Far East Movement interview with DJ GLEW in Toronto during the G20 Summit. FM talks about the lead girl in the “Like A G6″ music video, the new “Free Wired” album, opening for Lady Gaga and N.E.R.D., collaborating with Lil’ Jon, “Get Him To The Greek”, and much more!
December 16th, 2009 | By Rick From Chicago | 529 views
In this month’s latest exclusive Industry Interview feature for THE3XGP.COM, DJ Glew spoke to rising singer/song writer Kevin Cossom! KC has penned such hits as Keri Hilson’s ‘Knock You Down’, Rick Ross’ ‘Speedin’ and Young Jeezy’s ‘Got Getta’ to name a few. DJ Glew talked to Kevin aboutabout his song writing credits, working with Drake and preparing for his solo debut album.
DJ GLEW: How do you feel about the response to “Hook Vs. Bridge”?
KEVIN COSSOM: It’s definitely been, I don’t want to say unexpected, but you hope that you do good work and people enjoy what you do. It’s definitely been a good response. It’s got me excited for the album. Overall the response has been great. Slightly overwhelming because it’s growing so fast but that’s a good thing.
DJ GLEW: ‘I Get Paper’ with Drake originated from Drake’s hookless song ‘Juice’ produced by Boi 1da. How did this collaboration come about?
KEVIN COSSOM: It was pretty much me coming with an idea for that song [sings melody]. I wanted to use that melody or sample for a while. I had a chorus that I wanted to do which was that chorus [sings chorus]. I had told a few producers see if you can you do something with that. But long story short, I ended up hearing Drake’s version and he beat me to it. I heard the beat and it had the same thing in it but it had no chorus on it. So I wanted to try if the chorus that I always wanted to do would work. I was in the studio f*cking around or whatever and I did it. I put a verse on it and it came out pretty dope. It ended up getting leaked out and it got 120,000 downloads in two days on HotNewHipHop.com and people really like the record. It not an official me and Drake got in the studio. It was just me seeing what I can do and it came out pretty hot. Drake knows about it and they know about it.
DJ GLEW: Your title lists you as a singer, songwriter, producer, and hitmaker. Are you the next The-Dream?
KEVIN COSSOM: [laughs] No, I like to look at myself as Kevin Cossom. I don’t like to set those type of perimeters and say I’m the next The-Dream. But I also know that people need things to kind of compare so they can identify you to know where to put you. But I don’t want them to put me anywhere yet because most times they try to place you in a category and try to keep you there. I feel like there’s a lot of different things I can do with different music styles. Me being signed to Danja and him being so versatile. He’s done things from T.I. to Justin to Duran Duran to Simple Plan. He’s very versatile and I feel the same about my writing style. I definitely admire The-Dream’s success as one of the top sought after writers and also on the artist side. I hope that I will have the same success but I would never say I would be the next The-Dream.
DJ GLEW: Should Akon and T-Pain move aside? Are you the new go to guy for Hip Hop hooks?
KEVIN COSSOM: I think there’s room for everyone to eat. I just do what I do. I’m cool with Akon, T-Pain, and those guys. I actually got a feature on Akon’s new album that’s coming out. Akon and I also collaborated on a new Mary J. record that they just leaked out called ‘What About Tonight’. I don’t think anybody needs to move to the side or anything like that. If they want to or feel that way that’s cool but I feel we all can eat.
DJ GLEW: Name one song that you wrote for someone else and wished you kept for yourself.
KEVIN COSSOM: None really. Maybe some of the choruses or hooks that I written I wished I could’ve stayed on. Like ‘Speedin’ or the joint I did for Rick Ross called ‘Lay Back’. But Robin and R. Kelly did their thing so it was never like me feeling like I could do a better job or anything like that. Sometimes you just get attached to something that you write. Me stepping into the artist phase I definitely wanted to be apart of it as an artist but I recognize it’s part of the game. As a song writer that’s my job and they get the artist to sing it. The biggest thing for me was to make sure I made that transition from just being looked at as a song writer to being looked at as an artist and I think we’re getting there.
DJ GLEW: How has Danja and DJ Khaled been important to your success?
KEVIN COSSOM: They’re very important. Of course I’m signed to N.A.R.S. records which is Danja’s label. He’s extra talented as a musician. I learn a lot of different things from him. We challenge each other. He challenges me as a song writer and musician and I hope I do the same with him as a producer and musician. Like I said before he’s very versatile and talented which is a key strong point. With Khaled, I’m in Miami right now at We The Best which is Khaled’s studio, and it’s family with him, The Runners, and the whole team. One big thing I learned from Khaled is the intro to your record. You have to consider it to be DJ friendly and you want a DJ to be able to bring it back. And it catches the ear from the intro. As a DJ he knows certain things and what DJ’s look for and listen to. He’s also always there for an honest opinion. He’s never just going to be a yes man. He teaches you how to be confident when you speaking. Khaled’s got that.
DJ GLEW: Have you heard DJ Khaled’s Mcdonald’s commercial?
KEVIN COSSOM: [laughs] Yeah, that’s funny as hell! But that’s how he is though all day. A normal conversation with Khaled is that right there. You have to be around it man. It’s definitely cool though. That’s what he does. That McDonald’s commercial is hilarious!
DJ GLEW: Do you have any songs on DJ Khaled’s upcoming album “Victory”?
KEVIN COSSOM: Yeah, as of right now I have one joint on there but we’re trying to see what else. We’re still working. Until we have an actual release date I won’t know how many. But right now I have one joint on there. Actually there’s two songs. We like both of them but it’s a matter of which one. Or we might use two.
DJ GLEW: With Hip Hop heavyweights Rick Ross, Lil’ Jon, Snoop Dogg, Drake, Joe Budden, Plies, and Pusha T on your pre-album, who are you looking to work with for your debut album?
