DEF-I INTERVIEW 2/18/08
Def-I of New Mexico’s Def Rare puts in mad work, always performing all over the U.S. and recently went on tour with Evidence. Homeboy is mad cool, has a new album coming out so don’t sleep on the artist, MC, producer, Def-I.
What events in life led you to start working on music and what inspires you?
My mother taught me how to read and write at an early age, so I quickly grasped onto words and linguistics. I got introduced to hip-hop music from my neighbors as a youth so that must have made an impression, back then. I started out as a percussionist in elementary school and eventually began writing rhymes in middle school. Having learned these tools and experiences led me to become an emcee and beat conductor. For the most part, I get inspired by my family, friends, and environment. Usually, my writing process begins with a nice day, great beats, and cup of kombucha elixir. I love making beats and then hearing the final track after the mixdown. Also, enjoy green chili (hint).
So you just came off that tour with Evidence, Redcloud, Short Dawg, Kahlee, DJ Episode through out the South West. Tell us about that?
Well, the tour was most definitely an unforgettable experience. It was nice for me because I grew up listening to Evidence not knowing that putting in mad work would lead me into a spot on a tour, alongside. Redcloud asked me to get involved and I was honored to be a part of the line-up. Everybody on that tour was very respectable and I’m thankful for the gifts that were shared throughout the entire time.
What’s cracking with your music. What and where can people pick up your music?
We have 4 full-length projects coming out very soon. The group is called, ‘Definition Rare’ in case you haven’t heard of us, yet. We consist of 2 core-emcees, 2 producers, and 1 DJ. You can expect nothing less than quality raps and banging beats. Currently, we are working on the mastering the tracks, then trying to get the project distributed globally, but for now you can check out my music online at www.skullcontrol.com/Def_i and www.myspace.com/definitionrare
You are in a group called Def Rare, so you do your solo stuff and group as well?
Yes, the group is called Definition Rare, Def Rare for a shorter version. Since I make beats, I am also able to provide them to other artists, and this led me to finally writing songs over my production and others’ as well. My solo project is titled, ‘Sounds of Color’ and has production from Smoke of Oldominion, DiViNCi of SOS , Hi-Deph of Skull Control Records, and many more… It’s going to be worth checking out.
What is the vibe like in New Mexico? I went to a real dope community farm in Burque.
The vibe in New Mex varies depending on what you’re looking for. It has been a place where I can create without having to feel too crowded. You can always find some good hip-hop in Albuquerque. The smaller towns are great if you need some peaceful scenes, the food is world-class, and the people are universal. Look out for Enihs on the writing tip, and hit us up if you ever need directions to your destination.
I know you produce beats, go on tour, attend a University, what is key to time management in your life? What approach do you take to get it all in?
Every day, I set goals for myself and work on getting them done. I don’t have a record label staff to help with my endeavors, so I pretty much do everything as far as the music and promotion goes. I figure now is the time to get it done, especially since gas prices went down for the time being.
What message comes with your music?
My poetry teacher once told me. “Don’t let the rhyme carry the message, let the message carry the rhyme.”
Who are you feeling right now?
As far as hip-hop music goes, I have a wide respect for all artists who practice daily and hold virtue along with their skills. I guess if you were to look in my player right now you might find the legendary lethal lyricist, Percee P on the mic, and you might hear some ‘Blue Sky Black Death’ on the beats.
What steps must we all take to prepare ourselves for the battle for freedom, liberty, human rights?
If you are a person who acts with violence, please be aware that we are all in one struggle together as people, and we do not need to shed blood with one another because there is bigger fish to fry and a larger goal the lies ahead of us. Perhaps, may we share life with common grounds of equality between us.
What’s next for you holmes?
Currently, I’m traveling throughout the southwest pushing the music and performing nearly every night/day. I’m finishing up the scratches on the alubm with DJ OHM (NM). Maybe I’ll be coming soon to see you. Peace FAM.
–Def-I
FOF/Skull Control Records
Thank you for your time…………
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