THE RISING $UN

Clutch Players University @clutchsociety writer Nikole -Jaye @nikolejaye had the chance to catch up with Hip-Hop's emperor Peter $un.

(CP) When did you fall in love with Hip-Hop? Why did you choose Hip-Hop as your platform?

“I cant honestly say I ever truly fell in love with Hip-Hop. I started off listening to a lot of old R&B and Jazz as a kid, then I got a little older and I got really into Tupac, Jodeci and shit like that. Rhyming just kind of became a thing for me. I did a lot of poetry that evolved into rap. I got decent at it and found it as a way to express my feelings and thoughts / opinions on life thats why people can connect with me.”

(CP) From your perspective are there any similarities or differences in Underground Music and Mainstream Hip-Hop culture ? If so could you briefly describe the similarities or differences?

“ I feel like there are no real similarities. Underground rap to me is more organic and soulful. Its the songs for the average listener and songs for people that don't live a lavish lifestyle. Most mainstream Hip-Hop today is for the people who front or live beyond their means. mainstream rap to me is unrealistic at this point.”

(CP) Could you briefly tell our Clutch Players the city you come from? And, how did that city shaped your mentality and music?

“I'm from Richmond,Virginia. That city has so many different sounds from Trap, Neo-Soul, Hip-Hop, and EDM. Its such a melting pot for culture / race and you can take a little bit from every section of the city. Also, being around so much talent and various sounds that I enjoy blending to make something amazing think really shaped my music.” 

(CP) Here at Clutch Players University we value consistency. What do you want to contribute to the culture of Hip-Hop musically and socially?

“ Musically, I want to contribute to the the Art Form in Hip-Hop. I'm into the timeless shit.”

“ Socially, I’m all about putting out music that means something to someone. Maybe, I'm going through what someone else is going through and they may think they are alone but i want them to know they aren’t. Basically, I want to be like a big brother to my listeners.”

(CP) Could you briefly describe to our Clutch Players University readers. Who is Peter $un?

"Peter $un is a free spirit.”

(CP) What can the people expect next from Peter $un?

"I'm finishing up my album called "Sunset Castle" the release date is (TBA). However, on December 20^th, I'll be performing in Ohio at BUZZBIN, and working on a few things for next year.”

(CP) Aside, from listening to your music. What artist's does Peter $un listen to?

“ I listen to Jai Paul, Kid Cudi, Sunny & Gabe, Abhi// Dijon, and Goldlink. The majority is a lot of underground music plus classic Hip- Hop like Biggie Smalls, Nas, and Tupac.”

(CP) If you were not pursuing your music. What sport would you see yourself playing?Why?

“ If I wasn’t into music I would play Hockey. Because, I've always been into that shit, slamming a n.... on the glass and all that. I really love hockey.”

(CP) In your opinion do you think the Hip-Hop culture is organically evolving?

“ Yes, I think it is. At this point you have to be really artistic with music. Theres so many artists out here that are making the same music and then there are so many making different and more unique styles of music and its so competitive. You have to evolve with the times to be noticed now a days. So, I definitely think the Hip-Hop culture is evolving and its exciting to see.”

(CP) Could you provide some words of encouragement for the Clutch Players University, dreamers, or visionaries?

“ Stay consistent, work hard. I'm the type that worked hard for years and years before i was even recognized by a lot of the people who are finally catching on. That doesn't mean to rush to put music out, take your time, and develop a sound of your own.”

Take over the fucking world!!

Events & Shows:

Inquires For Peter $un Contact Ken Kwaku JR (MGMNT) Via.inquire.petersun@gmail.com

Music Connections:

 https://www.soundcloud.com/pedrosol

Social Connections:

https://www.facebook.com/PedroSolMusic

https://www.twitter.com/iampetersun

 

Artwork:

https://www.twitter.com/Friv_KenniK

https://www.twitter.com/validvaultures

Production:

https://www.twitter.com/beatmachinearon

 

"The only thing I'm movin' is music" - Why Fi

Clutch Players University caught up with Not A Collective member Why Fi which he gave us a glimpse into what it means to be WHYreless. 

