Tuesday, September 2, 2014

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.”







Peace



MUSIC CONNECTIONS:














SOCIAL CONNECTIONS:











CONNECT WITH CLUTCH PLAYERS UNIVERSITY:










Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Jazz'Mine GARFIELD: AN ACOUSTIC VERSE




 Clutch Players University had a chance to interview rising soul artist Jazz'Mine Garfield.

(CP) Could you briefly explain to our Clutch Players University the meaning behind the title/ concept of your album 'Loves Bullet'? Were their any producers you worked with for the album?
It is a metaphoric title that describes heartbreak. It was a compilation of break- ups and mishaps that I witnessed in my life. That pain was so deep; it was as if someone I loved ruthlessly shot me in my heart.”
I worked with the phenomenal ‘Byron the Aquarius ‘on production. I self- produced "Repeat" and did joint production on few other tracks with him. He produced a few others on the EP. He is an absolute genius when it comes to production.”


(CP) Could you briefly describe to our Clutch Players University readers your sound?
I would say Eclectic and Unique. My sound is a mixture of many elements. Hip- Hop, Trip-Hop, Jazz, Electronic, and Soul. I call it ‘Future Soul.’ Once you feel you've put your finger on it when listening, you hear something else and it causes you to think again. I listen to so many genres of music that is places so many elements in the palm of my hand.”

(CP) What inspires Jazz'Mine Garfield? Explain your creative process?
What inspires me is LIFE. I dislike confrontation. As rebellious as I am, when it comes to certain matters I would always hide how I felt.”

When I write or play, it is usually pulling from an emotion that is heavy on my heart. I take life experiences and tell stories. It’s when I’m most vulnerable whether I am happy, sad or just feeling passionate. Life inspires my every song.”

(CP) There is often a misconception between Neo Soul music and Soul music. Is there a difference between the two artistries?
I personally feel there is no huge difference. Neo Soul in my opinion is just a twist on Soul music. You can’t have anything without having a little Soul. I don’t care if you sing / play Rock & Roll, Hip-Hop or Folk ‘YOU HAVE SOUL.’ Neo Soul artists are just as organic. The artistry is influenced by Jazz, R&B, etc. We love putting evolution into categories!!! “


Everything we do is just with a twist.”

(CP) Could you give our Clutch Players University readers a glimpse into who is Jazz'Mine Garfield?
I’m a rebel with a cause, a comedian with a punch line and sweetheart with a passion. I’m literally your everyday kind of girl. Growing up in Birmingham, AL I’ve been a weird individual twenty –five years of my life. I have a really strong faith. I believe we are all here for a purpose. I’m not here to force anyone to go to church or go to hell (I'm too tickled), I'm just passionate about motivating people to bring out the best in themselves, to spread peace and testify on how I was changed.”

(CP) When performing. Do you prefer to perform more acoustically or performing with background tracks?
It all varies. It depends on the vibe. I prefer to perform acoustic. I love intimate settings. Those moments’ people have no choice but to listen to you. Also, I love performing with a band. The energy is high and you can add so many elements. Background tracks vary.”

(CP) Could you name some artists Jazz'Mine Garfield is listening to?
I must say I’M IN LOVE WITH KING!!! Paris Strother is one of the reasons I produce. They have to be number one. Laura Mvula, Hiatus Kaiyote, The Local Natives, Ego Ella May, Discloure, and Lianne La Havas are in heavy rotation.”

(CP) Could you briefly tell us what’s the illest line you've ever heard from one of your favorite Hip-Hop artists?
I’m a huge Kanye fan. Not Yeezus Kanye or 808 Kanye. I’m talking College Drop Out, Late Registration, and Graduation fan. You can't just say one line with him.

The illest line he has ever said in my opinion has to be from "All Falls Down.”

"I say fuck the police that’s how I treat them. We buy our way out of jail, but we can’t by freedom. We will buy a lot clothes but we don’t really need them. Things we buy to cover up what’s inside, because they made us hate ourselves and love their wealth that why shorties holla where the ballers at. Drug dealers by Jordan’s, crack head by crack, and the white man get paid off of all of that"

I MISS THIS YE

(CP) Are there any upcoming shows or projects in the works?
I’m wrapping up my next release "Starting Over" which will be release before the end of the year. It’s been hard work producing, recording and writing all by myself!!!”

(CP) If you were not doing music and you had to pick a sport. Which sport would it be? Why?
I’m actually an old athlete, and I was pretty darn good. I’ve always loved volleyball!! I played basketball and ran track. You can’t handle me at the net I’m a beast.”


