HH-HQ.Com I would like to thank you for taking the time to do this interview. What influenced you to become a rapper?
40 Glocc: Basically when i was younger
HH-HQ.Com: Who are some of your influences?
40 Glocc: Dr Dre, Snoop Dogg, Tupac Shakur, The Notorious BIG, and Mobb Deep.
HH-HQ.Com: How would you describe your sound?
40 Glocc: Reality and soulful because its a reflection of my experiences in life.
>HH-HQ.Com: As a child you originally lived with your grandparents in Texas? If you still lived there do you think your sound would be different?
40 Glocc: Definatly
HH-HQ.Com: There was a group consisting of you, K-9, and Natural Born called "The Zoo Crew". Can you tell us about the formation of that group?
40 Glocc: I was way younger and we were all from the same hood. So then we made up a group and started puttin it down.
HH-HQ.Com: The Zoo Crew released their first album called "Migrate, Adapt or Die that was an underground hit. Is that when you realized that you actually have a shot at being a rapper?
40 Glocc: Yeah that gave me the confidence i needed to advance.
HH-HQ.Com: Shed some light on your debut album "The Jackal".
40 Glocc: My first solo album got me a quarter mill and i aint look back since.
HH-HQ.Com: What is your relationship like with Mobb Deep like?
40 Glocc: We very tight and we look out for eachother.
HH-HQ.Com: What is it like being signed to Mobb Deep's Infamous imprint?
40 Glocc: Its the shit so i can't complain.
HH-HQ.Com: What is your relationship like with the other members of G Unit?
40 Glocc: It's the same as my relationship with Mobb Deep. We're all under one umbrella and everybody is like a family.
HH-HQ.Com: Do you do collaborations with underground artists?
40 Glocc: Hell yeah but they have to be serious at what they do.
HH-HQ.Com: Are there any artists that your feeling right now?
40 Glocc: Yeah but not too many because they don't have content anymore.
HH-HQ.Com: Are there any artists that you aren't feeling right now?
40 Glocc: Just to name two it would be Game and Lil Wayne. They just be rapping and not talking about shit. They make songs to where they can switch subjects in there verses. Them niggas be dropping freestyle verses and shit for albums. That's trash!
HH-HQ.Com: What sets you apart from the other emcees out there?
40 Glocc: Your going to get music that will get your attention. It's something that you'll get a message out of and be able to relate to.
HH-HQ.Com: What is the goal that you want to achieve in the music industry?
40 Glocc: Show niggas how its supposed to be done as far as supplying jobs to less fortunate people.
HH-HQ.Com: What can we be looking foward to in the future from 40 Glocc?
40 Glocc: My artists, my label, and other business adventures.
HH-HQ.Com: What do you think about Hip Hop HeadQuarters?
40 Glocc: It's the shit because you get the message out to the people.
HH-HQ.Com: Any shout outs?
40 Glocc: Yeah to my whole Infamous/G Unit family
HH-HQ.Com: Any quick fuck you's?
40 Glocc: Yeah fuck you to Al Sharpton and anybody else that got a problem with me saying that i'm a nigga for life!
HH-HQ.Com: Last question is there anything that you want to tell your fans?
40 Glocc: Holla at me when you see me online at Myspace.Com/40Glocc.
Infamous/G Unit!
Game Over!
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Saturday, July 21, 2007
#Throwback Interview: Glasses Malone
HH-HQ.Com I would like to thank you for taking the time to do this interview.
G Malone: Its all good
HH-HQ.Com: Which name do you prefer to be called Glasses Malone or G Malone?
G Malone: I prefer either because they are both me so it doesn't matter.
HH-HQ.Com: What influenced you to become a rapper?
G Malone: I've always loved music but a combination between my brother K Style and my best friend D Brown got me into rapping myself.
HH-HQ.Com: How long have you been on the mic?
G Malone: For 7 years
HH-HQ.Com: Now most people know that your a crip from the Watts District of California. But what they don't know is why you traditionally had associated yourself with Black Wall Street Records a label consisting of mostly Bloods. So for all the viewers can you answer that?
G Malone: I'm a real nigga who has always made money with anybody thats about making money. That's how every real hustler is!
HH-HQ.Com: In your single "Malone" you stated "Blue and Red make Green so we smash together". Why do you think that happens?
G Malone: You can cover a lot more territory and the only thing that LA niggas is gangs. If you can over step your boundaries then the West Coast is yours for the taking so i'm taking it.
HH-HQ.Com: Did your decision to leave Black Wall Street affect the relationship that you have with Game?
G Malone: At one time it did but we're pretty straight now.
HH-HQ.Com: On "The Ressurection" by 40 Glocc he dissed Game stating "how he bring the west back when it never left". What is your view on that statement?
G Malone: I think Game brought a mainstream light back to the West Coast but in our hearts out here, we never left.
HH-HQ.Com: You turned down many offers from over 5 record labels such as Interscope, Def Jam, and Atlantic Records. Why did you turn down some of those offers?
G Malone: It's all about the money
HH-HQ.Com: However, in 2005 you signed a record deal with Sony for 1.7 million dollars. Why did you choose to go with that record company?
G Malone: You just answered it 1.7 million dollars!
HH-HQ.Com: You released a mixtape called "White Lightnin" on Black Wall Street Records which sold over 30,000 copies in 2005. How does that make you feel?
G Malone: It just means i have to sell 470,000 to get a plaque for Beach Cruiser.
HH-HQ.Com: Your album "The Beach Cruiser" was originally scheduled to be released on Feburary 20, 2007. Why did your album get pushed back?
G Malone: Label situation
HH-HQ.Com: Shed some light on the new deal with Cash Money Records and Hoo Bangin Records.
G Malone: Mack 10 is one of my favorite artists period because he always kept it street. He used to be on Crenshaw when i had my first lowrider before i even picked up a mic. Working with Baby, Slim, and Lil Wayne speaks for itself. It's a dream come true and believe i am the most envied artist on the West Coast.
HH-HQ.Com: A song produced by The Riffs called "Right Now" appeared on the soundtrack to Madden 2007. How did that come about?
G Malone: EA wanted a song from me and thats what they picked so it was just a fun song.
HH-HQ.Com: "The Slideshow" is scheduled to be released in fall 2008 along with Mistah Fab. What can we expect on that album when "The Hood" collaborates with "The Bay Area"?
G Malone: Me and him click like seatbelts so expect fun and a lot of shit talking.
HH-HQ.Com: Do you do collaborations with underground artists?
G Malone: Of course
HH-HQ.Com: How much is your feature price?
G Malone: Anywhere from $1,500-$2,500
HH-HQ.Com: How does an artist go about contacting you to do that?
G Malone: Via Myspace
HH-HQ.Com: What is your vision for yourself in the future?
G Malone: I want to have a career like Barry Sanders.
