Today, we sat down with our artist Emcee AG for an interview. Here is what he had to say:
1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?
Well my hometown had really shaped me, especially since I’m from 2 places. South Carolina and Texas. South Carolina since not many artists come out of the Carolina’s such as J.Cole and Speaker Knockerz. They don’t really recognize people from those parts of the Carolina’s. I mean Texas is big for artist, so its hard for people like me to get noticed, with the talent I have.
2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?
J.Cole would definitely be my top choice, being that he came out of the Carolina’s and makes so much sense when he’s on the microphone. He tells stories and his word play is phenomenal. I mean ever since the first time i heard Roc Nation, i have nothing but been hooked on him. Always eagerly waiting for a new album to release. But also, I can’t narrow it down as much like that since there are plenty of artists out there that I also like and can really vibe to.
3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?
Honestly, I probably wouldn’t buy anything. I’d definitely give a big portion to my mother. She has been there for me through everything I’ve put her through. She deserves the best out of me and I would like to give her as much as I can.
4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?
My advice would be to do it your way. I mean advice is good, and it helps in every way possible. However, too much advice can hurt you in the long run. I take criticism in every shape and form. I use it as much as i can, but i don’t like to stray from a craft that I’m starting to master. Or at least improve in. It’s never a bad thing to be fluid in different areas or departments though.
5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?
Open your mind to anything. I mean i mostly like to write about relationship type vibes, since that’s what really opens me up. I’m sure there’s plenty of things to write about. In fact you could write about the first thing that comes to mind. It’s pretty hard at times, but I’m always up for the challenge.
6. How does your family and close friends feel about your music career? Have they always been supportive or have there been issues in the past?
My family is very supportive of my music career and the path I want to follow. It also helps since I have other members who make music, or even sing in the choir at church. I didn’t really think i’d branch out to make music like i do now, but it just hit me like oh i need to do this, since I can’t really express myself to people like that. They have always been supportive ever since they heard a track I had did with my cousin, who started making music before I did.
7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?
If i could open up for any artist, that’s a really hard decision. To throw one out there, i would have to say Roy Woods. I can listen to any of his tracks and not even say nothing bad about them. He is so underrated and unappreciated for his style. Michael Jackson would even be proud, I’m sure of it.
8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?
It would definitely have to be my man Mac Miller. He seemed so down to earth, even with the issues he was going through. He looked like someone who would understand and talk to anybody that was having issues. The way he composed himself really left a impact on myself. May he rest in peace. I really wish i would have had the opportunity to work with him but that’s another story lol.
9. In your time with LiquidSound Records, what is the number one thing you have enjoyed the most? Also, what is your advice to those artists who would be interested in joining the roster in the future?
Honestly, how the management has been fluent in helping the artists manage themselves. How patient and understanding they have been. Being this the first time I’ve been managed, I can at least say I’m in good hands lol. Anybody out there who needs a type of management or needs somebody to work with them, this would be a great staff to go to.
10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?
In 10 years, I can see myself as making it, but not slowing down. I know I may not be as big as other artists out there, but I really do see myself making an impact. A guy can dream right? There’s nothing wrong with not being as famous as the popular artist out there. But to be able to say you’ve work with them would be pretty big and a lasting memory.