You have just released your latest album ” The Diamond Report ” assisted by DJ Premier produced single/video ” EMF” , but for those that are getting familiar with you and your music now , please let us know who you are , what you have done and what you represent?
I am the co-founder, along with Guru, of the group Gangstarr. I have been in countless videos over the past couple of decades for the group and myself. I have released 6 solo albums and I have been a part of Gangstarr and Jazzmatazz albums. I represent authentic hardcore, hip hop music with a taste of soul but I am also known for my singing prowess. My wish is to ultimately continue the Big Shug and Gangstarr legacy.
With your new album ” The Diamond Report ” what is your overall goal and message you intend to spread with this project?
The fact that I will continue to do music forever and will never be complacent. I want my music to take people on a journey, on an escape of reality and soul.
Upon coming back from tour, I caught the movie ” Black Mass ” and happy to see you were an Actor in the movie, how did you getting into acting come about?
The video director of My Boston, Peter Dudgeon, informed me that Ben Affleck was shooting a movie called “The Town”. And they were looking for characters to play “tough guys” and suggested that I go down and audition. So, I did, and ever since then I have been called in for movies. Larry David’s “Clear History”, Sandra Bullock’s “The Heat”, Johnny Depp’s “Black Mass”
Who were your earliest inspirations musically, and who are they currently?
The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, James Brown, Jackson 5, The Beatles, and many others. As far as Hip hop; Run DMC, Grand Master Flash and the Furious Five.
Beyond being an Emcee and Actor, you have also been and Coach and now… the proud Dad of a great athlete yourself, What advice can you give to parent’s who also maybe nurturing a star athlete in the family?
First and foremost, I’ve been coaching for a long time. My older son also played football and basketball. My advice would be, first make sure your child WANTS to play and has the DESIRE to play. At some point you will find out if there are ready for the next level but always makes sure they are having fun and enjoying it. Because it doesn’t last forever.
If you could pick two Eras in Hip Hop and mesh them together forming the ultimate Era, who would they be and why?
I would combine the 80’s and 90’s. Biggie combined with Rakim and a hint of Jay Z. It would be conscience, partying, storying telling and rapid rhythm style. The ultimate hustle.
Favorite Book?
I don’t read a lot of books now, but one was Monster Cody.
Favorite Movie?
Godfather 1, and The Negotiator
What has been your favorite country to tour and why?
I would say Switzerland. The atmospheres has always been good, as far at the landscape and the people. I’ve also always enjoyed the Montreux Jazz Festival.
If you could pick one classic Hip Hop movie to remake and be apart of , what would it be and what role would you play?
Belly: and I would play DMX’s lead character (Bunz)
Favorite Album of All Time and Why?
It’s impossible to have a favorite album because there are so many great ones that I really enjoyed.
What is something about you, that people may not know, that you would like them to know?
I’m a very good cook. When I’m home I do all the cooking.
What to you makes a great producer and a great emcee?
I’m not a producer, but I have a great ear for picking my music. My flow and voice is important whether I’m singing or rapping.
Last Words, What is Next for You?
I will be hitting the road and going on tour with DJ premier and the Gangstarr project: The Diamond Report, also releasing a full singing project “The Living Room”. Also continuing my acting as well.
Big Shug Forever and the Gangstarr Legacy continues.
Interview by @ Cymarshalllaw