NATE OG @NATEOGDET INTERVIEWS PRODUCER/SONGWRITER ACHICKWITBEATZ

1.Whats good Ms. Jordan and thank you for blessing me with this interview/ Now I have only known you a short while but your extremely dope at what you do for those who may not know you tell the readers more about yourself. Who You Are? What You Do? and Where You are From?    Why, thank you so much! I appreciate the love! I am Achickwitbeatz, I'm from the marvelous mitten     known as Michigan (more specifically Kalamazoo) and as the moniker suggests I am a chick with       beats. I produce instrumentals of various genres, often blending varieties whenever I can. 2,Where did your name come from? its dope by the way and its simple yet effective? Thank you! When I originally started producing I went by "Wyldkard" but people frequently            asked me what I did..."Do you sing?", "Do you rap?", etc.  which became tiring.  When I would          explain that I made beats, primarily because I'm female, people would always have that look of           shock on their faces or even if it was an online conversation I'd get "really?!" sometimes with          tons of question marks and exclamations as if the concept had blown their minds, haha.         So it was kind of a running joke or a play off of the shock and responses I received I would           always respond "Yes, I'm a chick with beats" and it stuck.  It was a way to simplify things and           alleviate the guesswork as to what it is I do. 3,What was the moment or event that made you say I wanted to do production?        Well, I'd say I don't really have a specific moment.  I've always been one of those people that         would be captivated by the melody or rhythm  of a song before tuning into the lyrics.  Even         back when I was in high school, riding the city bus to my after school job some of the older kids         would ask me to beatbox while they free-styled to whatever I made up. At that point, I had no         idea that I would wind up producing but I kind of feel like it added to the build up.  If I had to         narrow it down though, I'd say the closest  thing to an exact moment or event would be when I         got  my hands on Garageband for the first time.   I was playing around with some of the sounds         and I looked up and the whole day had gone by.  It was dark outside and I had forgotten to eat,         which was something that NEVER happened to me before because I LOVE food haha. 4.How long have you been producing not showing age but what year did you start?        I officially began producing in 2008.  I don't include my teenage years when I had some         "unconventional" tactics as far as trying to make instrumentals which included a karaoke          machine, two mics, a Casio, and a drum machine from JC Penney. 5.Who are some of your influences?        I have a lot of producers and beatmakers that I look up to, a long list actually, but to name a few         (in no particular order) J Dilla, 9th Wonder, Pete Rock, Premier, Pharrell, Madlib, Q-Tip, RZA,           M-Phazes, MF Doom, and more. 6.What is the local music scene like where you live?        There is a tremendous amount of talent in Kalamazoo.  There are a lot of artists, promoters,          and independent labels working hard, not only in the studio, but also to provide live         entertainment in the area often bringing in well known names to share the the stage with.  It's         eclectic, there are artists to suit just about any style of music you're into. 7.Does your local scene affect how you create? What you create? and your output?        What a great question. To some extent it does.  I enjoy live vibe sessions in which I create         beats as artists write or freestyle to them, therefore I feed off of the energy that is in the room.          So far, I have only done this locally, so I would say that would be the primary way that the local         scene affects how I create.  Other times that I am creating music, my focus is broader as I have         connected with artists outside of the local scene and of course styles, tastes, and demand         varies from region to region so I have to remain flexible to accommodate that. 8.Im a producer as well and was wondering what your lab set up consists of not giving away secret weapons and how has it change when you first started?    My lab only consists of secret weapons (insert maniacal laugh here) haha. Basically, I am a     proud Maschine fanatic, I also have mad love for my trusty Axiom 25 midi keyboard, MBox and M-    Audio studio monitors.  I first started with only a Macbook, so yeah...basically EVERYTHING has      changed since then haha. 9.Are you affiliated with any labels or companies if so feel free to tel us about them and how you became affiliated with them?     I am currently a free agent, no official ties at the moment, though as an artist I have an upcoming      single that the good people at Intimate Venues Recordings are releasing in about a week. 10.What is your creative process like as a producer?           My creative process varies slightly depending on the mood I'm in.  Sometimes I create based            on melodies or rhythms already in my head or sometimes I just sit at the pads/keys and play            whatever comes to mind.  11. What are your current projects and how can the readers find them?            I'm currently collaborating with various hip hop artists in and/or from Michigan to showcase             some of the talent we have here.  "One Day" featuring Detroit emcee Valid can be found             here: http://valid313.com/2013/10/one-day-achickwitbeatz-ft-valid/              I have a single "Within" being released in about a week             through the Intimate Venues Recordings label which is something outside of my usual              production.  It's spoken word over jazzy deep house, so if you're into that please do check it             out here: https://soundcloud.com/intimate-venues-recording/achickwithbeatz-within-just.  I             released an instrumental album earlier this year "Wyld Imagination" that is available on               Bandcamp. I am currently working on a few more things up my sleeve, but I like to share             things in somewhat of an unconventional manner so I rarely give any warning. Some songs/             instrumentals are available to check out now on Soundcloud and ReverbNation.            12. What are some of your future  projects and which ones are you looking forward to the most?       Some of my future projects will be follow ups to some of the current ones I am working on that I        referenced a just a bit earlier. I'd say the one that I am looking forward to the most is the one that        will be dedicated to those who are fans of my writing as well as my production.  It will be filled        with poetic sensuality, matters of the heart, feel good vibes and will feature all original        instrumentals. 13.How can readers stay connected and updated on you, your work and your brand?            The best way to keep up with me would be to follow me on Soundcloud, Facebook, Twitter,             ReverbNation and check me out on Bandcamp.   14.Any advice for aspiring producers such as jewels you might have learned along the way?      Never ever try to blend in with the crowd.  There are so many people doing the same thing, and         there is a lot of pressure to conform for those seeking notoriety, but when you don't make music        from the heart and what feels good to you the music has no soul and people can't authentically       connect to it.  If people don't connect to it, then it runs the risk of going out of style and fading into       obscurity and there's no longevity in that. Be proud of your style and the right people will       appreciate it. 15.Any special shout outs or thanks if so feel free to drop them here    I'm always so afraid of forgetting someone when I get to this part, if I do please charge it to my     head and not my heart, I'll try to keep it general and brief for that purpose.  I appreciate all of the     support, encouragement, and opportunities provided to me by my loving husband and family, my     consultant Phire Free, Unk Funk, Praverb, Nuff Said and the I Live Hip Hop community, record     labels Intimate Venues Recordings, Titan Records, FatBoy Entertainment, Truth Tone Records     and affiliates, and a special thank you to each and every client who has ever purchased an     Achickwitbeatz produced/written track. Also thank you to anyone who has ever taken the time to     listen, follow, like, comment or share my work, or placed a microphone in my hand...I appreciate     you more than you could know. Thanks for the interview sis and i look forward to oding more anytime.     Thank you so much Nate, I appreciate the opportunity! Achickwitbeatz  http://achickwitbeatz.bandcamp.com/album/wyld-imagination http://reverbnation.com/achickwitbeatz http://soundcloud.com/achickwitbeatz https://twitter.com/achickwitbeatz_ http://facebook.com/Achickwitbeatz achickwitbeatz@gmail.com