(CP) Clutch Players University would like to thank you for taking time out with us. Could you leave some encouraging words to the dreamers, visionaries, and clutch players?
BE YOU!!!! Do not let anyone tell you what you can not do. When you have a vision planted within you, no one can take it from you. Work hard and never give up. Nothing comes easy. I’ve heard so many times, but it never altered my purpose. When you fall down, it’s only a test to see if you will get back up!!! 

YOU CAN DO IT!!


                                          MEDIA CONNECTIONS:



Connect with Clutch Players University:













A BEAUTIFUL RHYME...



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

“My earliest memories of Hip- Hop was probably around the age of ten. I remember working out the differences between the music they played on MTV, VH1, and BET. Basically, MTV played Rock & Roll with weird music videos, VH1 played soft rock and alternative music with really sentimental videos, and at the time BET played R&B and Hip- Hop videos by artists. For example, Dr. Dre, Tupac, Black Street, Wu-Tang, and Mary J Blige. The Hip-Hop videos on BET were always like watching short films and a lot of them had performance shots of people dancing, there was always a party going on.”
 
It was just more fun to me so I naturally gravitated to it before I knew anything about the music. Before I even knew what the different “genres” and “markets” were I just liked BET more. And, at that time music channels were primarily how you discovered music as opposed to today where we rely on Youtube and music discovery websites/blogs.”



(CP) From your perspective do you see any similarities in Hip-Hop within the Caucasian and the African -American culture whether it is socially, or lyrically within the United States? If so could you briefly describe the similarities?

“Yes, it’s all the same family, really. It’s hard to divide it up by race, color, or culture. Honestly, it’s way too complicated to compare by race. Living in Philly, I have performed for predominantly Black crowds. Travelling the state and the country, I’ve played predominantly White crowds. The main unifying factor anywhere you go is TALENT people respect real TALENT. They want to see you hit the stage and do something incredible, something not just anyone can do.”

(CP) The name of your current album is 'PEACEWORLD' could you briefly explain the meaning behind 'PEACEWORLD.'
“People are so obsessed with building brands in 2014 that 'PEACEWORLD' was kind of a protest against that. If you listen very closely, you’ll realize I’m just telling stories and sharing thoughts that are not very personal or provocative on there. The album doesn’t clearly define me as a person, but it showcases my talent as a songwriter and a rapper. I picked a bunch of different themes and just kind of vented. And, if you listen to the interlude and outro, you’ll hear that theme come through even more. It really describe a person who is very much on the fence, taking life as it comes.”

Moreover, its my way of sticking it to the man like LOOK AT ME, I CAN MAKE AN ALBUM ABOUT NOTHING WITH NO BRAND AND IT’LL STILL BE DOPE. Also, its a confessional letter about how much I hate rappers and how DOPE I am. Also, the theme is a goodbye in many ways to my old approach to music. I have been writing and making much darker, harder, edgier music since then that the world has not heard yet. And, when they hear it may make more sense why I called the last album PEACEWORLD.”


(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 break down some walls. In 2014, everyone thinks the Hip-Hop THEY listen to is the REAL Hip-Hop. I wanna steal all of the elements and genres and flip them in dope ways. I want to show people that those walls don’t exist. For example, Trap shit, Boom Bap, Battle Rap, Old School, Trip-Hop, and Club shit they’re in no way exclusive, they all share so many elements, I want to do it all in new ways.”


Socially, I want to make people feel powerful. Not by writing particularly inspiring songs. But, by doing shit that’s never been done, things that don’t seem possible, that don’t seem to make sense, making them pop, and rocking the fuck out. I want to let the people know when I’m performing, its for a crowd of kings and queens, and we’re going to put our cameras and Iphones down and get fuckin BUSY while I’m on stage. Be ourselves for a half hour or an hour.”


(CP) What can the people expect next from Mic Stewart?

“I’ve been working overtime with SAMlive (@SAMliveMusic). The producer who made eighty percent of the beats on PEACEWORLD. We kind of hit a stride and found a new sound, we made like eighty demos in the last year. We’re finishing a seven-track EP now, tentatively titled #456KTA. That will be a late summer / early fall release with free download and it will be available on all major on-line stores for purchase.”



I’ll be playing local Philly dates through the rest of the summer. I have two bookings in September right now, details coming soon to MicStewartMusic.com. I’d like to tour, but we’re really focusing on finishing a longer album and video treatments to follow- up the #456KTA EP. Which, features Philly Emcee's Reef The Lost Cauze, STS, The Bul Bey, and a few other surprise guests. I can’t really speak on anything further at the moment.”


(CP) Could you briefly describe how you got your entrance into battle rap? What prompted you to do more rhyming and orchestrating albums?
“I just had a unique opportunity through Red Bull EmSee to make a bunch of money and travel across the country and I took it. I’ve always been a great free-style artist. I've free-styled twenty minute sets before, it’s how I began rhyming. All I had to do to battle was focus my energy on saying ignorant shit to my opponent. Aside, from the EmSee competition, I've never battled much, just some high school lunch room shit, and drunken fun here and there.”