(CP) When did you fall in love with Hip-Hop? Why did you choose Hip-Hop as your platform?

 

"I fell in love with Hip- Hop when I was four. It was when my older brother and his best friend, at the time, played Tupac's "Hit Em Up" when I was at his friends house. I remember screaming "...Nigga I hit him up!" as a child because it felt awesome to just yell around the house. That started to open my eyes to the very diverse world of music, in general. Now, I wouldn't necessarily say that Hip- Hop is my "platform", but rather it fits the sound that I'm going for at the moment. I want to be able to create all different types and styles of music throughout my career and use a myriad of "platforms" to show versatility."

(CP) From your perspective are there any differences or similarities in Hip-Hop within the Underground and Mainstream Hip-Hop? If so could you briefly describe the differences and the similarities?

"They're many differences and similarities between mainstream and underground Hip- Hop. Some similarities that mainstream and underground Hip- Hop share are certain flows a rapper chooses to use when reciting bars, certain rhyme schemes such as "lean, beam, dream, cream, etc", and topics such as turning up, selling drugs, and women. The differences I'd say would be the style  in which an artist chooses to spit or depict what they're ultimately trying to say."

(CP) Could you briefly tell our Clutch Players University the city your from? And, how did that city shaped your mentality and rhymes?

 

"I was born and raised in Takoma Park, Maryland but I currently live in Wheaton, MD. Living in both cities really shaped my mentality and rhymes in such a big way because of the all things I've experienced first hand, as well as the things that my family and friends experienced that affected me. For instance, me being exposed to the life of doing and selling drugs just to get by, young girls prostituting themselves with older guys, gang-related activity, robbing / looting, fights, shootings / stabbings, friends getting locked up, and so on all at a very young age really opened my eyes to how the world really works; which ultimately influenced me to not only sell drugs but do them as well, get into fights in order to protect myself, rob / steal from others. But at the end of the day I put all of that behind me because I feel that even though I was raised a certain way and was around a lot of negativity, I can make the most out of it and spread positivity and help others avoid the shit that I went through."

"We all have it rough at times but we don't necessarily have to be stuck in those ways of trying to "come up" when we call can "come up" together in a more positive/embracing way."

(CP) Here at Clutch Players University we value consistency. What do you want to contribute to the culture of Hip-Hop musically and socially?

"Musically, I'd like to contribute quality work in Hip-Hop, at all times. I'm very consistent with my approach to every verse and song and just make music that's genuine to me."


"Socially, I'd like to leave my imprint on society in a way similar to how Bob Marley did with his music. He was able to promote peace, love and positivity throughout the entire world with his music, and I aspire to do the same, to an extent."

(CP) Could you briefly describe to our Clutch readers. Who is Why Fi?

I'm simply The Most WHYreless person you'll ever meet; which basically is the concept of living one’s life free of restrictions and limitations in order to achieve self actualization and ultimate happiness. One can become “WHYreless” by simply cutting ties with conformity, complacency, and minimalistic desires in the attempt to want, need, and do better (for oneself as well as for others). This implies that one who is content with mediocrity lives life as a “wired” individual; and by cutting said ties, you’ve taken the first step to becoming whyreless. Being WHYreless is also a state of mind in which one chooses to live and aspire for more than that of the status quo; similar to how a satellite roams over the globe.

(CP) What can the people expect next from Why Fi?
 

"The Most WHYreless EP" is an eight track EP that is set to drop January 4th, 2015. I already have one video out right now for a song entitled "WHYreless" which, in context to the project, explains to females what it's like to be with someone that is as WHYreless as myself. The second single off the EP is called "Deadzone" is dropping with a visual which is coming pretty soon, as well as another visual set to drop after the EP is released sometime in January called "The Crash." I think this body of work is the most cohesive sounding project that I've ever made but that'll be up for you all to decide once you download it.