NATE OG @NATEOGDET INTERVIEWS MC/SONGWRITER/VOCALIST/PRODUCER YUNG MISS @YUNGMISS

1. thank you for blessing me with this interview and giving the readers and soon to be new fans a chance to get to know you. Now I know that your a multi talented artist but tell the readers a little more about yourself. Who you are? What you do?and Where you are from?

Hey everyone! My name is Yung Miss. I am a 24 year old female singer/songwriter/producer/lyricist from Perris, CA.

2,The name Yung Miss is a dope name in itself how to did you come up with the name and what is the definition to you as an artist and brand?

I came up with Yung Miss one day after messing around on Myspace. They had a rap name generator and, while joking around with it, the name Lil Miss came up as a result for me. I kinda liked it so I took it and modified it a bit… I went with Yung Miss because it represents my music… Classy and a lil hood at the same time.

3.How long have you been a vocalist/MC not to show age but what year did you start?

I have been singing forever. I wrote my first song at age 8. I started writing raps and recording my music during my sophomore year in high school. That was in 2005.

4.Who are some of your influences that you have been inspired by over the years from when you got started till now?

A major influence of mine would be Lauryn Hill. I get compared to her a lot but I never see it as a bad thing. I was always fascinated by the way she could sing such a smooth melodic hook then kill them with the most deadliest 16 ever! That’s what I wanted to do! Kill them softly just like she did!

5.What was the moment when you said this is what I want to pursue as a career?

I think after I dropped my first album and it started getting the type of buzz that I never imagined it would I finally realized that this is something I could not only do because I love it but because I am pretty good at the business aspect of getting myself out there as well. I’m still working towards making my music more of a business and becoming my own boss.

6.What is the local scene like where you are from, I know the the west coast is a very diverse scene with every form of art medium from poetry to music?

The local music scene in my area has been booming lately! Especially in Riverside, there are shows almost every night in different venues and there are definitely certain acts putting in hard work to show off their talent!... The Westcoast is very diverse! You could go to a open mic for poetry and then walk down the street and catch a Punk Rock show then drive down the block to an artwalk. It’s a beautiful thing!

7.Does the scene where you life affect your creative process? like how you create or when you create?

I would say it affects me. It makes me competitive. I want to be one of the best in my area so I try and make music that will help me live up to that ambition. As far as when I create, my area affects that as well mainly because of the amount of shows I am offered, which is plenty. If I wasn’t at a show I would probably be home working on music so I’m not always able to release as much music as I’d like!

8.Now as a producer myself i love hearing about the creative process from the artist standpoint, so what is your process not trying to give away any trade secrets but just a overview?

Lol It’s all good. To me, it’s all about the music. I like to go through my emails and folders and listen to beats producers have sent me or even my own production and vibe to it. If I hear something that makes me immediately start humming, I queue up Notepad and start putting words to the melodies I cant stop humming. The rest is history!

9.How would you define your sound and brand as an artist?

Being a Gemini, my music is affected by my split personalities. I love making soulful neo-soul type music but then I like to keep it hip-hop too and spit some real lyrical ish. But then I might be kicking it with the homies and gas on a 16 and get cocky for a minute. My sound is multi-faceted and as an artist it helps with branding because Yung Miss is able to reach different sorts of fans.

10.Do you have any current projects out or in the works, Btw the J.Dilla Project was beautiful and classic,l and i became a instant fan and hope to collab with you in the future but where can fans find your current projects?

Thank you! The J. Dilla project is my baby! I spent so much time on that project and I really put my heart and soul into it so I am happy that people are actually enjoying it still almost 2 years later… You can find all my projects on www.YungMiss.com

11.Do you have any future projects in the works and if so which ones are you looking forward to the most?

I am actually dropping a new EP this Friday called From Perris to Paris, produced entirely by French producer Tito Fiasco. It will be a short project just to hold listeners off until I drop my new album Waveforms in December!

12. Are you affiliated with any labels, companies etc if so what are they and how long have you been affiliated with them?

