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B4 We Get Started 4 In Case U Missed It 6 Street Smarts 14 Comin Out Da Closet 16 Triple Threat 18 Who U Been Sleepin On 28 Masters Of The Tables 42 Z Ro - Crack Sells 68 Got Beats? 70 When Hip Hop and Law And Order Collide 72 So Krispy 76
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Slim Thug - Back 4 Da 1st Time 46 WUBSO - Dallas 52 Gorilla Zoe - Lost At The Top Of The Rap Game 63
B4 WE get started What it do world. This is ALWAYS the hardest part of the mag for me to do… I just never know what the hell to write or say or think… lol none of that shit! But getting into it, in case you can’t tell there’s been a whole lot of changes to the mag, the team, and the movement. It’s 2009 and I’ve said it many times, the year of grind. Unfortunately some people on the team just didn’t share the same sense of the grind that others did so they’ve moved onto things more conducive undertakings to themselves and their lives and we send them off with nothing but love and wish them the best of luck. The year of the grind is also why we made this a special edition “Who U Been Sleepin On” issue where we’re showcasing the most grindinest artists from across the nation. We also set aside a special WUBSO feature for the city of Dallas, and the artists that are paving the way to make the city one of the new Meccas of hip hop. And if you can’t see what’s happenin in the city then you must have been asleep the first four months of this year and last 5 months of last year!
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www.thefushionmagazine.com is finally ready to launch. Be ready for a fully interactive site, with digital magazines, photo galleries, music and videos from up and coming artists, on online store, full episodes of fuSHion TV, interviews, contests, and more. And please don’t worry, this will not be your typical blog spot or your normal TV show. You’ll see what I mean shortly. The magazine itself has a new layout and feel. We’ve introduced a few new sections to the magazine including: Comin Out Da Closet, where fuSHion’s own faSHionista Diva, Courtney Taylor, keeps you up to date on what’s goin on in the world of fashion; Street Smarts, which highlights the artists who have decided to pursue education and the grind; and also our So Krispy section where we highlight the businesses that create the culture of hip hop: the barbershops, tattoo parlors, clothing stores, car customizing and rim shops, soul food restaurants, record stores, and yes, even the strip clubs, that help us shape the ever expansive culture we’re all a part of which is slowing taking over the universe. With so much sheer content on just the hip hop side of The fuSHion Magazine we had to save the sports side for our next issue, but don’t worry we’re going to come just as hard with the next one as we did with this issue! I have to give a big shout out to everyone who has supported us and stood by us through these trying times. I know everybody’s feeling the sting of Bush’s economic failings and I just can’t thank those who have stuck by us enough, and those who are just coming on and lovin the vibe and the feel. Please, please, please holla at us if you have any questions, concerns, comments, or compliments. We’re global now www.thefushionmagazine.com www.myspace.com/thefushionmagazine www.myspace.com/thaladijae www.twitter.com/MzfuSHion fushionmagazine@yahoo.com
ays,
e Alw uch Lov
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It’s 2009, the year of the Grind. Let’s stop talking bout what we goin to do and just do it already. We got a universe to conquer!! R.I.P Lucky - You are Truly Missed
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1. David Banner and PLA, Austin TX 2. Chamillionaire @ Cham vs. J Mack Bball Challege, Hoston TX 3. Dorrough Music and Ms. Rita Boss Diva @ Texas Summer Music Conference, Dallas TX 4. Hezeleo and Models @ Video Shoot, Port Arthur TX 5. Da Trendsettaz and Dem HoodStarz @ DJ Juice BDay Bash, The Bay CA 6. DJ Mack, Lil Twist and Lil Za, TX 7. DJ KTone and Young Doe @ DJ KTone Birthday Bash, Denver, CO 8. Golden Child of Lil Flip’s Clover Gs @ TXSMC, Dallas 9. DJ Dimepiece @ DJ KTone Birthday Bash, Denver, CO 10. A Bo and R Mack of Macks on The Rise, TX 11.DJ Dinky D, TX 12. Trai D, Austin TX 13. Hezeleo and Julox @ Video Shoot, Port Arthur TX 14. Jemini of Hustle Squad DJ’s, TX 15. Ms Rita Boss Diva and Big Cheif @ TXSMC, Dallas 16. Chamillionaire @ Cham vs. J Mack Bball Challege, Hoston TX 17.Ages of Lil Flip’s Dream Team, TX 18. Raheim of The CO ENT and DJ Mack @ TXSMC, Dallas19. Tre Dubb and Tex of Yums, Austin TX 20. Drake and DJ Mack @ TXSMC, Dallas 21. Papa Rue, DJ Mack, PLA @ TXSMC, Dallas 22.DJ KTone, PLA, Mike 5000 Watts @ DJ KTone Birthday Bash, Denver, CO 23. Hezeleo Video Shoot, Part Arthur TX 24. DJ Juice, Da Trendsettaz and Guests @ DJ Juice BDay Bash, The Bay CA 25.DJ Big Spade and Hypeman P @ DJ KTone Birthday Bash, Denver, CO 26. KWAL of Static City Music, TX 27. DA Tredsettaz and Beat Roc Prod @ DJ Juice BDay Bash, The Bay CA 28. Chamillionaire @ Cham vs. J Mack Bball Challege, Hoston TX 29. Mistaken Idenity, TX 30.DJ KTone, Mz November, Mike 5000 Watts @ DJ KTone Birthday Bash, Denver, CO
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52. DJ Mack and K, TX 53. Tre Dubb and Nico of Ballin Outta Control Records 54. Ms Rita Da Diva and DJ D Lyte @ TXSMC, Dallas TX 54. DJ KTone and DJ Desire @ DJ KTone Birthday Bash, Denver, CO 55. Miss Rita Tha Diva and The Dream Team @ TXSMC, Dallas TX 56. Cham vs. J Mack Bball Challege, Hoston TX 7. DJ KTone and O of ONI’s @ DJ KTone Birthday Bash, Denver, CO 58. DJ Mack and Swag, TX 59. Yung Stet of The Dream Team 60. Lyme Lyte TX 61.Stan Da Man and Da Trendsettaz @ DJ Juice BDay Bash, The Bay CA 62. Young Hot Boyz of Yung Money ENT, TX 63. Big Rich @ DJ Juice BDay Bash, The Bay CA 64. Cham vs. J Mack Bball Challege, Hoston TX 65. Will Hustle, TX 66. G Stacks of Deliquents @ DJ Juice BDay Bash, The Bay CA 67.DJ Mack, TX 68. Da Trendsettaz and Chuy Gomez @ DJ Juice BDay Bash, The Bay CA 69. Lil Wil performing in Mississippi 70. Mr. Midas performing @ SXSW, Austin TX 71. COunty Brown in The Lab, St. Louis MO 72. Mr. Midas and Tre Dubb @ SXSW, Austin TX 73. Lil Wil in Birmingham, AL 74. Tre Dubb and Trae The Truth, TX 75.Hezeleo @ Video Shoot, Port Arthur, TX76. UGK Tribute Wall, Prt Artur TX
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Smarts t r e e t
How did u get the name Granddaddy Souf? My granddaddy was my best friend, and I liked to hang out with the old cats. I feel you learn stuff from the old dudes, and in a way I wanted to pay homage to my granddad and the south of course, because I’m from down south. When you think of someone like your granddaddy you think of someone that has been though some things, and I’ve been through a lot. I’ve been on my own since I was 12. Speaking of that, can we talk about your childhood? Let’s talk about that a little bit. My childhood. It was somewhat normal to a certain point. But eventually my mama started dating a guy that was a part of the Miami boys. She was a college graduate and everything, but because of a person she kinda got hooked up with, she got her self involved cocaine. One thing led to another. Next thing I know she was freebasing cocaine. And then from there my daddy was freebasing.I mean it was kind of popular with a lotta people during that era, and so I moved around from home to home. I really had no solid upbringing at that point in time. I was always getting in trouble a little here and there, just trying to survive. Aside from the trouble, I was reading that you went to college and you have a degree… That’s correct. Tell me about that Well I’ve always been involved in athletics. I played football and ran track. I graduated from the University of Arizona, and got my BA in sociology. I went on an athletic scholarship and graduated on time, I wasn’t there for 6 or 7 year. I was in and out.
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What does having a degree mean to you? To be honest with you, nothing. (Laughs) Why not? I mean I have accomplisedhed something that a lot of people haven’t, and I’m not saying that a lot of people can’t do it. It’s helped me in some way and in a lot of ways I don’t feel like it’s helped me. Like the American dream. Go to school get an education, get a job, have financial prosperity, that’s not necessarily true. Some people only get a high school diploma and are multi-millionaires. Some that went to college are mutlimillionaires. I mean I’m telling you what it did for me. It taught me time management and proper planning. So it hasn’t helped u any in like the industry? I don’t think so. I’ve always had common sense and street sense. Book sense is just a plus really. I mean you can’t teach nobody street sense or common sense. And when I was in college I knew some of the smartest people and they just didn’t have a clue. All three combination s help. As far as your album. Can you tell me some of your favorite songs and why… Well my favorite on my last album chasing my dream was a song titled Because of You which was a song I did in tribute to my grandmother.Thars my all time favorite song I have ever recorded. I like the record on my album called The Gospel. I touched on a couple different things as far as social injustices and all types of stuff that’s goin on the world that, as a street artist, a lot of my colleagues really don’t touch on. I’m not here to be a role model to anybody other than my kids. But I know that a lot of kids do look up to u. We got the microphone so at least do something constructive with it. At least make something with some substance. I’m not saying the whole album got to be alike that because I know mines was not like that. But I do feel
Grandaddy Souf
that you need to make just one installment that somebody could find something that’s worthy, something with some type of substance to it. But that’s my personal opinion. Who or what inspires you to make the music that you do? Scarface. Why Scarface? Ever since I’ve been listening to him I like what he got to say. I have always called him the verbal Picasso. When he delivers you can visualize what he’s talking about. His diction is very clear. His word play is savy.Ya know its something you can relate to, it’s something you don’t get lost in. You can tell that hes a professional in his craft. I’m a recording artist but at the same time I’m a fan of the art. So I can respect other artists like Devin the Dude, Scarface, and trick daddy. A lot of people fail to realize Trick is a street artist If you really listen to his albums he’ll have something that was an installment or a song that was politically conscious. A lot of people overlook that and all see is his gold teeth and then fail to realize that he has a lot on his mind and speaks on it. You either got a point to prove or a point of view. I look at the rap game like a tree. You got roots and you got leaves. Alotta of these rappers that come out are leaves on the tree. Artists are the roots, they gonna be around season after season. What are you working on now? Right now I’m just working on like four different mixtapes. One of the mix tapes is called I’m feeling myself and that one is coming out in the next two weeks. I’m really not focused on an album right now I’m just working on singles, and trying to get that one good single. Don’t make no sense working on a whole album right now the way it’s [the industry] goin. Record sales are down, not just because the economy but because labels aren’t really getting behind the artists and really pushing the artists and developing the artisirts like they used to do. You won an SEA award for the slept on artist of the year? How did u feel about that? I was happy. And this is one of the only awards shows out there that’s not politically charged. I respected the fact that voters recognized that Souf is doing things and they sleepin on him. I respected it and appreciated it and at the same time a little bitter. It was just the fact that my label wasn’t doing what they should have been. I was very much appreciative but at the same time it kind of rubbed me the wrong way. And it’s not because they presented me the award it’s because the mutha fuckas who signed me didn’t see the potential that was there. And the same year that the album dropped I was getting better reviews than TI. (No disrespect to TI) but it was when he dropped TI vs. TIP. And the only reason they compared us is because we dropped a week or two apart. I’m not trying to downplay the man’s work because that was just one installment. I made it on a national level. I’m just saying at that particular time it was the perfect opportunity to have my label really doing something and they ain’t do it. So to receive that award I mean appreciate SEA for that, I was just disappointed with the label. Why does u think the media targets the negative things versus the positive things, like rappers who pursue higher education or have an active role in the community? Controversy sells. It’s like we from the inner city, a lot of us got criminal backgrounds. I think the media is in love with the bad boy image. But those are the pictures the labels have made for the artists. They push and promote the bad boy image. For example Chris Brown and Rhianna.Man I’m tired of hearing that shit. Bad things sell. Any last words? Any recording you hear from me that’s a 3 minute song, it wasn’t a 3 minute process. I always put my heart into every song. I ain’t no damn rapper, I’m a recording artist. I will never sell my soul for this shit.
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University Of Arizona
Comin Out Da Closet The fuSHion Magazine’s
faSHionista Diva Tells you how to
Recesseion Proof Your Wardrobe!!! What up ladies and gents! I know things are lookin a little rough right now and your pockets might be hurtin but ya still gotta stay fly right? Well heres a few places where you can stay fly and not break 16 the bank. Check out these places across the states including Houston, Dallas, The Bay, and Atlanta and of course Denver! Houston: Supreme Apparel located off Fondern Road in Houston offers the latest urban and hip hop gear to suit your needs. They also make customized jewelry, assesories, sneakers, grills and clothing. KS Fashions located off Scott Street is one of the number one shops for all of your urban wear gear. Check em out you won’t be disappointed. The Bay: Filthy Dripped is one of the hottest shops in the Bay to offer everything from urban streertwear to retro and punk, you know for all ya’ll hipsters. This store has a wide variety of unique clothing and accessories that can keep you lookin fly. Atlanta: Urban Fusion is a hot clothing store in the 404 catering to local celebs and everyday people looking to show off their latest hip hop gear. They carry a ton of brands that will keep you coming back to their store for more! Virginia: Unique Fashions, near the Coliseum Shopping Center is one store where you can’t go wrong. They offer the latest styles from PZI Jeans to Ed Hardy. They even got the church clothes if you’re regretting last night! If you’re in VA and wanna be fly this is one store you have to visit. You won’t be sorry.
Words By: Courtney Taylor
Colorado: Whenever in Denver you must visit Certified Customs. If you’re looking for something unique and can be the only one rockin it, U gotta hit up Certified Customs. They offer ladies and men’s kicks, grillz, and gear as well as one of kind designs to keep you fly. Oh yea! Get tatted and pierced while you wait for your one of a kind design… One Stop Shop Pimpin! St.Louis: I AM Clothing is one of the hottest stores in ST.Louis to keep you staying fresh in 2009.They offer the latest brands like Rock n Republic and Ed Hardy for lower prices than department stores and have a crazy shoe selection. If you’re looking for fly kicks and gear visit I AM Clothing. L.A: Up Against the Wall is offering hot fashions at a crazy low price! Offering name brand clothes for men and women at prices starting at just 20 dollars. You can get your basic screen tees, dresses, jeans, and outerwear exclusively for you! Check them out anytime online or whenever you’re in L.A. Dallas: Tweet –a-licious-fly fashions offers the latest and greatest hip hop gear for men and women. Ranging from House of Dereon and Pastry to Roca a Wear and Sean John. The even offer a wide variety of plus size and children’s fashions. Visit them online for more information. La Crosse: Margaret’s Hip Hop Fashion is one of the premier urban clothing stores serving the flyest in the state of Wisconsin. They offer everything from jerseys, Negro League Apparels, the latest brands and even plus sizes. Big is BEAUTIFUL TOO BABY!! Shop here and you’re guaranteed to look your best. Also when shopping mention their website coupon and receive 5% off your purchase.