(CP) Aside, from listening to your music. What artist's does Why Fi listen to?

"I literally will listen to about anything, aside from certain polka or country songs. I'm the type of person who you'd see listen to Led Zeppelin, Bob Marley, Nas Oasis, Black Star, Common, Drake, Lupe Fiasco, Odd Future, Toro Y Moi, TDE."
 

(CP) In your opinion which emcee could have a successful run as an athlete? Which, athlete could have a successful run as an emcee?
 

"I think Chris Brown could be a successful athlete because he's very good at basketball (from what I've seen in celebrity / charity games). And I wouldn't be surprised if Shaquille O'Neal wanted to make another run at rapping."

(CP) In your opinion do you think the Hip-Hop culture is organically evolving? Is there a difference between Rap / Hip-Hop today?

I definitely think that the Hip- Hop culture is organically evolving. Back in the day it was all about the innovation of the style; whether it be by creating flows, catchy rhyme schemes or just testing the boundaries. It was also a lot easier to get signed and start making money off of music in comparison to present day before people started to illegally download music. Nowadays, it's a lot harder to stand out with so many different styles but it makes the rap game that much more entertaining to see who'll truly emerge as the next "Clutch" artists.

(CP) Could you provide some words of encouragement for the Clutch Players University, dreamers, or visionaries?

"I simply would like to say to just spread peace, love and positivity at all times. Follow your dreams and pursue anything that you have a passion for and that makes you happy. Don't live your life for others."

Also, visit Notacollective.com for more.

 

Be the best you.

Social Connections:

https://www.notacollective.com 

https://www.twitter.com/whyfi

https://www.instagram.com/themostwhyreless 

Music Connections: 

https://www.soundcloud.com/why-fi-2

Connect with Clutch Players University:

https://www.twitter.com/nikolejaye

https://www.twitter.com/clutchsociety

 

ILLA GHEE DISCUSSING HIS ALBUM 'SOCIAL GRAFFITI'

Social Connections:

https://www.twitter.com/ILLAGHEE2K

https://www.illaghee.com/

https://www.facebook.com/illaghee

Music Connections:

https://www.soundcloud.com/illaghee

https://www.itunes.apple.com/us/album/social-graffiti/id891940946

Connect with Clutch Players University:

https://www.twitter.com/nikolejaye

https://www.twitter.com/clutchsociety 
 

CHILL MOODY'S CONCRETE JUNGLE

 

Social Media Connections:

https://www.chillmoody.com/

https://www.twitter.com/ChillMoody

https://www.youtube.com/user/ChillMoody

https://www.facebook.com/ChillMoodyMusic 

https://www.instagram.com/chillmoody 

https://www.mtv.com/artists/chill-moody/ 

Music Connections: 

https://www.soundcloud.com/chillmoody

https://www.itunes.apple.com/us/artist/chill-moody/id445872775 

Connect with Clutch Players University:

https://www.twitter.com/nikolejaye

https://www.twitter.com/clutchsociety  

 

WELCOME TO BIG LO, SCHOOL OF HARD KNOCKS

(CP) When did you fall in love with Hip-Hop? Why did you choose Hip-Hop as your platform?

“I fell in love with Hip-Hop in the year 1989 with Kool Moe Dee’s “Knowledge is King” record and from that point on Hip- Hop essentially occupied my whole being. However, I never chose Hip-Hop as my platform, at least not consciously. As, I got older I kind of just evolved into an emcee and producer, but even now, I respect the culture first.”

(CP) From your perspective do you see a difference in Hip-Hop within the Hispanic and African -American culture? If so could you briefly describe the differences or the similarities?

“Historically, from my understanding, Hispanic peoples were originally more into the Dancing and the Graffiti aspect of the culture where as African-Americans occupied the Emceeing and Djing. As, Hip- Hop grew over time people of all ethnicities occupied all areas. “

“Being Hispanic, of course Big Pun is one of my favorite emcees, Tony Touch is one of my favorite Djs, and the Beatnuts are some of my favorite producers. I take pride in those contributions.”