HH-HQ.Com: How would you describe your sound?
G Malone: New and improved West Coastin
HH-HQ.Com: What sets you apart from other emcees out there?
G Malone: Depends on the emcee
HH-HQ.Com: 50 Cent?
G Malone: Not as crazy
HH-HQ.Com: Ja Rule
G Malone: I don't sing
HH-HQ.Com: Cam'ron?
G Malone: I'm not as stupid plus i don't wear pink.
HH-HQ.Com: What do you think about Hip Hop HeadQuarters?
G Malone: I like it so far
HH-HQ.Com: Any shout outs?
G Malone: Shout out to the Watts District
HH-HQ.Com Last question is there anything that you want to tell your fans.
G Malone: Fuck with me, Blu Division/Hoo-Bangin we fitting to take the West Coast by the throat!
G Malone: Its all good
HH-HQ.Com: Which name do you prefer to be called Glasses Malone or G Malone?
G Malone: I prefer either because they are both me so it doesn't matter.
HH-HQ.Com: What influenced you to become a rapper?
G Malone: I've always loved music but a combination between my brother K Style and my best friend D Brown got me into rapping myself.
HH-HQ.Com: How long have you been on the mic?
G Malone: For 7 years
HH-HQ.Com: Now most people know that your a crip from the Watts District of California. But what they don't know is why you traditionally had associated yourself with Black Wall Street Records a label consisting of mostly Bloods. So for all the viewers can you answer that?
G Malone: I'm a real nigga who has always made money with anybody thats about making money. That's how every real hustler is!
HH-HQ.Com: In your single "Malone" you stated "Blue and Red make Green so we smash together". Why do you think that happens?
G Malone: You can cover a lot more territory and the only thing that LA niggas is gangs. If you can over step your boundaries then the West Coast is yours for the taking so i'm taking it.
HH-HQ.Com: Did your decision to leave Black Wall Street affect the relationship that you have with Game?
G Malone: At one time it did but we're pretty straight now.
HH-HQ.Com: On "The Ressurection" by 40 Glocc he dissed Game stating "how he bring the west back when it never left". What is your view on that statement?
G Malone: I think Game brought a mainstream light back to the West Coast but in our hearts out here, we never left.
HH-HQ.Com: You turned down many offers from over 5 record labels such as Interscope, Def Jam, and Atlantic Records. Why did you turn down some of those offers?
G Malone: It's all about the money
HH-HQ.Com: However, in 2005 you signed a record deal with Sony for 1.7 million dollars. Why did you choose to go with that record company?
G Malone: You just answered it 1.7 million dollars!
HH-HQ.Com: You released a mixtape called "White Lightnin" on Black Wall Street Records which sold over 30,000 copies in 2005. How does that make you feel?
G Malone: It just means i have to sell 470,000 to get a plaque for Beach Cruiser.
HH-HQ.Com: Your album "The Beach Cruiser" was originally scheduled to be released on Feburary 20, 2007. Why did your album get pushed back?
G Malone: Label situation
HH-HQ.Com: Shed some light on the new deal with Cash Money Records and Hoo Bangin Records.
G Malone: Mack 10 is one of my favorite artists period because he always kept it street. He used to be on Crenshaw when i had my first lowrider before i even picked up a mic. Working with Baby, Slim, and Lil Wayne speaks for itself. It's a dream come true and believe i am the most envied artist on the West Coast.
HH-HQ.Com: A song produced by The Riffs called "Right Now" appeared on the soundtrack to Madden 2007. How did that come about?
G Malone: EA wanted a song from me and thats what they picked so it was just a fun song.
HH-HQ.Com: "The Slideshow" is scheduled to be released in fall 2008 along with Mistah Fab. What can we expect on that album when "The Hood" collaborates with "The Bay Area"?
G Malone: Me and him click like seatbelts so expect fun and a lot of shit talking.
HH-HQ.Com: Do you do collaborations with underground artists?
G Malone: Of course
HH-HQ.Com: How much is your feature price?
G Malone: Anywhere from $1,500-$2,500
HH-HQ.Com: How does an artist go about contacting you to do that?
G Malone: Via Myspace
HH-HQ.Com: What is your vision for yourself in the future?
G Malone: I want to have a career like Barry Sanders.
HH-HQ.Com: How would you describe your sound?
G Malone: New and improved West Coastin
HH-HQ.Com: What sets you apart from other emcees out there?
G Malone: Depends on the emcee
HH-HQ.Com: 50 Cent?
G Malone: Not as crazy
HH-HQ.Com: Ja Rule
G Malone: I don't sing
HH-HQ.Com: Cam'ron?
G Malone: I'm not as stupid plus i don't wear pink.
HH-HQ.Com: What do you think about Hip Hop HeadQuarters?
G Malone: I like it so far
HH-HQ.Com: Any shout outs?
G Malone: Shout out to the Watts District
HH-HQ.Com Last question is there anything that you want to tell your fans.
G Malone: Fuck with me, Blu Division/Hoo-Bangin we fitting to take the West Coast by the throat!
Thursday, July 19, 2007
#Throwback Interview: Roccett
HH-HQ.Com: I would like to thank you for taking the time to do this interview.
Roccett: Thanks for having me
HH-HQ.Com: I'm glad you had the time because what we want to do is put you on blast. Let everybody know who exactly Roccett is.
Roccett: Roccett is a young hungry MC from Carson, CA ready to take the entire world by storm. Roccett is about the truth and good music.
HH-HQ.Com: What sets you apart from the other emcees out there?
Roccett: I am real because anything that i rap about is how i live. There are no gimmicks and no lies its 100 percent the truth. Beyond that, i have versitility and make music that all can relate to. I give my all in my music.
>HH-HQ.Com: How would you describe your sound?
Roccett: Many would say i make street music or gangsta music, but i make all types of music. I talk about life and the many different emotions that come with life. However i feel or wherever the beat brings me, thats what you gonna get for that particular song.
HH-HQ.Com: Who are some of your influences?
Roccett: All the legends in the game but Tupac is the on who influenced me the most though.
HH-HQ.Com: Outside of hip hop, what do you like to do in your free time?
Roccett: I enjoy the simple things like playing basketball and spending time with my kids. But really to be honest my life is this music so theres not much time for anything else.
HH-HQ.Com: Is there one place that you have the most inspiration when your not doing something musically?
Roccett: A lot gets accomplished in my car.
HH-HQ.Com: What is the process that you go through when making a song?
Roccett: I don't write down lyrics or write my music at all. My process is that i listen to the beat and start to formulate the song in my head. So, i walk around the studio with the beat playing and put together the song.
HH-HQ.Com: Your signed to Young Jeezy's record label CTE West. Tell me all about that.