I’m pretty much a free agent at this point. I have had a couple offers but right now I feel like I can accomplish a lot on my own. So until I worn out to the bone and cannot continue without some help I might not be joining a label. I’d like to start my own one day soon though.

13.How can fans keep in touch and stay connected to you to stay updated on new projects etc?

All of the wonderful fans out there can follow me on Twitter @YungMiss and they can also stay updated on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/YungMissFanPage . My email is also open. Just send a message to YungMiss at my Gmail account.

14..Do you have any jewels for aspiring artist that you have helped you along the way into your career?

I think the best tip I can give to artist is that they should always believe in themselves and strive to be better. The combination of the two will always result in beneficial gains.

15.Do you have any shout outs or any special thank you's that you would like to give feel free to do so here?

I would like to thank my mother for all her support. I would also like to thank the So Cal Street Team ( Ric Rahk, Drizzle X, Absolute Idolist, T-Money, Mizz Ty). A huge shoutout goes to Nahni for always being my roaddog and helping me keep my head on straight while my body runs around like a chicken. I’d like to thank all the homeboys over at Royal Gambling Club & another shoutout to the geniuses over at BrickToYaFace.com

Than you very much for blessing me with this interview and i look forward to doing many more my friend.

Sounds great and thank you for this opportunity! 

NATE OG @NATEOGDET INTERVIEWS CHI TOWNS VERBAL MARKSMEN AND DIRTY SLUM ALUMNI VICE VERSE

1.Whats good big bro, Thanks for blessing me and the readers with this interview. Now I know how ill your are your craft and has been a fan since Young RJ's Seventh Son Violator Mixtape. now for those who may be new to your work or never could put your name and work together, feel free to introduce yourself. Who you are? What you do? and Where you're from?

 Im Vice...Vice Verse..MC outta chicago...and i appreciate the love fam..

2.Vice your one of the dopest MC's that has not only lyrical ablility but doesn't glorify the hood life, you have a conversational type of music but who are some of your influences and who currently influences you now? 

 Well growing up i got down with Rakim,Big Daddy Kane,Cube,Scarface...those the MC's i listened to....i also was diggin Stevie Wonder,Prince,Michael Jackson,Earth,wind and Fire...Jazz...james brown man i could go on and on..

3.What happened that made you say this is what i was chosen to do or wanted to do was a career? 

 I always thought i could make it in this industry..but it was after my pops passed in 2006 i really went after my dream of music..he played in the negro league...and he told me to always go after my dreams..so here i am...doin it...

4.How long have you been an MC ,Cuz I can tell your very dedicated to honing your skill not to show age but what year did you start Rhyming?  

Man i started back in the 90's..this sword is sharp..lol

5.As a producer, I love knowing what the creative process is for artist and fellow producers without revealing any secret weapons what is your creative process like?  

 I take the track listen to it,meditate on it it..depending on the where my mind state is..then i go in..if im havin writers block then i put it down and come back to it,but thats neva the issue..

6.Your from the Chi, what is the music scene like where you live, Besides my hometown of Detroit,I think Chicago is one of the most overshadowed pools of talent for lack of exposure?  

Yea man u gotta lotta talent out here in Chi..its a cesspool of talent out here..been like that since the 90's..im not really a fan of this drill music here but in the mist of all that Chicago has maaaaaaaad talent here...

7.Does the local scene affect your creative process as far as what you create? When you create? and How often you create?

 naw not at all...ima do me regardless fam..

8.I know the Chi had a ruff summer with all the violence and the negative media attention its been getting, as a resident what are your thoughts on how chicago is viewed in the media to clarify how slanted and skewed the media can be in the press? 

Yea we been gettin a bad wrap but Chicago is a city like all others...its violence here...its gangs here but thats not whats here in this city...its alot of love here...but if u in the wrong spot u gotta look out...

9..Vice, what are your current projects and how can fans find out more about you and your brand as an artist and where can they find your projects? 

Well i just dropped a mixtape v2...feat.my Dirty Slums family..which is doin well...im featured on the Yancey Boys new album all produced by J Dilla..thats droppin on Oct.29th im on the fisherman joint...and im workin on my new joint as we speak..

10.I wanted to say congrats on being a part of Dirty Slum, with you, my big bro and friend Focus and Rapper Big Pooh as he he said in one of his lines y'all are the dream team, how did you joining Dirty Slum come about?

 Well i was workin on my mixtape and J said mayb we should do a Dirty District Vol.4..well Dirty Districts was only for Detroit artist...seein that a couple of us wasnt from Detroit we put the Dirty Slums spin on it...

11.What are your future projects, if you need beats hit me up (shameless plug) but on the real what projects are you looking forward to most?

 Well im workin on my joint and takin all the features i can get...aas long as its DOPE ill rock 

13.Are you representing and labels or companies? if so be sure to list them here and how your relationships came about?

of course Violator...thats about it..

14.Do you have anyone that you would love to collab with but haven't yet?

Awww man Black Thought,Kendrick those two i would love 2 work with...Kanye..Pusha T...thats anotha one..

15.Do you have any jewels that you would give up and coming artist that you learned along the way in your career?

 Neva give up..keep pushin and keep raising the bar on yourself...

16.Do you have any shout outs or final words for the readers feel free to place them here? 

Violator...DIRTY SLUMS..Yancey Media Group...DJ Scrap Dirty,Tall Black Guy,Focus,Tye Hill,DJ Thunder,Young Rj,Bi,Twone Gabz..and get that Vice mixtape...v2 on datpiff.com...peace and thanx 4 tha love fam..