(CP) Could you briefly tell our Clutch Players the city you come from? And, how did that city shaped your mentality and rhymes?

“I was born in Vero Beach, but have lived all over Florida. Now I live in Pensacola. Pensacola is one of the poorer cities in Florida. The city’s segregated by both race and class. I’m not your typical Florida emcee so I’m typically compared to more East Coast sounding artists. Mentally, Pensacola has taught me to be more socially aware, whether it’s dealing with class economics or police corruption.”

(CP) Here at Clutch Players University we value consistency. What do you want to contribute to the culture of Hip-Hop musically and socially?

“Musically, I want to be known for solid albums. I really try and take people on a picturesque journey, for better or worse, when I create music.”

“Socially, I want people to know that as artists it’s our duty to be socially aware, not just musically, but as men and women.”

(CP) Could you briefly describe to our Clutch Players University readers. Who is Big Lo?

“I’m a father. I’m a husband. I’m an activist. I’m an emcee and a producer. I’m a blue collar guy and enjoy spending time around ordinary people.”

(CP) What can the people expect next from Big Lo?

“ I did a show in September it was Hip Hop vs Punk benefit show with all our proceeds going to the National Police Accountability Project. In the Spring of next year I’m releasing Umbrellas & Green Olives and I’ll be touring heavily again.”

(CP) Aside, from listening to your music. What artist's does Big Lo listen to?

“I’m all over the place musically and it really depends on my mood. In the gym I like rocking with Sean Price, Jedi Mind Tricks, more hardcore type stuff. If I just want to dumb out I like Max B and Nipsey Hussel. I’m a huge Wu Tang fan, especially Ghostface, Raekwon and GZA. Newer artists I’m feeling include Skyzoo and anything Apollo Brown produces.”

(CP) At the Clutch Players University office we are boxing fanatics and dreaming of the big fight between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. Who would you pick?

“As much as I dislike Floyd Mayweather as a person for a number of reasons, I still think he would take Manny Pacquiao. He’s one of the best defensive fighters we’ve seen in our lifetime. That being said, I’m not going to pay for the fight, I’ll stream it somewhere for free.”

(CP) What is the illest line ever said?

This is such a tough question, but since I mentioned Pun earlier I’ll go with,

“Dead in the middle of Little Italy little did we know that we riddled some middleman who didn't do diddily.”

(CP) In your opinion do you think the Hip-Hop culture is organically evolving?

“That’s a difficult question for me to answer. Initially I would say yes, some of the younger artists are using terminology that appeals to their generation. They’re also fusing the music with the more electronic sounds that are popular now. However, I think comparing mainstream rap to the more traditional boom bap music is like comparing disco to real soul music in the 70s. In my opinion, the mainstream rap and club music, although it is technically classified as Hip-Hop, completely lacks the soul and artistry that boom bap has. Also, some of the evolution has been detrimental and essentially a slap in the face to the majority of real emcees out here. The main gripe I have is the younger guys and even some older cats, think it’s acceptable to perform live over your vocals. If I come to a show, I want to see a LIVE show, I can listen to your album anytime.”

(CP) Could you provide some words of encouragement for the Clutch Players University, dreamers, or visionaries?

 

“Hip-Hop is a beautiful culture that everyone can be involved in one way or another, but make sure you respect the culture first. Work hard and don’t be impatient. Keep in mind that everything is a process. Other than that I could hit y’all with the cliché, be yourself!!”

Social Connections:

https://www.biglohiphop.com

https://www.facebook.com/BigLoOfficial

https://www.twitter.com/biglohiphop

Music Connections:

https://www.soundclick.com/biglosofficialsoundclickpage

Connect with Clutch Players University:

https://www.twitter.com/nikolejaye

https://www.twitter.com/clutchsociety

https://www.soundcloud.com/live-in-the-clutch