Roccett: I signed in a group situation over there at CTE. Being with Jeezy is a good look because he is on top of the game right now and i appreciate that i can learn from him. But, i am still unsigned as a solo artist and i am currently negotiating with some labels for my solo shit.
HH-HQ.Com: What do LA and Atlanta have most in common musically?
Roccett: It's all universal because we are speaking for the underdogs, the streets, and all the real people in the world.
HH-HQ.Com: Shed some light on your situation with Makaveli Branded.
Roccett: Makaveli Branded is the clothing line of Tupac Shakur. I am a Makaveli Branded sponsered artist and its an honor to represent Makaveli. I wear the clothes and represent the movement. I also get involved in any community activities and events that the is involved in so Makaveli Branded is whats up.
HH-HQ.Com: Are you currently working on anything that you can give us the exclusive on?
Roccett: I am working on a DVD and in in the fall ad campaign for Blanco Label. I got a project called Colors that's getting all kinds of press and i'm working on another project called Corporate America. So, i am constantly in the studio working on music.
HH-HQ.Com: In your opinion has Myspace done anything to change the game?
Roccett: Yeah, Myspace has allowed artists an avenue for music to heard outside a limited region and really allows word of mouth to be effective. So, if your an artist and you have good music then more and more people will find this music and you will build a fan base. Myspace is a combination of radio and television for these consumers.
HH-HQ.Com: What is your vision for yourself in the future?
Roccett: The future looks real bright because i look to accomplish great things. I see myself as a successful artist and businessman because i am gonna drop some incredible albums, step into an executive role with my label, and possibly hit the big screen as an actor. I won't be stopped because i am determined to be the greatest.
HH-HQ.Com: What can we be looking foward to in the future from Roccett?
Roccett: Great music, tours, and more great music.
HH-HQ.Com: Any shout outs?
Roccett: Shout out to my manage Rick Edwards aka Big Ricc for holding me down. Shout out to Makaveli Branded, Notorious Big Clothing, and the Blanco Label for keeping me fly. Also, shout out to my entire Green Up movement.
HH-HQ.Com: Last question is there anything that you want to tell your fans?
Roccett: I love all my fans and thanks for supporting and listening to me. Real talk i appreciate all of you.
Roccett: Thanks for having me
HH-HQ.Com: I'm glad you had the time because what we want to do is put you on blast. Let everybody know who exactly Roccett is.
Roccett: Roccett is a young hungry MC from Carson, CA ready to take the entire world by storm. Roccett is about the truth and good music.
HH-HQ.Com: What sets you apart from the other emcees out there?
Roccett: I am real because anything that i rap about is how i live. There are no gimmicks and no lies its 100 percent the truth. Beyond that, i have versitility and make music that all can relate to. I give my all in my music.
>HH-HQ.Com: How would you describe your sound?
Roccett: Many would say i make street music or gangsta music, but i make all types of music. I talk about life and the many different emotions that come with life. However i feel or wherever the beat brings me, thats what you gonna get for that particular song.
HH-HQ.Com: Who are some of your influences?
Roccett: All the legends in the game but Tupac is the on who influenced me the most though.
HH-HQ.Com: Outside of hip hop, what do you like to do in your free time?
Roccett: I enjoy the simple things like playing basketball and spending time with my kids. But really to be honest my life is this music so theres not much time for anything else.
HH-HQ.Com: Is there one place that you have the most inspiration when your not doing something musically?
Roccett: A lot gets accomplished in my car.
HH-HQ.Com: What is the process that you go through when making a song?
Roccett: I don't write down lyrics or write my music at all. My process is that i listen to the beat and start to formulate the song in my head. So, i walk around the studio with the beat playing and put together the song.
HH-HQ.Com: Your signed to Young Jeezy's record label CTE West. Tell me all about that.
Roccett: I signed in a group situation over there at CTE. Being with Jeezy is a good look because he is on top of the game right now and i appreciate that i can learn from him. But, i am still unsigned as a solo artist and i am currently negotiating with some labels for my solo shit.
HH-HQ.Com: What do LA and Atlanta have most in common musically?
Roccett: It's all universal because we are speaking for the underdogs, the streets, and all the real people in the world.
HH-HQ.Com: Shed some light on your situation with Makaveli Branded.
Roccett: Makaveli Branded is the clothing line of Tupac Shakur. I am a Makaveli Branded sponsered artist and its an honor to represent Makaveli. I wear the clothes and represent the movement. I also get involved in any community activities and events that the is involved in so Makaveli Branded is whats up.
HH-HQ.Com: Are you currently working on anything that you can give us the exclusive on?
Roccett: I am working on a DVD and in in the fall ad campaign for Blanco Label. I got a project called Colors that's getting all kinds of press and i'm working on another project called Corporate America. So, i am constantly in the studio working on music.
HH-HQ.Com: In your opinion has Myspace done anything to change the game?
Roccett: Yeah, Myspace has allowed artists an avenue for music to heard outside a limited region and really allows word of mouth to be effective. So, if your an artist and you have good music then more and more people will find this music and you will build a fan base. Myspace is a combination of radio and television for these consumers.
HH-HQ.Com: What is your vision for yourself in the future?
Roccett: The future looks real bright because i look to accomplish great things. I see myself as a successful artist and businessman because i am gonna drop some incredible albums, step into an executive role with my label, and possibly hit the big screen as an actor. I won't be stopped because i am determined to be the greatest.
HH-HQ.Com: What can we be looking foward to in the future from Roccett?
Roccett: Great music, tours, and more great music.
HH-HQ.Com: Any shout outs?
Roccett: Shout out to my manage Rick Edwards aka Big Ricc for holding me down. Shout out to Makaveli Branded, Notorious Big Clothing, and the Blanco Label for keeping me fly. Also, shout out to my entire Green Up movement.
HH-HQ.Com: Last question is there anything that you want to tell your fans?
Roccett: I love all my fans and thanks for supporting and listening to me. Real talk i appreciate all of you.
#Throwback Interview: @itsPanamababy
HH-HQ.Com: First i would like to thank you for taking the time to do this interview.
Panama: No problem my king, I would like to thank you for taking the time to listen to my music and open your doors to the kid ya know!
HH-HQ.Com: You started writing at the age of 15. So did you always want to be a rapper?
Panama: I wouldn't say I always wanted to be a rapper but always did want to be in the industry in some way.
HH-HQ.Com: What influenced you to become a rapper?
Panama: My situations in life and the people that surrounded me influenced me to be an artist and I personally had to use my voice and felt the need to speak to the world through my own eyes.
HH-HQ.Com: Who are some of your influences?
Panama: My influences are quite different from most rappers because they usually name rappers. However, for me my influences are my friends and family. I represent an entire country in Central America. I carry the weight and became the face of success for my people back home. So they influence me to be great and keep me motivated!
HH-HQ.Com: How many years have you been on the mic?