NATE OG @NATEOGDET INTERVIEWS DETROIT NEIGHBOR AND DETROIT WORDZSMITH AND VERBAL ASSASSIN NAMETAG @ITSNAMETAG

1.Whats good bro? I am a big fan of your work and I have been up on you since '07 when I heard you on Black Milk's Popular Demand, But for the readers or new fans feel free to introduce yourself and tell them Who you are? what you do? and where your from?

Thanks for supporting for so long. For those who don't know, this is Nametag, your new favorite recording artist. I'm a family man first, then I'm a music robot (lol) hailing from Detroit, MI.

2. Who are your influences?

Outside of music, truly my family. Knowing I have a daughter to help provide for is a huge influence followed by her mother staying in my corner having my back. Keeps the ambition going. Within music, Russell Simmons, Jay-Z, Dame Dash, Diddy, Kanye, Prince, The Roots. I've been in a pioneer mindstate lately.

3..How long have you been an MC and what made you say this is what I want to do as  career?

I've been an MC probably since my elementary days. Rapping was always a fun hobby. I think I took it seriously during high school. If I recall right, it was around the time I ended up on this Slum Village compilation titled "Dirty District 1". I was in a group called Ten Speed & Brown Shoe then. I already had the ability to move crowds, but knowing it's a possibility I can make a living off of it pushed me.

4.What is the music scene like in Detroit and does that affect your creative process at all or output?

Honestly, the music scene is segregated, a lot of cliques. That's just the way it is. On the upside, within these cliques it's a lot of diversity. The way I see it, this has allowed our city/state to dominate the music releases for fall 2013. Does this affect my creative output? Yes. A lot of us Detroit artists, you can hear that integrity in our music. A no nonsense approach, sticking to our true brand because it makes sense in the long term.

5.What is your creative process like an MC, I am a producer but always am intrigued by the creative process of all artist?

Creatively, I don't like overthinking anything I do. It takes the fun out of it. Only time I go for overthinking with my process is if I feel I'm about to write a struggle bar. Especially those obvious struggle bars.

6.Now we're both from Detroit but what does Detroit mean to you as a resident because the world has this slanted view of the city and is cast in a very negative light if you could define it?

Detroit definitely builds character for anybody who's a resident or was one. That's how is see it. I probably wouldn't be the artist I am if I wasn't from here. Media focus on the negative because it helps ratings, the way I see it and I don't see it as right. It's a lot of positive in the city as well. There's a balance. Those who view it slanted only choose to see it as negative only.

7.What Are some of your current releases and how can the readers or fans find them to show support of your music?

My most current release is "For Namesake", a collab album with Flint, MI producer, Nameless. It's released under Brick Records, a Boston based indie label. We have a remix project to this coming soon titled "Redo" which will feature 2 brand new songs as well. All of my music can be found atitsnametag.net

8.Now the Namesake album was classic. You and Nameless are both of my influences as producer and the caliber of MC I'd like to work with. what was the creative process of recording and making this album and will there be more collabs between you two in the future?

Thank you. It's like I was saying earlier, I didn't overthink the writing process, just wrote what I felt. I can't speak for him but based on the feel of the production, I'm guessing Nameless did the same. Collabing, we just felt we can make a dope project together and reach many supporters and new fans without compromising our true sound...and still be diverse. There will deifnitely be more future collabs. I got a batch of beats now for a For Namesake II.

9.Now if Im not mistaken you have your own label called Volume Up Entertainment, what inspired you to create your own label and when was it established, and what is the structure like of the label?

Well, Volume Up Ent. was never a label. It's actually my publishing company title through ASCAP. Right now I have my "Lead And Be Legendary" brand a.k.a The L.A.B.L Movement that I am structuring as a media group I will launch soon. There are tees available for that now if you visit itsnametag.netWhat inspired me to do this? The heavy hitters in the game. Your Russells, your Diddies, Shawn Carters. It wasn't impossible for them and it will not be for me.

10.I also know you have a team called Slang Committee, was  curious on when that was established who are the members and what made you create it?

It's actually a "K" instead of "C" for Committee. That was a collective started in my high school days at Cass Tech. Mannnn, we haven't done anything since like '05 maybe '06. The members are me, ONPoint, C. Young and Gratiot Jones. Everybody still holding their own musically though. Keep a lookout. That's going to always stay on the heart though for me as an mc. We were knocking out mixtapes back in high school before it was the trend. We kept each other ambitious, having that hunger.

11. Nametag, what do you think of the state of hip hop as it stands in 2013 and the industry as a whole as far as the divide between artist and fans, sales and radio spins?

I think the industry needs to invest and incorporate artist development. Too many here fast, gone faster artists in and out the game because the labels want a fast buck. The last half of your question is simple: A lot of artists need to understand it's ok to be a fan. You don't have to rap (lol). Sales would increase if every music release wasn't free, (mixtapes, etc.) even though piracy is tough to defeat. A whole lot of politics tie into radio spins, period. It ain't  as simple as "Request my single by texting it to this number" NO!! You want your joint in regular play, them stations want money. Focus your single to internet and college radio.

12. Do You have any jewels or words for aspiring MC's and Artist that want to do this as a career?

Yes. Make sure this is what you truly want to do because it will drain you and beat you down. Have fun with this, don't take yourself "too" seriously, unless it's on the business end (paperwork, conducting yourself right). Utilize your resources properly. STOP spamming links on social media. Posting your music link 20 times per day isn't going to make people want to hear your music. It'll turn them away from it. Oh, stop saying "Turn up!!" Lol.

