How did you get your name?
I always get this question. Well, it's kinda convoluted how it came about. When I played football in high school, I was a pretty good receiver. I got my "Al Bundy" greatness stories, but I'll spare ya'll all that. Long story short, I was a deep threat, and when someone tried to man up on me and bump in run, folks on the sideline would heckle the corner, like ‘you better back up’, and we started saying the sample for the Beatnuts track "Off The Books", where it goes, "youuuuuu betta watch yo step". That turned in to Wooooooo, and I added the Child, like the old expression. So my name is an exclamation. When folks hear something impressive, like when they saw something impressive when I played football. I try to impress with my schemes and cadences when I write, while still being relatable, because it doesn't matter how intricate your scheme and flow are if no one gets it.
The Midwest is home to many of the world’s fastest rappers. Why do you think that is?
I have no idea. I don't see myself in that vein, but I do a little something to set myself apart from "your homeboy that raps". So that's probably it, wanting to set ourselves apart. Every area has a sound, and I guess the Midwest chose a little speed to set ourselves apart, because just about anyone can rhyme words, but not everyone can pick up the pace, chop up the syllables and make it sound effortless. Of course Twista is the king of that, and I never tried to be like the big homie, but you can't deny the reaction from the crowd when you pick up the pace. They pay attention and their faces start screwing up. That's when you know you got 'em.
You’ve had your music placed in a lot of commercials and sports events. Is this a sustainable income for a musician in 2015?
I believe it's something every artist should be working toward as the new model of the industry. When we're giving music away for free, these corporations will pay good money for good music, and outside of performing, that can be a great source of income. In my opinion it's also the most level and honest playing field. It doesn't rely on quid pro quo, connection, or none of the bullshit politics you face in the industry. It just comes down to the music. Is it good? Does it speak to our demographic? That's good business right there, and if it doesn't measure up, you don't get licensed. This industry is full of bad business, especially on the local level. So if you got quality music, you have find a way to get it in front of these music directors, and they'll be brutally honest with you. So far it has worked out for me.
You’ve done lots of work with JBJR. What’s the secret to your chemistry?
JBJR and I worked on this one project, but I'm sure we'll do more on the future. As far as the chemistry, it's pretty simple. dope emcee + dope producer = dope product. I believe more projects like this should exist, especially from the local level, where the best cats come together and make dope music and build from there. You can't get heard if you’re not out there, and what's the point if when you're heard, it's trash? JBJR and I saw a mutually beneficial situation we could capitalize on, and it's obviously working out.
What’s next for you?
More touring. I'll be hitting the road as much as possible this year, and I'll probably fit in another project to keep things moving. If you want me in your city, just let me know. I'm easy to get at through my site. I'll be trying my best to setup a tour overseas in the near future. We'll see how it goes.