Panama: I've been on the mic since I was like 17 but at first I wasn't as serious as I should've been when I first started. I became serious about the craft when I turned 20 but I been on the mic for awhile now.
HH-HQ.Com: How did you get the name Panama?
Panama: I got the name Panama because i represent my country. That's what i stand for and i understand where my family come from.
HH-HQ.Com: Who are some producers that you are working with?
Panama: Right now I have one major super producer I am working with and he goes by the name of Blackjab. He is the hottest producer out of Baltimore.
HH-HQ.Com: You did a collaboration with Sparkdawg on the song "Shotty Smokin". How did that come about?
Panama: The collaboration between me and Sparkdawg was quite easy. Blackjab knows this manager named Sosa who got his hand on the track that was produced by the Baron Boys, who are currently under Scram Jones! Once I heard the beat, I simply made a phone call to Sparkdawg and told him that we have a banger on our hands. A lot of people don't know that Sparkdawg is my cousin and yes he is also Panamanian! We are family but we are from two different areas of the world meaning he's from the South and i'm from the North.
HH-HQ.Com: You have appeared on the HBO television show called "The Wire. What was that like?
Panama: Let me clear this up for my fans and future supporters, acting is my passion. It is my life and it's my craft that i take very seriously. I attend UMBC for theater and i am practically on my way out the door with a degree in the arts. So working on a show that is critically acclaimed was and is a blessing. I loved every minute of it and the response i received from my work was amazing and much appreciated.
HH-HQ.Com: Shed some light on your clothing line.
Panama: My clothing is partly owned by Andre Williams, who is the creator and founder of the line Bmore Creative. We make clothes for various celebrities and everything is custom made and designed by hands. We are a line that can help you create your identity and feel good about yourself. We make fabric and garment look like art!
HH-HQ.Com: What is your vision for yourself in the future?
Panama: I can't tell you what I vision in the future for myself because I can die tomorrow. But what I can say is that I am going to continue to grind until my family, friends and myself are comfortable and stable. I want respect from the mic and from the movies. I want to be known as one of the best emcees that ever blessed the mic.
HH-HQ.Com: How would you describe your sound?
Panama: Real, life, universal, and a breath of fresh air!
HH-HQ.Com: What sets you apart from the other emcees out there?
Panama: I consider this game as a craft and not some quick scheme to get money. I do this for a country and for my fans. I want to make music that will last and i'm still a firm believer that hard work and determination goes a long way.
HH-HQ.Com: Who are some artists that your feeling on the majors and the independents?
Panama: On the majors it will have to be Jay Z, Fabolous, Joe Buddens, Eminem, and The Lox. The cats that are independent that I am feeling are going to be on my mix album entitled "Ring Side Seats: The Weigh In" such as Sparkdawg, Yung Texxus, Rated R, and Lo Smooth.
HH-HQ.Com: Outside of hip hop, what do you like to do in your free time?
Panama: Thats funny my dude i don't have any free time. I am 22 and i will not stop until i am on top of the game taking it over. So in the words of my hustlers on the block fuck free time!
HH-HQ.Com: What can we be looking forward to in the future from Panama?
Panama: New look, new swag, new life, and a breath of fresh air!
HH-HQ.Com: What do you think about Hip Hop HeadQuarters?
Panama: I respect your grind so keep working hard. I appreciate your time and i think Hip Hop HeadQuarters is destined for success.
HH-HQ.Com: Any shout outs or quick fuck you's?
Panama: It's all love over here so it's nothing but shout outs. Shout outs to my label, my family, and everybody that i work with. Big shouts to all the DJ's, rappers, and writers that reached out to the kid. Big ups to my super producer Blackjab!
HH-HQ.Com: Last question is there anything that you want to tell your fans?
Panama: Go get on you cheesecake grind. So do everything you can possibly do and have fun with everything that you do. I am here for you and this music that i create is for you to listen to and enjoy!
Panama: No problem my king, I would like to thank you for taking the time to listen to my music and open your doors to the kid ya know!
HH-HQ.Com: You started writing at the age of 15. So did you always want to be a rapper?
Panama: I wouldn't say I always wanted to be a rapper but always did want to be in the industry in some way.
HH-HQ.Com: What influenced you to become a rapper?
Panama: My situations in life and the people that surrounded me influenced me to be an artist and I personally had to use my voice and felt the need to speak to the world through my own eyes.
HH-HQ.Com: Who are some of your influences?
Panama: My influences are quite different from most rappers because they usually name rappers. However, for me my influences are my friends and family. I represent an entire country in Central America. I carry the weight and became the face of success for my people back home. So they influence me to be great and keep me motivated!
HH-HQ.Com: How many years have you been on the mic?
Panama: I've been on the mic since I was like 17 but at first I wasn't as serious as I should've been when I first started. I became serious about the craft when I turned 20 but I been on the mic for awhile now.
HH-HQ.Com: How did you get the name Panama?
Panama: I got the name Panama because i represent my country. That's what i stand for and i understand where my family come from.
HH-HQ.Com: Who are some producers that you are working with?
Panama: Right now I have one major super producer I am working with and he goes by the name of Blackjab. He is the hottest producer out of Baltimore.
HH-HQ.Com: You did a collaboration with Sparkdawg on the song "Shotty Smokin". How did that come about?
Panama: The collaboration between me and Sparkdawg was quite easy. Blackjab knows this manager named Sosa who got his hand on the track that was produced by the Baron Boys, who are currently under Scram Jones! Once I heard the beat, I simply made a phone call to Sparkdawg and told him that we have a banger on our hands. A lot of people don't know that Sparkdawg is my cousin and yes he is also Panamanian! We are family but we are from two different areas of the world meaning he's from the South and i'm from the North.
HH-HQ.Com: You have appeared on the HBO television show called "The Wire. What was that like?
Panama: Let me clear this up for my fans and future supporters, acting is my passion. It is my life and it's my craft that i take very seriously. I attend UMBC for theater and i am practically on my way out the door with a degree in the arts. So working on a show that is critically acclaimed was and is a blessing. I loved every minute of it and the response i received from my work was amazing and much appreciated.
HH-HQ.Com: Shed some light on your clothing line.
Panama: My clothing is partly owned by Andre Williams, who is the creator and founder of the line Bmore Creative. We make clothes for various celebrities and everything is custom made and designed by hands. We are a line that can help you create your identity and feel good about yourself. We make fabric and garment look like art!
HH-HQ.Com: What is your vision for yourself in the future?
Panama: I can't tell you what I vision in the future for myself because I can die tomorrow. But what I can say is that I am going to continue to grind until my family, friends and myself are comfortable and stable. I want respect from the mic and from the movies. I want to be known as one of the best emcees that ever blessed the mic.
HH-HQ.Com: How would you describe your sound?
Panama: Real, life, universal, and a breath of fresh air!