KEVIN COSSOM: I just started thinking about that. I’m in the phase of trying to finish the album right now. I like to just do my thing first and then figure out who would be good for a feature for this record. I feel like as the buzz grows I will be able to grab more people’s attention and it’ll be easier to get whoever. My problem before on the pre-album before this, a year ago, was that we needed features and it’s hard when you’re looked at as the little guy trying to get the top guys to be apart of your project. As you see now we’re doing different things and we’re getting these people apart of the project. As this mixtape grows our relationships will grow with people but we have a few connects and ideas. I don’t want to say too much right now until it’s final. But I’m going to do my end and make sure my sh*t is right then figure out what does this song need in terms of features. But you can definitely expect some features, I don’t know if I’ll have as much as the mixtape, but on the album I want to give as much of me as possible.
DJ GLEW: What will be the name of your debut album and what will be your first single?
KEVIN COSSOM: The first single is ‘Relax’ but we threw it on the mixtape because we wanted to get it out there and get people familiar with it. As far as the name we’re still unsure but we’re looking at a spring 2010 release.
DJ GLEW: Name one song that you are currently writing for another artist and you know it will be a future smash hit.
KEVIN COSSOM: Right now, I’ve been writing for me. But I wrote this joint with my homeboy Pooh Bear for Chris Brown called ‘What I Do’. It’s the number two song on iTunes right now. It just got leaked but it’s the number two song on iTunes in terms of purchased songs. Chris Brown featuring Plies and The Runners produced it. It’s called ‘What I Do’. I think that’s going to be a crazy record!
DJ GLEW: Finish this sentence. Kevin Cossom is the artist to watch for in 2010 because…
KEVIN COSSOM: Because I bring you feel good, clever, and relatable music that is authentic. From my point of view, I just do music because I love to do it and hopefully the consumer likes it as well. So far I’ve been fortunate to get people to like what I’m doing. I don’t really have a pitch of why I’m different or why you should mess with me. I know I write all my music and I’m heavily apart of the creative process. If you like good R&B and if you’ve ever been in a relationship before as far as the album goes there’s tracks based on boy meets girl, when you first meet someone, breaking up and getting back to together, and cheating. I think my concepts are very relatable. I have a passion for it and I hope that comes off when you listen to my music.
In this month’s latest exclusive Industry Interview feature for THE3XGP.COM, DJ Glew spoke to Brooklyn rapper Fabolous! Earlier this past summer, Faboloso released his fifth studio LP, Loso’s Way – his most compete album to date. DJ Glew talked to Fab about making MTV ‘s 2009 Hottest MC’s In The Game list, addressing his recent Twitter comments on 50 Cent, working with Ne-Yo on a joint album and much more! Special shouts go out to Jody ‘Cousin’ Laraya and Kevin Ash at Universal Music Canada.
FABOLOUS: I’m receptive and I definitely feel like it’s a cool thing. I really think a lot of people look at the list and it’s a topic of discussion. There are a lot of mixed reviews about it and talk about some MC’s that shouldn’t make the list and some that should be higher. I look at it in a accepted way that I even made the list in their eyes and it’s cool. But at the same time you may ask somebody else and they may say I deserved to be higher on the list. Before this I wasn’t even on the list and I felt I should’ve been. So I’m accepting of it and thankful of MTV for including me on the list.
DJ GLEW: What has been your favourite Twitter trending topic?
DJ GLEW: Give me an example of the Bow Wow one. Finish this Tweet: #sorrybowwow.
FABOLOUS: #sorrybowwow you can’t retire because your album sold 18,000 records in your first week. Take your brick like a man. That was the first one I put out there with him. [laughs]
Fabolous was ranked MTV’s 8th Hottest MC In The Game for 2009
DJ GLEW: You also have the Yung Berg’s head one. Finish this Tweet: #yungbergshead.
FABOLOUS: Oh ya. Yung Berg. [laughs] Yung Berg’s head is a Hip-Hop pinata, you keep hitting it until the Transformer pops out. [laughs]
DJ GLEW: What is a Twitter funeral? And what other Twitter terms have you invented?
FABOLOUS: A Twitter funeral is when you kill somebody via Twitter and you have to lay their Twitter account to rest. Usually the person doesn’t comply with it but the people know when you choke them so you have them a Twitter funeral. When you say T.I.P. that means Twitter In Peace that’s after you kill somebody and you just want to send your condolences.
DJ GLEW: How do you feel about the way Loso’s Way has been received?
FABOLOUS: I feel it has been received well. A lot of people have looked at it and have sort of broken it and seen me in a different light. I took a concept and gracefully made it work with what I wanted to say. But also made good music and also touched on the topic from “Carlito’s Way“. It got to be the number one record in the country on it’s first week. That was a great thing to me because at first it was leaked two and a half weeks before it was suppose to drop. So I was skeptical and not even sure if people would receive it as well or go out and still go get it because of how easy it was to grab a bootleg of it. It was really anticipated and people wanted to give it a hear. It’s hard when you want to hear something and really sit back and have to wait two weeks for the real one instead of just downloading it.
DJ GLEW: You have said that you want to work with Eminem. What type of song would the two of you record?
FABOLOUS: I have no idea I would actually like him to produce it and lead and then I would just follow. I think Eminem’s topics are a little different than mine in certain senses so I would really like him to come up with the scenario or topic or subject matter that he wants to take it in and I would speak from my lane and he can speak from his lane.
DJ GLEW: On Twitter you said: “Its interesting to c 50 Cent unite wit NY artists when he’s 1 of the reasons NY hip hop became so isolated & crumbled”. Can you further comment on this Tweet?
FABOLOUS: I think that if you were to ask 50 a couple years ago if you were to do a show with those people he would have said no. It was interesting to me. I actually was invited to do the show as well but I had a prior show so I couldn’t make it. He had these hopes up and he had really isolated himself with G-Unit when he first came out. He didn’t mix well with other artists and rappers unless it was Eminem, Dr. Dre, Lloyd Banks, Tony Yayo, and whoever was affiliated with him. He use to offer if you wanted to come be with him then you can come be with him and get money but other than that he wouldn’t rock with you. He hasn’t had many collaborations other than on his songs and this is why I found it interesting and out of no where they put together this show with New York rappers and Hip Hop which is great. But it’s kind of this destroy and rebuild situation.
DJ GLEW: Do you think it’s because of the lack of interest people are showing him now? Do you think he’s trying to do the DJ Khaled and unity thing?
