “Stay true to what you love; if you love something, there’s a reason why, and when you love something, you’ll do just about anything for it, you’ll do anything to get it. You’ll make stupid decisions, you’ll do things that you maybe shouldn’t do, but there’s a reason why you do that: it’s because it’s ingrained in you. You feel it. And if you love something, try it. That doesn’t mean you’ll be the best at it. I know a lot of people that ask me ‘what can I do to begin producing... or engineering?’and it’s like, well do you love to do that? Because if you don’t love to do that, then maybe you shouldn’t even think about doing it. It’s all about passion, if you have passion in what you’re doing, you’ll be able to great at it. I feel there’s a lot of people that want to produce or be in the studio for reasons that aren’t true. If you stay true to who you are and what you love, you’ll be a great engineer or a great producer ... Or you might be a great

doctor or rock climber, but if you don’t love to do that, it’s not something for you. If this is something you love, I suggest watching some tutorials, buy a little bit of equipment and put your mind to it; one day you might be sitting in the studio with your favorite artist.

That’s still my dream, and I’m not there yet. But this is my passion and this is what I love, so I know that I’ll be there one day.”

From this meeting, it was clear to discern that Eli is in fact a passionate artist who really loves what he does, this being clear and evident throughout his process. It’s more than business when it comes time to work in the studio, and with that passion, along with a willingness to build connection and comradery beyond the booth is a combination of factors that can solidify the place of Streetlamp Studios and Streetlamp Theory within the musical landscape of Hip Hop and music overall.

Check out the full video interview with Eli Kaplan on www.funktheformulamag.com!

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t u o k c e h C n o s e u s ! s i m t s o a c . p g a m a l u m r o f the

funk

25 21 25

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A Concrete Rose Singer songwriter, Josh Rose has, thus far, lived the artists dream. Coming from the small town of Appleton, WI and taking the leap into the Big Apple, to now recording a debut album overseas in Seoul, South Korea, Rose shows what passion and determination can do when one takes on life in full bloom.

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Image Courtesy of Yeyo Sounds Productions

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When did you realize you wanted to pursue music? Who were your influences?

This is a bit multi-faceted. When I was about 5 or 6 I saw Michael Jackson on TV and I was enamored.

I knew I wanted to be a performer just like him. For about 10 years I would study him both as an artist and a person learning the dance moves and songs perfectly. I didn’t grow up in a musical household whatsoever so most of my influence beyond Michael Jackson came from whatever was on top 40 radio. In high school I really got into the IndyRock craze and that’s when I got more serious. If I wanted to be a performer I would have to learn an instrument and perform under my own name or with a band. That awakening came from watching Andrew McMahon of the groups Something Corporate and Jack’s Mannequin (and now solo). As an artist, Andrew McMahon has absolutely had the most profound impact on me; I learned how to write lyrics by studying the way he wrote. My understanding of the music business and my inspiration as a performer was Michael Jackson.

What’s it like growing up in Appleton? How was the transition moving to NY to pursue your dream of music?

Appleton was/is awesome. I love where I’m from and would love to move back when the time is right. People are super friendly, hard workers, love sports and the arts, and really enjoy life. It is a bit of a slower pace of life though, and I mean that affectionately, it’s almost as if people appreciate life more. Weekends are for camping, evenings are for family and cooking out, Sundays are for church and the Green Bay Packers. I’m not trying to put a whole community into a box, but this is just the side I experienced. This didn’t prepare me for NYC, though. I was super naïve. Tell a person in NYC that you’re from Wisconsin and are there to become a singer and they smile like a parent humoring a child. I think New Yorkers find it more amusing than annoying. The physical transition was easy, it was the grind it out and start actually “doing” that was a bit harder. Talking about pushing a boulder is effortless, actually pushing the boulder is the challenge, but as it gets moving things get easier.

Where do you find the inspiration behind the music you create?

Everywhere; moments, movies, nature. Usually I start writing a song literally looking out a window

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so often times my lyrics have something to do with what I see. I’m a sucker for a view; I love nature and just watching the world. I have a couple songs I wrote from watching a movie and thinking ‘I want to write a song about that.’ Life moments are big also; if I’m feeling something deep I usually write about it.