HH-HQ.Com: What sets you apart from the other emcees out there?
Panama: I consider this game as a craft and not some quick scheme to get money. I do this for a country and for my fans. I want to make music that will last and i'm still a firm believer that hard work and determination goes a long way.
HH-HQ.Com: Who are some artists that your feeling on the majors and the independents?
Panama: On the majors it will have to be Jay Z, Fabolous, Joe Buddens, Eminem, and The Lox. The cats that are independent that I am feeling are going to be on my mix album entitled "Ring Side Seats: The Weigh In" such as Sparkdawg, Yung Texxus, Rated R, and Lo Smooth.
HH-HQ.Com: Outside of hip hop, what do you like to do in your free time?
Panama: Thats funny my dude i don't have any free time. I am 22 and i will not stop until i am on top of the game taking it over. So in the words of my hustlers on the block fuck free time!
HH-HQ.Com: What can we be looking forward to in the future from Panama?
Panama: New look, new swag, new life, and a breath of fresh air!
HH-HQ.Com: What do you think about Hip Hop HeadQuarters?
Panama: I respect your grind so keep working hard. I appreciate your time and i think Hip Hop HeadQuarters is destined for success.
HH-HQ.Com: Any shout outs or quick fuck you's?
Panama: It's all love over here so it's nothing but shout outs. Shout outs to my label, my family, and everybody that i work with. Big shouts to all the DJ's, rappers, and writers that reached out to the kid. Big ups to my super producer Blackjab!
HH-HQ.Com: Last question is there anything that you want to tell your fans?
Panama: Go get on you cheesecake grind. So do everything you can possibly do and have fun with everything that you do. I am here for you and this music that i create is for you to listen to and enjoy!
Saturday, June 30, 2007
#Throwback Interview: Hopsin
HH-HQ.Com: I would like to thank you for taking the time to do this interview.
Hopsin: No problemHH-HQ.Com: How did you get the name Hopsin?
Hopsin: Its a spin off my last name Hopson.
HH-HQ.Com: How many years have you been on the mic?
Hopsin: I've been on the mic for a good 6 years
HH-HQ.Com: How would you describe you sound?
Hopsin: My sound is me in the form of audio<
HH-HQ.Com: How do you feel about some people comparing you to Eminem?
Hopsin: Just because i don't have a thug image or i don't rap with a fake ass swagger they want to compare me to Eminem. Thanks for the compliment and fuck you is how i feel.
HH-HQ.Com: Did you always want to be a hip hop artist?
Hopsin: No i wanted to be an actor but i would always blink too much on my auditions and not get the part so now i'm here.
HH-HQ.Com: Could you see yourself deciding to become a full time producer?
Hopsin: No because i don't have the patience to deal with unprofessional artists.
HH-HQ.Com: What is your vision for yourself in the future?
Hopsin: Making music and not being hungry, so i want to go as far as i can with this music thing.
HH-HQ.Com: When is your CD being released?
Hopsin: The faster i get signed then the faster it comes out. I've been waiting to release it for awhile and i think it's done but i just need somebody to put the money behind it.
HH-HQ.Com: Could you see yourself doing a duet with a female singer?
Hopsin: Yeah i have old tracks where i put a female in it with me and i still have one in the works. I don't like to do them that much but i make it happen every now and then.
HH-HQ.Com: Are there any artists that you aren't feeling right now?
Hopsin: Yeah 99.9% of the shit on the radio pisses me off!
HH-HQ.Com: What is the hardest thing you've come across in your career so far?
Hopsin: People who try to be in my life because they see i might be going somewhere one day.
HH-HQ.Com: You had a meeting with Dame Dash a while back. What was that experience like?
Hopsin: It was tight! All his homies was mad doggin the hell out of me though because when i walked in his office they started asking me "Why do you were those contacts?" But he was feeling my music though so i ain't trippin.
HH-HQ.Com: Do you think the East Coast had a downfall?
Hopsin: No i don't think they had a downfall but the South just had a big upfall and faded everywhere else to black.
HH-HQ.Com: What do you think about Hip Hop HeadQuarters?
Hopsin: I think its great to have a spot where artists can get a lil attention because it's a hard industry to get into. It helps to have a profile or a couple interviews done because it looks better in your resume. The site is tight and i got nothing but love for the people who run it.
HH-HQ.Com: Last question any shout outs or quick fuck you's?
Hopsin: Yeah shout out to the HHHQ family, my photographers, my managers, and just the people that keep coming to my myspace page. But i'd like to say fuck you to all my haters
Below is a song that Hopsin did to promote Hip Hop HeadQuarters
Thursday, June 28, 2007
#Throwback Interview: Flyboy
HH-HQ.Com: I would like to thank you for taking the time to do this interview.
Flyboy: No problem, thanks for having me
HH-HQ.Com: Shed some light on the FBI movement.
Flyboy: I've been called "Flyboy" since 98 but it's actually Sparkdawg that created "FBI". It's basically a bunch of "Fly" artists that come together to make hot music. It's a movement!
HH-HQ.Com: Not to many rappers are from Oklahoma. What are some advantages and disadvantages of that?
Flyboy: The disadvantages are that people don't realize that Oklahoma is just as dirty as everywhere else is. They think everything is Country and Western or something like that. But its not at all and those walls are being broken down now because a lot of artist are making that happen in Oklahoma. I happen to be one of the one's blessed with a lot of shine, so I'm repping the "O" to the fullest. Also being next door to Texas helps alot too.
HH-HQ.Com: How did you being featured on a DJ Whoo Kid mixtape come about?
Flyboy: One of the DJ's from Shadyville got in touch with me and said they liked my swag and that I was from Oklahoma so I got put on.
HH-HQ.Com: You've also worked with DJ Vlad. What has been like doing business together with him?
Flyboy: Vlad is cool because he's a hustler just like I am. That was just another notch in my belt representing Oklahoma. He's a Heavyweight! That Mixtape is about to drop by the way.
HH-HQ.Com: We were informed by Sparkdawg that you have had problems with Lil Jon. What are the details of that situation?
Flyboy: I've kind of put that situation on hold but to make a long story short, I was a radio dj in Oklahoma back in 98-99. I got very popular as an on air personality but that wasn't what I really wanted to do. So at the height of my popularity I stepped down in 99 and put an album together. It did well for Oklahoma and I used the money I made to move to Atlanta. I used that "album" as a "demo" in Atlanta and I would go to every party and event just giving it out back in 2000-2001. A couple years past and in 2003 a friend of mine there called and asked if Lil Scrappy had bought my song, I said no and after I heard what he was talking about but I still felt that even though it was the same concept it still wasn't a big deal. But when Scrappy's album came out about 7 months later and I heard an entirely different song of mine word for word on his CD. Thats when I knew it wasnt just a coincedence.