13. Do you have any special thanks or shout outs if so feel free to do so now?

Thank God for keeping me on Earth serving my purpose.Shoutout to my fiancee Kila and my daughter Paris. Shoutout to family and extended family, my manager, the producers who lace me with the dopeness, and the artists who drive me to keep my pen game sharp. Shoutout to true fans and supporters, like the ones who actually buy and download the music, view the videos, and spread the word about it. Thank you.

NATE OG INTERVIEWS THE MOST PRECIOUS OF ALL JEWELZ DETROIT MC CROWN JEWELZ

1. hi miss jewelz. i know you are a very talented and gifted at what you do. why dont you tell the readers a lil more about who you are? what you do? and where your from?

Thank you! My artist name is Crown Jewelz. I've been writing and rapping since the age of 14. I love it. Music is my life. I was born in Detroit, Mi home of the Lions Tigers and...Pistons! You thought I was gonna say Bears didn't you. Lol

2.where did your name come from? as i would refer to u as a queen and of royalty myself?

My real name, first and middle, is Tiara Jewel. Therefore my artist name was destined to be Crown Jewelz. Tiara meaning crown and Jewel..well meaning Jewel. Lol. The Crown Jewel is the most prized possession of the royal family!

3.what was the moment that you said to your self I wanted to be an MC?

After I heard Gucci Mane's hit single " So Icy". Lol. I loved that song. I already had a love for jewelry and flash. That moment just intensified everything about my auro I guess.

4. What are some of your influences?

My influence was mainly Gucci Mane. Some would say how in the world could he influence you. He was the only artist I listened to from the age of 14 to 17. The years 2006 through 2009 Gucci Mane was so consistent with mixtape drops songs and ideas. Even though he has over 3,000 songs I respect his originality more then his consistency. He had songs by the name of: Nickolodeon, Colors, Body Language, Million Dollar Man, Ms. Pacman, Mr. Perfect, Weirdo, Ice Game, Jewelry and many many more. All his songs had hooks catchy enough to gain him fans. I can't compare anyone to Gucci Mane and that's why he's my influence. His style generates not caring what others think all over it. Listening to him those years made me stay original in style and make songs about whatever I want or feel should be said. I never thought anything was too silly or crazy to be said. Some artists may fear ppl won't like what they say but I don't mind. After all everybody won't be a fan. At least my fans will be true fans.. enjoying genuine music from me!

5.How long have you been an  MC? What year did you start?

I've been an mc since 14. My first performance was at 17 tho if that makes a difference. I peformed at my nailtech's, Precious Taye, son Cellus 16th bday party. That was one of my most memorable moments as an artist! Thanks P. Taye.

6. What is the music scene like where you live and does it affect your creative process?

Violence. Drugs. Money. & Sex. Thats what the music scene consists of. Thats how it is in every urban area though. I've lived in suburbs in Michigan also, but I can tell you if I never lived in those places I would still rap the way I rap. My enviroment does not control my thought process. I'm openminded and an adventurer. Love to think and explore my mind. Too creative maybe lol

7.What is you creative process like no secrets but in general?

I started writing raps way before I  spit them to a beat. I actually wrote with no beat for the longest making my own rhyme pattern from just the flow of the words. Freestyle writing. I guess. I was enticed by the way the words looked on paper and thats how my rhyme pattern was accomplished. Now its just habitual. Paper or no paper.

8.Do you have any current projects out and where can we find them?

My 1st music video is on youtube for my song "Nintendo". Youtube search Crown Jewelz Nintendo. Also feel free to listen to my other songs on youtube. Like them if you like them! Don't forget to subscribe to stay updated!

9.What are your future projects and which ones are u looking forward to  most?

I'm currently working on my 1st mixtape entitled Crown Me Jewelz. Even though I've been writing since 14, my delivery just recently reached the point that I am most comfortable with. I talk very fast so it took me a minute to deliver the right way. Now the way i rap fits me and pacing myself comes natural.
I can't waitttt to drop more videos. I have so many ideas to bring to life!

10. How would you describe your sound or Style?

My style is hmmm.. random in one word. Never know what to expect in 5 words. Lol. Overall my sound is creative but still relevant. I may make a song out of pure imagination one day and one from a conspiracy theorists perspective the next. It all depends on where my mind is. Or everywhere my mind is. No adhd but as my mind wonders the lyrics wonder! Along with that, the realist in me makes songs about manipulation, trust issues, and a corrupt world. Things everybody can relate to.

12. Any words of wisdom for aspiring artist?

Stay true to yourself. Stay consistent. Keep making music. Never give up on your dream. & REMEMBER everybody is not going to be a Fan. Make music that your fans can relate to and not just you. Your fans are the only ones who truely matter. Keep them satisfied because as long as they like your music.. they will be loyal fans and always come back to support and hear more!

13. Any shout outs or thanks feel free to drop them here 

New music video coming soon shout out to Chris Haze of HD Films also from Detroit, Mi. and new music coming very soon. Shoutout to Mitten Boy Ent. For great audio engineering on my upcoming mixtape. They've been beyond supportive over there! Thanks Bryan for the flawless audio! Tez the barber, Snake, Lakes! EVERYBODY!! So many names yall know who yall are. Forgive me for not naming.. my messed up memory lol. Shoutout to FAAAB of Dark Shades Ent for support also. Its hard being an INDIE artist but its the best. No handouts means more self-gratitude once I reach the top. I have had a helping hand here and there but my mother is my #1 supporter in all aspects of my music career. Last shoutout thanks to you for this outstanding interview I enjoyed EVERY moment!