I make albums now because great music is timeless. God gives us all a voice and a mind of our own. We are all gold mines. I am just fortunate enough to have a skill and an outlet for mine that could effect the lives of others in a unique way. So I make records.”


(CP) The video 'I'm not from Brooklyn,' is very visual and authentic. Who came up with the concept?Why?

“Actually, I came up with the concept. From the beginning of my career my music has always been an inclusive, public thing. I was never the reclusive lab rat (until recently). We wanted to capture that spirit. So, we hit the street. The record is called “I’m Not From Brooklyn” and the theme is: I’m not from Brooklyn, but I represent a culture that has become Internationally appreciated which has deep roots in Brooklyn, so we gave a nod to that part of NYC. The director Derrick Woodyard understood and believed in the vision. He’s incredibly talented and I think he did an amazing job of bringing it to life.”


(CP) In your Ipod or phone what artists are in Mic Stewart play list?


“1. Mic Stew 2. Mic Stew 3. Mic Stew 4. Schoolboy Q 5. Mic Stew.” 



(CP) Would you provide our Clutch Players University readers a glimpse into who is Mic Stewart?

 “I wake up on a different side of the bed every day. I guess in that respect, I’ll say I’m raw. A bit of a clown, a bit corny, but somehow serious as fuck, I rap dope, I like girls. And, love Philly, hate Manayunk, love God, hate religion, love people, hate douche bags. I love my momma, act like my dad, middle-child, raised by single parent. Just the man basically. I studied World History and Physics. I hate stupid shit, petty shit, that shit irks me.” 


(CP) If you could choose one album that describes your life. What album would that be?

             “Probably, YEEZUS, or College drop out.”


(CP) Here at Clutch Players University we are fans of sports and Hip-Hop. If you were not doing Hip-Hop and you had to do a sport. What would be your choice of sport?

                                                         
                               “Boxing. Boxing is my shit!”

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

Yes, you guys are EVERYTHING. Like the world is a much worse place without you. Its a better place because you are HERE. Be realistic and honest with yourself, and do what you know you’re supposed to do, be who you’re supposed to be, and it’ll all work out. When you’re living in your purpose, you win even when you lose. And when you’re scared to be great, everybody suffers. Just be the shit, cause God made you that way.”

                                    

 
MUSIC CONNECTIONS:



SOCIAL CONNECTIONS:



CONNECT WITH CLUTCH PLAYERS UNIVERSITY:




Monday, August 18, 2014

THROUGH THE LENS OF A CRYSTAL STARE



(CP) Could you briefly explain where you from? How has your environment shape the lyrics and image you convey?

I’m from Tuscaloosa, Alabama; A very close-knit city with a huge college smack in the middle; The University of Alabama. I love the south though! Alabama has a lot of heritage & culture that many aren’t even aware of.”

I grew up an only child, in a single parent home for 18 years, shit was crazy for me. I just tried to stay active and make a lot of friends so I wouldn’t have to be at home bored all the time.”

(CP) The music in the south often is type- casted into one specific sound. In your perspective do you feel southern emcees get their just due?

“I feel like the attention is beginning to shift toward the South a lot more. We’re making undeniable music and the demand for our sound is becoming higher and higher. You can’t cut the TV on without catching a reference or even a song related to, or from the South. Same goes for radio & Internet.”

(CP) To people who aren't aware of the southern culture “Grits N' Gravy” is a popular dish. Why do you think that is?

"Grits N’ Gravy, it’s just that southern fixing early Saturday morning at grandma crib. Really, I can’t explain the love for it. But, you have to visit the South and experience it.”

(CP) We want to give our Clutch Players University readers a glimpse of the artist. So, who is Jay Dot Rain?

“ Jay Dot Rain is a very hard working individual. Jay Dot is the true definition of the come- up. I’m still a regular average Joe. I have two jobs and I pray daily that this rap shit pops off so I can quit them. I’ve always been big on chasing dreams and believing in dreams. I’ve remained diligent and it’s been getting me pretty far. Jay Dot is up next. I got a college degree, so it’s time for me to do what I want to do now.”

(CP) Hip-Hop is a young man's sport in terms of competition. Why did you choose Hip-Hop as your platform? How does your music differentiate from the music that's out?

"I love hip hop. Always have…When I was younger, I always would be the center of attention in the family videos. If the attention wasn’t on me, I would find the camera and make it about me. One Christmas, my mom bought me a Walkman with Jay-Z CD “Dynasty: Roc La Familia.” The rest was history. I swear I listened to that CD until I broke the Walkman.”