Typically that leads to a dark, sad, or “take a stand” theme since those are usually the things I feel the deepest. I find it harder to write when I’m happy, it’s odd.

What challenges & successes did you face while performing and promoting your music in NY? Being okay with not being perfect on stage was/is a challenge for me. When you aspire to be great, being “good” is strangely scary. Often times the fear of failure or being mediocre enough to be forgotten has stopped me from performing as much as I should have or wanted to. Now, on the other hand, standing-out didn’t seem to be nearly as hard as I thought it would be. People really appreciate, respect, and gravitate to art in NYC. Artists appreciate artists. Be cool to people, genuinely care about your friends and fans and a following will inevitably develop, but it must be genuine, don’t be kind with an angle. Every single time I performed I met awesome people, some of which I still maintain a relationship with today (Mr. Colin Lawton, haha).

You’ve now made the jump to Korea to work on your debut project. How did you gain the opportunity to begin branding and producing your music out there?

So many awesome questions that are super hard to answer in short. This one’s long but I’ll do my best to keep it abridged. I met a gentleman at New York Health and Racquet Club where I used to work in NYC. I kept asking him to come to a show and finally he relented. After the show he said he wanted to represent me. Through another series of (many) events (and about a year or so) he had a meeting with a top producer in Korea who worked with some of the biggest artists in Asia. This producer wanted to sign an American artist, produce them, develop them, and then launch their career in the states, which would subsequently also launch his own U.S. career as a producer. I got a call asking if I wanted to move to South Korea, I literally said I wasn’t sure exactly where that was, but let’s go! It’s obviously a far bigger story, but that’s the gist.

From Appleton, to NY to Korea; how was the adjustment of living completely outside of US borders in Korea?

It actually wasn’t bad. Technology makes it easy; iMessage, Skype, Facebook, Google Translate, etc. I’m very close to my family and I definitely get anxious if I’m away too long, but I never really get homesick. Korea is very different than the states but I think that may have actually helped. You don’t e xp e c t s im ila rit ies and that prepares you for the contrast. Speaking the language is a challenge (and still is for me, linguistics is not my talent) but anyone can learn the Korean alphabet in about a day or two so it’s easy to get from place to place and get a handle on “Survival Korean” skills.

The pace and style of life has always been a bit of a challenge, but nothing I can’t handle. I am very Appleton; I wear my heart on my sleeve, people around me usually know what I’m thinking, I’m friendly and trusting to fault, and I also like to keep things simple and chill.

In big cities like NYC and Seoul you will get eaten alive being like that. Now, I don’t resent those places, I totally get it, big cities are highly competitive and to get ahead in that environment you gotta do what you gotta do, but that’s just not the world I’m from. Wisconsin is more of a kill ‘em with kindness, do well and others will do well onto you, kinda deal. However, those traits will invite some not so nice people into your life trying to take advantage of your own accomplishments and networks. I’ve had firsthand experiences with this multiple times but it wouldn’t be the music business if I hadn’t. Balancing who I am versus not getting put over on is a tight rope of sorts.

Describe as in depth as you can the Josh Rose sound/brand.

This should be an easy answer but it’s something I still struggle with.

Compartmentalizing creation is more daunting than we give credit to. However, if I had to put my sound in a box I would say Pop/Rock. The reality is I love a lot of different kinds of music and all that comes out in what/how I write. When I was young my family had on top 40 radio, that amalgamation of many different styles that make up the top 40 is what makes my style a bit variant. In fact, I actually like being indecisive stylistically it keeps the album fresh. I really like going from a grimy “blakroc” style rock song to an R&B type chill record. Many artists have albums that are uniform from track to track and obviously it works, but I’m a fan of changing it up and showcasing different styles. I think that really plays well in this dayand-age of “title track” styled streaming and iTunes single-song purchases. There’s a little bit for everyone.

Different styles allow for wider appeal to more people.

I like writing songs with intent, with passion, something that after you HEAR it you still FEEL it. Those types of songs are typically the rock-ish parts of my voice. But I also enjoy club/pop music (see top 40 radio influence) so there are some songs you can dance to as well.