NATE OG @NATEOGDET INTERVIEWS DETROIT NEIGHBOR , INFLUENCE AND BEATSMITH CREAM OF BEATS

1. Salute fam, thanks for blessing me with the interview im very honored to be able to interview on of my influences and hometown influences. Now i have known of u since o6 via facebbook, soundcloud etc. for the readers feel free to introduce yourself, who you are? where your from? and what your you do?
I am Cream of Beats aka Roxstar. I’m from Bedfordshire England, but reside and work in Detroit Michigan.  I am an electronic producer, which means I can compose music in my bedroom without a band or acoustic instruments if that makes any sense! haha
2. Where did your name come from its dope either way but always wondered about that?
Cream of Beats is actually the studio name.  My name is really Roxstar, but nobody calls me that.  Sometimes you can’t give yourself a name, the people do. I really like it when the ladies call me Cream...it just doesn’t sound right coming from a dude.
How long have you been producing not trying show age etc but what year did you start producing?
I started really late.  I was 26 when I began in 2000 with an ASR-X.  It sucked a$$ really bad...sequencer would jump all over them place and it just couldn't handle parameter changes while the beat was playing. In 2002, I got an MPC2000XL and my life changed. 
4. What was the moment or event that made you say to yourself this is what i want to do and pursue as a career?
I need some real loot to call it a career, but I will call it a lifestyle! I was watching 1994 DMC Turntablist video with Mista Sinista, and he flipped Guru to say saying,”All you wack niggaz lick my balls!” It was about 2am and I was on the floor rolling in laughter.  Amazed by what I watched, I knew I had to have a part in creating music, so I bought some Technics 1200’s and a Gemini Mixer the very next day! Paid $512.00 for each turntable and $99 for the mixer, get home, set it all up, and didn't have a needle!
5. How did you go about learning to produce are you self taught or did you have people to teach you etc if so who were they?
Self taught. I learned by thinking I was the best, going to the club, hear Houseshoes play some new Dilla beats, and getting humbled really quick! I learned from the best by simply listening and dissecting. Dj Q-Bert taught me how to scratch, Dilla, Madlib, SquarePusher and Agustus Pablo and taught me how to make beats..that's one heckava team!
6. Who are some of your influences people that have inspired you along the way?
First and foremost, Dj Prime Minister, Granmah, Hazel, Jewbei, Raj Mahal, Denmark Vessey, 14KT, Dibiase, Lancescape because they have their own sound and not afraid to give people their true self. 
 7. i saw your mini doc on vimeo and you referred to yourself as the record roach lol when you go digging do you have a certain sound or genre set in mind before hand? and what is your digging process like do you listen before you buy? are you mostly vinyl and what are your thou thoughts on e-digging vs vinyl digging great debate?
Jason Topp put that video together, got to shout him out!  In Detroit, we got the good s#it! Our dollar bin records are like cooked crack to the rest of the world! The process is really simple though, I go off the cover.  Look dope, buy it.  I’ll pick up a stack, then try to cut it down to $20.00..what can I eliminate! I don’t care about the condition.  If I can get a scratched $75 record for $1.00 I’m buying it! I know some guys want the cleanest, original copy, etc...fu¢k that! I buy records to create music.  I've owned approx 15,000 records, and I bet I never listened *entirely* to 15 of them!
8. Now you currently reside in Detroit my home town, how long have you lived there and what does detroit mean to you as a resident and musician?
I’ve lived in Detroit since 2001, but I moved to the Detroit area in 1987.  I actually lived in Toronto  for about 6 months before moving to the USA. I have love for Detroit because it cheap to live here.  You can buy a house with a pocket change and don't have to drive a Lamborghini to fit it,  but when it comes to the music this city does absolutely nothing for me. I’d love to say some ish like, “I see the poverty in the streets and get emotional,” but I don’t.  Dudes shooting guns at night, blasting music at 3am, or the crackheads beggin' for change at every gas station doesn’t inspire me to make beats; it inspires me to want better!  If I lived in an Igloo in Iceland, my beats would sound the exact same!   
9. Now im a producer as well but i was wondering what your lab set up consists of currently and has how has it changed over the years since you started don't reveal any secret weapons lol?
MPC2500 + Mackbook. The secret weapon is imagination....and using it!  I don't rely on a new piece of equipment that has a brand new function. I find ways to make the MPC do just about everything I need.  Itunes holds all my sampling music and I record into Audacity. No plugins, no Protools, no keyboards.  If I need keys, I find the sounds in music, chop and 16 level.  Don’t get me wrong, I’ve owned a bunch of gear, but I don’t use any of it now. I like tools that I can get 210% efficiency out of. I focus on one or two items and push the hell out of them! I can make my MPC sound like an SP-1200 or an MPC3000 without any external samplers to process the sound. I was making flangers, Echo's and reverb on my 2000XL without any FX card.  The computer does what the MPC absolutely can’t do...like surf for porn! You ever look at hoes twerking on an MPC screen? Not possible, and it wouldn't be cool! haha!
10. What is the local scene like in Detroit I moved to the Grand Rapids area back in '99 But from your perspective what is it like the scene? here doesnt affect me much just that as far as artists who understand our sound its hard so if it aint trappin it aint popping?