“My sound? Is Trap Jazz. That’s actually the title of my album. I want to influence my listeners through my words. Telling real shit. Not just things somebody wants to hear. I feel like that’s why a lot of people can relate to my music.”


(CP) What are your views on the state of Hip-Hop today?

My thoughts changed, the deeper I get into the game. At first I was just excited to be making small moves here and there; but now I’m starting to see how shady it can get. It gets ugly. I’m just staying humble and making progress.”

(CP) Could you briefly discuss the latest project your working? Are there any upcoming shows?

“I’ve been working heavily trying to perfect my sound. I just released a project a couple months back I’m still pushing; “Cooley Fly Chronicles II”. It’s produced in full by Alabama’s own Block Beattaz (Stalley –“Swangin”) It’s been getting a lot of eyes in my direction.”

I’ll be performing at A3C Hip Hop Festival in Atlanta, GA in October. Previously, I opened up for Chuck Inglish in Nashville. I’m performing wherever right about now. Birthday Parties, Baby Showers, Bar Mitzvahs, I’m staying HUNGRY!!!”

(CP) Clutch Players University is all about sports and Hip-Hop. We are approaching football season. What college football team would you want to see in the Sugar Bowl this year?


ALABAMA, of course. Roll Tide.”


(CR) Clutch Players University would like to thank you for taking time out with us. May you leave some encouraging words to the dreamers, visionaries, and clutch players?


“Live life, stay prayed-up and do what you want to do.”


"RISK OR REGRET.”



MUSIC CONNECTIONS:



Connect with Clutch Players University:




MIKE SMOOV216: MOODY'S MOOD FOR BEATS



Clutch Players University felt it was time to search for Clutch Producers. And, we came across a producer Mike Smoov216 hailing from Cleveland, Ohio. During, the interview he walks us through the mind of a music producer.

(CP) The Webster’s dictionary defines sound-scape “As the component sounds of an environment or the component sounds of a piece of music.” What type of musical sound-scape do you try to capture when working with various artists? Are you more drawn to artists that already has a concept or do you prefer a more improvisational approach?

“I try to capture who I think the artist is musically. I've been known to make "moody" music. So, that means I could go from a really dark sounding track to a shiny pop song all in one sitting. Every artist I work with is a challenge for me."

“When I attended Alabama A&M University, I was part of a crew called 'DGAF.' We literally embodied Hip-Hop with rappers, artists, dancers and beat makers. Everything we did was based on improvisational and conceptual ideas. So, I'm very comfortable with both.”


(CP) Could you explain briefly what lead you into Music Production. Was it an album,  a gig, network, or concert?

“Literally, what led me down this path of music production was the love of Hip-Hop since the age of eight. However, I did have an epiphany the first time I heard “T.R.O.Y." by Pete Rock and CL Smooth. That song and album pretty much made up my mind for me. I've been making music since 1992.”

(CP) The music producer sets the direction of the music. How does your production differentiate from current producers? Could you name one of your favorite producers from any musical era?

I think the one thing that seems to separate me from other producers is that most of my music comes from something. Emotional or visual. To some people it's a beat but its more than a beat to me. It's like a scene in a movie.”

Right now I listen to a lot of J Dilla and Madlib for inspiration and ideas.”

(CP) Currently, are you working on any projects? Could you name some artists you have previously worked with?
“I'm working with John J, as far as rappers go. His latest project is a tribute to J Dilla called 'Guardian Of The Sky'. Durand Bernarr, who sings back up for Erykah Badu, we have done two projects together '80's Baby' and 'Sometime In December'. There are a few other random joints floating around the Internet as well.”

(CP) Clutch Players University is all about sports and Hip-Hop. In your opinion which athlete could have a successful career in Hip-Hop? Which, rapper could have a successful career in sports?

I could see Nelly play football or basketball. And, Kevin Garnett could probably be a rapper.”

(CP) What would be your dream album that you would love to orchestrate? Who would be involved in it?
“It would be a Jay Z album for sure. I would definitely get tracks from producers I haven't heard him work with as well as myself.

(CP) How important is it to learn the technical aspect like reading music and practicing your craft?

“I played the clarinet for eight years before I even made my first beat. Everything, I learned came into play once I started to understand the whole process of beat-making and production. I believe knowing your craft separates your music from a lot of these fly by night producers.”


(CP) Clutch Players University would like to thank you for taking time out to speak with us. Could you leave any words of encouragement to our clutch players, visionaries, or dreamers?

If you can believe it; you can achieve it.”

         Stay on the grind and stay focused.

SOCIAL CONNECTIONS:


MUSIC CONNECTIONS: