How did you connect with Statik? What was the recording process like?
I met Statik through a mutual friend one year at SXSW, she knew i wanted to work with him and she just talked me up, he gave me his number and told me to call him when I was in New York and we would link up.
You’ve worked with a lot of the underground’s best. Which was your favorite experience and why?
I'd have to say Statik. We met up had lunch, walked back to his house, went on the studio worked on music, then the Mayweather fight came on and we watched that. He invited his friends over one of which was Dstroy from the Arsonists, we watched the fight, hung out, ate hot wings and just kicked it all night. they treated me like family. It was the best time I had working with someone. I was so grateful.
Pick one old school artist and one new school artist who are major influences on you and tell us why.
Old school I'd have to choose a 90s artist, if that's considered old school, and it's 2Pac. He has influenced me the same way a uncle or big brother would, it was literally like he was part of our family. His music and words really spoke to my heart and made me want to act and take action. His passion made me want to ride with him. It was so genuine. It made me want to be honest and transparent in my music. New school I'd have to say J. Cole, or Wale because I feel like even though they are successful and mainstream they are still in some ways the underdog. Also they have never changed their music or style to fit a mold. Not only that, I can relate to the things they say.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of being a solo artist?
The advantage is that I make my own decisions and I get to speak my mind and I only have to answer for my words and my actions, sometimes with groups if one person in the group does something or makes a statement the whole group is held accountable. The disadvantage is I have all the responsibility and there isn't anyone to delegate to. Or if I'm writing I usually only have myself to bounce ideas off of.
How do you prefer to write to beats? On the spot or over a period of time? Why?
I really like to write on the spot , it's more organic for me to be in the moment, sometimes I do need more time or I write down ideas over a period of time, but usually I like to write on the spot with the beat blaring in the studio speakers. It just helps me to vibe out and get in a zone.
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Twitter [@mynameisjabee] | Twitter [@statikselekt] | jabeemusic.
Twitter [@mynameisjabee] | Twitter [@statikselekt] | jabeemusic.