I honestly have no clue.  I don’t go out.  Last gig I went to was back in 09. Detroit was always really clique'ish and I never fit in with any of them. I tried to connect, but people here was on some dumb shit.  Like they see you, walk by you, but act like they didn't see you kinda ish, and the politickin' was super crazy....like getting "approval" to put music out.  Sure, anyone can put out a cd, but if you wanted it played and hyped, there were channels you had to go through. Anyone that was around in the 90's knows what I'm talking about.  It was a society, but it wasn't a secret.  
11. Does the current scene affect your creative process such how and when you create also what you create?
My mood  and personality effects the music, but I almost always like to make beats at night and alone.  Anything past 10pm works great and I often don’t stop till I see sunlight. I have a job, so I can’t do this everyday, and some weekends I just don’t want to stay up all night.  The last few years I was self employed but the recession took its toll on me creatively.  I just wasn’t feeling the idea of making beats when I needed to figure out a legal way to earn an income.
12. What is your take on the scope of the industry as far as the divide between fans and artist, producers etc, how do you feel as a musician and producer? Do you think there is a balance or is it a little lopsided?
There is no respect for real artistry anymore. Its kinda understandable since we now live in a world with mediocrity is a standard.  “Fans” are going to shows just so they can steal chains and post the bragging videos online. The artists have no more skills than the average fan, and the fan can become an artist by simply downloading some music software. Nothing is hard to attain! Everyone is capable and it shouldn’t be so easy.  If you can’t sing, you shouldn’t sing.  If you can’t dance, you shouldn’t dance, but not anymore!  Can’t sing, Autotune!  No autotune, download it! Don’t know how to download, post a question in a forum! Can’t dance, create a new dance! Call it the Stanky Leg! For any situation there is a simple workaround. Nothing requires skill, investing money or time. 
13. What is your creative process like in general as a fan I always like to know the process of creation from artist and producers?
I totally zone out and honestly, I don’t remember what I do.  When the beat is made, I often ask myself how I got to that point! I don’t drink, don’t smoke, don’t inject! haha! I always start off with sampling drums.  The MPC give you nothing but a blank canvass when you turn it on and I like that. I almost always chop loops, but I never use the same drums twice, and I will make 20+ sequences before I settle on one. Then I find the sounds that I need.  It takes a LOOOOONG time.  There is no soul in a 10 minute beat!  It might take me 10 minutes just to find a Kick drum! 
14. What are your current projects and where can the fans and readers find them?
Since people don’t really buy music anymore, I don’t plan to invest any money or effort into something that won’t yield some profits.  If anyone wants a project from me, figure out how to rip/loop the music off Soundcloud. Make your own custom Cream beat-tape for free! :)
15. Now the last release I remember that I have on my Ipod was The Bedroom Collection and non stop heat i be like black milk in dilla breaks holding my head saying this brother here lol, but I read the description of how it came about and that was crazy what happened, can you give an insight on how you put it together and what inspired you to make it ?What the creative process was like for this project? BTW I need another tape lol asap for the ipod classic!
*I think* an ex girlfriend stole my ish.  No forced entry, the alarm was disabled and coincidentally, I broke up with her that morning..I arrived home that night and all my shit was gone.  I’m talking all my studio, but the rest of the house was good. 2000XL, external HD, Zip-Disks, synths, computer.  She got me good! I took off work, ordered another computer and bought my MPC2500 brand new. Doug Coombe (Detroit Free Press) wanted to do an interview and needed some music but I don’t have anything to give him so I started scrounging! Hitting up people that I gave beat cd’s, ripping the music off the Myspace page. In the middle of putting the cd together, I get a call from a neighbor of a rental house I owned saying it got broke into.  I’m looking like WHAT THE MUTHA FUCK?!?! The Devil was trying to get in my head, but I didn’t let him.  I put down the phone thinking, ”ain’t s#!t I can do about it now!” and kept aligning the tacks on the cd! HAHAHA!! I swear, I wanted to kill that b!tch, but I didn’t want “Foot Long Frank” knee deep in my azz because of a drum machine...Nahmean! 
In all honesty, I don’t know if she really stole my gear.  I had been around some weirdo crack’ish rapper dude(s) that I later found out had some substance issues....you would have no idea just by looking at them!  I got my eye wide open on everyone so my attitude now is fu¢k people! Keep them all out your comfort zone (home.) Tell everyone your depressed, broke and your life sucks; they’ll leave you alone. 
16. What are some of your future projects and which ones are you looking forward to most?
Theory Hazit is suppose to be doing something with a bunch of joints I gave him, but I don’t know what really going on with it. If I put out anything, I think it will be on some super personal type ish.  I’ll press up 100 records and give them to friends and put a few in stores. Thats how music was put out 50 years ago and reason why some 45’s cost $3000 or more. 
17. Do you have any advice for aspiring producers that you have learned and would like to share?
Don’t take this music so seriously. Have a plan B & C because I know a LOT of 40+ year olds whose only goal was to get signed, and they have nothing!  You don’t want 10-20 years to roll by and they only skill you acquired is downloading Plug-ins off Pirate Bay, or a lengthy discography that no one gives a ish about!  
18. How can people stay connected with you and any updates on projects etc?
www.Soundcloud.com/cream-of-beats or Facebook. I don’t do all that tweetin’ ish. 
19. Do you have any shout outs or people you would like to thank feel free to do so here?
My brothers, Swing-Lo, Lancescape, D-Melodious, Die-Rek/Christine and Shallow Al!