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Mz. Jazera Grace
Mz: fuSHion’s TRIPLE THREAT
Words By: G. Johnson Photos By: Maurice Chatman Name: Jazera Grace Hometown: The Bay Area Ca. Ethnicity: Pacific Islander Measurements: 34-26-35 What type of men do you like? Intellectual and clean cut men. You know the well dressed, pretty type. [laughs] What are your turn offs? Arrogance and Cockiness are a major no-nos!! What’s your fantasy first date? Hmm… Candle lit dinner beach side. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would you change? My height. I definitely wish I was a few inches taller!! What law should Obama pass while in office? Stop raising taxes!! And put more funding towards public schools nationwide! With all this talk of a recession, we all have to cut back on something! What should you be cutting back on that you haven’t been and why? Hmm that’s a tough one. I guess I can be cutting off on spending money. Damn! As soon as I got my stimulus check I went straight to the mall!! How can the stalkers get in contact with you? Ha!! Preferably no stalkers allowed, but to all the fans feel free to visit my website: www.jazeraGrace.com or add my on MySpace at www.myspace.com/gracie11. Yeee!!!
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Mz. Sabrina Da Diamond Diva
Mz: fuSHion’s TRIPLE THREAT
Words By: G. Johnson Name: MarQuania Sabrina Breaux Hometown: Denver, CO Ethnicity: Black Measurements: 34-28-36 What type of men do you like? God Fearing, Dark, Thick & Handsome. “Got to be taller than me.” What are your turn offs? A man that’s too arrogant with bad breath, dirty nails and dirty shoes.. What’s your fantasy first date? If the gentleman’s paper was right, I’d like to take a helicopter ride over the Rocky Mountains, land at a beautiful resort in Vail, where we will have a fire place lit, personal chef serving me lobster, shrimp & steak dinner. The evening would finish with a stroll at dusk to the exquisite Vail shops for a shopping spree on him! If you could change one thing about yourself, what would you change? My big breasts [laughs.] Obama has been in office a few months now. How would you grade his performance so far? Obama hasn’t been in office long enough for me to “grade” him. However, I think that the few months that he has been in office he has made a great effort to show he’s making change, so “A” for Obama’s effort. With all this talk of a recession, we all have to cut back on something! What should you be cutting back on that you haven’t been and why? I should be cutting back on my shopping habits because I find myself buying unnecessary things. How can the stalkers get in contact with you? Oh my God! If a stalker was really that desperate, then, they can find me at Zion Temple on 16th & Syracuse every Sunday from 10:45am to 1:00pm. Praise the Lord Any last thoughts? I am a Denver Diamond Diva because our movement involves a lot of volunteer & charity events. That is something that makes me proud of being a part of this organization and that sets us apart from the rest. So I rep it, do you?
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Elke The Stallion
Mz: fuSHion’s TRIPLE THREAT
Words By: G. Johnson Photos By: Adrian Fernandez Hometown: Los Angeles, CA Ethnicity: German Measurements: 36/27/45 Type of men you like? I love tall men, educated, smart and funny. Confidence is a major turn on. What are your turn offs? Arrogance and bad hygiene. What’s your fantasy first date? I am a pretty simple woman, a wonderful dinner is always doing the trick. If you could change one thing about your self, what would you change? I would want to be more patient and not have such a high temper when I get angry. What law should Obama pass while in office? Health insurance for everybody!!!! Your health is the most important thing and something you can’t live without. So to me good health insurance is sooo important. In Germany everybody has health insurance if you are employed and your family is automatically covered. So I def miss that from back home. With all this talk of a recession, we all have to cut back on something! What should you be cutting back on that you haven’t been and why? I have been cutting back on so much the past year, so really there is nothing I can think of. I reduced all of my bills and been really good about shopping. How can the stalkers get in contact with you? LOL, the stalkers can come and stalk me on my website www. ElkeTheStallion.com and my myspace pages www.myspace.com/ elkethestallion and www.myspace.com/personalelkethestallion
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Mz. Purrfection
Mz: fuSHion’s TRIPLE THREAT
www.thefushionmagazine.com
Words By: G. Johnson
HOMETOWN: Bermuda MEASUREMENTS: 36C-26-43 ETHNICITY: Black
What type of men do you like? I don’t discriminate, I am as open minded as I can be.
What are your turnoffs? Ha Ha dirty nails, and bad breath
What’s your fantasy first date? Just a nice walk in a park with some wine and good conversation.
If you could change one thing about yourself what would you change? Actually nothing, I like the way I am, but I can change my road rage problem. (laughs)
What law should President Obama pass while in office? I think he should pass some laws that will help protect people from losing their homes due to the bad economy. With all this talk of a recession, we all have to cut back on something! What should you be cutting back on and why? Shopping and eating out and because most people were not prepared for this and I like to prepare myself for the worst. We don’t know when the economy is gonna get better. How can the stalkers get in touch with you? www.mzpurrfection.com www.myspace.com/purrfectionthemodel
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How do you feel about where the Bay is on the music map right now? We’ve accomplished what I envisioned as far as the representation of Northern California. The music industry looks at the Bay Area now. The rappers shout it out and give us our props now. Before, you know, they would shout out LA and I just wanted to bring the culture of Oakland and the Bay Area out on a national level. Of course I like our artists like Jacka, J Stalin, Beeda Weeda, Mob Figgaz, E-40, and artists we’ve been hearing the best of. So now it’s really on the individuals. Where the new hit records? Once people have had a taste of something and had enough of it, they’re ready to move on and experience something else. So as artists, it’s our job to come with the next hits. It’s not about just the Bay anymore, now it’s about which artists from the Bay can make the hits. There has been a lot of talk about the Hyphy Movement being dead, is it? Where is it going? I think right now, Hyphy is just as alive as Crunk is in Atlanta, or Screw is in Houston, or any other type of cultural dance or characteristic. You know who I like? D-Lo and Sleepy D. I think their shit represents something like the new hyphy. It could be gangsta, it could be whatever, but it’s our culture. I don’t really know if hyphy is dead but is it going to blow up? Fuck naw. I mean it’s had its time. E-40 with “Tell Me When to Go” and Too Short with “Blow the Whistle”, those are national songs. Then we got Keak da Sneak and Mac Dre. The whole country knows about it now and once you reach the national level and a person touches it and sees it, they want to move on to what’s next. How can you convince someone in Virginia to still go hyphy? They’ve seen it before and they want to see something new. But as far as new artists, I saw D-Lo and his brother at a party and the muthafucka went crazy. That’s all I needed to hear and that’s basically what it’s all about. Your shit comes on in a party or in the club and people get up and dance, that’s what it’s about. The bottom line is, do you have the music? Can you penetrate the streets and come out ion the club and the people will put down their drink and fuck with you.
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Alright, so since we’re talking about what’s new in the Bay and where everything is going, you’ve had “Hyphy Juice” and “It’s Gettin’ Hot” but what’s new with you? Really I’ve just been laying low, recording music, getting myself together and I’ve been touring. If I’m not touring I’m recording and just really want to put out the right record. A lot of my demos were released and they weren’t even correct songs. They’re not even songs. I’ve seen “You Got Me” and hella shit people are putting out on the internet which there’s nothing wrong with. The fans want the music and I don’t have a problem with it but I haven’t released anything yet. A lot of times when I’m gearing up a lot of my shit gets released and once I’m released to the public I’m like, well shit man. It would be stuff with me singing on it and making demos for other people to sing that I would never even release and it’s already out there so I’m like fuck it and start over and come with some new shit. Really it’s just about me gathering a packaged product together and putting it out so I’m due to drop something either in late spring or the early summer. Who are Clyde Carson and the Team? The Team is myself Clyde Carson, Mayn Mannish, Kaz Kyzah, and Jungle. Our music is really just all types of music; every song has its own sound. At the shows I see all types of people: chicks, dudes, gangstas, squares. We want everybody to be able to feel our music. Whatever style any one of our songs is, it’s us. We just really like to make hits. As a 25-year-old artist, what did you want out of the industry? Did you see yourself where you are now? I just wanted to make hit music and bring a different sound to the Bay that the radio could play. I didn’t hear to many local acts on the radio back then. I remember there was a time when there really wasn’t shit on the radio, everything was underground music and artists really used to complain about it. I wanted to put out music that the radio would play and luckily for me, Big Vaughn really took to the music we were making and everything I wanted happened. All I wanted was to get on the radio and get my music heard and when we put it out in our area and got good standing with the people and in our area we were known. I wanted my back yard to be solid. I got what I wanted in the beginning, now it’s time to move to the next level. The Bay is on the map, I see Mac Dre on “American Gangster”, people shouting us out and everything else I saw. It’s grind time now. Where do you see Clyde Carson five years from now? I just want to keep growing. I’m not a superstar on Kanye or Jay’s level but that’s the ultimate goal and I know it takes patience; it’s scientific. If you stay on your grind and don’t get distracted you’re going to pop. It’s going to happen, it’s inevitable. Wherever my music takes me I’m going. How was “Hyphy Juice” created? I look up to the biggest like Puff and Jay and everybody else I aspire to rub shoulders with and so I saw Lil Jon with the Krunk Juice and Nelly with Pimp Juice so Hyphy Juice was almost a no-brainer. So we researched what we needed to research and did what we had to do. How do you want to introduce yourself to our readers who might not know who you are yet and what do you want to say to the ones who already do? I thank the fans for sticking with me and I’m letting y’all know I’m about to come with something new real soon and for those that don’t know, peep myspace.com/clydecarson.
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the bay: clyde Carson Words By Rob C
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Stl: Yung Ro Words By: Jesse James What cities are spinning your hit “Donk Dat” Well as far as the club and street level I would say across the country. I’m tracking that by the feedback from DigiWax, Green List and internet communicating. Also, my iTunes popularity meter is maxed out, indicating that my sales are up. Now as far as radio I’m rotating heavy in the STL and Napp Town. I get quite a bit mix show spins in a few markets. On the internet radio side, the last time I checked I ranked at #25 nationally. I know of a few Japanese stations that are also spinning my joint. How did u hook up with Trackboyz and Trackstarz?? Well Zo from the Trakstarz is my cousin and Tarboy from the Trakboyz is a close friend of my pops. My dad and I focused more on strong production because I wanted that discipline development. So I had my pop reach out to Tarboy and I contacted Zo myself. Both production teams are dedicated on improving the St. Louis music scene. Who else would u like to work with artist wise and production wise? Let’s see, Neptunes is a must. Drummer Boy and a lot of indie producers that I think
are hot and need that opportunity. That’s a hint to some producers, I’m a click away on the computer. The artists I’m looking at are TI, Soulja Boy, J-Money, John Legend and Nelly of course. I hear the a remix about to take off . Who are the features and how did you hook up with them? All the main artist out the Lou are currently committed on replenishing the STL region so when the word got out about a remix, some of the LOU’s power players stepped forward to help a new comer like me. Tarboy and my pops tide the strings together, adding Chingy who is a top player in the Lou and City who is that needed hiphop legend in the Lou. Do u have a mixtape or album coming soon? I have a crazy catalog full of industry produced tracks so a mixtape is definitely in the works I’m trying to find the right DJ to complement my style, but it’s hard when you got so many good DJ’s out there. Fore me chemistry is everything. My mixtape will have all original tracks, I may jack 1 or 2 but my mixtape material will be accessible for the radio if the DJ’s choose to spin it.
Words By: Stephanie Paige Hey Snook! One word of the top of your dome… Business. For the people, who don’t know about you, tell us something that you think they should know? I give you a hundred percent of me all the time. Ima be Snook everyday all day. I’m the same if I am at a club or on the streets. How long have you been putting in work? Since 99, [I was] originally born in Jersey and went to school in South Carolina at HBCU. There is where I started this music career and did not finish school. After I dopped my first cd my father died of Prostate Cancer in 2004 and after that I fell off but bounced two tears later How long have been signed to Southern Dynasty Recordings/Lavish Entertainment? End of 2002 and beginning of 2003. Me and some guys out of college got together and made it happen. I had a homey Chris that had the “ brains,” he had a patna taking care of the financials and I provided the music.
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What is your government name and how did “Snook da Rokk Starr” come about? Since a baby! Had the name since [I was] eleven months old and I’m going to leave the research to you to find out what my real name is. [laughs] Are you one of those laid back type of cats or the type that’s out there, what is your personality? Laid back dude, I like to just kick it, not too much going out, [I’m] all about business. A day in the life of Snook would consist of what? Studio, hitting the streets, and writing. I can not reveal too much of what I do because I could get in trouble for that. You just got to be around me to understand. With not many rappers coming up out of South Carolina, do you feel that the state is misrepresented and that the music is underrated when it comes to this music game? I wouldn’t say nobody misrepresent the state. You really can’t dictate what people say or do. Music is an outlet. We are overlooked but it is a lot of good thangs that come out of here. Outkast came and broke the gates and now the gates are open for me. What do you want your fans to know about the unreleased track “BOOMIN” or is that still in the works? It’s gonna stay in the streets. If you a trap n***a you can understand what that means. It really just speaks for itself. Do you live by the lyrics you spit or is it strictly entertainment? I write what I live. Without my lyrics there would be no actions. That’s why I respect Jeezy. Everything he raps comes out natural and that is because he lived it. In your newest release single “Barney” you rapped, “Ain’t nobody gave me shit, I got myself through” would you let the people know the struggle you went through to get where you at now? $300,000 was spent last year out of our own pockets funding our own tours, hotels, release mix tape parties, giving 200,000 CD’s for free and advertising on billboards. Everythang! We got it on our own. With that being said many fans can misconstrue what your lyrics are meaning to represent, so what exactly is “Barney”? That was written about my whole label. Basically saying thanks for this dude that put me on his back and carried me, thanks to the ones that gave me a chance. It was just the grind that we put out collectively. I don’t work, I don’t have 9 to 5, and I don’t want for nothing. From the time you step in the studio and lay a track to right before you leave, who you can honestly say you doing this for? It’s just not one person. I can say I do this for my unborn seed, mother. I have a lot of pressure when I step in the booth. I do a couple sit-ups and pushups to get my blood rushing. Carolina Patiently Waiting Artist of the Year to Indie Grind Artist of the year at Carolina Music Awards to Grinder Artist of the Year at the Diamond Awards… with all these titles, is there a certain title that you want? What I am really aiming for is that single of the year. I want people to mess with it because it’s real not a dance. No cha cha slide. I want the words to speak. Presidential is definitely for the presidential freaks. You might be shoe freak, clothing freak, or a jewelry freak. Presidential refers to knowing what you like and is freaky about it. Get your mind out the gutter…I do make my nasty songs but you can relate this one to Michelle Obama.
Who can you relate to in the music industry lyrical wise and why? A lot of people. Ludacris is one and I just fell back a little bit. It’s not about the lyrics; it’s that he put his life in the lyrics. As for Wayne, he started off as Wayne but now he WAYNE. I never expected the hip hop world to accept a lip piercing and a man kissing another man. Gotta respect it…he can rap. What and who does some of your upcoming projects consist of? Really just local. I did it like this from the beginning. I got more features with Lil Mo, Princess from Crime Mobb, Yo Gotti, Pollow Tha Don and others. Is there anything you want to pursue outside of the music industry? I want to give back like how TI is giving back. Is there anything you want to leave with fuSHion magazine with? Yea man for real Salute to Chris (Phatz)! Free Moe Ru (Westside) and Big Homie Choppa and to [everyone] who ain’t snitching. I got a lot of people who fell victim to the streets.[You] Can’t forget where you come from.
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Jeezy “Recession Tour” is right around the corner, what you plan on bringing to the table for that? Bringing the same thang that I brought to the Hypnotic Tour. It was a shock to everyone because nobody knew who I was, they just seen a picture on the flyer but I got the same respect as the rest because that is what I give off. The respect is in the music.
Columbia: snook da rokk starr
What’s the concept behind the new project? How does it differ from past projects? I just finished “LAST MAN STANDING” with DJ Quote the Beatmaker and I’m in the studio working on “BEACH BOY” with DJ Juice (Bay Area) and hosted by OG Ron C. I prepare each and every song the same way, whether mixtape or album. Each project is an extension of the last project and should show my growth as an artist and song writer. The object was to get my music to as many different regions as possible while working with the major players from that area. It’s sort of calculated risk but I believe in my music so much that it’s a risk I’m willing to take. What big names are you working on with the new projects? I think sometimes people work with the big names hoping it carries their projects to the next level. With me, I believe in self preservation. Meaning that if no one was there to call on, how can I make the best possible music all by myself. That’s always been my attitude. With that in mind, I got DJ Juice (Bay Area Mixtape King), OG Ron C (Texas Mixtape King), and I got some calls to some of my more famous friends in the industry. Stay tuned. What are the promotional plans for the new projects? I’ve been able to use the internet to my advantage and as independent artist, that’s critical. I’m putting on a new emphasis on multimedia and giving the fans more of a visual. Obviously the MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, etc. works, but there is a reality show type vibe now with the fans who want access to everything that has to do with your life and the people in your life. I’ve made a promise to myself to give the people more of what they want. Who is Mr. Midas? How is he different from every artist out there? You know I’m still trying to figure that out. I got so many different personalities that I really can’t tell sometimes (laughs). Mr. Midas is the son of drug addicted parents and is the poster child for what happens when those kids of drug addicted parents actually come of age. I think my humility surprises people. I’ve been through brain surgeries, car accidents, death, triumph, and rejection. Who I am is based off my experiences and things that those around me have gone through. I think the kids get a warped view of the message that comes through from our music. I think situations get glorified when they should be condemned. It’s like the dumber you are, the more the music sells. It’s unfortunate. What’s the word on the movie you just wrapped? What’s the word on iTunes? I did a short film called, “Thinking Blue”. It’s for the Kempe Foundation, which is sort of a haven for foster children. I was presented with the opportunity to play “Uncle Ray”, a physically and mentally abusive uncle to an “artsy” kid and he uses his drawings as a way to draw him out of his situation. It’s really for the foster kids. It brings light to their situation and may help kids going through the same thing. I’m also on the soundtrack and Apple, as well as iTunes, are behind it 100%. I was just in the studio with Knaan and Rashad Patterson who produced One More Chance and the One More Chance remix. Describe your experience @ SXSW. SXSW was fly, ya dig me? Down in Austin, they really have a huge appreciation for music and the independent scene so I felt right at home. I performed to packed houses and got off product at the same time. I get down no matter where I’m at so I expected them to like me. I missed B.O.B. and the Kanye West show. I’m also a huge fan of good music (no pun intended) and free alcohol so I had a ball!!! What are you working on now and who have you been working with production wise? I’m working on the “Beach Boy” mixtape and my album/dvd “Son of The Crack Era”. Production wise, the usual suspects will be lending a hand of some sorts. Mass Prod, DJ Quote, Beatboxerz, Fero Navi, Mic Coats, Mo Heat, hopefully I can get in with Rashad Patterson. I got a couple more surprises under my sleeve.
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Given your years in the game and the amount of work you’ve put in do you feel that artists living in non industry parts of the country have to relocate to make it big? Well I’m from Long Beach and I moved to Colorado at a time when nothing was popping. I think I was spoiled somewhat with so many outlets to get my music heard. Colorado taught me the grind of independent music. Did I mention no radio support? So yeah it’s tough to stay in non industry parts of the country but you have to make noise in your area regardless. If they call the DJ’s in your area to do research and you and nobody has heard of you or your grind, how do you expect them to take you serious in a more global aspect? Google me. See how I get around. See how my music reaches Australia, Japan, India, etc. How have you grown as an artist since your last project? Mentally I’m in a better state of music making. It’s difficult to make music when you have so many things happening personally. I’ve never been afraid to speak honestly about my life. Good or bad. Right or wrong. I think that vulnerability draws people in closer. I’m just like you. What’s next for you? What is your end goal as an artist? What’s next is to finally collect dividends on my dues paid. With me, it was never about the check. But what I learned is that you don’t have to get paid but somebody will. This is a business first and foremost. You have to treat it accordingly. Gang Green Intl is a brand. Mr. Midas is a brand. I’ve got to get this music to the people fasssssssst!!! How has your upbringing as the son of both a crack user and seller affected your life as an artist? How could it not affect me? They say the first few years of your life shapes your personality and therefore determines who you are. Just to see my parents like that leaves an impression you can never take away from me. My stepdad used to bag up in the living room. My “uncles” had oozies all over the house with the clips in. I still remember the house getting batta-rammed. I remember the constant shootings from sun up til sun down. The thing is how you can blame the sellers? All the jobs went overseas. The “super drug” pays the bills so say what you must, it helped. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10? Hopefully trying to figure out if I want to stay in my LA house or my London flat. The thing with me is I always knew I would be at the top of the game. I didn’t know the timing would take armed robbery years (laughs). You can’t rush Gods plan. Each day I’m just preparing myself for the opportunity. In 5 years I can gain my respect as a top songwriter and composer. In 10 years I wanna be the Jay Z of my era. Hands down. What’s the hardest thing about waking up every day and continuing the independent grind? The music is always fun. The hardest thing about the grind is the people that you must deal with to progress. Not everybody is in it for the same reasons. Just cause you need something done in a hurry, everyone else doesn’t have that same urgency. I wanna beat cats up every day. No for real, everyday. I see the big picture though. If I can grow up in the gang capital, unaffiliated at that, and make it through the jungle, then these weenies are harmless. What are you working on now? What can we expect from these projects that we havnt seen from you before? More of a visual. I’m doing videos for every song I got. Uploading weekly studio footage, out and about footage, a behind the scenes type look, etc. I’ve been told my storytelling rivals that of the greats. Just hearing it isn’t doing justice to the message I’m portraying. I’m certified in this. Everything I got has been worked for relentlessly with no celebrity sponsors and no gimmicks. What’s your biggest reason to keep moving forward through the hard times? My n***as that died believing in me. They died knowing that I wouldn’t give up no matter what. I got a helluva weight on my shoulders. I rep the real n***as. I rep n***as that take care of their families and help build up the same hoods that we glorify destroying.
Any last words? I got an extensive catalogue of really, really, good music. Shout out to Gang Green Intl. Be on the lookout for new albums from Petey and Rukus. Beach Boy and Son of the Crack Era coming soon. Last Man Standing in stores now. Check me out on www.myspace.com/mrmidas & www. twitter.com/mr_midas ....Cali to Colorado....Two states on my back. Ya digg me ??
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lbc n den: mr midas Words By Mz fuSHion
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Where are you from? I originally moved to Colorado from Pittsburgh, PA. I was 11 or 12 years old. When I got here we stayed in Aurora then moved to Park Hill a few years later. But I’m From All over this here turf. I’ve lived almost everywhere, I rep for the whole state. I love this Colorado air! How did you get started rapping? I’ve been rappin since I was a lil poop butt man! I was like 8 or 9 years old tryna be the next Kriss Kross [laughs.] I started recording in a real studio in like 2000. After a few years of music with local Colorado artists I decided to start my own label, Killen’ Em ENT, and built a studio and started my independent journey. I’ve been grindin ever since. What projects are working on? Right now I got a mixtape with DJ Quote called “Holla Atcha Baby!!! It’ll be out in a few weeks. I got some heat on that thing too! A lot of music has been leakin through MySpace and will be on the Mixtape including Gurl I Wanna Know You, Take A Pic, and Got Swagger. I also got some of the artists from Killen’ Em Ent featured on the tape too: C-Mays, Mr. Yeah, Cassanova Deville, Chuuch, Freddiek, all my guys man. I got a good feelin they goin to love this one. Holla Atcha Baby!!!
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Where are you trying to take your music? Really I’m tryna take my music straight to the Billboard charts! I mean, I want to be able to eat off this shit. My music speaks for itself; I just gotta stay on top of my business and make sure the public gets a chance to hear it. I make music for the people. Sometimes it’s a party, sometimes it’s a struggle, sometimes it’s a relationship. I try to cover all the bases. I’m enjoyin life right now though, so I party a lot. Toast to that! Is being in Colorado a hindrance when it comes to getting your music heard? I would say that since Colorado is such a wide spread area, and it has a smaller hip hop community then some other bigger cities and states it is a little harder to get heard. At the same time though it’s a blessing because we’re in an untapped market. There’s only a handful of people here with the true talent it takes to succeed in this game, which helps the more talented people stick out like a sore thumb! I guess it just depends on how you wanna look at
Den: Tone Skarfo Words By: G. Johnson
it. Either way I’ma grit extra hard cause I gotta have mine! Obama is doing his thing in D.C. What are you doing in your hood to CHANGE? Like Diddy said “We can’t change the world until we change ourselves,” so I’m just tryin to be a good father to my babies and support my loved ones. But I also try to keep the few young people in my circle on a straight and positive road. I’m more the type to lead by example. I just try to be a positive fixture in the lives of the people I got love for. They know who they are. Holla Atcha Baby!!! Gurl I Wanna Know You is a big hit in Colorado. Where did the song come from and who did you work with ensure it came together? Well like I said my family is from Pittsburgh, and one of my people from out there told me about a producer that was makin moves out that way, so I reached out to him. I listened to some of his beats and that one just caught my ear. We both Auto Tuned the hook, that was my first time on Auto Tune, and then I went in on the verses. It came out the oven hot and ready to serve! Eat up. Where did the name Tone Skarfo come from? Its sounds mob like. Yeah, I used to deal with a label called MobStyle Records and I was always watchin mob movies and reading mob books. I’m on that organized crime lifestyle, so I took that name when I was like 18, 19 years old. Later I tried to go with a new name but everywhere I go people would call me Skarfo. So it just stuck. Tone Skarfo is what the streets named me. What steps are you taking to promote the single and the album that’s coming with it? Right now we doin a lot of work getting radio spins out of town and with the college radio stations. It’s hard to get frequent radio spins on our local stations, even when you got a hot record. The DJ’s have been showing love in the club though. Shout out to DJ KTone, he was the first to break the record and DJ Chonz, DJ KDJ Above, and DJ Quote have also been showing love. If I didn’t mention you and you been spinnin the record, Holla Atcha Baby!!! As far as the album I’ma wait a while for that. My mixtape is like an album because it has all original beats. I gotta build the buzz first. How do you see yourself fitting in to the Colorado movement and what needs to be done to get the artists to unify for the better. Like I said before, I just do me. I’m not really trying to fit in. I fuck with who fucks with me. I’m tryin to build a Tone Skarfo, Killen Em’ Ent movement. I would like to see more unity amongst the artists here but sometimes it seems like everybody is lookin out for themselves. Even a lot of the DJ’s don’t like to break local records. I’ll work with anyone who wants to work with me. Holla Atcha Baby!!! Let’s get it in. How can people get in touch with you for booking? www.myspace.com/killenenentertainment or contact Beau Nelson at 720 468 9687 Any last words to the people? Tone Skarfo and DJ Quote Holla Atcha Baby!!! Mixtape in a store or trunk near you. Cop that fast! Shout out to J Fly, Beau Nelson, Carter Ent and PMG Inc. The new video is comin soon so all video vixens get at me on MySpace; we will be holding casting call again. Holla!
DJ Mack, A-Bo, Gutta, Miss Rita, R Mack, Ya Boi, TreDuBB
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Who are the Mack’s On Da Rise? DJ Mack, Ms Rita Boss Diva. TreDuBB, Gutta, R Mack, and A-BO of Swag, also Ya Boy Da Produca.
So what’s your key role TreDuBB? I’m the C.E.O of the company. I also rep for ABN, Whats up J Dogg, Trae, Clip D, Jayton, BOSS and Z RO. Special shout out to Network & Dolla Bill of DMG.
What’s going to be the first album released from the Mack’s On Tha Rise? DJ Mack will release his first single Jiggin On Tha Flo off his new album UNDERRATED and Gutta is about to release. Why did you choose to name the album UNDERRATED? Because I feel like I’m one of the best teen rappers out right now. I have a lot of potential, but I’m not getting credit for it right now. Jus check out my first single My Swag 2 Clean featuring Lil Twist of Lil Wayne’s Young Money Ent, Irockidz, and Lil Za of B.O.C. Ms Rita Boss Diva, what influence do you want women to take from your music? That part of being a woman is to handle your business and always maintain a cool, I got it type of attitude. I’m a regular lady; I make music for real women. Gutta, what do you think u bring new to the game and what separates you from other artists? Well for starters I think I bring a music first money second mind state because I do it for the love of good music and a lot of other artists are just trying to make whatever will sell. Who influences your music? Really no one. I see them all as competition. There are a couple of artists I tip my hat to and I say man they making good music but at the same time we in the same game and I’m only playing to win because I want to be the best. So I look at other artists more as motivation not inspiration. What can we expect from you in 09? You can expect to see me everywhere and hear me everywhere I’m coming to eat in 09 so weak rappers beware: Baptized in Purple Drank is on its way. How did you get started producing Ya Boy Da Produca? I first was inspired when I was just a kid playing a keyboard in the back room at my grand father’s house.
Who do you consider the ROLEMODELS of the group? A-BO and R Mack of SWAG, and if you wanna know why we call ourselves rolemodels you gotta wait to hear our album. We make music that everybody can relate to but at the same time a club feel or ride in your car type music. We are in the studio with DJ Mack trying to finish the project. So be looking for our self titled album ROLEMODELS! We love all the ladies, the fans we been getting on Myspace, Facebook and Twitter. Continue the support because we would be nothing without yall. Shout Out To YBG’Z!! Make sure to Google R Mack and A BO Mack! Much Love to all our fans hit us up myspace. com/flyboymack07 & myspace.com/abmack. Special shout out to Mz. fuSHion and fuSHion Magazine!!
tx: macks on da rise
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What influences you and your music? Every time I hear a sound or melody from off of TV, I have it stuck in my head and incorporate it in with the music that you hear. R&B, Rap, Pop, Classical, I don’t have restrictions on the type of music I make. It’s an art form to me and I’m just blessed I can share it with people.
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How did your upbringing influence your musical career? My father was a DJ and he made tapes for people and DJed parties and weddings. He always had records in the house and they were the main thing in our household. When we got older my brother, LA The Darkman, went off to college and he got with some people who were affiliated with the Wu Tang Clan and he ended up getting his own record deal. He in turn brought all that knowledge and experience back home. Music was really always just a part of my life. So how did you link up with DJ Drama? DJ Drama is a good friend of mine. I’ve been cool with Drama since before he started Gangsta Grillz. I met him when he was a DJ trying to make a name for himself and I was a rapper trying to make a name for myself. We got together, me, Drama, My brother LA, and Don Cannon and we built Gangsta Grillz and we made our way from there. What exactly is your musical style? I emphasize lyrics. I emphasize visuals. Hip Hop is so wonderful right now because it’s so diverse. There’s so many different swags, so many different styles. A lot of people are excelling in the game right now for different reasons and I just want to be known for my verbiage, for my words, my rhyme, and my lyrics. I always thought that was the heart of the music, of hip hop.
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How did the single Love of Money come about? I fell in love with the beat and just started writing; really I was just messing around. I didn’t intend for it to be a single but then my brother heard it and he wanted to push it as a single. We sent it out to Trey Songz to do the Chorus and when he sent it back it was official, it was a single. I reached out to Gucci to get on it and we reached out to my label mates, to Flo Rida, Bun B, to Yung Joc, and we made it happen. Do you feel your mixtape game is goin to give you the push you need for your album? Oh yea, of course. I’m really just trying to build a fan base, I’m really just trying to let people know what I’m out here doing and staying true to what I do. A lot of people come and go after one hot song. You never hear from them again. I’m not here for that. I mean would you rather build your house with 20’s or with bricks? I’m more of a bricks kind of guy. What do you think it’s going to take for you to break into the mainstream? Hard work. Plain and simple that’s all it is, hard work. Would you ever develop a more commercial sound or image to sell records? I’m going to make music that’s true to me. I think commercial is as commercial does. All that word means is that something is for sale. I’m making music and let it fall where it may. Pushing a record to be a street record, or a club record, or a radio record cripples the artist and it cripples the music. Just let it fall where it may. Any Last Words? Keep the quality street music alive. Go cop that DJ Drama Gangsta Grillz Volume 2 and LA The Darkman after that. Holla at me.
grand rapids: willie the kid Words By: E Baby
W ho Sle u ep Bee in’ n On :
What is your role in Nappy Boy Digital? I’m the CEO of Nappy Boy Digital and I’m the first artist on the label. So what’s going on with Nappy Boy ENT? We just here workin, we just out here doin what we gotta do. We got Yung Cash, we got Sophia Fresh, we got Travis from Gym Class Heros. Everybody just working on getting their projects together and then its goin down. Where will Nappy Boy be in the future? We goin to the top. We goin to be something to be reckoned with. It’s definitely goin down. In the future Nappy Boy ENT is going to be a label to look up to. How hands on is T Pain in his artists careers? He’s really hands on; he lets me know what’s good. He’ll tell me if he doesn’t think a record is hot or even if I just need to do one little part over. When it comes to T Pain, if he’s involved with it then he’s really involved with it. I really look up to him for that because everything he’s doing for me and for Nappy Boy Digital, he just making it all better. So then if you weren’t on a label with T Pain what label would you want to be on? I would love to be with Jive. I dunno why but I would love to be with Jive. Hey Jive, how you doin? Call Me! (laughs) Dream Girl ft Akon is a certified banger. Do you feel it’s your breakthrough hit? When I did Beam Me Up it was a good foundation record. We did Dream Girl so many times. The last time we did it, Akon re-did the beat and it really blew me away. I really do feel this record is going to be my breakthrough record.
What are you working on now? I’m workin on a bunch of hooks, just letting the world see another side of Tay Dizm in the writing world. I’m still working on my music too. WE just putting together that fire and letting the world know Tay Dizm is coming. When can we expect the album? The album will be out the middle to the end of May. The album is going to be really, really fun. It’s nothing but my situation and my life, what I’ve been through, my pain my struggle. You don’t have to worry bout me killin nobody. I’m not being a hater I’m just not going to talk about things I haven’t done. I’m not talking bout selling drugs because I never sold drugs. I’m just having fun, being real, opening up to my people and giving them me. Any Last Words? On some real shit, believe in your boy Tay Dizm and he won’ let you down.
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That being said, do you feel, the way the industry is now, that you have to appeal to the ladies to sell records? Music is music. I can’t lie; ladies are buying music right now, or buying a ticket to go and see whoever they’re supporting and no matter what the guys will always follow because they’re going to want to be where the girls are at.
mia: tay dizm Words By E Baby
n e e B : u n o n’ O h W epi Sle
What inspired you to get in the music game? The money inspired me. Being successful and setting a goal for myself and accomplishing it. I told myself this is what I want to do so I’m going to move forward until I achieve it. Are you still with Young Jezzy’s Corporate Thug ENT? I’m still affiliated with them but I’m not under any kind of contract as of right now. I ain’t signed but I am a Corporate Thug. It’s not all about paperwork; it’s deeper than that you know? Me and Jeezy got in a relationship beyond the paperwork. Are you guys working on anything? You know I stay working and he stay working. We just finished the Shield Gang Mixtape. I got my own studio out here. My CTE album is done so whenever they ready o cut the check they goin to cut the check. I got my album, No Patience done. It’s coming out in July and I got 2 or 3 mixtapes done to push before the album. I think it’s too soon to tell the world what label I’m coming out on, but I am going independent. I work. That’s all I do. Is your mixtape push going to be enough build up to your album release? Mixtapes are mandatory now-a-days. You can’t be hot in the streets without having a mixtape out or your video on YouTube. The mixtape is for the streets, the album is for the world. I mean, if it wasn’t for mixtapes I wouldn’t be in it. We wouldn’t even be having this interview right now.
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Everyone is saying the west fell off. It’ll never be what it was in the days of NWA and Death Row. Artists will never be as good as Ice Cube, or Tupac, or Snoop, or Eazy E, or Dre. Do you feel like you’re one o the artists to bring the west back to dominance? Yea, I feel like I play a role in the New West Movement. I fuck with everybody, everybody’s poppin out here. East LA, West LA, Compton. We say 100 with each other, the Crips, the Bloods; we support each other at the shows. If anyone out here that I know doing a show then I’m there. The west is overlooked right now, but there are a lot of heavy hitters out here going hard in these streets. The west is slept on right now. No one wants to let us shine so we takin that shit. So what separates you from the 500,000 up and coming artists in the west? The gangsterism that I bring to the table. I got a certain, different kind of swag to it. The way I talk and how I present myself, it’s another look to the West Coast. N***as are used to khakis and Low Riders. We drivin 660’s and 550’s and wearing Gucci Boots and all that. That’s how I get down. I’ma get this money n***a, I wanna get this bread. There’s a lot of n***as that talk it but I show it with my swag and my appearance. Is gangsta rap still alive? Gangsta rap ain’t dead. These DJ n***as is just scared to play shit, and with the radio there’s extra politics. N***as wearing the tight jeans and Mohawks and shit, that shit is killing us. Gangsta rap is strong as a muthafucka tough. We ain’t fixin to let none of that stop us. WE goin to keep doin what we doin. What do you hope to get out of the industry? Man to sell this 10 million and get out. I’m just trying to make a big enough impact in the game to where I can branch off and do anything I put my mind to. Being a rapper is just a stepping stone. I can’t rap forever just like you can’t sell drugs forever. I want to elevate to the next level every chance I get.
INGLEWOOD: 211 THA BIZNESS
So are you focused in the game or are you just enjoying the ride? I enjoyed the ride already. That shit sent me back two years. I came on and I had tours and shows and TV and all that shit and it kind of blinded me. I know what to do now, I’m focused now. Don’t nothing really move me like it did a couple of years ago. Now it’s like, just cut the check, that’s what I’m on. Money is the only thing that moves. I’m not trippin off no bitches, no shows, no rap n***as, no rap stars, and parties and all that shit. That shit don’t move me no more. I go to the studio and I get this bread so I can really go boss out and not have to worry about nothin. So yea, to answer your question, yea I’m focused. Anything you’d like to add? 09 is mine. Let’s get it!
Words By: E Baby
W ho Sle u ep Bee in’ n On :
What’s the connection with you and Lincoln, NE? I was born there and spent half my life there
How did you wind up in Colorado? When my mother was released from prison, she moved us there to get away from Lincoln
Tell us about the infamous battle between you and Mistah F.A.B.? I lost, but I feel like I won because we did a song for free and they’re (F.A.B.’s camp) willing to distribute my album. We still talk and I’m good in a lot of places because of him. Not to mention, DJ Vlad posted the battle on his website and got 20,000 views in a week. I’m now nationally known. Thanks F.A.B.....Good look!! The home crowd looked a little star struck I was the first person to bring a nationally known battle rapper to Colorado. It would have been good to have their support but no hard feelings. He had the props that costs (laughs). I’m balling on a budget. How is G.P.S. the battle rapper different from G.P.S. the album maker? G.P.S. the battle rapper is a jokester. I only do it for promo. I ain’t a battle rapper. G.P.S. on an album is giving you authentic street shit from past experiences. I’m giving the streets something new because I don’t sound like anybody. What’s some of the obstacles you face being from the Midwest? We don’t get the proper looks that we’re supposed to. Midwest street rappers don’t really exist in the mainstream. How’d you get on The Source Magazine Tour? I tried out and competed against 25-30 groups. I won those rounds and competed against another 15-20 groups and won that as well. They liked me and invited me to go on the rest of the tour. What can we expect from your newer material? More of my attitude. More of the hustler and street shit that you can “grit” to. Is there an album in the works? I have so much music done. Now, I’m just trying to see how I’m going to distribute it. What’s the name and the concept if you have it? THROW’N WEIGHT AROUND. People think it’s some drug shit but it’s just me stressing my power and influence I have over certain areas. Do you have any features? My main three are Duffle Bag Ransom from Jersey City, Mistah F.A.B. from The Bay, and Colorado’s’ own Hawkman of West Coast Mafia/Koch. What was the most important thing you learned concerning your career in 2008? I learned this shit ain’t friendly and you’re on your own. There ain’t no helping hands. Go hard or go get a 9-5. How can people get in touch with you for booking? www.myspace.com/spadennebraska spadennebraska@yahoo.com google: Get Paid Spade Any last words? All you fake as rappers chill. I lost everybody. I’m alone. It’s lonely and cold. The feds will hide you and make the world forget about you. You’ll lose everything. Just be you. Second, I’m top five in my section. That’s not just cause I say so. I got my money on it. Put up or fuck off!! I’m sexy, educated, and loyal. Now beat that. Free all my gangstas: L.A., K-Roll, Y.A., and Lil Ced. To all the ones that told, die in prison. Lastly, R.I.P. Colfax Cac, Tyson, P-Loc, Amber White, Kim Sue, and my other twenty-three resting friends and family.
den: get paid spade
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Words by Mz. fuSHion How did you get into to DJing? How long you been doin it? I began DJing because me and MC Quay used to do backyard parties and we didn’t have a DJ so I used to take my daddy’s music, his records and speakers and stuff and we would DJ the backyard parties. When I began I just had a CD player and the radio, so there was no mixing. When it was time to change the song we had to switch it to the radio by dial, and just hope that there wouldn’t be any commercials on while we put the other CD in. That was back in like 93-94. How and when did you start the Go DJs? I started the GO DJs in 2005. It was on a trip to Sam Houston State University. I was going to DJ and that was when Serato came out. It was me Reggie Regg and Dip and we decided we wanted to start a coalition of DJs just to book DJs. It wasn’t to break music or nothing it was to set up a system to where people would call us to book all the other DJs. Reggie said we goin to call it the GO DJs and I said well let’s call it I am a GO DJ Music Group so we could do more than one thing. So that’s how it really got started and one thing led to another. Now we got Go Press, Go Models, Go Streets, Go everything. Why start your own DJ Group as oppose to joining one already in motion? I was a part of the Core DJs. I was one of the first ten original DJs and I mean I really didn’t get nothin out of it so I just wanted to start something. Houston is one of the four biggest cities in the nation, so I had to do it here, where I’m at you know? What separates the Go DJ’s from any other DJ groups or crew in the game right now? Shit, we break music. We go nationwide with our music. A lot of other coalitions are big but they don’t have any strength. We small but we got strength. It’s like 300 you know? We fight to the end and we break music. 75% of our clients have been put where they need to be. Other coalitions they ain’t breakin no music. If they are, let me know. Being that you’re originally from Dallas, why relocate to Houston? The market for the DJ. Houston is a prime spot. In Houston we party seven days a
HOU: go dj Hi c
week. I DJ seven days a week. If I was in Dallas I’d probably only DJ two or three days out the week. That’s what kept me here. The market is a party market and everybody like to go out and party. I’m able to work seven days a week, that’s why I’m here. How else does bein a Go DJ in Dallas differ from being a GO DJ in Houston? There’s not too much of a difference we just work more than they do. We here and they there. The music is different. What they play we don’t play and what we play they don’t play but I don’t think there’s too much difference because we all have the same focus and that’s to break music. Why is there such a great difference in the musical styles of Houston and Dallas? The people, the crowd. The music depend on the people in your city. People in Houston might not like the music that’s played in Dallas and vice versa, but as a GO DJ our main goal is to get the music broke everywhere. If you don’t like we goin to make you like it. There’s a big difference but there’s not a big difference. Do you prefer to DJ to a Dallas club crowd or a Houston club crowd? That’s a give and take situation. I try to black and white about everything, I try to be good and evil with every situation but I love to DJ in front of Houston crowds, but when I go out of town it’s refreshing to me. When I go to Dallas or any other place out of town they react to me more because I DJ every night in Houston so people might be kinda used to me but when I go outta town it’s like Damn Hi-C is here, it’s like I’m signing autographs and shit What services does the GO DJ Music Group offer? We book parties, we can break your record we can record your record. We got Go Graphics, so we can design your project; we got Go Press so we can get your project printed as well, which is manned by my man OG Ron C. We can get you out there and promote you and we got a street team as well, Go Streets. We got Go Models if you need a model for your video shoot we all over with it. And the reason why I do it is because I like to help people. In this industry it’s all about helping people and that’s why I started it all, to help Reggie Regg. That’s why I have my hands in so much because I wanna eat and I want to feed my family. You’re only as strong as the one on the bottom so when my bottom man is eating that mean we all doin good. How important is it for an artist to have a positive relationship with a DJ Crew? It’s very important. The reason that DJ’s started coalitions is because the artist would get what he needed and then go off and forget about the DJ. So now you gotta look out for us. You gotta show us some kind of love, push us in your video or something, give a n***a some gas money or something you know? (laughs) A lot of these artists have made millions and millions of dollars and the DJ’s are really the ones who put them in that situation and they forgot. Now we put the gate up so you gotta know first, then we might let you in. What’s your take on the Lil Wayne dissing DJs situation? Are mainstream artists quick to dismiss the power and influence of the DJ? Yea I think Lil Wayne was out of line for what he did, but I do accept his apology, I don’t hold grudges. Lil Wayne is a hot artist I think he was just feelin himself. Sometimes we all get a little out of line I don’t think he meant but he had to come clean it up. If he didn’t then it would have been a problem. Anything you would like to add?? Don’t forget about the OG Ron C R.E.A.L. Music Conference going down June 3rd-7th. If you not a GO DJ then what the fuck you DJin for?
Words by Ms Rita Boss Diva How you doin Bay Bay? You recently had a B Day party back home in Shreveport, La. How was it? It was Stuntastic homie!! What does it take for a DJ to break a record? It takes 1, for that DJ to Have Influence over his peers 2. Align his/ herself with their audience to present the record at the right time, the right place. From a DJs standpoint: How important was the Stanky Legg #1 spot on 106 and Park for the rest of Dallas artists when it comes to gaining national exposure? Duhh!!!!! It was the greatest look in Hip Hop for a Dallas Artist, and it brought crazy attention to the Dallas Market! Oh! And by the way. I was responsible for their Deal! Is a club hit or a radio hit more vital to an artist’s career? Yes indeed you need radio because of the exposure, and awareness and for spins, and as for as club hits I have to agree with that because that’s another one of the ways A Bay Bay got to height it did, outta the club! What else do you have in the works besides being a DJ? Well I’m setting myself up to release an album that represents the under dog because for a lot of people, because of where you’re at and from you don’t always have the same outlets of media and exposure as those of larger markets, so being that I’m from a small market doing Large Market things I felt that I should create opportunities for the Under dogs to be heard. Welcome to the La-Tex. How did you become a DJ? Well if you have ever seen me work, you would know, but I used to announce for my Band back in Shreveport which landed me a job on radio which landed me a job in the club and I don’t even spin records, I influence people to like records. MC is what I think you would call it wit a twist! Why do you think so many people are quick to take the DJ for granted? Because we are so quick as a people to forget how we got something, like forget yesterday it’s about right now and tomorrow. It’s very much known that, in order for you to know where you going you gotta know where you came from, well lets just say appreciate it. Do you think the Industry is now becoming oversaturated with DJs? Naw....its not enough of us doing our thang because one thing about a DJ is, DJ’s know what it feels like to struggle and keep it as real as you can if we don’t like yo shit we don’t play yo shit and right now that’s what the game lacks “Real Rappers”.
Describe a day in the life of Bay Bay. A day in the Life of Bay Bay... hustlin to connect the unknown to the Known, Very spiritual, and I get my joy from seeing others happiness. Any last words for your fans? Let’s get back to the money. Thanks for sticking beside your boy even when it wasn’t so popular to be my friend or Fan. I Love you like cooked food! A bay bay! And I stay poppin Tags.
La Tex: Bay Bay
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What’s your role in the DFW music movement? And what keeps you motivated? My Role in the movement is to endorse the things that D-Town has to offer ,things that were in place but need exposure. I am the Ambassador of Louisiana and Texas which is joined by this highway.
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Words by Jesse James and hittmendjslive.com To be successful many people have role models or guidance to lead them the right way However, many others have to rely on trials and tribulations to understand the world and make a way for themselves, like County Brown was one of the later. Born as an 80’s baby and as a barbershop kid sweeping hair, County brown introduced into the hustler lifestyle and the pull of getting fast money and at the same time learned how deal with different people from all walks of life. “I was 12 years old hanging out wit grown men and had to develop my independence and street hustle a little faster than most people my age.” The hustle that CB developed at a young age fell over into his music. At the age of 14, CB was mixin and hustling mixtapes before mixtapes had a name. “I use to buy like 100 blank tapes and dub my songs and hand write the credits on each tape and sell them in the hood, barbershop or at JR. high. I use to DJ parties for people at my school so my connection to music was coming from every angle.” At the time, CB was producing and recording everything in his mama’s basement and that became the birthplace of his company, Addicted Dopeness Productions (ADP). ADP produced developed, and distributed many St. Louis underground artists past and present. County Brown also took ADP in a different direction when he developed his relationship with radio personality Tossin Ted and Projocks Entertainment. He quickly became head of their promotions department, and promoted national artists like the late Aaliyah, and also corporate company’s like Martell Cognac. He coordinated music conferences and conference calls from 2000 to 2005. After years of writing, producing, promoting, distributing and developing artist, CB realized it was time to spread his niche and movement throughout the Midwest. In 2006, CB built his own professional studio and released his solo album The Re- Up which sold over 15,000 copies independently. He was chosen to be placed on 15 different mixtapes from the buzz he created
off his solo project, and made numerous appearances in hip-hop shows and at various media outlets. In 2007 County Brown found a way to give back to artists by creating the successful “Top Ten Tuesdays” movement. Which showcased the Top Ten up in coming artist throughout the Midwest and created an atmosphere were tastemakers, CEOs, DJs, and the media could network and hear Midwest music in a party atmosphere. He also followed up the success with the Top Ten Mixtape showcased only St. Louis artists. 2009 is sure to be another successful year for County Brown as an artist, CEO, producer, and DJ. CB was signed on by the nationally known Hittmenn DJs as a mixtape DJ based on his success in the mixtape circuit. As a true County Brown fan would say when you see him on the grind, What up, County Brown MANE!!!!!!!!? You were the Hittmenn DJ Rookie of the Year for 2008, how did u win that award? Naw, it wasn’t an award it was just recognition from the bosses and my brothers on going hard and being a winner in my market! What artist’s mixtapes have u done recently and what projects u have in the near future? I’ve done plenty this year alone. I just did Ray Goss, Preston & Twinn, Y-Esha, Krane, Big Pke, and my variety tape called We Winnin Over Here. There’s a lot of hot, independent artists on there. I do music everyday so there’s always a project in the works. Be looking for my bootleg album Check My Resume this fall. I hear you’re on the radio airwaves in STL? Yea, on Saturdays I co-host on 89.5 The Wave from 4-8, you can hit it worldwide on the net. I also work behind the scenes with Mixshow DJs. If you’re tryin to send music to my market or need a host for a mixtape hit me at countymane@yahoo.com or follow me on twitter, www.twitter.com/ CountyBrown or MySpace myspace.com/countybrownmane to download my mixtape, We Winnin Over Here.
St. Louis”: County Brown
DEN: DJ Quote
They say in the music industry that there’s a fine line between working too hard and not working hard enough. They also say that there’s no such thing as luck, rather luck is simply the precise combination of preparation meeting opportunity. In Colorado, where opportunity knocks few and far between, few possess the star quality of DJ “Quote” The Beatmaker aka Colorado’s Bad Boy. Arguably the undisputed Mixtape King of Colorado, DJ “Quote” has released over 200 mixtapes since 2003 alone and has featured some of the industry’s most adored and respected names including 50 Cent, Lil Wayne, The Game, Slim Thug, David Banner, Wyclef Jean, and Ludacris. He has been on BET shows Spring Bling and has been the guest DJ on Rap City three times. While other DJs might have possibly called that much a career, Quote didn’t stop there. Word spread of the upcoming Colorado mammoth and caught the ears of CORE DJ leader Tony Neal, who quickly made Quote a CORE DJ. This stamp of approval gave Quote the validation needed to increase his visibility and bring light to the Colorado music scene.
Upcoming projects include Twitter Muzic with Young Berg, Freshman Orientation hosted by Asher Roth who is killing MTV with his runaway hit, I Love College and the launch of www.djquotetv.com which features video blogs, industry celebrity interviews, and ladies “shaking it up” in Quote’s line of t-shirts and panties, as well as tools for upcoming artists and DJs to apply to further their own career. Quote also says, “Be on the lookout for the hottest mixtape in the streets, Last Man Standing with Mr. Midas and our EP, Beach Boy will follow after with tracks produced by me as well. I’m just getting started”. www.djquotetv.com www.twitter.com/djquote www.myspace.com/djquote
Words By. G. Johnson Photo By: Chris Vega
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DJ “Quote” is the personal DJ for Willy Northpole (DTP/Def Jam) and Juice (Black Wall Street/HYP) and has toured all over the country as part of the DUB Magazine tour. “I do it for my city, my state, my region. I want to be the leader of this four corner movement,” says DJ “Quote” while working on a track that he’s producing for his upcoming album. The album is entirely produced by DJ “Quote” himself and without a release date firmly in sight, is already gaining momentum with the Quote produced, I Can Do It Too by West Coast Mafia/Koch Records recording artist and fellow Coloradoan, Young Doe. The song has taken a life of its own and has become a staple in the Colorado club scene.
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ew artists are able to drop one album every three years and still remain relevant in such a fast evolving industry. And by few I mean two: Lil Wayne and the only and only boss of all bosess, Slim Thug. With his hit single continuing to rise up the charts, Slim Thug illustrates why there’s still room in the game for someone besides the ringtone rappers and proves you don’t have to YUUULLLEEE!!!! or do the stanky legg to have your video at the top of the charts.
What can we expect from the new album? You know it’s me going back to my roots; it’s the real Slim Thug, the independent Slim Thug, before the deal. The theme of the album is to just kick the whole Houston movement off. I wanted to get my whole city on there with me, so I reached out to all the other rappers in the city and we all came together on this record man and we represented for the city, you know what I’m saying? All we basically trying to do is put the city back on and crank the movement back up. What will it take to get Houston back on the level it was a few years ago? Where the H just took over the game? I think it’s going to take stuff like this, us working together, like on m album. I reached out to everybody. I’m on Z Ro’s Album, you know Chamilllionaire and I do records, me and Trae do records. As long as we keep workin together man its goin to be all good, it’s going to be easy. That’s how we came in the game originally, when the whole city came out. It’s always better when you come out in numbers, like when me, Mike (Watts) and Paul Wall started doin it. When you come out in numbers you got more appeal because you got more than one artist, and everyone always has their favorites. So that’s what we need more of, working together. So how did you set up all the collabs on the new album? Jus made the phone calls man, you know what I’m sayin? We just had to make the phone calls and just let the people know what we were doing. I just went out there and said, you know, I want you to do a record with me, that’s all I had to do because I’ve done records already with probably everyone who’s on my album for their shit. I always work with artists and it ain’t ever going to be no bullshit. It’s not going to be hard to get the song cleared. It’s all good you know what I’m sayin? If you from Houston you good, the song will be done ASAP, just like that.
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Do you do the reaching out yourself or do you have someone doing that for you? I do it myself. I reach out and call everybody. I’m cool with all the people, with everybody on my album. We cool, we talk outside of music, we got relationships, so it ain’t nothing to reach out. So that being said, from the outside looking in, it seems that Houston’s hip hop artists are a close knit community. Is this true or is it just a misconception? Tight knit like what? Like we all jus close or something? Yeah. There’s always a few who do their own thing, but for the most part everything is cool. We got certain lil people along the way that don’t be getting along with others, but for the most part we all pretty cool. Are you going to continuing promoting the album since the release? Or are you moving on to the next thing? Man I’m still going to do it for the most part, but I have to go back on the road for another fuckin month doin that shit. I’m going to keep doing what is necessary the shit going so I’ma always be doin it. Why was there such a long hiatus between you first release and this album? I was on a major label and we signed a deal at the beginning. Interscope and I were supposed to do five albums together. After the first album I chilled for a minute but when I started my 2nd album and brought it to them they had fired their whole staff so I had to wait while they were trying to get on the same page. Time kept passing and it just took so long that it got to the point where I got frustrated and wanted to leave you know? So I had to chill out because they weren’t tryin to let me go, so I had to be quiet and not do nothing and just wait it out. I had to give them the idea that I wasn’t going to do anything else. I had to get a new lawyer, not the bullshit lawyer I had at first, and pay them a lil money. It took time. So I put my time together in the meantime. We dropped Serve and Collect Vol 1and Vol 2 I was trying to introduce my artists on my label and promote them in the meantime so I stayed working. I had to chill out to get out from under the label, but I was promoting my artists at the same time. So then how have you grown as an artist since your last album? Since my last album? There it is right there, more control. On a major label everything is pretty much set up for you, they handle a lot of shit for you. But on this album, I had my hands in a lot of this shit. I’m more in tune what the shit is really like, radio spins and all that. I’m from the independent game. It was like selling dope, wholesale for $8 you sell it for $15. Now I’m into all the different shit that goes with it, I just learned more, that’s it basically. Being that you’ve been gone so long do you feel any kind of pressure with the
release of this album? Nah I don’t feel any pressure. I’ve been doin this shit for like 10 years, anything I get now is just extra. If you get money for ten years you should be satisfied. I don’t ever feel pressure like that, I mean it’s goin to work or it’s not. I’m blessed to be able to feel like I’ll still be cool; I’ll still be able to live in my house. This Mutha Fucka ain’t got to sell no records, I’m good already so I don’t stress. But I do want people to like my music more than anything and for the most part I haven’t heard anything bad from my fans, so as long as people like it I don’t give a fuck what it sells. That’s it. I just want my people who fuck with me to be happy. Why take the time away from your own career to start a label and help other artists get on? Because it’s important. At the end of the day that’s my dream. I want to be J. Prince and quit. [laughs] I want to just chill out in the background and let my artists do it. If I can sit back and do that then I will definitely keep doing my music at my own pace. I just think it would be a lot of pressure. I mean it wouldn’t be no pressure if I knew it wasn’t on me, it was all on them. If I can just chill and put an album out when I want to that would be cool. That’s my dream right there. So how do you influence your artists? Both personally and musically? Man they influence me more than anything. They’re serious, these cats go to the studio on the regular, and in there all the time grinding, and they colder than a mutha fucka at what they do. They got talent like a mutha fucka too, everyone on my label can beat me rappin, or I would have never signed them. J Dawg, Killa Kyleon, Young Black, they all got talent, so more than anything they inspire me. From your first album to now, what would you say has changed in the industry? Ah man a lot of shit has changed. The younger artists are more into the dance or the hipster music; you know what I’m sayin? But at the end of the day you either goin to follow them or you’re goin to do you and hold your grind. I’m just goin to hold my grind and represent, I ain’t really going to ride with the trends, I’ma just do me and hopefully people fuck with it. Then is the industry in a better or worse state since you got in? Sales wise its worse as far as albums go. But at the same time on the internet you’re getting digital sales and the single is back again. Back in the day before the internet jus the albums were sellin, you rarely saw single sales. Now you can sell singles. You can have a hot record and put that mutha fucka out on iTunes and make even more money. Look at Flo Rida, now he killed em. Everything got its good and it’s bad but at the end of the day ain’t no need to complain. You gotta grind whatever way you need too, just fuck with the internet now. Are you surprised by the success of I Run on major shows like 106 and Park, or did you expect it? I was more surprised than anything because that record was not supposed to be the single. The original big record was supposed to be Smile. That’s what everyone else wanted to come out with, but I didn’t want to come out with now song about the girls. I wanted to come out with a record that was more me, like on some street shit, and that’s what I Run was supposed to be, a street record. Really this is my biggest solo song ever. It sold more on iTunes and had more radio spins then any of my solo cuts. That tells you something. I’m on an independent label now, but they couldn’t get my records to this level when I was signed. I ain’t ever been on 106 and Park to perform. Interscope couldn’t make that happen. That just proves I’m in a better situation now. That being said, would you say Independent is the way to go? It is for me, I’m not going to say it is for everyone else. It’s like this, if you ain’t selling like you used to, why not try to get more money for each CD? That’s just simple math you know what I’m sayin? Especially if an independent label can get you major looks like 106 and Park and shit like that. Getting back to the single, you address President Obama directly about the state of the economy. Do you think, given the poor state of the economy right now the President can really do anything or is he set up for failure? Or is he going to come up with something? I think he’s set up for failure, but I believe in him and I think he’s going to make something happen. I think he is set up for failure because he was left with a fucked up situation, I don’t think it’s ever been as bad as this. They left him with a big mess to clean up but I believe in him. I think he’s an honest dude, he doesn’t run from the people, he always has good answers, and for the most part he been doin what he said he was going to do. I’m not goin to be impatient with him. I’m goin to give him his time to do his stuff, but I believe him goin to be able to make a
lot of shit change.
Words By: Mz. fuSHion
www.thefushionmagazine.com
As an artist I just want to be known, if not worldwide at least in Huston as a So what do you want to get into outside of music? What other business ventures n***a who repped hard for the city, did a lot of shit for it, and brought it together. I want respect from Houston and that’s it mainly. But out of my life? Man I want are you looking into? to be successful, be able to tell the story of how I came from nothing and made It’s crazy right now because that’s what I’m waiting on, I’m waiting on Obama something of myself and if I could you could. That’s it. to change some shit because right now I’m so scared to do anything [financially.] Everything’s fucked up. You see people who lost money in investments, people Would you rather be one of the greatest of all time or re you content with just disappearing with their shit you know? So it’s really scary right now until I see influencing the lives of a few people for the better? things goin back in a good direction I’ma kinda just chill out right now and ride I don’t know. I don’t think I put in enough work to be the greatest of all time. Like I said I came into the game not expecting to be a rapper, so I don’t live in the shit out. I ain’t down with takin no losses. I hate losing, I only like winning. studio. I just like to record my shit on the phone, take it to the studio, lay it out Put being an artist aside, as a man who do you most hope to influence in and leave. I haven’t put in enough work but I feel like if I did want that, I can do your life? whatever I want to do. But at the end of the day I just want mutha fuckas to love Man if it’s anybody, it’s my kids because I just want them to be successful. I don’t and respect me, I ain’t trying to take over the world and do all that shit. really want them to be rappers. I think my oldest one is going to try it though. I’d really rather him play basketball because I wish I would have done that. If nothing So what’s next for Slim Thug? else I wish I would have got a college education. When I was younger I didn’t I don’t know! [laughs] Stay tuned cause I don’t know what the fuck is up! want to go to college but I should have. You can’t rap forever. That’s what it is then. Any last words? The album is in stores now and I’m going back out on the road. It’s going down. What’s your end goal as on artist? As a man?