HH-HQ.Com: After Tupac Shakur's Hit Em Up came out and recieved media attention alot of artists have tried to duplicate that. What is your view on rapper's making diss songs and starting beefs with other rappers?
Flyboy: That's exactly why I stopped really going with the "diss" angle involving Lil Jon and Lil Scrappy. I didn't want to be labeled as that because i wanted people to see that I had talent and could hustle. I think if it's warranted then do what you have to but it should never overshadow your craft. Some of these beefs are silly but mine is real. But so many people try to use "beef" as a come up. Me and Sparkdawg talked about that too, and just like he said, the best thing to do is get your money right because you can't go to war if you don't have the finances.
HH-HQ.Com: In your opinion has Myspace done anything to change the game?
Flyboy: Oh Hell yeah you can have worldwide fans, plan tours, network all from your laptop. Fans everywhere can hear your music instantly so thats a big plus. So it's all about who can hustle the hardest because the playing field is leveled and the majors aren't selling CD's anymore, so the internet is where it's at.
HH-HQ.Com: Cam'ron and 50 Cent both used Myspace and Youtube to release Curtis and Funeral Music. Do you think that was a smart decision?
Flyboy: It was smart because like I said the internet is where its at. So yeah everybody was paying attention.
HH-HQ.Com: What is your view on music piracy?
Flyboy: Me personally it's not ever going to be stopped, so it makes the artist have to be more "approachable". Now fans actually have to like you as a person for them to actually go and "buy" your cd. Otherwise they'll just download your singles and call it a day. So it makes artists step there game up. No more Diva's, well they can play Diva if they want but artists like me and Sparkdawg are up close and personal with our fans, so they'll buy our cd just because they feel a "connection".
HH-HQ.Com: Who are some artists that your feeling on the majors?
Flyboy: Majorwise I'd have to say Lil Wayne, Jay Z, and Nas. There's a few more that ain't registering right now but if it has substance then i'm with it.
HH-HQ.Com: Are there any artists that you aren't feeling?
Flyboy: Man that's a good question because if I turn on the radio i'm not feeling 95% of what I'm hearing because everything just sounds the same. But I don't listen to Lil Jon, Lil Scrappy or Busta Rhymes at all.
HH-HQ.Com: How do you feel about Nas saying that Hip Hop is dead?
Flyboy: A lot of people took that out of context but what he was saying is the "essence" is dead. If you go back to like 92-96 you can tell the difference. It was all different and artists gave you a full package. Now it just seems like it's about money and classic status goes to whoever pays the most money to the magazines and radio station dj's. But back then it was about originality and now it's "cool" to do the same thing or use the exact same producers. So i felt where he was coming from and it is dead because nobody can sell a cd right now.
HH-HQ.Com: Outside of hip hop, what do you like to do in your free time?
Flyboy: I love the NBA season.
HH-HQ.Com: Which NBA team is your favorite?
Flyboy: Chicago Bulls because i was born and raised there but i moved to Oklahoma when i was 13.
HH-HQ.Com: Who is your favorite player?
Flyboy: The Pheonix Sun's Steve Nash
HH-HQ.Com: What can we expect from you in the future?
Flyboy: I got the DJ Vlad mixtape "The Message B4 The Message" coming out really soon and I got my album "The Message" dropping in the fourth quarter this year.
HH-HQ.Com: Is there anything you would like to tell your fans?
Flyboy: Yeah Flyboy is the truth there are no gimmicks. I go hard and i really appreciate the support. Oklahoma has my back and we're going to make history. I also want to give a shout out to my producer Verse. "The Message" coming soon!
Flyboy: No problem, thanks for having me
HH-HQ.Com: Shed some light on the FBI movement.
Flyboy: I've been called "Flyboy" since 98 but it's actually Sparkdawg that created "FBI". It's basically a bunch of "Fly" artists that come together to make hot music. It's a movement!
HH-HQ.Com: Not to many rappers are from Oklahoma. What are some advantages and disadvantages of that?
Flyboy: The disadvantages are that people don't realize that Oklahoma is just as dirty as everywhere else is. They think everything is Country and Western or something like that. But its not at all and those walls are being broken down now because a lot of artist are making that happen in Oklahoma. I happen to be one of the one's blessed with a lot of shine, so I'm repping the "O" to the fullest. Also being next door to Texas helps alot too.
HH-HQ.Com: How did you being featured on a DJ Whoo Kid mixtape come about?
Flyboy: One of the DJ's from Shadyville got in touch with me and said they liked my swag and that I was from Oklahoma so I got put on.
HH-HQ.Com: You've also worked with DJ Vlad. What has been like doing business together with him?
Flyboy: Vlad is cool because he's a hustler just like I am. That was just another notch in my belt representing Oklahoma. He's a Heavyweight! That Mixtape is about to drop by the way.
HH-HQ.Com: We were informed by Sparkdawg that you have had problems with Lil Jon. What are the details of that situation?
Flyboy: I've kind of put that situation on hold but to make a long story short, I was a radio dj in Oklahoma back in 98-99. I got very popular as an on air personality but that wasn't what I really wanted to do. So at the height of my popularity I stepped down in 99 and put an album together. It did well for Oklahoma and I used the money I made to move to Atlanta. I used that "album" as a "demo" in Atlanta and I would go to every party and event just giving it out back in 2000-2001. A couple years past and in 2003 a friend of mine there called and asked if Lil Scrappy had bought my song, I said no and after I heard what he was talking about but I still felt that even though it was the same concept it still wasn't a big deal. But when Scrappy's album came out about 7 months later and I heard an entirely different song of mine word for word on his CD. Thats when I knew it wasnt just a coincedence.
HH-HQ.Com: After Tupac Shakur's Hit Em Up came out and recieved media attention alot of artists have tried to duplicate that. What is your view on rapper's making diss songs and starting beefs with other rappers?
Flyboy: That's exactly why I stopped really going with the "diss" angle involving Lil Jon and Lil Scrappy. I didn't want to be labeled as that because i wanted people to see that I had talent and could hustle. I think if it's warranted then do what you have to but it should never overshadow your craft. Some of these beefs are silly but mine is real. But so many people try to use "beef" as a come up. Me and Sparkdawg talked about that too, and just like he said, the best thing to do is get your money right because you can't go to war if you don't have the finances.
HH-HQ.Com: In your opinion has Myspace done anything to change the game?
Flyboy: Oh Hell yeah you can have worldwide fans, plan tours, network all from your laptop. Fans everywhere can hear your music instantly so thats a big plus. So it's all about who can hustle the hardest because the playing field is leveled and the majors aren't selling CD's anymore, so the internet is where it's at.
HH-HQ.Com: Cam'ron and 50 Cent both used Myspace and Youtube to release Curtis and Funeral Music. Do you think that was a smart decision?