debut album via nate og det inc

<iframe style="border: 0; width: 100%; height: 120px;" src="http://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=4029199949/size=medium/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/transparent=true/" seamless><a href="http://nateog5.bandcamp.com/album/nate-og-chronicles-in-a-minute-sessions-experience">Nate OG Chronicles:&quot;In A Minute&quot; Sessions (Experience) by NATE OG,REEK, ERIC THOMAS, ER DA KID WONDER- DJ BUTTER</a></iframe>

NATE OG @NATEOGDET INTERVIEWS MC/PRODUCER/CEO CHAUNDON @CHAUNDON 9TH WONDERS JUSTUS LEAGUE AND CEO OF GOLDEN ERA MUSIC INC

1. Whats good bro ? Now I know what you are best known for? who you are? and all the dope work and classic work I might add,that you have you have done,. Why dont you introduce yourself to the readers tell them who you are? where your from and currently reside? and what you do as  Profession  or special hobbies/interest? My name is Chaundon. I was born and raised in The Bronx, New York.  I currently reside in Raleigh NC.  I am a songwriter, producer, recording artist, and I run my own label, Golden Era Music Inc. 2. How did you get started for your career. what inspired you most to say I want to be a MC?Producer? I've been rapping since 1990.  The inspiration to start  my career as an emcee and producer was the local artists I grew up with in Hunts Point Ave.  They are Mike Smooth(R.I.P) and Fred Black.  Fred was the  1st one who got me to start rapping but it was Mike Smooth who inspired me to make a career out of it.   Back in the early 90's, Mike Smooth released his 1st single and the whole hood was rockin with him.  When I went to Flip Side Records, a local record store on Simpson Street in The Bronx, I saw vinyl with Mike's name on it and at that moment I knew it was possible for me to do the same. 3. How did you get your break or starting point as a Professional as far as the starting point that you realized that you  wanted to do this for a Career? Who gave you your break or how did it happen? No one gave me my break.  I earned my spot by putting out music with my old team,  The Justus League.  We made a name for ourselves in 1999 in the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill  area by putting out music and doing as many shows as possible. Once word got out on the internet on what was going on in NC, the rest was history. 4. How long have you been An MC Professionally not trying to show age just curious of the start year up till now. You are one of my influences as an artist as far as being the caliber of a actual MC that I would love to work with and build with? I have been an emcee professionally since 2003.  When I released my 1st mixtape, "Slow Leaks", I made enough money to pay my rent, living in NY with out having a job. 5.Where you have lived and if its different than your current residence, what is the local scene like where you currently live? The scene here in NC is wack.  There are a lot of dope artists here but the shows are not as frequent as they used to be. 6. Does your residence affect your creative process as far as output releases or how often you create your art and how so? It doesn't matter where I am located.  I am a self motivator.  Plus my music is a  reflection of my life, past present and future.  Its easy for me to create.  Since I run my own label there isn't any pressure to put out music so when ever I feel like putting it out,  its out. 7.As an MC what is your creative process like as far as how you get inspired? My process is easy.  Play the beat and write the song.  The beat is the inspiration. 8.Now Mr. Chaundon, I know you have recently made the transition to Producer of which i must admit you make me hit the lab hard after I here your Gem Stones on Soundcloud,  What happened to spawn that transition or what inspired you to learn how to produce? I always had the skill with picking records to flip I just didn't know how to work with the programs and hardware to execute it.  Last year I was bored and decided to learn it.   Thanks to my artist, C-Minor, for teaching me how to use Fruity Loops 10 I've been on the boards ever since. 9.How long have you been producing and are you afilliated with any labels, tell the  readers about your new company Golden Era Music Inc and what inspired you or  made you want to have your own label and go the Independent route and your artist  and roster and label structure? I have been producing officially for 1 one year.  The inspiration for the creation of  Golden Era Music Inc. was the lack of quality music being released in recent years.  Instead of being the one to complain about the decline in music, I decided to be a  part of the solution by starting a label, sign talented artist, and release high quality  music.  Golden Era Music is not a hip hop label, it is a record label dealing with multiple genres.  We create music from the soul.  We are a reflection of the "Golden Era" of every genre. That means our music will last forever unlike the music that only lasts for 24 hours  on the blogs these days.  The artists on the label so far are Rome Clientel & C-Minor.  They are absolutely the best at what they do.  I am a fan of their work and I am 100% confident in the music they create.  They will assist me in solidifying the Golden Era Music Inc brand in the music industry. 10.What are some of your future plans or releases that we can look forward to that you have in mind and how can the readers and your fans stay updated or connected wit you, your label, and any future projects or just you and your label in general? The future releases are The Golden Era Music compilation this fall.  Rome, C-Minor, and I will be releasing our solo albums in 2014.  The fans can connect with us on twitter @CHAUNDON @RomeClientel @LifeInMyKey @GoldenEraMusic @THEGEMSTONES Also,www.goldeneramusicinc.com www.youtube.com/goldeneramusic www.youtube.com/chaundonhoj &soundcloud.com/gemstones 11.Thanks Mr. Chaundon for this interview and I sincerely mean that on behalf of myself and the DownrockRecords.com. Do you have any jewels or Words of Wisdom for Up and Comers or Aspiring MCs and Producers that you could pass along to the readers and your fans? Stay true to who you are and NEVER compromise your integrity for a quick check. 12. Do you have any shout outs or final words for the readers feel free to say them here? Shout out to Big Dho, Rapper Big Pooh, Kim of MAK MEDIA, Joe Scudda, ATG, Kuddie Fresh, Shuko, The Gunna, Family Biz ENT, Empire Distribution, Es-K, M-Dot, Ace Dizzy Flow & Too Soon Jones ofwww.THENQM.com Chaundon Recording Artist/Song Writer/Producer Golden Era Music Inc. 917.284.0527  www.goldeneramusicinc.com twitter: @Chaundon  BY THE WAY available on iTunes now https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/by-the-way/id595758049  THE JAMMINGTON IN STORES NOW http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-jammington/id502931471