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The WHOLE Dam
W ho Sle u ep Bee in’ n On :
Dallas is in the forefront, need I say more? From Fat Pimp to Tum Tum to Trai D to Durrough Music, the hype around the D-town music game is not overrated. The evidence of success of rap artists that come out of this area are being displayed continuously on the radio, faithfully in the club scene, and repeatedly in the streets. The Dallas community takes pride in their flamboyant hairstyles, chunky rope chains, and slurred wording to express their attitudes. They have established their own identity and carbon copies are tossed aside as the top rap artists out of “The D” make it known their music takes on various styles, even within their own. Is it safe to say that Dallas is treading in the footsteps of their neighbor Houston? Could it be that D-town made a name for themselves without the help of Houston? The explosion of talent in this area is nationally recognized for the “The Dallas Boogie.” The movements are sharp and crisp and involve more than just moving from left to right. The dance move is not made for couples nor is it provocative but more along the lines of putting on a show, basically “going all out.” It’s far from a two step and involves every part of your body, even your earlobe.
Foreword By Stephanie Paige
Ft. Worth Arlington
mn City of Dallas Trai D, Fat Pimp, Dorrough Music, B Hamp, Lil Wil, Big Cheif, Damm D, GS Boyz
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The dance is dominant, but don’t get it twisted, the D Town movement and music ain’t all about getting jiggy in the club. The majority of the songs coming out the Metroplex are club bangers and chart toppers such as My Dougie by Lil Will, Stanky Legg by GS Boyz, and Do the Ricky Bobby by B Hamp. And who could forgot the one that possibly started it all, Caprice Music by Tum Tum. But is Dallas the next Mecca of Hip Hip, or doomed to be criticized one year later like its cousin to the south? Questions, Questions, Questions…but who has the answers? The rappers of course.
How long have you been in the game? Well, I’m young, I’m only 19 so I don’t have that much of a history, so what can I say really? I’ve been rapping since I was like 8 or 9. I would usually jus drop a CD at school, get that cake, get that money, and go to the mall to buy some clothes. But like Biggie said you know, I never knew it would take me this far. I’ve really been blessed. I recorded Gutta Chick one day and put it on the internet and it got into the hands of DJ Freddy Hydro, out of Memphis, and J Love. The very next thing I know I inked a deal with Memphitz and the Hitz Committee/Jive. I’ve been blessed, I can’t complain. So you’re originally from Dallas? Yep born and raised in Oak cliff my whole life. I’m just maintaining. How did you come up with your stage name? Trai D is actually short for Traidmark. A trademark is a logo a company puts out to represent themselves. I basically look at it like every time I step out I’m representing my city, my label, and my people to the fullest, so that’s how I got the name. How do you plan to follow the success of Gutta Chick? We got the street single out right now, Booty From Behind ft. Huey and Fat Pimp. I got another single comin out with Ray J, but all that info is unreleased right now, just know that it’s comin real soon so be ready for it. What are you going to do to ensure you have longevity in the game and you’re not just another one hit wonder? I’m not in school because I have been travelin so much and I’m always on the move. I probably would be in school if I hadn’t inked the deal, but I did it half way through my senior year. I had decided to go to college and then inked the deal so I knew I had to set it aside for a year or two. I’m good though, I’m putting my money in the right places to ensure I’m straight after all this. So do you have your hands in anything else besides the music game? Yea, I got an idea that goin to change the world, but I can’t speak on it until its official. But if you know a lil somethin about cars, holla at me!
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Nowadays it seems like everyone has two or three hustles at least. Do you think you can rap in this game and be successful? Or do you have to have your hands in something else? It’s all about building an empire, and your empire is all about building your name, and if you do make it as a rapper than it makes it that much easier to do other things. It’s crucial. Once you have a name you brand it and that’s what really stamps your other products and work. Getting back to this Dallas Movement, is the nation ready for what’s coming outta northern part of the state? Man the time is now. It’s beautiful. All we gotta do is come together like Houston did and we need to have our run. Our music is getting out there, it’s getting heard, I feel like real n***as need a representative in the city. The time is now. Does Dallas have the talent to become a Mecca of Hip Hop like ATL, NYC, or LA? From the bottom of my heart I feel we got the talent, it’s just about how we do it and if everybody come together. But you ain’t ever supposed to stop, you gotta keep going and shoot for the moon. We have the potential to be bigger to the game than Atlanta. It’s only going to take one person for the whole city to blow. We’ve never had that one person and for me to even be in a position I feel like I’m blessed because I never thought it could be me.
trai d Words By:Mz. fuSHion
So if you had to name the one artist, taking yourself out of the equation that would take the city to the next level who would it be? Someone beside me? Man, I’m a have to think about it since you took me out the ball game! If I’m not in the race, I would go with, especially right now, Big Chief or Lil Wil. So what’s the process to make it as an artist in Dallas? The radio show love to artists out here so really its just about havin that hit record. It’ll go from the streets to the club to the radio. One good song can get you show money for a year. It’s all about recognizing that it’s much bigger that Dallas. Dallas is home but you gotta take over the whole nation if you wanna be a threat to the big dogs. Any Last Words? Big shout out to The fuSHion Magazine, Definition DJs, GO DJs, Hittmenn DJs. Ya’ll know what it is Trai D aka Fonzerelli signin out.
Let’s start nice and easy, how did you get your name? The name just came about when I was in high school. All I used to do was rap about women. I was kind of a womanizer. You’re an established artist, but Rack Daddy was probably your breakout hit as far as gaining exposure outside Dallas and Texas. How do you plan to follow the success of that single? I never really just fell off. Even when Rack Daddy was falling off I had other singles out on the radio. What I’m trying to do is stay fresh in the streets. Anytime you hear my name I want you to hear it on my record or on someone else’s record on the streets. I’m just going to flood the streets with music. Is it more important for you to be respected at home or internationally known? I think it goes hand in hand. For a while I was in Houston, and a lot of people didn’t respect that, so I came back to Dallas. I’m showing my face and showing respect to the DJs and my fans. I feel like I have a foundation outside of Dallas so when I come home I’m going to respect home. It’s a winwin. From an artist’s standpoint, why do you think Dallas is bubblin right now? Because it’s different. It’s new. It’s something the industry hasn’t seen before. When Atlanta came out with the snap music and the trap music no one had seen it before. It was new. No one is doing what Dallas is doing, and the way America is right now, it only takes one person to do something different to get an entire movement going. That’s what Dallas is doing. Why is the majority of music coming out of the D right now club, or dance, music? A lot of people follow it. Almost every song on the radio is a dance song because rappers no it’s going to work and its going to make them money. You can’t knock a person for doing and getting money. I’m not knocking anyone for doing it. I did it, but I won’t do it again. Once I did it that was it. For those completely sleepin on the up and comin rap game, why do you feel there is such a big difference in musical style between Dallas and Houston? Houston really don’t like to Dance. Houston is a lot more laid back. Z-Ro even put out a song stating that fact on Crack. That jus go to show you that there’s a line between us. It’s sad that its 2009 and people still can’t just come together on music. Houston Do what they do, Dallas do what we do. Everybody just stay in their lane. I can’t explain it. They grew up listening to Screw, we grew up listening to Pookie.
Any Last Words? Just look out for me in the streets. I’m trying to do it all. I’m trying to be to Dallas what Nelly was to St. Louis. Look out for my new mixtapes I Want at Pimp On A Feature and Swag School hosted by Bay Bay and featuring Gucci Mane, Dorrough Music and more.
fat pimp Wordz By: Mz. fuSHion
www.thefushionmagazine.com
A lot of critics say that Houston has fallen off since it exploded onto the scene a few years ago. If Dallas makes it, how will its artists remain relevant? Everything is constantly revolving. When Houston had their run only a few stayed on top. Like my boy Slim Thug, he still getting his. People gotta keep putting out good music and you got to change with the times. You can either stay in your lane and ride it out or you can go where the game is going. When Dallas gets its chance we just gotta pump out as much music as possible and make as much money as we can, because when the time it up, it’s up, unless you’re one of the ones who can stand the rain. I’m one of those artists.
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b hamp Words By:Chanel Fisher
When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career in the music industry? I always used to be sitting in front of the TV watching the box. Growing up I listened to Master P, Hot Boyz, and Jay-Z. I really realized I could rap in high school. Tell me about the group you used to be in. I was in a group called Texas Made, it was five of us. We put out a mixtape and got a lot of positive reactions from it. We put out 5 mixtapes total. After high school we all went our separate ways and I went to college. Now I rep the 20/20 clique. Do you plan on going back to school? After I get a little more established, I plan to go back to school and study musical engineering. How did you connect with CKB Entertainment? CKB Entertainment was established in memory of Cassandra K. Booker, who was a family friend. I had this demo tape and went up to her and was like, “I can rap, I can rap.” She and some associates of hers listened to it and liked it. How did you react when you saw your Ricky Bobby video on 106 & Park? Actually, I didn’t even see it when it first aired. I TiVo’d it. I was watching it like, “wow, we really made it to BET.” Did you expect such positive feedback from the song? I made this song cuz I like to dance. When I noticed that other people was really feelin it, I just felt real good. Are you working on any projects? I just finished my latest album. It’s called “B-Dance.” You can look for it May 19th. Lil One, Fat Pimp, and a bunch of other people are on the album. I got Dawone from 112 on the 2nd single. I also got some stuff in the works with Slim Thug, Chamillionaire, and Gorilla Zoe. I’m really hopin I can get a collabo with Kanye soon. What was your first performance like? Man, my first performance was at this club called Rhythm City in Dallas. I was real nervous because I didn’t remember all the words to the song. I remember thinking, “these people don’t know who I am,” but then I went on stage and the crowd was real hype. What’s the craziest fan experience you’ve had? Yeah, I remember this show I had in El Paso. I was doing my thing on stage and then I saw something fly by my head. Some chick had thrown her bra on the stage! (Laughs) Any tours coming up? Yeah, I’m on the “Kiss me thru the phone” tour with Soulja Boy and GS Boys for the next two months. Is that really you on the social networks? Oh yeah, it’s all me, it’s all me. Holla at me on MySpace and Facebook. What should people know about the music industry? It’s not as easy as everyone thinks. Everybody sees the fame and the money, but nobody sees the grind. It’s a lot of work. Any Last Words? Just be sure you pick up my new album. Thank ya’ll for showin me love, man.
How did you start rapping and why? I officially started rapping in high school. It was just something I liked to do on the bus or when we were playing basketball. My friends and I would just come up with these little songs. Eventually one of these dudes I knew took me to a studio and then that’s when I really started recording. How did ya’ll come up with the song Halle Berry? Basically the concept came from my partna Supastar. We was at Prairie View when I had Walk That Walk out. We were doing a lot of songs that catered to the women and down at PV that’s what they wanted to hear. Supastar came with the idea and the concept and I just put my two cents into it, and we made a hit. So how did ya’ll get with Hurricane Chris for the remix? He heard the song and he was in the process of putting together his album. He needed a single, he liked the song and he bought the song. Really it was through the buzz of the song. Supastar thought it was a good idea to release the song with hurricane Chris and it all went from there. Ya’ll have had Walk That Walk, Halle Berry and the new single Ice Cream Paint Job. You have lots of mixtapes out right now. Why do you think you’re able to have so much success right now versus other artists? Because I stay consistent in what I do. Everyday the first thing that comes to my head is music. I only put out good stuff, good material. I’m not saying I’m the best or nothing, but I make sure everything I put out is good material. Consistency is the one thing that has helped me to get me where I’m at so far. A lot of people can make a good song, but can they keep making good songs? That’s where the consistency comes in. So how do you feel about your success right now? You’re songs are all over the radio, they’re all in the club; you’re pretty big right now. Looking back it feels pretty good, knowing where everything started from. But looking forward, to me it ain’t much. You can look at it from my position and then you can look at people positions like Lil Wayne and Plies and you know I’m not even close. It ain’t as big as it seems to me. I mean it’s enough to motivate me and to know that anything is possible. Lookin from the outside in, it’s nowhere near where I want to be. Right now it’s just a consistent grind and hopefully one day I will feel like I accomplished a lot. Right now I’m still on a stomping ground tryna get out. Right now you’re on an independent label? Yea, it’s a major independent. Right now I’m signed to Koch records. They got artists like Jim Jones, DJ Khaled, DJ Unk, Slim thug, Ray J. It’s a major independent. I keep all my rights and all my freedom. I’m a priority for the label and they really gone get behind me. So tell me how do you feel about the music scene in Dallas right now? I mean I feel real good about it. A lot people got they different opinions. A lot a people want to label it as a ringtone city or dance music. It ain’t like we was just gone come out on top. You gotta start somewhere. Obviously the city is doing somthing because if you go to any other city or surrounding cities they want to hear the same thing. Whether it’s Oklahoma City, Houston, Kansas, you just heard our format again. So it’s doing something. I’m kind of proud. And as long as everybody keep elevating maybe a year from today you’ll hear nothing but Dallas, just in a different format. It’s a good thing though. So u just said u signed with the record label. What are the upcoming projects you’re working on? I got my official mixtape dropping before the album. The album drop this summer. The mix tape drops three weeks from tomorrow. We shoot the videos for Walk That Walk and Ice Cream Paint Job. That’s the no single that’s blowing up; it’s what actually made me recognized as a national artist because it’s so big in the west coast, the bay area. We really taking a lotta pride and pushing that project. What’s gone be the name of the album? Its going to be self titled. And the mixtape is going to be called the Showman. It’s like a series with all original music.
Is there anything you want to tell your fans or anything. Things you want people to know about you? I mean I’m motivated by the people around me, and the people that’s around me that are really into what I’m doin. I love when people can’t wait to see what I put out next. To me it’s like almost having some control over some people lives. I take a lot of pride in that and the people that are around me really move me to do what I am doing. Before we go, for people that are rapping try to get in the music industry is there any type of advice you want to give them. First thing is to be you. A lotta people tryna get on by getting people on songs. Everything I did I came up on my own. I mean I created avenues, created my own circle. Don’t feel like somebody else gotta put you on. Understand that it is a game. You gotta know it’s a game and that’s just how it is. You gone take way more L’S than W’s in the beginning. Don’t look at what other people are doing, focus on what you doin. If you do look at other people take little bits and pieces of the positive thangs. Create your own self. A lot of people just try to come up by doing the same things as other people and it really don’t work that way.
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In the rap game right now, other than yourself who would you fell are the top 5 best rappers. Man that’s a hard question. TI, He brings a lot to the industry. You got Lil Wayne, Plies, Ludacris, and T Pain. Then you got people like Gorilla Zoe, who’s underrated, he’s definitely one of the top rappers to me. But between those artists, well it’s hard to name the top five.
dorrough music
Wordz By: Courtney Taylor
My dougie, my dougie, she say she like my dougie I’m fresh, my dougie, I’m fresh, my dougie, I’m fresh, fly than a mutha fucka….. This was one of the most popular hooks in the industry in 2008. Lil Wil, the mastermind behind this club banger proved he was no one hit wonder when he followed it up with Bust it Wide Open. Hailing from Dallas, Texas, he is accredited with being a large part in the D-town boogie movement and one of the first to call attention to the city after Tum Tum’s prolific release Caprice Music. One conversation with the larger than life rapper will illustrate why Dallas dance music is far more than a simple trend. When and why did you start rapping? Shit, I had been rapping as long as I can remember. It was nothing like that made me want to start or nothing. I just did. It was like I was born with it. So let’s talk about the song My Dougie. What made you want to make that song? I mean at the time, like Dallas just really needed club music at the time, and that was the good thing [the city had] going. Did you think it was going to be as big as it was? Nah, not really, I mean I really took it as a joke at first. I was just playing around. Then I TOOK IT AND RAN WITH IT. What exactly is a dougie? Because some people still seem to be confused. Dougie is just your own swag. Everything about you that makes you fly. It’s what makes you fresh. As far as Dallas music right now, how do you feel being a part of the national push the city is making? I mean I feel good. I feel real good. Believe it or not people can take it how they want to take it; I believe I’m one of the pioneers. I’m really putting us on. I feel real good right now. I mean we on, we got number one videos and shit. I feel good. Why is your music better than other’s trying to do the same thing? You keep putting out hits where many artists are one hit wonders. How do you make it happen? I mean a lot of cats really don’t be in the studio. They just go to the club and go to the studio two times out the week, and they are walking out the studio with 3 songs to choose from hopin that those three songs gone be a hit. But me, I’m in the studio all week and I did a hundred songs I can choose from. You gotta get in the studio and get more material.