FABOLOUS: I don’t really think he’s trying to do that. I don’t really know what’s going on in 50′s head of why he actually did it. But I put it out there for a topic of discussion and people had different perspectives on it. Some people said it might have been another one of his marketing things or publicity stunts. Other people said maybe he’s growing up and done beefing with certain people. I just put it out there for a topic of discussion and I wasn’t taking shots at him. I think certain people misunderstood in blogs and emails. Blogs will sort of take it and twist it in another way. But what I really did was put it out there like how a talk show would sensationalize or put shock value to it. But it would be something that would have been a conversation in the barbershop. But that’s what Twitter is, it’s like a big humongous barbershop where everyone puts in what they think. So that’s what I did when I woke up this morning and I saw something online about it. It just happened this weekend so I usually just speak about things that are relevant at the time.
DJ GLEW: Who is your favorite R&B artist to collaborate with?
FABOLOUS: Well all-time I would have to say Lil’ Mo. We have such a great chemistry, she’s also a fun person, cool to work with, and down to earth. Recently, me and Ne-Yo work pretty well and he’s also a good guy. There’s also Ryan Leslie because he’s a genius musically. I pretty much like working with a few people so you can have me going on and on but that’s just a rough bunch.
Fabolous ft. Keri Hilson – Everything, Everyday, Everywhere (2009)
DJ GLEW: What songs have you recorded with Ne-Yo for your joint album? And when’s that project coming out?
FABOLOUS: Actually we’re just putting songs together and trying to compliment the music for it. We reached out to Ryan Leslie to tie into like a co-executive producer of the project. We’re trying to put it together but it’s probably not going to come this year maybe like a next year thing. We’re just trying to bring that Hip-Hop and R&B marriage back and people haven’t done it on a biggest scale. Some of the biggest songs or radio songs are generated through the marriage of Hip-Hop and R&B.
DJ GLEW: What was the last thing you threw in the bag?
FABOLOUS: Yesterday I went to Barney’s and did a little shopping because there’s a Hip-Hop awards show (2009 BET Hip-Hop Awards) coming up and also there’s a couple videos to do. I just did a little shopping and kept my eye to what’s out there. I threw it in the bag but not too much. I also bought a Louis Vuitton book bag because I thought it was a cool thing.
DJ GLEW: Do you think over sized and overpriced throwback jerseys will ever make a comeback?
FABOLOUS: [laughs] Over sized not really. Overpriced I don’t know about jerseys. It’s hard for me to see jerseys coming back because it’s past it’s time and era. I looked at some of my jerseys before and tried them on and I couldn’t believe I wore them that big but I never use to pay for them and stuff like that. I think it had it’s time and era but I think it’s over. I don’t know anything that comes out 20 years ago and comes back so soon. I think it might be a little time before you see a jersey on somebodies back.
Fabolous ft. The-Dream – Throw It In The Bag (2009)
Meet 21-year old R&B singer Jeremih, the latest exclusive Industry Interview feature for THE3XGP.COM! Earlier this past summer, Jeremih jumped onto the music scene releasing his self titled debut album featuring the breakout hit ‘Birthday Sex.’ DJ Glew talked to the Def Jam artist about his early success at radio, who he would pick for an all XXL R&B freshmen cover and much more! Special shouts go out to Diego Vargas at Cornerstone and Phil Jones in assisting for the publishing of this interview.
DJ GLEW: You were on the America’s Most Wanted tour with Lil’ Wayne, Young Jeezy, Drake and Soulja Boy. How did it feel to be originally selected as the only R&B artist on the tour? Did the rap dudes pick on you?
JEREMIH: [laughs] No they didn’t. It’s been all love. Coming from Chi-Town. I represented my city on this tour. Most of my songs are not straight R&B. I wouldn’t classify myself as just an R&B singer. I attract all types of audiences and shout out to the people that copped the album. But being on the tour has been great! Hitting the stage first and warming up for all the ladies out there. And then Wayne came out and definitely kills it right after.
DJ GLEW: Who gets more girls, Hip Hop or R&B artists?
JEREMIH: R&B all day! All day!
DJ GLEW: Your self-titled album has no features. What artists do you want to collaborate in the future?
JEREMIH: I would start off with the roster on this tour. Wayne, (Young) Jeezy, and Soulja Boy. I’m all open and that wasn’t even intentional it just happened being the only R&B artist in the studio recording for 2008. I was just riding on the hooks for the other artists. But in the future I look forward to working with a lot of big artists out there like Kanye, West), Keri Hilson and Alicia Keys.
Jeremih – Break Up To Make Up (2009)
DJ GLEW: What type of artist do you want to become?
JEREMIH: I want to be known as a well-rounded artist. More than an artist when it comes to music. I’m a producer, composer, writer and I want to establish myself with all the above so people can look past the dude from ‘Birthday Sex’. I want to brand the Jeremih name and also get into Hollywood films.
DJ GLEW: If XXL had a magazine based on R&B’s Freshmen of 2009 who do you think would make the cover?
JEREMIH: R&B artists coming out right now? I’m trying to think on the R&B side. There wasn’t that much coming out but it’s still kind of early. Well there was me. New Boyz, but they’re more rap. Drake, who could be classified as R&B and Hip Hop all in one. He’s really more on that emo tip I think it’s called. Dorrough, I’m thinking more of rookies of new rapper that came in. And Wale. But there’s no other R&B acts as far as I can think of.
DJ GLEW: Where were you the first time you heard your idol R. Kelly on your song ‘Birthday Sex?’ And what was your reaction?
JEREMIH: I heard it from the plane and when I heard it I just went buck! Well, I heard about it a long time ago and he recorded it back in January. When I was first told R. Kelly is going on your remix but at that time I wasn’t even signed. The song wasn’t really anywhere and I didn’t have no label support. But once I heard it I was just like “wow” having R. Kelly as an R&B singer is like any rapper having Jay-Z on their record. He’s the king of R&B and he killed it. He had one of the best remixes of ‘Birthday Sex’. It really stood out to me and he represented for Chicago.
