LIVE IN THE CLUTCH : HIP-HOP'S CHECKMATE

(CP) When did you first fall in love with Hip-Hop?

“ I first fell in love with Hip- Hop back in the early 80`s. I was a kid when Hip-Hop was in its infant stages. The first time I went to a block party was back when I use to live in Castle Hill Projects up in the Bronx. I saw these dudes called the Young Sound Masters perform in the park. From there, I became really interested in Hip-Hop music and the culture as a whole.”

(CP) Where is Wildelux from? Do you feel your city gets adequate media coverage socially and musically?

“I'm from the Bronx, NYC. Socially, the Bronx does get media coverage, but I think sometimes for the wrong reasons. There are a lot of great and good people in the Bronx.”

“Musically, I don't think the Bronx gets enough respect and that's probably due to how far Hip-Hop has come. A lot of people coming up in Hip-Hop nowadays don't know the history or the culture of Hip-Hop. There are codes and rules to this culture, that every Hip-Hop artist should learn and know. Codes and rules that I still abide by to this day.”

(CP) How has performing overseas shaped your views as an emcee today? Do you see a difference between the Hip-Hop culture Internationally and Nationally?

“I believe every artist should experience touring or doing shows overseas. It has definitely broaden my horizons. Once you experience it, you want to do it more. The Hip-Hop culture overseas is more exciting. The supporters are more appreciative of the music and the culture as a whole. Last year when I was in Germany, I saw and met Graph writers everywhere. I met producers and D J's everywhere! Most of the people there do it just for the love. It felt like they were trying to preserve the culture. Whereas back home, people are just jumping on the bandwagon trying to be hot for fifteen seconds and trying to get what they can get in a short period of time, instead of honing and mastering their craft and being original.”

(CP) Could you tell our Clutch Players University readers about the current Album / EP you have out? Did you work with any producers?

“Right now, I have an album out with my dude out of Los Angeles, DJ Lord Ron. The name of the album is called 'The Sinister Theory.' The album has ten tracks all produced by DJ Lord Ron. Its available on iTunes and soon on CD, cassette and possibly vinyl.”

(CP) What’s next for Wildelux? Are you doing any shows / tours?

“I'm always recording and writing. Even if there isn't any projects that I'm working on, I still try to stay busy and keep building. There are many things cooking up in the pot, but I can't really speak on anything until I know it's one hundred percent done. In October, I'll be heading back out to Europe with my dude D-Strong.”

(CP) Would you briefly describe Wildelux style?

“I would describe my style as Real. Not in the street sense, but in the context where I can talk about real things thats going on around the world. Whether it be at home or abroad. I never like to put myself in a box. I must have room to expand and grow, at the same time being true to myself.”

(CP) Here at Clutch Players University we are about Sports and Hip-Hop. Since, football season is approaching. What team your rooting for this season. What's your prediction for the playoffs?

“Its been a while since I've followed sports. I guess I don't have the patience to sit down and watch sports like I use to. That would be a difficult call. Plus, I live overseas now, so it's really hard for me to keep up with sports back home on a regular basis.”

(CP) Could you briefly give our Clutch Players University readers a glimpse into who is Wildelux?

“ I'm a simple dude who loves music or anything that is creative. I tend to be a loner at times, because I get more done moving alone, than with a group of yes men. I do have a team, but I can count them on one hand. That's how small it is. It's important that I have peace of mind and take care of my family. I will always be connected to Hip-Hop or music in general. It's in the blood!”

(CP)Whats the illest line you've ever heard, it could be from your rhymes or one of your favorite emcee?

“I would have to say Rakim from the song ' I Ain`t No Joke.' The part where he says: “I take you through a walk through hell, freeze your dome watch your eyeballs swell guide you out of triple stage darkness.”

“The reason why I like that line is because he said it back in 1987, and it was ahead of it's time. It was a very creative and a vivid picture he painted with that line. It took it to a new level of free-style/ battle-type rhymes.”

(CP) What is your take on the state of Hip-Hop today?

“I get asked this question often. I would say there is a lack of balance in the music. Because of that lack of balance, you have many artists who try to rock in other people lanes and styles. They don't try to be original. It's too much work. Just jump on the band wagon, get paid and that's it. It's all about the hustle and grind nowadays and not the music.”

“But on a positive note, we do have artists that are more independent and handling their business. Starting companies, branching out and doing other things.”

(CP) Could you name some artists Wildelux is listening to?

“I won't lie, I tend to listen to a lot of Old School music. That sound just resonates with me. But, if I have to choose from what's going on now, Joey BADASS is real dope. I really dig what he is doing! There are many underground artists that I listen to. Also, I try to keep my ears open for new talent as well.”

(CP) Could you leave some encouraging words to visionaries, dreamers and the clutch players?

“Shout-out to Clutch Players University for the interview. I really appreciate it. Much respect to what you guys do. For the visionaries and dreamers, keep planning, keep dreaming, keep moving to your goal(s). Let no one or anything stop you from reaching your dreams. Learn from every experience, whether it be good or bad. Protect your dreams. Be careful who you share your dreams and passion with. Work hard in silence, let success make the noise! Lastly, believe in the creator and you have to believe in yourself.”