Flyboy: It was smart because like I said the internet is where its at. So yeah everybody was paying attention.
HH-HQ.Com: What is your view on music piracy?
Flyboy: Me personally it's not ever going to be stopped, so it makes the artist have to be more "approachable". Now fans actually have to like you as a person for them to actually go and "buy" your cd. Otherwise they'll just download your singles and call it a day. So it makes artists step there game up. No more Diva's, well they can play Diva if they want but artists like me and Sparkdawg are up close and personal with our fans, so they'll buy our cd just because they feel a "connection".
HH-HQ.Com: Who are some artists that your feeling on the majors?
Flyboy: Majorwise I'd have to say Lil Wayne, Jay Z, and Nas. There's a few more that ain't registering right now but if it has substance then i'm with it.
HH-HQ.Com: Are there any artists that you aren't feeling?
Flyboy: Man that's a good question because if I turn on the radio i'm not feeling 95% of what I'm hearing because everything just sounds the same. But I don't listen to Lil Jon, Lil Scrappy or Busta Rhymes at all.
HH-HQ.Com: How do you feel about Nas saying that Hip Hop is dead?
Flyboy: A lot of people took that out of context but what he was saying is the "essence" is dead. If you go back to like 92-96 you can tell the difference. It was all different and artists gave you a full package. Now it just seems like it's about money and classic status goes to whoever pays the most money to the magazines and radio station dj's. But back then it was about originality and now it's "cool" to do the same thing or use the exact same producers. So i felt where he was coming from and it is dead because nobody can sell a cd right now.
HH-HQ.Com: Outside of hip hop, what do you like to do in your free time?
Flyboy: I love the NBA season.
HH-HQ.Com: Which NBA team is your favorite?
Flyboy: Chicago Bulls because i was born and raised there but i moved to Oklahoma when i was 13.
HH-HQ.Com: Who is your favorite player?
Flyboy: The Pheonix Sun's Steve Nash
HH-HQ.Com: What can we expect from you in the future?
Flyboy: I got the DJ Vlad mixtape "The Message B4 The Message" coming out really soon and I got my album "The Message" dropping in the fourth quarter this year.
HH-HQ.Com: Is there anything you would like to tell your fans?
Flyboy: Yeah Flyboy is the truth there are no gimmicks. I go hard and i really appreciate the support. Oklahoma has my back and we're going to make history. I also want to give a shout out to my producer Verse. "The Message" coming soon!
Monday, June 25, 2007
#Throwback Interview: @SparkdawgMusic
HH-HQ.Com: When we first came in contact with you it was when you made "Sidekick Pimpin" and now you have a new single called "Dial Tone". What would you say are the differences between Sparkdawg of the past and Sparkdawg of the present?
Sparkdawg: Well when i first dropped "Sidekick Pimpin" it was my way of letting all my fans and supporters get ahold of me so they could that i'm just a normal everyday person like anyone else. "Dial Tone" is the aftermath of my so called "success" in the music industry so far.
HH-HQ.Com: In the song "Sidekick Pimpin" you gave out your screen name Sprtx and you did it again on "Dial Tone" when you gave out your new screename HitMeOnMySK. Why did you do that?
Sparkdawg: Because i had to let all the fans know that my first screen name got hacked so i had to show the haters even though they hacked my first account that Sparkdawg isn't going anywhere. Also, i get a kick out of people sending me instant messages asking "Is this really Sparkdawg"? I love that shit!
HH-HQ.Com: Some people may not know this but you were a member of Lil Scrappy's G's Up Click and you even recorded songs with him such as Shoot Em' Up and G's Up Meets G Unit. What caused you two to have a fall out?
Sparkdawg: For the record, we never had a "falling out". Me, Lil Scrappy, and Crime Mob all shared the same manager. I fell out with our manager and came back to Texas to do my own thing. Mater of fact, Me and Lil Scrappy recently chopped it up via Tmail from Sidekick to Sidekick. He congradulated me on the Green City article in The Source.
HH-HQ.Com: So, with that said is it possible that you two will do a collaboration in the near future?
Sparkdawg: Who knows? Money talks! If the situation presents it's self and it's beneficial for both parties then i'm down with doing a collaboration.
HH-HQ.Com: You did a mixtape track called "Street Shit" featuring Lil Wayne and Chamillionaire's brother Thunda Cat. How did that come about?
Sparkdawg: Damn! I see you really did your researching homie. That track came about because DJ Scrap from Louisiana is my homie and he messes with Weezy and the whole Young Money camp plus he's real cool with Thunda Cat too. So, DJ Scrap sent me the track with Lil Wayne's verse already on there and Currency had already laced the hook. Once i added my verse then Thunda Cat and DJ Scrap's artist Teph added theirs and the rest is history homie.
HH-HQ.Com: "For Playaz Only" was one of the first songs you recorded when you got to Atlanta. The song featured Kash and it was also produced by you. So, with that said could you see yourself as a full time producer?
Sparkdawg: I haven't really messed with producing beats since i left Atlanta because i've been lucky enough to stumble across some of the hottest underground producers like Da Champ, G-Ni, and Noki Swazay. Alot of people don't know this but i've recently stepped back into the producer's chair and co-produced "Dial Tone" with Noki Swazay.
HH-HQ.Com: Do you do collaborations with other underground artists? If so, how do they contact you about doing business together?
Sparkdawg: I do collaborations with underground artists all the time. They usually contact me on Myspace or my Sidekick via email.
HH-HQ.Com: What was your reaction when you found out Green City was getting signed by Scarface?
Sparkdawg: Honestly, i didn't know what to expect. Green City was already in Houston with Scarface while i was at Tum Tum's house in Dallas. All of a sudden i get a phone call from Scarface's assistant telling me they had a plane ticket for me to fly from Dallas to Houston.
HH-HQ.Com: What was it like working with Mannie Fresh on Green City's Party Like A Rockstar? Is there going to be a video for that single?
Sparkdawg: Working with Mannie Fresh was crazy! Alot of people don't know this but he on some "Rockstar" shit. He came to the studio rocking a mohawk and everything. As fas as a video, i'm not sure there's been alot of controversy over our single. So, we might run with a newer single but you just got to stay tuned.
HH-HQ.Com: So when does Green City's new album "Brand New Money" come out? Or is there not a set date yet?
Sparkdawg: It's funny that you asked that because i got a phone call from our label the other day saying that our album is getting pushed back until September to build a bigger buzz. We got some hot songs for the fans they definatly won't be disappointed.
HH-HQ.Com: What can we be looking foward to in the future from Sparkdawg? Are you going to be releasing a solo album in the near future?