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Now, as a funny little side story, Taewan (my producer) is very successful in the R&B genre, and I am NOT an R&B artist. When I got to Korea and we really started digging into the album we were both like “ahhh how the hell do we do this”? This is honestly one of the central reasons the album has taken so long to create. Don’t understand? Ask Michelangelo to paint like Picasso. Just because you’re a top painter doesn’t mean you can paint any style, you have a niche. Music production is the same, producing R&B and producing Rock are different worlds.

However, it’s created this cool kind of blend of the two worlds I’m from, that MJ/JT/Trend style mixed with that Andrew McMahon/John Mayerish style.

As a brand I just want to show who I really am: no smokescreens or routines, just a simple kid from the Midwest who made himself into an artist through sheer desire. I’m not from an affluent life, I didn’t have opportunities necessarily handed to me, and if I wanted something I had to make it happen. Some of the songs that will make the album will lyrically express that.

Are you able to discuss any details about the debut project?

If so, please give our readers a taste of what’s to come from the Josh Rose brand.

The album is being written to show who I am both as an artist and a person, it’s a “true to its cause” debut album. I wanted to be true to who I am but also write songs that will really connect to people. A lot of it is based on creation, from nothing to something. The lead single (or the song we at this point believe will be the lead single) is a record written directly from my life but yet still very relatable to everyone out there fighting for something.

Taewan (C-Luv) Kim and I have co-written the whole album in oneway or another. We will have a few featured artists and are currently looking for one or two more rappers that fit a specific style. We are considering some notable artists but we are unsure if we want to do that for this album. I have a Korean female rapper and my good friend, Waze A.K.A. Ash B absolutely slaying a verse on a track in Korean. We also have an amazing singer from Milwaukee, Kimberlee Laske, singing on a track with me. We’re looking at at least 10 tracks.

A couple rock songs, couple ballads, couple club; different vibes musically, but all held together by my vocal and lyric style to keep the different feelings naturally laced together.

What’s been your favorite part of the production process? How has it been enlightening to you as an artist, especially working with top producers/artists in the country?

My favorite part is just being in the studio. I really like watching how these guys put everything together and then hearing the record on the radio, or in a store I’m shopping in, or on the street I’m walking down only a few weeks later. Then turn on the TV and there’s the Video or the artist performing live. Watching the process first-hand is very special and humbling.

I’ve learned the art of practice as well. My goodness, these artists out here practice like no one I’ve seen in my life. It’s intense.

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Image Courtesy of Yeyo Sounds Productions

Not sure on a release date, still working on the behind the scenes business stuff but I will absolutely keep FTF in the loop!

Also, and maybe this is the same stateside but they really write on deadlines here. I’ll be in the studio and Taewan will say ‘Josh I need a line in English’, you have about 3 minutes to find inspiration or someone else is getting their line in the song. I was in the studio with a pretty notable American producer about 2 years ago and the Korean artists were hopping on the beat just busting out lines and I was like hold on, I’m still trying to find inspiration. I think western style is more emotions and feelings based and reliant on true inspiration. Korea is less about waiting for inspiration to hit as it is about making it happen, I’ve gotten better in that environment.

Will there be any cultural influences on the project as a result of you being engrossed in Korean culture?

Yes, Ash B rapping in Korean was a must for me. I told Taewan I wanted a rap in Korean somewhere on the album as a homage of sorts to my time here and we found the perfect spot and artist. It kind of ends with that though, I’m not too good at the horse dance, though I do go to Gangnam often.

What is your dream around the results of the release of your official debut album here in the states?

Billboard. Everything we have been doing has been with respect to the art of music but also on an industry-standard foundation and intended for a U.S. debut. We have high, but responsible, hopes. However, admittedly, the personal satisfaction of just completing the album and releasing it will beat out any result big or small that may come from it.

I’ve half-joked with myself about naming the album “Validation”, but never committed because of the Parking connotation haha. But this album will hold that sort of emotion for me.

If you could work with any artist(s) out now, whether mainstream, independent or underground, who would you choose and why?

Andrew McMahon but the session would be a disaster. Nothing would get done because I’d be too intimated to be artistic. He’s a major source of inspiration and influence for me.

What advice would you give up and coming artists from what you’ve learned thus far? Especially any artists from your hometown?

First, and this is from my time in Korea, practice/study. You MUST practice … Daily if possible. Vocal warm-ups, production, writing, whatever it is you’re working towards, practice! Also, if you don’t own a DAW download one (Pro Tools is industry standard but will weigh down your computer unless you have a powerful one, I use Logic Pro X at home, it’s solid, also used across the industry, and is the pro version of GarageBand; Ableton Live is big as well, Reason, Cubase, FL, the list goes on … Get one), pay the couple hundred bucks for the DAW and then go to youtube and/or coursera to learn for free. Before you buy anything though check your computer’s specs, these programs can be big and usually also prefer a Mac. If you are serious you should know the basics of most of the facets. You don’t have to be amazing at it, that’s why engineers are paid, but when your producer talks about dubbing, comp’ing, compressors, etc., you should know what’s going on. Plus, it helps your sound. I asked my engineer what plug-in they were using on a particular song because it complimented my vocals really well and I now use it whenever it fits the record (CLA-Vocals).

Know what’s going on, especially if your name is attached to it. I’m a singer/songwriter not producer, but understanding production is important. Stay up on the trends and stay on your game. The business is changing so fast, missing a little adds up to a lot quick.

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Second, use social media responsibly. I’ve said things innocently that have really come back against me. Just mentioning I was in the studio with another artist once led to an issue. When mentioning others in a tweet, etc., ask permission.

Use it to help, not hurt. Ask yourself if you would mind your grandma seeing what you wrote before you click send.

Last, don’t forget why you started. I could say a million things about what I’ve learned, but this is big. I’ll have stretches where I wont pickup my guitar for more than a month. Don’t forget that you’re pursuing this all because you love it.

Performing for 5 people or 5,000 people should be just as gratifying (well, not quite, but you get my point). Don’t stop creating.

For people back home, and everyone else not from an area where there are many mainstream entertainment career opportunities don’t be afraid to take a chance, yet never jump without a parachute. Make a plan, be ready to adjust the plan, and let everything else take its course. There’s no shame in a 9-5 to make ends meet, we all have done it/do it. If you can live off your art then more power to you, but it takes time to get to that point so don’t expect fancy watches without sleepless nights first. Work during the day, create at night (or what ever your schedule happens to be). And remember, not being from the place your moving to makes you a novelty, be proud of where you’re from and let people know it on stage, they’ll appreciate that and feel more connected to you.

Where can listeners find any of your current music?

Current music is honestly tough to find right now by design. We’ve invested so much into this album that we’ve been protecting the tracks very carefully until we are ready to release it properly. However, you can stay updated and follow me at www.twitter.com/joshrosemusic www.facebook.com/joshrosefanpage and instagram “joshrosemusic”. Pretty much anything slash “joshrosemusic” should be me. I’m pretty active on twitter/instagram and if I haven’t tweeted in awhile I’m still checking it so hit me up. Let me know that you read the interview and what you thought, I love hearing from everyone.

Describe Josh Rose in one word.

Persistent. (and Passionate) A personal note from Josh (which was a truly humble reflection for myself): I’d like to thank FTF for the interview. Many may not know this but Colin was there alongside me during it all in NYC. I signed him up at the health club and we were friends ever since. My first legit photo shoot and website was done by Colin.

Amazing dude, and still very grateful for everything he did to this day.

As a brand I just want to show who I really am: no smokescreens or routines, just a simple kid from the Midwest who made himself into an artist through sheer desire.

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by Almighty Wise

I met brother Dolomic in a producer’s group on Facebook. Cool brother...Even got to work with him on a song I produced called “Animal Rap.” I emailed him the track, and he sent me back SOME HEAT. Needless to say, I was elated. Not too long after, Dolomic told me to check out the group him and his producer, Superb, formed called “3 O’Clock Bully”. Now, any and everyone that know me, knows I’m a stickler for REAL HIP HOP MUSIC. This means, your lyrics, delivery, your patterns, your music, your choice of chops (if you sample) all have to be ON POINT for me to give you my approval. Needless to say, I became a fan, and after you listen to their music...You will be, too.