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So now that you’re doing shows, on TV, and on the radio, what’s life like now versus before you started rapping? It’s a lot more to do now. You got to be real careful on what you do. You never know whose watching. You just got to keep watching your moves hoping that it’s a better move. As far as music and your label, who are you signed to right now?
lil wil
I’m with asylum/Warner bros. I also have my own label Creative Inc. I’ve just been working on that. What artists are you putting out on Creative Inc.? Oh yea, of course of course. I got my homie Young Fresh, also the homie Deante, [who’s] R&B album goin to be droppin soon. What about 5 years from now where do you see yourself and your music? Let’s say 2015 Man I see me on a Ludacris, TI, sort of level. I mean, like I said earlier, I feel I’m a real big part of this Dallas movement and as long as we keep pushing and we stay on top of this game and I keep on doing my job I feel like I could be doing great. Aside from the music, do you want to do acting? A clothing line? A mogul? What do you want to do? Well right now I’m working on a cartoon, called Lil Wil and it’s going to be in the [Adult] Swim series. Yea aside from the music my other main interest would be the cartoon. Do you have any callabos or features your fans should be looking out for? Well one of the next singles droppin is called Workout featuring the homie Bohagan out of Atlanta. Another jam OJ Da Juice Man got a callobo, that’s gone be real hot. Other than that just everybody else is coming from Dallas.YT from the Trapstarzz, Dorrough, and B Hamp. You know just a couple. I’m reaching out to everybody else from the D. We standing up. Is there anything you want fans to know about you? Lil Wil is a real artist. Look for the new album Neighborhood Hero. Some say a trendsetta; some say king of the club hits, either way Lil Wil is a real artist. Just be on the lookout for the new album. Lil will is consistently on the grind and will keep the hits coming. In the game right now who are some of your favorite rappers to listen to? As of right now, Gucci Mane, Gucci is real hot right now. Devin the dude is still hot. Andre 3000, TI and I been listen to a lot of OJ [Da Juice Man] and Gorilla Zoe. The CD drops the end of April. Are you touring when it drops? Yes, actually I will still be on the Battle of The Bands tour. Any advice you would give any rapper that is trying to get in the game right now? Shit, just keep goin. Don’t quit. Like for example my city. Dallas done been a part of this music game for a long time and is just now getting on. You gotta just keep goin and keep pushing. So last but not least, what would you say to people that say the Dallas movement and music is just a ring tone music movement? Get the money man. Cut the check. We not even tryna hear that. Cut the ringtone check. Cut the single check.
Words By:Courtney Taylor
The new album, is it a dance album or does it tell a story? What’s it about? Soufside: Of course we gone put a little dancing in there because that is what we are known for but what people don’t know is that we have a singer in the group, D.K., so it will be lyrical also. Do you consider yourselves more rappers or entertainers? Soufside: Truthfully both, we going to have fun and getting stuff of our chest, basically telling stories. How did you all come about? D.K: Mark D, Slizz, and Prince all went to high school together and I had my own little group. I knew Prince and we all clicked up together to sell designer shoes. How did you come up with the concept for the dance? Soufside: When I did it, it looked tight so I stuck with it. In your opinion what fan has the best Stanky Legg that you have EVER seen and where they hailing from? Soufside: Dang that’s a good question because a lot of people be killin’ it. Prince liked when Ciara and Snoop Dogg did it but what tripped me out is when The Game did it. There are rumors going around that the Stanky Legg beat is stolen. Can you confirm or deny? Soufside: My label won’t allow me to speak too much on that, but it’s not.
The dance hits tend to come and go out of the spotlight very quickly, what did you do differently to make this single a success? Soufside: At the beginning of the song it say “if ya wired” and that set it. Can you give the fans inside scoop on the next dance? Soufside: Basically it’s gone be another major song that they will like, it’s gone be hot. You have a track called Lil Momma Groovy, its more club material than your original style. Can you tell us what transformations you all are going through? Soufside: In Dallas females think they crunk all the time so we decided to just do something for the girls. Do people compare you all to Soulja Boy ? D.K: At first when we started but now they see what we do, they don’t see [the resemblance] anymore. We got our own style, so people can’t mistake us anymore. How does Dallas differ from Houston culture? D.K: When it comes to Dallas music, we like to dance and have a good time and in Houston it’s all about the lyrics. Many critics say that this group is a one hit wonder. What is your response to that? D.K: You hear that all the time, you heard that about Soulja Boy. We are not one hit wonders.
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gs boyz Words By: Stephanie Paige
You say you’re in a league of your own and let’s be frank, everyone has that mind frame. What sets you apart from the rest? Stacks speaks for itself, the fan base speaks for itself. I done dropped more than 8 mixtapes. I know what you mean but it is a proven fact; they categorize me with the Jeezys and the TIs. So “My Swagg” ft. Jim Jones is a big hit in the states, since you are from Texas do you expect this song to go nationwide or to be slowed down by the “Oh He’s from Texas approach? When you listen to it you can’t categorize it as a southern song because everybody thinks they have swag, so everyone can relate. You grew up in poverty but your music reminds me of the struggle other artists speak of such as Z-Ro. What is the reason behind this? We was born with less but I was also born with love. So you can hear emotions in my music. It was beneficial and made me what I am today. When was the first time you felt that you had gotten recognition for your music? When I first dropped my CD and two people bought it. Just to know somebody was listening and being recognized kept me motivate. Dallas is in the Texas spot light at the moment, are you part of that movement, and what do you contribute? Yes I am. What I contribute is realness and something with substance. It is something that everybody can go through. It’s cool to have dancing music but it also good to have encouragement. Just to let the people know that you are not alone. I just bring reality to the game. Your demeanor seems to be chill in contrast to D-towns hype “Boogie” dance scene. Enlighten the people about you…like what is it like to be Big Chief? I gotta be cool. For instance my lifestyle, I live like P. Diddy and them. Can’t nobody come to me and present nothing because I am self made. I already got it. You recently dropped volume 8, one of the many “Eat Greedy” series, which sold 2000 out the trunk on the day of release. What do you have to about that? It is what it is. Check out the track ft. Bobby V and Slim Thug called “Check”. It sounds smooth and southernish.
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I hear everything you do is on your own, you’re your own man, you got your own hustle… really no major promo or any help besides your personal determination… I ain’t gone say all that but if it ain’t the right help I keep going. I do not do this on my own and I do have people who are in this with me. Eat Greedy Boys help a lot when we hit the road and James keeps things in order. Does it really matter how you get to the top as long as you get there? It don’t matter at all at this point. I been doing this since I was twelve. All this success ain’t come over night but there is still more success to gain. Your signature “Eat Greedy” is about what? I mean you doing what you do and giving all effort… just going all the way out. If Ima eat, Ima eat greedy. With that being said, you need an Eat Greedy Girl, in fact one of your tracks explains what this is. On Eat Greedy Girl ft. T bone you express “she free from the drama and future baby mama” Let your fans know, exactly what being a greedy girl is all about and have you found her yet? She an independent chick and on top of hers. Being 100% and loyal. No, I have not found her; if I did I would have a song about it because I rap from experience. What artist are you looking forward on working with in the future and why? Right now I have been working with Southern artists like Slim Thug and Bun B. I would like to work with TI, Jeezy, Rick Ross and I want to mess with rappers from the West like the Game.
big chief Words By: Stephanie Paige
If you could change anything about this music game, what would it be? The way they go about getting the artists exposed. The revenue has went down and the way they breaking the artist, don’t make sense. The radios do not take Dallas seriously and when they do introduce Dallas artist, it holds strong on the station for only 4 to 6 weeks. It’s the support factor. Is there anything that you have left unsaid that you would like to get off your chest? I ain’t trying to complain because don’t nobody want to listen to complaining. Ima let my actions do the talking. If they want to hear some talking, go get one of them volumes.
How long have you been rapping? I’ve been rappin about 3 years. It wasn’t a childhood dream or nothing. I just figured out I could rap. What made you try your hand at the rap game? I was just listenin to how the rap game was. Nowadays, n***as just go out and make a song about anything. If it’s got a bad beat behind it, people gone like it. I know you just got back into town. Were you doing a show? Yeah, I just got back into Dallas. I had a show in St. Louis, MO. The show went real good. Tell me about your clique. The name of the clique is NFL (Neva Forget Loyalty) but the street name is N***as For Life. Any current projects? I’m finishing up my album right now. I got Brian from Day 26, Webbie, Gucci Mane, and some other people. It’s a nice lil album. It should be out the end of May or June. Do you write your own music? Oh yea, oh yea. I write all my music. I do work with other people though; you’re always gonna have people that can write but don’t wanna rap. Do you produce too? I work with my producers real closely. I’m kinda picky about my beats so I be in there wit him. Who are your musical influences? Jeezy, Lil Wayne, & Gucci Mane. They made me really think about getting into music. My plan is to work with those people. I’m just trying to get Damm D founded first and see where I’m gonna be at. Did you expect people to respond to Love Me the way they did? I mean, when I first did it, I liked it. But you can’t really listen to your friends, they just gonna tell you what you wanna hear. Once I started getting word that other people was feeling it, then I was like okay, it’s about somethin. Do you really communicate with the fans? I’m on top of my game. That’s me. I listen to all the advice the fans give. I talk with them. So yeah, that’s me. Any advice for aspiring artists? DO YOU. Keep Working hard. Keep Pushing. Stay in yo character. Any Last Words? I love all ya’ll. I thank ya’ll for callin the radio stations & requesting the song, hitting me up on MySpace, YouTube, all that. Thank you.
Words By: Chanel Fisher
www.thefushionmagazine.com
damm d
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9340 E. Colfax (Colfax & Boston), Aurora, CO 80010
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Words By: Mz. fuSHion
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Lost At The Top Of The Rap Game
What can we expect from the new album? What’s the concept behind Don’t Feed the Animals? It’s definitely different. Nothing out now sounds like it, but the album has so many hits on it. It’s definitely a single driven album. I’ve got the charts in my hands right now and it actually debuted at #1 on the rap charts. The production on it is emaculant but the reason I think it’s so good is because I’m one of those artists who never stop recording, never stop working. I’m a student of the game and I really don’t copy nobody’s music so it has its own sound.
I’ll probably never make another record like either one of those again. I’m always going to come out with new songs and new styles.
Speaking of the singles, what inspired Lost? It’s just one of those records that plays off the emotion of people when they’re feeling down, or are a little depressed about situation and don’t know which way to go or what to do and I think every human being in their life has felt that way. That’s why I made the record. The record that’s coming behind it is What It Is ft Rick Ross. It’s got a more spring/summery feel to it and its doin well. I also got Echoes which is basically a break up record. Everybody has been through a break up and wants to tell the other person how they feel. So you got Lost which is the feelin down single, What It Is because we going into the summertime, and you got Echoes which is dealing with breakups, and I have a record coming after that which is called I Got It and that’s a club record. I’ve learned how to tap into the emotions of human beings and make records that appeal to people on different levels.
So where can you go from here? I don’t know yet. I just keep on. Echoes is going to be bigger than both of them records. It’s crazy. People just don’t understand. It’s goin to be one of those top, top, top joints.
Lost has had a huge buzz since its release. Would you say it’s bigger to your career than Hood N***a? Yea. Lost is more widespread. Why would you say that is given that everything successful seems to be more club driven as oppose to substance driven? I dunno. Maybe this will start the trend towards substance. (Laughs) How would you say you’ve grown as an artist since Welcome To The Zoo? I’m more open-minded and I know music a lot better. I’ve studied music theory and I understand chord progression and tempos more. I’ve really just become a more complete artist. Why have you kept the Zoo theme and mentality through your career? Because it’s all about makin a movement. You’ve got to have a movement. It’s just like writing a novel. I’m writing a book through my music and movement. Did your upbringing shape your “zoo” like mentality? Yea that’s basically it. Atlanta’s a concrete jungle. It’s a zoo in the streets. So what’s first club banger off the album? Definitely What It Is, it’s already killing the clubs. I also got a group called Block Boyz and they got a record that’s smashin right now called Just Jugge. It’s crazy! Matter Fact we shot a little YouTube one take video for it that just leaked onto the net. Check it out on WorldStar. If you could only make songs like Hood N***a or songs like Lost and Echoes which route would you go?
Given that you’ve sold over a million ringtones and consistently have top ten hits, which is more important to you? I’m at a point in my career where it just doesn’t matter which one I do. I’m established now. I’ve broke the bank so it doesn’t matter. (Laughs)
What are you doing differently with this album in the promotions department? I’m promoting it. I didn’t know how to promote my album the first time around. Now I know how to promote myself. I know how to do it myself. I never depend on anyone else anymore. When people do come in and help I’m thankful. I’m thankful for my label. But others are only going to work as hard as you work. That’s why I’m keepin up with the hard work and putting faith in myself. Getting back to the Block Boys and Block ENT, how did that whole movement come about? I was in the club one time and Yung Joc and Puff were in there too. He gave Block a CD, one thing led to another and one day Puff and Block were ridin together and listenin to my disc. I got a call the next morning and that was it. How much control do Bad Boy and Block ENT have over your career? They let me do my thing. They do have input though. Puff is defiantly a great producer and knows what singles to push. Block is hands on everyday but in the end they let me do my thing. What do you want to branch out into? My label has launched so I’m signing the Block Boys. And I also got a movie coming out that I’m starring in called Don’t Feed The Animals. We just did a big two day movie premier in theaters. It was crazy, everybody came out. It was just stupid. We’re going to be releasing it straight to DVD shortly. Musically are you trying to be one of the greatest to ever be in the game or are you just doing you? I’m going to be one of the greatest of all time. I’m doing me at the same time but I’m going to be one of the greatest and it’s goin to come natural. I really don’t have to try, I just do me and the greatness comes naturally. So what’s next for Gorilla Zoe? Blowin Block Boys up, getting my movie out, and I’m also working on my new album, King Kong. Any Last Words? To everybody supporting the movement I appreciate it. If you wanna know what’s going on with Gorilla Zoe follow me on Twitter @GorillaZoe.
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Z-RO:
Crack Sells Interview by Billy Mack At times criticized for rapping too fast, having a depressed sound, and not acknowledging the mainstream like other rappers, critics were forced to swallow their words after the release of the highly anticipated album Crack by Houston and underground Legend, ZRo. Fans heard a new sensation from the normally coarse rapper right out the gate with his playfully vibed intro immediatley followed by a track called Baby Girl. All star features such as Mya, Slim Thug, Lil KeKe, Mike D, and Paul Wall give the album a dynamic edge and introduces some upbeat tempos and smooth melodies. Z- Ro still refuses to lose himself in the mist of change. Throughout the album he reveals acts of betrayal from associates, represents his hood, and how he always keeps his faith in GOD. Fans also got a flashback when the 25 liters freestyle was revamped. The beauty of his work is the easy comprehension and visualization of what he raps and sings, you’re never on the outside looking in. Joseph McVey lets you in the world of Asshole By Nature and at the same time speaks to something that everyone can feel No matter what a persons background. ZRo is the King of the Ghetto, the Mo City Don, and proves without a shadow of a doubt that Crack does, and always will, sell.
First off fuSHion Magazine wants to congratulate you on your new album release Crack, but I also understand that you been doing some acting as well. How did that come about? Yea, thanks to my new manager Dollarbill with D.M.G. (Dollarbill Music Group) What was the name of movie? Sweet Justice starring myself and Regan Gomez
Rumor has it that you been working on your own Independent film called Paperboys? Yea, that’s another situation Dollarbill put together, I was cast by Amei Film works. It’s not a independent film it’s a major production film. This movie will have more ZRo in it, meaning I got the main role. Is there going to be a soundtrack for the film? Yea, D.M.G. is in charge of the soundtrack for that project. Are you working on a new album? Yes, Heroin I see you been moving alot of units in Denver. Were you surprised that you had a fan base like that in Denver? This region has always supported me so I appreciate the support. If people wanna book you for an event who can they contact? Dollarbill (D.M.G.) @ 504-957-5833 and Network (D.M.G.) @ 832-384-6611 What can your fans expect from ZRo in the future? Hit after Hit, and if D.M.G. keep working me like this then a whole lot more than you’ve ever seen. I’m also networking than I used to. This is something real different. Any last words? King of Tha Ghetto Ent, Clothes, shoes, hit records from me and more... Mo City Don aka Rother Vandross, aka ZRo aka Will Slap Tha Shit Out Of Yo ass. I’m out Five Deuce Hoova Crip Cuzz
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Forword by Stephanie Paige
What was your role in the movie? I’ma Gangsta
How did you get started as individual producers? How old were you? Collione: The reason I became a producer is because I wanted to be a rapper. When I was sixteen I would always rap over instrumentals and put them to CDs so that I could. While I was doing that I wondered “who made this music? Who made these beats?” After that I did research and found out that you could use drum machines and stuff like that to make music. So that’s exactly what I did. I went and saved my money up, bought a drum machine and made music. From that day on, I was a producer. Barto: I originally started off as a musician pretty young. My dad was a musician and I looked up to him as a musician. He put me through piano lessons and I quit that because it wasn’t my thing, then put me with a sax teacher and I learned sax. That’s pretty much how it started. My dad was also into production back to the day and so I started playing with his drum machine when I was about fourteen, and as time went on I got better and I eventually hooked up with the guys. Rook: I was about seventeen and we had the rap group in high school and all that. I was living with my dad at the time and he was a musician. He had a keyboard that I used to try to make beats on and over time I would just get better at it. That’s when I discovered the ASR-10 by Sonic and learned how to sample beats, take the drum loops I was using and chop them. That’s how I got started.
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Why work in a team as oppose to individually? Barto: We’ve all come to an understanding that no matter how dope we are as individuals everything we do always turns out better when we put our heads together. It’s easy to put your pride aside and work as a team when the music comes out so great every time. Our main priority is to make good music, the best music possible as a team. What’s the process for a trio of producers? What inspires the beats you make? Barto: It really varies from track to track. Each one of us could start or finish a track. I might come up with an idea, Collione and Rook might come up with an idea, or we just all get on the track and tag team. Basically we just listen to what the other person is doing and we’ll vibe that way. We have a good chemistry as a group and so we can just add or even take away from what someone else is doing and add our own production ear and add it to our composition. Collione: I think music comes from things that happen in your everyday life. I get inspired by how I feel that day. I may feel sad and make a down beat, or I might see a movie and be inspired by that movie and make a beat to match that feeling. Rook: Music is based on vibes. For instance, we were trying to come up with some music for the longest and when we did we felt so triumphant and happy that we finally did it that that’s the vibe that the beat we made had in it and that’s how it came out. What sets you apart from other producers in the game? Does being a trio put you at an advantage? Rook: A lot of things set us apart. For us, it’s not about being better than anybody else, it’s about our music. Our style is different, it’s us, and we try to put our stamp on every one of the beats and projects we produce. Do you think the game is getting as over saturated with producers as it is with DJs and especially artists? Rook: When I was coming up as a producer, technology was nowhere near where it is now. I think it’s more available to people who want to get to it, they can get to a program and just do it. And I encourage that, if that’s what you want to do, shoot for it. I think that it’s real easy for anyone to make a song today, and it may seem over saturated because anybody can get a studio at their home. It doesn’t take much money anymore to start so everybody’s doing it that wants to do it. The true producers that are meant to do it stand out. You’ll be able can tell who’s a producer and who’s doing it just because they have the equipment at the house. A true producer will stand out from the crowd and rise to the top. Who’s your favorite artist to work with? Collione: Personally, my favorite is Mary J. Blidge. I really enjoy being around her. I don’t know what it is. Rook: I gotta agree with Collione because when I was working with Mary J. it was a great experience. She let us produce rather than just make the beat. I would also have to say Young Jeezy because he works with us; it’s truly a collaborative effort. Barto: I agree with my boys but I really don’t have a favorite artist to name. Mary and Jeezy are both hard workers and I wouldn’t put anyone over anyone else in that group but I’d like to add Rick Ross to that list. He’s also open to suggestions and when he comes up with his vision and let’s us become part of it, it’s incredible. What’s next? How do you plan on improving your formula? Barto: As far as our new projects, we did some amazing work with Mary J. so look out for that and we did four tracks on Rick Ross’s album, which was released on April 21. We’ve also got some new talent out of Florida under our wings. Prime and Supershow from Tampa, and Slim-E from Orlando are all really talented young dudes. Those are the artists we’re working with right now so look out for them. Any last words?? We appreciate all of the support in everything that we’ve been given form day zero, of course our manager and the people that support our work and us. We just thank everybody. Check J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League out on Myspace at www.myspace.com/OfficialJustice and Twitter at www.twitter.com/RookBeats.
GOT BEATS?
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Exploring The Technical Side Of The Industry: J.U.S.T.I.C.E.
League
WHEN
HIP HOP AND
LAW & ORDER
COLLIDE...
Words By: Courtney Taylor
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n the past hip hop, rappers, and other members and aspects of urban culture were being seen in only a negative light by mainstream, white, and upper class America. Many critics thought the music showcasing the life was disrespectful, for various reasons, (mainly the lyrical and visual references to money, cash, cars, clothes and hoes,) and that it also brought down the African American community. It was difficult to get respect for the hip hop craft let alone any hip hop or urban star who tried to do a bid on television. Initially when rappers made their way to the small screen, they were cast in stereotypical roles: the drug dealer, the crack head, the gangsta, the inmate, the wanna-be rapper, the pimp. Today you can’t turn on the television without seeing, hearing, or being exposed to the hip hop culture, and no longer are rappers typecast. When I began to see rappers starring on hit television shows like the CSI and Law and Order conglomerates, I thought to myself, “How ironic.” The same people who were seen as dangerous threats to society and the American culture are now all of a sudden playing lawyers and detectives. For the longest time the urban community had, and unfortunately still has, so many negative misconceptions about the culture. But with major crossover stars like Diddy, Will Smith, TI, Eve, Ludacris, and several others, the hip hop community has began to break down the negative barriers and illustrate that young black males and females are more than the manifestation of the ills of society. One of the pioneers of uniting hip hop and television was Will Smith. He was the first rapper to take home a Grammy and launch a hit TV show, “Fresh Prince of Bel Air”, which is still popular today. Female rapper and beauty Eve had a hit show that aired on UPN for three seasons and is rerun daily on the urban network TV One. The fierce pit-bull in a skirt showed that not only could she rap but she, and many in her original career field, could act and crossover into mainstream media. One of my all time favorites, Snoop Dogg, stepped into the reality phenomenon and launched his TV show “Fatherhood” last year on the E! Network .Years ago this influential rapper was seen as a gangsta and almost as a serious threat to mainstream media and its followers. Do we all remember his first, and stereotypical, foray into the small screen on MTV? But now he is now seen not only as a rapper and father, but as human, and mainstream America and the media embraced it. One of the most surprising rappers to take a stance in acting was the pioneer of gangsta rap, Ice T. Now granted Ice has starred in movies such as New Jack City but he has become just as well known for his lead detective role in Law and Order SUV and as for
his homage to the policeman in the early 90’s. He is the perfect example of the transition from rapping to acting from the stereotype of negative to the reality of positive. However, Ludacris has become the example of what a rapper should aspire to when playing the role on TV and on the big screen. Not only did Ludacris leave a major impact on the set of Law and Order he also has such award winning, and of course controversial, films such as Crash, Hustle and Flow, and Max Payne, in his resume. He has shown that his acting skills are no joke, and even stood his ground against the almighty Oprah to defend hip hop and the culture, at a time when she should have been celebrating it. Method Man, Snoop Dogg, Nelly, Diddy, Akon, Obie Trice, Big Boi, Xzibit, and even sometimes hip hop producer Travis Barker, have all graced the small screen on the CSI’s and Law and Orders, not only as the token club owner or rapper, but also as the lawyers, and business men, and heroes. So the question is: has the mainstream American media really accepted hip hop and the urban culture? Or is hip hop culture conforming to mainstream media. From now on will we continue to see hip hop artists playing positive roles in television or movies? Or is this just a phase? Is this just for ratings? Is America really giving the urban culture a chance? Does it even have a choice anymore? The power and controversey of hip hop… It’s a beautiful thing.
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ONI’s : Aurora Co
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Whether you’re from Colorado, or just passing through, everyone needs a good barber to call on. Me personally, I need one just about every 3 days. Maybe that’s just the Spaniard in me! Aside from the local Great Clips and Cost Cutters that most of us with any sense would never run the risk to try, there’s really only one place in Colorado to get so fresh and so clean. ONI’s Barbershop has an overwhelming reputation for the latest trends and styles and stopping in guarantees that your cut is going to be fresh. I sat down with the infamous Big O from ONI’s barbershop to chop it up.
WHAT’S GOOD O? Chillen man, blessed! YOU GUYS HAVE A HUGE REPUTATION FOR SUCCESS! HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN CUTTING HAIR? Well, I have been cutting hair since I was young. We’ve been running the shop for over 5 years though. I come from a long line of talented barbers and stylists. In Montbello growing up, we’ve always been the originators in trends and designs. Hard work was instilled in me as a young kid as was the case for most of us from Montbello. Our parents worked hard and passed that down. Growing up we always did whatever we could do to make money.
THAT’S DOPE FAM. YOU GUYS HAVE A BUILT UP A PRETTY BIG CUSTOMER BASE NOW WHAT DO YOU THINK THE RECIPE FOR SUCCESS HAS BEEN? Well man, the ingredient is simple! We are the official Turf barber shop plain and simple. We got clients from the turf, blue collars, athletes, and even big artists that come in town. We set the standard for quality and it’s just what our clients want and expect, and that’s what we provide every time! LOOKING BACK, IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WISH WAS DIFFERENT NOW? I would say the only thing is just not having my brother here w/ me.
NOW OF COURSE THE BARBERSHOP IS THE BREEDING GROUND FOR THE LATEST MUSIC, SPORTS, NEWS, AND GOSSIP. WHAT ARE YOU GUYS LISTENING TOO RIGHT NOW? Interstate Ike, Young Doe, Hawkman, Mr Midas to name a few.
ALRIGHT MAN, LAST QUESTION. WHAT REALLY SETS YOU GUYS APART FROM A LOT OF THE OTHER BARBERSHOPS? Man, really we work w/ everyone! We respect the other shops around town. We stay in our lane. Other then that we just like to keep a good atmosphere. That’s why we bring in DJ’s and artists and do battles and cook outs. You can find there new located shop on 13122 E Mississippi Ave Aurora, CO 80012 Call Omar for an appointment @ 720.224.7588
Words By: G. Johnson
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As kids, we always had aspirations to do this together. In November 1996, in route to catch a bus, he saw some kids beating another kid up. He jumped in and tried to save the kid and was brutally stabbed to death. That’s why I go so hard now! He was always helping someone out.
WHAT MADE YOU START TATTOOING? What made me start tattooing was growing up in the streets surrounded by homies that were tattooed and tattoo artists who pushed me to turn my art into tattoos. I did my first tattoo at 13 and did a couple here and there until I was 18. Once I turned 18 I realized what I could do it and have been at it since. WHO WERE YOU INFLUENCED BY? I was influenced by a lot of street art around my community and by the people who pushed me to start tattooing. Now i am influenced by all different artists such as Julian Mendoza, who was like a mentor to me in my teenage years. Also Kat Von D., Jack Rudy, Jose Lopez, Mr. Cartoon, and Fonzy. HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? I would describe my style as black and grey realistic work and portraits. I would consider myself well balanced in both color and black and grey, but I think I am more known for my realistic black and grey work.
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WHAT V.I.P.’S HAVE YOU TATTOOED? I have tattooed many V.I.P.’S such as a couple NFL players like Brandon Marshall, Paul Carrington, Antwon Burton and Curome Cox and a couple of NBA players such as Dermarr Johnson and Kenyon Martin, as well as NCAA player Bobby Maze. Local artists and entertainers such as DJ KTONE the turf DJ, Mr. Midas and Gunna from Gang Green, Shadow 626, Don Juan AKA Catwalk Don, Hemi, Mz. fuSHion, Lucky & Gift from LG, Comma The Connect, Ramsey 1, the whole S.E.L.F. Made Certified Family, and many more. TELL ME ABOUT YOUR SHOP? I would say Most Wanted is a pretty new shop that was established in 2006 on a very well known street, Federal Blvd. Our shop has guaranteed work and you will want to come back for more. I am privileged to work with some of the cleanest and nicest artists in the city. Such as Antonia Fernandez who is the youngest and the newest female of our family, she brings her own unique style of work and is good overall at color, black and grey, and fine line. Aside from tattooing she is a well skilled and experienced painter and drawer. Another tattoo artist with us is Mr. Danger, who is a well known black and grey artist and specializes in street art. He is also well rounded in color, black and grey, and fine line. Also with us is our piercer, Jorge. He is one of the nicest piercers and is there to please everyone. He does traditional piercings as well as surface piercings. Last but not least we have our assistant Bianca and our apprentices, Jose and Edgar who are working hard to learn the skills to pay the bills! WHAT LEVEL ARE YOU TRYING TO TAKE THE SHOP TO? We are trying to take the shop to a world wide known establishment that can accommodate everyone from the unknown to the well known individuals. We want everyone to leave satisfied with a smile and to feel totally comfortable while at the shop. Like we mentioned earlier we are one of the newest shops and one of the smallest, but we are striving to make it to the top. WHY SHOULD PEOPLE COME SEE YOU INSTEAD OF ANY OTHER TATTOO SHOP? People should come see us instead of any other tattoo shop because we don’t mistreat any one. To us everyone is equal no matter gender or race. We try to accommodate every ones needs and wants including the art and the price.
Words By: G. Johnson
most wanted: denver co
WHATS THE WILDEST TATTOO YOU’VE EVER DONE? To me the wildest tattoos we do at the shop are people’s boyfriends and girlfriends names! 10% of relationships work and the other 90% don’t and it’s crazy how many people come in for cover-ups.
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WHERE’S THE CRAZIEST PLACE YOU’VE GIVEN A TATTOO? Dowwwwwn there(girls)...that’s all I need to say. Other then that to me anywhere on your body is just a piece of canvas.
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WHO CRIES MORE, THE GIRLS OR GUYS? I would definitely have to say the guys and the bigger they are the more they cry. There are a hand full of girls that do cry but not as much. WOULD YOU LIKE TO OPEN ANY MORE SHOPS? I wouldn’t like to open up new shops I just want to get a bigger shop because sometimes it gets a little crowded and having a bigger lobby could fix that. I might say that now but you never know when the sky is the limit. ANY LAST WORDS FOR THE PEOPLE? First I would like to thank God for blessing me with this skill. I also want to thank everybody that works along with me, without them it would be so hard to be where I am at, my family and friends that have been there for me through thick and thin. Much love! Last but not least I want to thank anyone and everyone that supports us; I appreciate your support and compliments. Last last I want to put up my middle finger to all the HATERS...”Hi haters, I see you” stop going out of your way to bring us down it ain’t gonna happen, we are gonna make it to the top!
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To submit your Barbershop, Tattoo Parlor, Record Store, Soul Food Restaurant, Car Customs Shop, or Clothing store to So Krispy email Stephanie Paige @ sapaige@mail.uh.edu
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