Sparkdawg: A whole lot of stuff! I got my greatest verses mixtape called "Google My Name" by DJ Blurray dropping soon with over 60 flows on there. I'm still releasing "B4 The Major Deal" mixed by DJ Grip, and i just launched a new side project called "FBI aka Fly Boy Incorporated" with Tum Tum, Wesfif, Dee Boi, Yung Texxus, Yung Chill, GT Garza, Panama, and we got affiliates like my homie from Oklahoma named Flyboy and a few other artists. Plus, i recently launched "Spark-A-Lot Marketing" where for a small fee, I'll promote new artists and use my connections with various mixtape DJs to get their tracks placed on mixtapes. As far as my solo album, i still plan on dropping "Da Lone Star Kid" on a major label soon since i signed a "group" deal with Scarface i still have the option of rolling with whoever i want on my solo stuff.
HH-HQ.Com: Any shout outs?
Sparkdawg: Shout out to my homies on TVT Records the Gritboys. I just did a cameo in their new video "Fresh" featuring Tum Tum and Trae. Ya'll should see that video real soon on BET and MTV. FBI the flyest movement in music!
HH-HQ.Com: Well i want to thank you for taking the time to do this interview. Is there anything that you want to tell your fans?
Sparkdawg: Most definatly to all my fans, I know i've been promising ya'll "B4 The Major Deal" for a long time now but i had to fallback and focus on the Green City and Scarface situation. Now that we've turned our album in now i'm back in 100% Sparkdawg mode and i promise ya'll that "B4 The Major Deal" will be the hottest underground release in a while!
Sparkdawg: Well when i first dropped "Sidekick Pimpin" it was my way of letting all my fans and supporters get ahold of me so they could that i'm just a normal everyday person like anyone else. "Dial Tone" is the aftermath of my so called "success" in the music industry so far.
HH-HQ.Com: In the song "Sidekick Pimpin" you gave out your screen name Sprtx and you did it again on "Dial Tone" when you gave out your new screename HitMeOnMySK. Why did you do that?
Sparkdawg: Because i had to let all the fans know that my first screen name got hacked so i had to show the haters even though they hacked my first account that Sparkdawg isn't going anywhere. Also, i get a kick out of people sending me instant messages asking "Is this really Sparkdawg"? I love that shit!
HH-HQ.Com: Some people may not know this but you were a member of Lil Scrappy's G's Up Click and you even recorded songs with him such as Shoot Em' Up and G's Up Meets G Unit. What caused you two to have a fall out?
Sparkdawg: For the record, we never had a "falling out". Me, Lil Scrappy, and Crime Mob all shared the same manager. I fell out with our manager and came back to Texas to do my own thing. Mater of fact, Me and Lil Scrappy recently chopped it up via Tmail from Sidekick to Sidekick. He congradulated me on the Green City article in The Source.
HH-HQ.Com: So, with that said is it possible that you two will do a collaboration in the near future?
Sparkdawg: Who knows? Money talks! If the situation presents it's self and it's beneficial for both parties then i'm down with doing a collaboration.
HH-HQ.Com: You did a mixtape track called "Street Shit" featuring Lil Wayne and Chamillionaire's brother Thunda Cat. How did that come about?
Sparkdawg: Damn! I see you really did your researching homie. That track came about because DJ Scrap from Louisiana is my homie and he messes with Weezy and the whole Young Money camp plus he's real cool with Thunda Cat too. So, DJ Scrap sent me the track with Lil Wayne's verse already on there and Currency had already laced the hook. Once i added my verse then Thunda Cat and DJ Scrap's artist Teph added theirs and the rest is history homie.
HH-HQ.Com: "For Playaz Only" was one of the first songs you recorded when you got to Atlanta. The song featured Kash and it was also produced by you. So, with that said could you see yourself as a full time producer?
Sparkdawg: I haven't really messed with producing beats since i left Atlanta because i've been lucky enough to stumble across some of the hottest underground producers like Da Champ, G-Ni, and Noki Swazay. Alot of people don't know this but i've recently stepped back into the producer's chair and co-produced "Dial Tone" with Noki Swazay.
HH-HQ.Com: Do you do collaborations with other underground artists? If so, how do they contact you about doing business together?
Sparkdawg: I do collaborations with underground artists all the time. They usually contact me on Myspace or my Sidekick via email.
HH-HQ.Com: What was your reaction when you found out Green City was getting signed by Scarface?
Sparkdawg: Honestly, i didn't know what to expect. Green City was already in Houston with Scarface while i was at Tum Tum's house in Dallas. All of a sudden i get a phone call from Scarface's assistant telling me they had a plane ticket for me to fly from Dallas to Houston.
HH-HQ.Com: What was it like working with Mannie Fresh on Green City's Party Like A Rockstar? Is there going to be a video for that single?
Sparkdawg: Working with Mannie Fresh was crazy! Alot of people don't know this but he on some "Rockstar" shit. He came to the studio rocking a mohawk and everything. As fas as a video, i'm not sure there's been alot of controversy over our single. So, we might run with a newer single but you just got to stay tuned.
HH-HQ.Com: So when does Green City's new album "Brand New Money" come out? Or is there not a set date yet?
Sparkdawg: It's funny that you asked that because i got a phone call from our label the other day saying that our album is getting pushed back until September to build a bigger buzz. We got some hot songs for the fans they definatly won't be disappointed.
HH-HQ.Com: What can we be looking foward to in the future from Sparkdawg? Are you going to be releasing a solo album in the near future?
Sparkdawg: A whole lot of stuff! I got my greatest verses mixtape called "Google My Name" by DJ Blurray dropping soon with over 60 flows on there. I'm still releasing "B4 The Major Deal" mixed by DJ Grip, and i just launched a new side project called "FBI aka Fly Boy Incorporated" with Tum Tum, Wesfif, Dee Boi, Yung Texxus, Yung Chill, GT Garza, Panama, and we got affiliates like my homie from Oklahoma named Flyboy and a few other artists. Plus, i recently launched "Spark-A-Lot Marketing" where for a small fee, I'll promote new artists and use my connections with various mixtape DJs to get their tracks placed on mixtapes. As far as my solo album, i still plan on dropping "Da Lone Star Kid" on a major label soon since i signed a "group" deal with Scarface i still have the option of rolling with whoever i want on my solo stuff.
HH-HQ.Com: Any shout outs?
Sparkdawg: Shout out to my homies on TVT Records the Gritboys. I just did a cameo in their new video "Fresh" featuring Tum Tum and Trae. Ya'll should see that video real soon on BET and MTV. FBI the flyest movement in music!
HH-HQ.Com: Well i want to thank you for taking the time to do this interview. Is there anything that you want to tell your fans?
Sparkdawg: Most definatly to all my fans, I know i've been promising ya'll "B4 The Major Deal" for a long time now but i had to fallback and focus on the Green City and Scarface situation. Now that we've turned our album in now i'm back in 100% Sparkdawg mode and i promise ya'll that "B4 The Major Deal" will be the hottest underground release in a while!
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