So I bring to you ... 3 O’Clock Bully.

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What’s going on? Tell us your names & where you all are from.

Our names are: Dolomic (emcee) and Superb (producer). We’re from Richmond and Va. Beach, Virginia. Shout out to the whole DMV. How did you guys meet, and how long have you’ve known each other?

We met on Myspace over 10 years ago. It’s crazy cause after meeting we found out that we knew some of the same people and have been working with some of the same people as well. (Shout to Teresa Cook and Kleph Dollaz *R.I.P*) Our styles complement each other well so we’ve been rocking ever since.

How’d you came up with the name 3 O’ Clock Bully and the meaning behind it?

We were just brainstorming on names that fit our music. The word Bully kept coming up due to the aggressive nature of the rhyme scheme and beat pattern. What made natural since was 3 O’clock Bully. The meaning behind it is kind of self-explanatory. Victims who are intimidated by Bully’s get real nervous when 3 O’clock strikes cause they know that ass whooping is coming. We don’t stand behind bullying by any means but we want our music to Bully the industry standard mindset. That same feeling kids get when the 3 O’clock bell rings is the same feeling we want people that think the only way to be successful is to dumb the music down to feel when they hear our music.

What inspired y’all to get into hip-hop music?

(Dolomic) Well, for myself I’m a fan of the music and a product of the lifestyle. When I first was introduced to it, there was no turning back. Hip-Hop is my language, it’s my rhythm and culture that I was born into. So, I guess you can say I’m in hip-hop music by default, haha.

(Superb) For me, I’ve been around it my whole life, from my dad buying me my first hip-hop album, which was Whodini’s “Back in Black.” Around that same time frame in my early childhood before moving to V.A, I would listen to DJ Red Alert on Kiss FM and Mr. Magic on WBLS. Taping the Rap Attack, just like Biggie said. I would fall asleep while taping, wake up and flip it to side B, commercials and all. The following morning I’d be blasting Public Enemy’s “Don’t Believe the Hype” out of my bedroom window on Linden Blvd. That’s what inspired me.

Y’all have a new project entitled “The End of Rewind”. Can you tell us what is the meaning behind the title of this album?

Ask yourself what happens at the end of you pressing the rewind button. First it stops and then you’re at the beginning. The End Of Rewind is simply The Beginning. Look, it’s fair game to have different styles, so different people can latch on to different things they like but to ONLY have one style of urban music and the radio/industry heads forcing it through the airways to make the youth think this is what’s “hot” is just too much. We want this album to stop the bullshit. Give the listeners a chance to have options. This album is the beginning of a new era. The beginning of bringing hip-hop to a place it needs to be.

How many tracks are there on this album?

There are 19 tracks including interludes.

Was this album written and produced by 3 O Clock Bully solely? How was it working on this project?

(Dolomic) Yes, The entire album was written by Dolomic and produced by Superb. How was it working on the album? Man, it was great! The first word that comes to mind when thinking about the whole process is “FUN.” My thing is, if you’re not having fun doing what you do, you’re either doing the wrong thing or doing it for the wrong reasons (in my opinion).

(Superb) - I really enjoyed this project. It’s a great feeling to work with an artist such as Dolomic , who brings the best out of you. He’s also a great producer himself, so I couldn’t just throw him any beat. It had to come from the soul.

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Dolomic, some consider you to be a conscious emcee, because you discuss real life issues. Do you feel this accurately defines you as an emcee?

No. I wouldn’t put myself in any category. I’m not a conscious emcee, but I am conscious about what I choose to say and how I say it. I’m versatile enough to hop on any record as long as I’m feeling the beat. I will say when creating an album and you have the platform to speak to the people, say something that will educate, uplift, or inspire someone in some way. I don’t over saturate anything. It’s all about balance.

What should the listeners expect to hear from listening to The End of Rewind?

Authenticity! We have an original sound that has all the ingredients to your favorite recipe.