Jeremih – Imma Star (Everywhere You Are) (2009)
DJ GLEW: What is your favorite “Birthday Sex” parody?
JEREMIH: Yesterday I heard ‘Funeral Sex’ by Lyfe Jennings. I thought that was pretty good.
DJ GLEW: What about ‘Birthday Sucks’ with the Atari? Have you heard that?
JEREMIH: [laughs] Yeah, I seen that too!
DJ GLEW: What has been the best and worst birthday presents you ever received?
JEREMIH: Well now, I wouldn’t say I’m cursed but for the rest of my life it will be assumed that I have sex on my birthday. Being Mr. Birthday sex I would say that’s the best birthday present. But I’ve never really got a bad birthday present. I’ve never really been the one to unappreciated gifts.
DJ GLEW: You are cousins with Willie from Day26. At family BBQ’s is there ever a sing off? Do you guys just belt off your hits and compete?
JEREMIH: [laughs] No, we don’t but every year we have a family talent show. I was actually never known as the singer. He was. But we’re both supportive of each other and our families support us too.
DJ GLEW: What are some bad pronunciations of your name?
JEREMIH: [laughs] Oh wow! Off the top I’ll tell you already Jere-mya and Jere-mee. Yeah, that’s my number one pet peeve. I feel I got my name out there enough but even in my hometown people are calling in the radio station and mispronouncing the name. They usually blame it on their accents.
September 29th, 2009 | By Rick From Chicago | 497 views
The legendary regulator himself, Warren G steps in for the latest exclusive Industry Interview for THE3XGP.COM! DJ Ase recently had a chance to interview the West Coast MC about his new album The G Files (in stores now), his tenure in the rap game, producing records, Drake and more! Special shout goes out to Matt Conway.
DJ ASE: What’s new and tell us about your new release.
WARREN G: September 29th The G Files comes out, Raekwon, Travis Barker, Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg. It’s just feel good music. I’m also working on a lot of production and putting artists together.
DJ ASE: What’s feel good music? You say you wanna address real world issues yet not depress people.
WARREN G: I have a song called ‘Hold On’ and basically it’s telling people to hold you head high and no matter what keep goin’ until you reach your goals. So it’s feel good because it’s uplifting yet it’s addressing the real issues.
Warren G ft. Ray J – Crush (2009)
DJ ASE: What’s your favourite track on the album?
WARREN G: ‘Skate Skate’ is one of my favourites because I like to skate. There’s no drama, there’s a lotta ladies, just flowin’ and glidin’ across the wood floor, it’s feel good music.
DJ ASE: Who are the new up and coming artists on your album and what are you doing with them?
WARREN G: Black Nick, Bad Luck and Hola. I’m just given them a shot because they are talented rappers but never got a shot.
Warren G at the 2009 VH1 Hip Hop Honors show
DJ ASE: Can we anticipate any remixes after the album release? By Akon, T-Pain or any pop artists on the mainstream level to blend it in?
WARREN G: We’re gonna keep it how it is now, but I will be producing some beats for these pop artists and hopefully my production will pop off with them. I’ve sent out my acapellas out there, so if they wanna remix it go right ahead.
DJ ASE: This is your 7th album right? What direction are you goin’ into after? Are you gonna keep making albums, or go into production? What’s next for Warren G?
WARREN G: I’m really lookin’ for new artists that understands the whole deal like Snoop (Dogg). I have a lot of great artists but not everyone gets the whole picture. Now Drake understands how to make a song and understands how to relate to the people and captivate his fans.
DJ ASE: Now you mentioned electro funk. Me being a DJ, I’m noticing that the 120 BPM’s are catching on more than the 90 BPM classic hip-hop. What are your feelings on that?
Warren G performed ‘Regulate’ with Travis Barker and the late DJ AM (07-30-09)
WARREN G: I’ve tried that fast electro style and some people have come to me telling me to do it because that’s what hot right now. But I’m not trying to out do ‘Regulate.’ I’m just making good music that works for me. Slow or fast, whatever I feel will come out in the music. I’ve made many records with many big artists, producing and all of that. We’ve worked with Michael Jackson, Tupac, Redman, Dru Hill, Slick Rick, Doveshack, Indo Smoke, I could go on for days. You can go on www.discogs.com and you can see all of my work.
DJ ASE: So maybe 1 day we can put all this together on a mixtape and have your boy DJ Ase mix it up?
WARREN G: That would be dope, actually that’s a great idea DJ Ase. We’ll look into that.
DJ ASE: Any last word before we out?
WARREN G: Big up everyone in Toronto and around the world who supports me and my music, Big up DJ Ase for interviewing me and hopefully I will see you soon in Toronto. I love it out there and all the best to everyone. Go get the album The G Files on September 29, 2009, Peace Out!
September 28th, 2009 | By Rick From Chicago | 1,634 views
Playaz Circle are up next as the latest exclusive Industry Interview for THE3XGP.COM! Dolla and Tity talked to DJ Ase about their new album Flight 360: The Takeoff, the importance of the DJ, Michael Jackson and much more ! Special shouts goes out to A.J. Dixon of Disturbing Tha Peace and Kristen Tambara of the Cashmere Agency.
DJ ASE: What up people my name is DJ ASE and I rep www.the3xgp.com, right now we have Atlanta’s own Playaz Circle in the building what’s up guys how’s everything going ?
PLAYAZ CIRCLE: What’s up what’s Up… Thanks for having us today.
DJ ASE: So tell the people out there listening, who u guys are, where ya’ll are from and how you got started in the rap game?
PLAYAZ CIRCLE: We (Dolla and Tity) grew in south side Atlanta, and got met Ludacris a while back and he signed us to his label DTP/Def Jam. We always hustled hard to get our music on the radio, and after being consistent at that, we got a chance to meet Ludacris, leading up to our record deal. We said from the beginning, that if one of us gets signed, the other would not be left out under no circumstances. We started together and, we got signed together, and we will finish together.
Playaz Circle ft. Bobby Valentino – Can’t Remember (2009)
DJ ASE: Seeing that you have a new album coming out, how important s the DJ when promoting a new album?
PLAYAZ CIRCLE: The DJ is the person who connects the music with the audience, whether it be a radio DJ, mixtape DJ or club DJ. If that DJ is playing our music it only helps us when we approaching other avenues. Bottom line the DJ makes us popular. You have to make connections with DJ’s in your area to be successful.
DJ ASE: What’s the best promotion tool to use when releasing an album, is it the DJ, a video, personal meet and greet?
PLAYAZ CIRCLE: It’s definitely the DJ. The DJ, like I said before is the connection to all other avenues. So if we want to put out a video and approach BET or MTV the DJ pins will only help our credibility by playing the song and creating a following. Is not the video is pretty much useless.
Playaz Circle ft. Ludacris – Yeah We Gettin’ Rich (2009)
DJ ASE: You said your 1st album was a little rushed when released. On this one, you guys had more time. What’s different about the two and how do they compare.
PLAYAZ CIRCLE: Well on the 1st album we had immediate success with the single ‘Duffle Bag Boy’ and the label wanted to put something out ASAP because of the singles success. With the second one we had more time to execute all areas, marketing, putting more work into our singles and really putting our heart and soul into every track.
DJ ASE: You said Lil’ Wayne was one of your fans before you even dropped ‘Duffle Bag Boy” which features him on it. How did you guys connect with Wayne and how did that venture start?
PLAYAZ CIRCLE: We were signed to Universal (that was our 1st deal) and he was a product of Universal records and Tity had a cool relationship with Baby who is Wayne’s mentor/father. Spending time with them in the studio and at the label offices, helped this relationship grow.
Dolla
DJ ASE: What’s you favorite song off the new album?
PLAYAZ CIRCLE: ‘Big Dawg’ with Lil’ Wayne is really a good track, I think it was leaked already on the Internet but there’s a bunch of good music on this album, its hard to call 1 song my favourite.
DJ ASE: Who are some people you worked with on this new album?
PLAYAZ CIRCLE: Jagged Edge, Bobby Valentino, Lil’ Wayne, Cee-Lo Green of Goodie Mob and Ludacris. The album drops end of September so be sure to go get it. It’ll be available everywhere music is sold.
DJ ASE: What are your plans after dropping this album?
PLAYAZ CIRCLE: We gonna get right back to work on our next album, for sure we have some tours locked down, make some visits to our fans and keep grinding to make money and support out families. It’s all work and no play.
Tity Boi
DJ ASE: I hear you guys have a studio/label where you guys live? How much time do you spend in the studio?
PLAYAZ CIRCLE: Duffle Bag Studios is our second home, we always there. We treat out studio like a hotel. Every minute is a work day. We love what were doing, and were getting paid, so we try to maximize that opportunity.
DJ ASE: What would you include in your studio survival guide since you are always in the studio?
PLAYAZ CIRCLE: 50 chicken wings, 1 Sprite, 2 box’s of Cigarellos, an OZ of that Keyshia Cole strong stuff and a bottle of something, and I’d be good for 2-3 days…
Raekwon talks about working with Playaz Circle on the new album Flight 360: The Takeoff
DJ ASE: What was Michael Jackson’s inspiration to you?
PLAYAZ CIRCLE: He broke barriers for black talent. He was the first black person on MTV, he was a saviour to out culture and our people. His lyrics were strong and always made sense, he wasn’t just a dancer and pop singer, but he was a realist as well, and that’s something people don’t always see from Michael Jackson.
August 4th, 2009 | By Rick From Chicago | 1,786 views
Meet newcomer, K-Jon as he steps in for the latest exclusive Industry Interview for THE3XGP.COM! Newly signed to Universal Republic, K-Jon talked to Rick From Chicago about his hit record ‘On The Ocean’, his song writing process, the struggles of emerging as a new artist, where he sees himself in 5 years, the release of his new album and much more ! Special shout goes out to Michelle McDevitt.
RFC: How did you come about your artist name K’Jon? It’s got a unique ring to it.
K’Jon: (Laughs) That’s actually abbreviated for me. It’s short for Hakeem Jonson, so it wasn’t that hard
RFC: Explain how you selected the title of your album I Get Around.
K’Jon: I made a record, like an audio documentary of like what life was like before Universal Republic. I was independently working On The Ocean and was getting around to the small cities in the Ballroom and Stepping communities performing the record. And I found myself getting around. So I said to myself, I’m finally getting around…but I’m not getting on radio. So it was kind of like a sarcastic type of record, but it was definitely a fond gesture.
RFC: Recently your song ‘on the ocean’ broke the record for making the largest jump to #1 in Nielson BDS-based chart history, besting Alicia Keys ‘Fallen’ in 2001.
K’Jon: That’s crazy. When I got the e-mail blast on that one, I went out and I almost fainted. It was a blessing. I just want to continue and keep building the momentum.
RFC: I’ve read that you had thoughts to giving the song ‘On the Ocean’ to a more established artist out there but decided to keep it. How close were you to shipping this song out to another singer?
K’Jon: It’s so funny, the guy who said not to sell it is sitting right in the building next to me during this interview…How close? It was very close. I was convinced not to do it. This is your ticket, this is your key to getting into the game. I was thinking of selling it but my friend said don’t do it man. I’m so glad I kept this record.
RFC: What was it like to shoot with video director Rik Cordero? He’s been to known to shoot primarily with rap artists like Capone-N-Noreaga, Rick Ross, Saigon, Dead Prez just to name a few
K’Jon: We did some research, they gave me a list of video directors and he was the best pick. And we had a good time in Detroit shooting this video. The message in this video is about perseverance and just working hard until that ship comes in. It’s also about putting food on the table, finding your soul mate, a career change. I think we really conveyed those messages and I really enjoyed working with Rik.
RFC: Some of your early work has been compared to your peers such as Ne-Yo and Robin Thicke, who have both gone on to successful careers. What it’s like to be mentioned with those caliber type artists?
K’Jon: That’s just the ultimate compliment to be compared to those guys because of their current successes. And I think the comparisons are made because not only are they artists, but they also write and produce. And that’s the main comparison. At the end of the day, everyone’s unique. I’m unique, by my experiences that have come across in my music. The uniqueness is based on my experiences and what I write about.
RFC: When you are not in the studio recording new music or performing live on stage, what does K’Jon like to do outside the music world?
K’Jon: I like to spend time with my family. I’m also a movie buff. I like listening to music. I’m also a huge basketball fan. It’s hard to get all that stuff in when you’re working. But I try my best to get my ‘daddy time’ with my 2 kids as well. Definitely I put my kids first.
RFC: What is your song writing process like?
K’Jon: I’m a little weird when it comes to writing songs to be honest with you. I don’t write them on paper. Actually when I write a song, I actually drive my car. I put the music in and take a long drive. Sometimes I rehearse the verses, that way when I get into the studio, I feel like I’ve already recorded the song in my head. I know how it should sound, I listen back to it and if that’s not the way it sounds in my head, we’ll record it again. So I’m a little different when it comes to writing songs.
RFC: For those who don’t know, talk about the pressures and struggles of an artist who has built a solid following locally but is trying to get to the next level of recognition on a national level
K’Jon: It’s very difficult. But perseverance can pay off. You may have a #1 record on your hands, but you have to work it locally, you have to travel and get that song in other people’s hands. A lot of new artists I would advise is to take their song to radio. You have to build your fan base. You have to start with the mom and pop stores. You have to start with the local club DJ’s. You have to start with the local shows. You have to get out and travel…you have to. Although it’s a blessing for me to be at this level, I did take those same steps I just outlined. And I can only pass advise of what I’ve been through.
RFC: What did the death of Michael Jackson have on you? Was he an early influence at all growing up?
K’Jon: Everybody wanted to be like Mike, and unfortunately for me. I couldn’t moonwalk (laughs). His death was a great, terrible loss for the world and it was unfortunate. He’s been through a lot with the scrutiny in the press for most of his life. I did watch the memorial and I would have been there if I could have. I was very touched with his daughter’s words. He’s gonna be missed. But as a person, you find out what a humanitarian he was. You find out all the great stories about him and we indeed lost a great person.
RFC: What does the day of Tuesday, August 4th mean to you?
K’Jon: Pressure (laughs). Everyone is preparing me for August 4th. I’m a nervous wreck. It’s a national release for me but you now what? My label is preparing me for the long run. We feel like we put together a great album. And I’m not going away tomorrow. I’ll be here and once people find out what’s on the album and they see the consistency like great songs like ‘On The Ocean’, people are going to come out and support me. Although I’m nervous, it’s gonna be a fun time. When someone picks up that CD and says ‘Man you did your thing!’ that’s all I want to hear.
RFC: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
K’Jon: I see myself with a few albums, I see myself being one of the premier entertainers in the world. You will also see me rise as a producer, a song writer and a guy you can count to make that hit.
RFC: Right now I’d like to do a little word association with you. I’ll mention to you some names or words and whatever comes to mind, you can respond back with a short answer that best sums it up ok?
K’Jon WORD ASSOCIATION
John Mayer: Great.
The film, The Pursuit of Happiness: Very touching.
Universal Republic: Family.
Up&Up Records: Family.
The Stepping and Ballroom communities: The people I owe it all today.
Jazmine Sullivan: Such a wonderful talent.
Area code 313: Always and forever my home.
RFC: Before we conclude, are there any shouts or plugs or websites you’d like to give right now?
K’Jon: Definitely you can hit me at www.whoiskjon.comand www.myspace.com/whoiskjon. I want to say thank you to guys for helping me, as well as Universal Republic and getting my music across the globe
RFC: Alright K’Jon, thank you for taking the time to talk with THE3XGP.COM, we wish you continued success with the new album .
Staten Island’s finest, Raekwon steps in for the latest exclusive Industry Interview for THE3XGP.COM! Newly signed to EMI Label Services, the Chef talked to Rick From Chicago about his long awaited album, rocking the stage at the Rock The Bells tour, the possibility of reuniting with the Wu-Tang Clan, his thoughts on the Internet, working with Outkast, his acting career and much more! Special shout goes out to Matt Conway.
RFC: Your upcoming album Only Built For Cuban Linx II, is the sequel to your 1995 classic LP. Looking back on that album and where you are today, what do you think has changed the most for you since that time period?
Raekwon: I think I’ve grown more as a stronger MC, a stronger artist as far as lyrical content is concerned. Basically I’ve advanced my skills. I feel more comfortable with how I rhyme today as far as when I was doing my thing back then. So obviously I just got mad more stronger and better at making good music you know what I mean? So that’s what I could really say. They say they really grow with time…so 10 years up now, it’s like I’m more able to know how to do what to I want to do now, you know?
RFC: Who can we expect to collaborate with you on your new album?
Raekwon: You’re gonna have all kinds of collaborations on this album as far a production wise. I don’t wanna just put RZA in a situation to where he has to be responsible for the whole project. As the years fly by, you know brothers have other obligations and shit they have to do. And I feel like we done put so much work into this that we already know where we wanna go and with me as an individual (for this project). I already know how to do what I got to do, so I just wanted to put a little twist on it given that this is Cuban Linx II and give other legendary producers the opportunity to come in with they heat. Because we respect strength and numbers….at the end of the day we just made sure that we came with something that coincide with the first one (Only Built 4 Cuban Linx). And the producers who got down, they understood it and they came in with their historical shit and made it even more illa. So like I said, this is like incredible right here, to be able to have legends really come to the table and assist you on your robot (referring to his LP). We made a strong robot…2009 version you know?
Raekwon ft. Method Man & Ghostface Killah – New Wu (2009)
RFC: You’ve been often given the recognition as one of the nicest storytellers in the rap game. Do you think story telling today is still prevalent in hip-hop, or is it all about ring tone sales and digital downloads?
Raekwon: Well you know the ring tone artists kind of took over in their own little window. But when it comes to creative shit, that’s when you step into our department, you know what I mean? It’s like I hear a lot of people say the golden era rappers, they don’t get as much shine as the new commercial artists. But the golden era rappers are still relevant as far as making that kind of hip-hop. Like you can’t get that from a lot of these cats now. So for me, I just stay in my lane and just do the best that I can do and don’t look at it from a commercial point of view. I look at it from a respect (point of view) as an MC, as somebody that’s coming to the table and bringing authentic hip-hop to the table know what I mean? That’s my department. So I’m just gonna stay in my lane and whoever wants to roll with me, is gonna roll with me. Whoever is looking for a commercial artist it’s like…maybe I’m not that dude for you, you what I mean? That’s why we called this album, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx because it’s only built for a few people you know what I mean? Everybody is really to hear this real hip-hop shit. You know I don’t make this album to be an album I consider for radio that’s going to get 10,000 spins a month you know what I mean? This just a real street album that you can actually say ‘yo hip-hop is still here, period.’
RFC: What’s it like to work with the RZA again? Because on your last solo album back in 2003 (The Lex Diamond Story), he had no production credits at all.
Raekwon: RZA is my brother. At the end of the day we got so many years of really being in the studio together. Whatever RZA has done, has done brushed off on me and that’s reciprocated. We kind of all feed off each other and it feels good to know that when I came back started working with him again, he actually had what I felt was the next level for Cuban Linx II. The formula was so important and he really sat up many nights and really made sure that we got that new sound. Lots of people know us to come with crazy, ill production and lyrical gun play and just the collaborative efforts that we’ve put on this album. I really feel that’s where I really need to be at right now. The thing is, at the end of the day we just wanted to sit back and wanted give y’all niggas a classic. Something that ya’ll can say ‘yo…damn the production, I never heard a beat like that…I never heard a nigga rhyme like that before’…so like I said, it feels good to be back around my dude doing it again, as well the Clan you know what I mean? It ain’t just a RZA thing, it’s a Clan effort thing you know what I mean? I feel like the Clan played their part and we got it in.
Rock The Bells 2009 Press Conference
RFC: You guys will also be touring together on the upcoming Rock The Bells tour. What is it about this particular tour that’s brings you back to the forefront?
Raekwon: To me, Rock The Bells tour is basically a platform that allows artists from today, yesterday and tomorrow to really get out there and do their thing for the real fans. I can literally sit here and say that all the people who come to Rock The Bells, only 20% of them are listening to the radio. The rest of them, 80% are definitely just starving for real hip-hop and starving for fresh new real hip-hop. So you know, I look at the Rock The Bells as just one of them kind of tours, where you don’t gotta be a commercial selling artist to be on that tour. That could kind of fuck around and backfire on you. Because a lot of them motherfuckers don’t like the commercialness. We want the hip-hop that has that energy that gives you that feeling, that credibility that an MC deserves. So I just look at that as a platform for real MC’s to get up there and do they thing. It ain’t about that commercial success. It’s about coming with that real shit.
RFC: Are there any artists in this current era of rap that you haven’t had a chance to work with that you would like to collaborate with down the road?
Raekwon: It’s a few I’ll tell you that. One thing about me is that whether you’re a platinum artist or whether you a new artist, I mean I gotta feel your vibe. I gotta know that this is something that you really love and you got a passion for it and we’ll work together. I can’t really just sit here and tell you who I really want to work with because I respect a lot of dudes you know what I mean? There’s a lot of cats that I didn’t get a chance to work with that you know that I want to work with but you know, time will present itself. When it’s time, you’ll hear it and that’s that. But I don’t sit around and say I wanna work with this one or that one. You know I’ve worked with mad people in the game already, so it’s only a few that I really feel like I can work with that I’m interested. A lot of shit won’t really stick if I really sit there and point at everybody. It might be shit…’that’s kind of a weird one right there’…or ‘maybe you might say that sounds interesting, I wanna hear that one,’ you know what I mean? You always gotta be optimistic about who we deal with and make sure that the chemistry is supposed to work. It has to work. It’s not just something where we’ll try anything. I don’t just like trying anything.
RFC: Earlier in your career, the Internet was nowhere to be found. Today, it’s as prevalent as ever. Does the Internet have more pros or cons when it comes to putting out an artist’s music out there on the web?
Raekwon: I think the internet just allows a lot of people to be able to get at you with the quickness, more then actually waiting for your music to come over the radio. So it’s kind of like a gift and a curse with the Internet. Right now we dealing with new technology today, so a lot of people you know they download shit. Maybe they test the waters of what they’re going to purchase know what I mean? At the end of the day, if you a real fan, it’s like you can download somebody’s music but if you love it you know you gotta have a copy of it in your car. I just want to make sure people understand to go out there and support artists you know? We do a lot of work. We stay in the studio for hours trying to really do our things for y’all, especially for a brother like myself that really really worked hard on this project. I’m trying to make brothers and sisters go out there and get to them stores and get this album ‘cause I feel like you know it’s worth it. If it’s worth spending your money…go get it. If you don’t feel like it’s worth spending your money, download it….do what you got to do. I can never stop a person from doing whatever they gonna do. I think a lot of times shit gets downloaded because ‘yo it ain’t worth going to buy.’ Fuck that, know what I mean? But if it’s worth going to buy and the shit on the album cover that they feel is worth having, as far as going through the album, looking at the pictures, looking at the sleeve, looking at how everything was being done…You know artists gotta start putting a little more time into shit like that. But you got some artists that don’t really go that far about caring about their shit. For me, I’m putting shit on the album cover to really make people go out and be like ‘yo I could download it but I need to have that in my classic drawer with all my good shit’, you know what I mean?
RFC: Here’s a little play on one of your rap names. When Raekwon is in the kitchen, what can the Chef be caught cooking?
Raekwon: Chef be cooking…crack nigga! (Laughs)
RFC: Wu-Tang Clan put out some phenomenal trend setting records in the 90’s. What is your favorite Wu track of all time?
Raekwon: Na I don’t have one favorite but you know one thing about Wu-Tang, it’s like…you can’t really base our entire music on singles you know what I mean? We make strong albums. That’s the difference between us and different artists. You can catch artists that make good singles but Wu-Tang, we really try to go all the way through the bar to make good albums. One song may hit you today, and then three days later you might be stuck on another song. And that’s my thing. I don’t like to listen to albums that only got one or two good records and then that’s it. To me that’s not a good album. And I could sit there and listen to an album and say ‘yo there’s about 8-10 joints on there and a little bit more…that’s worth to buy.’ So we kind of specialize on that side of the table.
RFC: Let’s switch gears and talk about your acting career. Are you still doing any projects on the side? You’ve got that look to play a bad guy on TV or the big screen, I think you could still do some serious damage as a villan!
Raekwon: (Laughs) I think you right. I think I could really sit there and play a character because I’m doing the same thing on wax, you know what I mean? So as time will prevent itself, you know we got some things on the line with people that wanna work with me in the movie game. And if everything works out and you know they doing it correctly and I feel like it’s worth it, I’m going for it. So we’ll talk about that…we’ll let you know. But there’s a few things on the table, you know what I mean?
Raekwon – Only Built 4 Cuban Linx was released on Tuesday, August 01, 1995.
RFC: We heard you this year on Jadakiss’ The Last Kiss with Ghostface Killah for the track ‘Cartel Gathering.’ This record was definitely a throwback to New York rap. What was it like to work with Jada, who’s holding down NYC right now?
Raekwon: No doubt, no doubt. I’m happy for Jada too. You know he’s definitely an MC that I could say paved the way for a lot of cats in the game in today to be able to stand up and put their work in. ‘Kiss is a veteran right now. He’s paid his dues you know what I mean? He’s definitely a lyrical swordsman and I’m just glad that people’s respecting him. He definitely represents the underground kings of today. So I’m happy for him.
RFC: One of all my time favorite collaborations are the ones you have done with Outkast , including 2008’s ‘Royal Flush‘ for Big Boi’s upcoming Sir Lucious Left Foot album. Many people will remember what you did on ‘Skew It On The Bar-B’ back in 1998 off their Aquemini LP. What’s your relationship with them, as you’re one of a very select few in the industry who get to work with the duo?
Raekwon: I mean #1, we all part of that golden era team, back in the 90’s when we was coming up. And when I worked with Outkast on that first record, that was around the time the South was being ridiculed for not really being out there like that, you know what I mean? But I was like the very first guy who actually believed in the south cats and really supported them and watched that record pick up in New York. It’s like…we just have a good friendship. Like I’ve said, one thing about me, you know we loved all over man…East, West, North, South. And my thing is, I respect what they do. They very talented, they’re creative cats and they know how to rhyme, you know what I mean? So to me its like, when we (Wu-Tang Clan) took off, it kind of opened the door for the South to really get the love that they wanted to get from New York and for New York to respect the south. And I think that I was the first one to actually bust that cherry open for the South, by doing a song with Outkast. So I think everything played its part for a good reason, and we still carry that same respect in the south because people don’t forget, you know what I mean? And that’s why I know I’m big in the South. One thing about the South is that they don’t fuck with everybody from New York but if they do, they respect certain niggas. And I happen to be one of them niggas they look up to. And they didn’t forget when nobody wasn’t checking for them, the Chef was checking for them, you know what I mean? And that’s a good feeling for me.
RFC: Once this album drops this summer, any chance we will see the Wu-Tang Clan reunite?
Raekwon: Yeah, I mean you know…definitely. When you hear this album, you gonna know that Wu-Tang is still Wu-Tang. Because one thing about us, we from a certain grain of hip-hop where we don’t know how to do nothing but – really get lyrical with it you know what I mean? And I think this time, we found the proper production to really enhance everybody’s skills and shit. So when you hear it, it’s gonna feel like another Wu album again, you know what I mean? And that’s how I always felt about the first Cuban Linx, it’s like yo that’s a Wu album. Regardless of Raekwon’s solo album or everybody is coming into my world, at the end of the day I couldn’t do it alone without the help of my brothers. So you’re just gonna feel that energy. And like I said just when people think it’s over, that’s when we come back and fuck your head up again you know what I mean? And that’s what’s gonna happen this go around.
RFC: You’re one of hip-hop’s most legendary artists of all time. You’ve been quoted as saying “I’ve put my blood, sweat and tears into making this classic album for my fans.” Many of your loyal followers will be marking the date down when this album drops. What does this album mean to you? 15 years deep in the game and a lot of people have come and gone.
Raekwon: You know this album is basically the passion. When you think of my first solo album, it’s like we was fresh off the streets, you know what I mean? We didn’t know nothing about the business, all we knew was how to rhyme, MC and take your head off lyrically. So when I look at it like that, I look at it 15 years later, it kind of like just makes me feel like you know, step back down memory lane and take off all the glitter and gold…and basically just go all in as a real MC. Where you aren’t worried about if you got your radio record or you worried about if it gonna be played on the air. It’s like everything is just from the heart, you know what I mean? It’s just me looking at it like here it is… ‘yo I’m back at square one again with a shot’, you know what I mean? Like I said, I love real hip-hop, it ain’t so much about the sales, and it’s more about more or less making a strong album and a statement with your record. And I think that’s what we did, we made a statement again. We came with another classic that I know for a fact it’s a classic. Just to have the certain kind of production and the certain kind of people involved with it, it’s a classic already in the making. How many people you know who could get a J DILLA, a RZA, and a (Dr.) Dre combination, you know what I mean? That’s kind of like…unorthodox. A lot of people can’t get that (type of production).
Raekwon – Incarcerated Scarfaces (1995)
RFC: Right now I’d like to do a little word association with you. I’ll mention to you some names or words and whatever comes to mind, you can respond back with a short answer that best sums it up ok?
RFC: Before we conclude, are there any shouts or plugs or websites you’d like to give right now?
Raekwon: Yeah I just wanna tell all the fans that I love ‘em, sorry for the delay. You will get your money’s worth and please go out there and cop real hip-hop. Go the stores and get out there and represent your favorite rappers, it’s worth it. Spend your money’s worth wisely, trust me over here you’ll be good. You’ll get every dime worth off what you want.
RFC: Alright Mr. Raekwon, thank you for taking the time to talk with THE3XGP.COM, we wish you continued success when your new album drops.
Dolla
Tity Boi
