Before I knew you, or what IZM was , I have very clear memories of me singing the lyrics to one of Hip Hop’s most famous songs by your group Channel Live feat. KRS-ONE “ Mad Izm “ can you recall the story of how that session came about?
D&D studio B. The big room. Preemo’s room.. 48 track MCI board, sp1200, KRSOne, me, Tuffy, Salaam Remi just hanging out, passing around the Hawaiian.. We already had a weed song but KRS wanted something more tangible for the masses. The first song, “The Blunt is On Fire” was extra lyrical, miracle.. lol.. The Teacha wanted us to dumb it down.. We purposely wrote Mad Izm on some corny joke shit.. And the joke was on us. We hated that song. “Wake up in the morning got the yearning for urb was the corniest thing I could think of. It was composed half way in my verse. KRS made me start it off like that. Facts!
The track was produced by KRS. Scratches too.. crazy memories.
I have read a few places, that it was KRS-ONE who discovered yourself / Channel Live, how did that happen specifically?
We were “discovered” by KRS. I was a school teacher from 1990-94. I used to take my junior high and high school students to Kris’ lectures when he was doing the H.E.A.L. lecture tour. Told him I was recording demos with my partner. In 93 he reached out and invited us to record some joints at D&D..
What were some of your original inspirations to become an Emcee?
Some of my inspirations other than KRS are Melle Mel, Super Rhymes, Rakim, RunDMC, Public Enemy, Treach, Jungle Brothers. De La Soul, Tribe..
I see so many of Hip Hoppers unhealthy nowadays, old and young, how were you able to step around that and what inspires you to stay healthy?
Staying healthy is a life style. Everybody gotta die, everybody don’t have to die miserable. Plus sex is better when you’re eating right, drinking water and exercising.
Who is someone that people may not know about , that has influenced you to be the man you are today and how did they influence you?
Too many people have inspired me to able to pick just one. I guess my mom gets all the credit.. just teaching the difference between right and wrong and teaching discipline.
Favorite Book :
My favorite book is The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Favorite Movie :
My favorite movie is “The Wu Tang series An American Story.
A lot of times, the music industry is a popularity contest, and if you are not buzzing at that very moment, friends seem to disappear. Who are some of the people you have become friends with in the industry, that never changed and always were loyal to you?
My most reliable friend in the music industry has been The R&B Legend Carl Thomas. Known that guy since 92 and has always remained consistent. Great brother!!
Best Advice :
Best advice is breath deep and drink water. And avoid sticks and seeds.
Worst Advice :
Worst advice is vote Trump
If you could debate one politician , who would it be and what are 3 topics you would like to discuss?
Politician I would debate?? They’re all terrible. I wouldn’t debate any of them, though I’d cuss a few of them out.
Who wins , one on one in their prime Jordan or Lebron? And Why?
One on One Jordan would beat Lebron. Why? MJ is naturally a more selfish person. Lebron is a better all around player.
Last Words: Whats next for you? Upcoming projects?
Right now I have the single Dump Trump featuring Mysonne, produced by DJ Heron, Dump Trump Merch line at www.dumptrump.global
Also I have the new album “Mad Izm-Who Want This Smoke?” With features by KRSONE General Steele, Doitall, Keith Murray, Dres from Blacksheep, Carl Thomas, Thirstin Howl the 3rd, Sadat X and much more. Available at www.madizm.info.
~ Interview by @cymarshalllaw