We have what is needed from the old school, what is appreciated from the now, and a splash of what’s to come in the future. The beats are crazy, the rhymes are crazy, and the chemistry just leaks through the speakers. We have clever word play and not just a bunch of

raps saying nothing. We have fun but at the same time, we’re saying something that can sit in your spirit. It’s definitely a trailblazer.

What is the message it’s sending to its listeners?

(Dolomic) The overall message is that there is hope within our culture. Raw talent and real skills still exist. We just want the listeners to know it’s ok to break down barriers.

What song do you plan to release a video for?

To be honest, we have quite a few. The front-runners so far are “I’m Going In” and “Epic.” We might even let the people decide. Who knows? (lol) What do you all feel is your favorite song or songs off the album?

(Dolomic) Yo, real rap, it’s extremely hard to say because I have favorites for different reasons. I may have a favorite today for one reason and a different favorite tomorrow for another reason. So, “today” I’m saying “I’m Going In” is one of my favorites. Those drums are crazy!

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(Superb) I’m a fan of the whole album, but if I had to choose, I’m a gonna go with AntiRadio. I jumped on the mother-ship ,and got high on the Funk.

This is an independent release. Without giving away business strategies, do you plan on remaining independent or are you looking to sign with a major label?

(Dolomic) We’re going to let the cards fall where they shall. Right now, it’s looking like Independent is the better look. We have nothing against the majors but being independent, we have more creative control, we see more profit from our music, and the independent grind just feels more personable. I’m a grindaholic.

Superb, you not only produce, but you are also involved with making videos. Can you explain to everyone what you actually do?

Most Definitely. Music has been in my life before I understood what it was. So that is my primary job. However my 9 to 5 job is in the film industry. I write, and direct , and occasionally am the Director of Photography on various film sets.

What is the name of your production company?

Gumonsole music. It’s Gumonsole publishing, Gumonsole everything; shit you might start seeing Gumonsole Cafe’s popping up everywhere. Just kidding.

Superb, do you produce for other artists outside of the group?

Most Definitely. I‘m working with a lot of new talent. I have to got to say this. To all rappers out there , study The End of Rewind album. Listening to how Doe murdered those beats. He set a standard. The reason I’m saying this , is because, I haven’t had many artist that really know how to address a Superb beat. So I’m just letting you artist know, that you can’t come half ass, on these beats. I put my soul in it, and I expect the same from you.

Dolomic, you produce as well. Do you have any artists you are working with at this time or do you plan on working with any up and coming artists?

Yes, I am currently working with a soul singer named Garnett Boldin from Virginia, who is extremely talented and of course I’m always game to work with established artists and/or up and coming artists alike. As long as the hunger and talent co-exist, I’m on board. Right now, my focus is 3 O’clock Bully though.

At this stage of your career, musically is there anyone you would love to work with?

(Dolomic) Yes. This may sound cliché, but there are too many to name and that’s being dead serious. I respect talent so I’m always open to work with other artists who embrace creativity. This goes for all genres.

Dolomic, who, lyrically, were your influences as an emcee? KRS-One, Kool G Rap, Slick Rick, Nas, Jay, Redman, Big Daddy Kane, Common, Heltah Skeltah, Cella Dwellas, Mobb Deep, CNN, Wu, man the list goes on and on. In order to be a REAL artist, you must first be a REAL fan! This list can go on for a good minute.

Superb, who is your influences as a music producer?

Every producer from Virginia. I reside in Los Angeles, however my influence is from VA. It’s something in the water.

Do you have any up and coming shows so the people can come check a 3 O’clock Bully show out?

Yes. where in process of negotiating dates. We’re gearing up for shows starting on the west coast this summer. Stay tuned for future dates and future cities.

Can you give the people the best way to contact you all for shows and projects?

Follow us on all social media. For booking, you threeoclockbully@gmail.com.

For updates, shows, and interactions, you can check us on Facebook (3 O’Clock Bully), Twitter (@3oclockbully), and Instagram (@threeoclockbully). Thanks for the love and support. Stay tuned.

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FunktheFormula, Inc. 2015