Naledge Interview
In his own words Naledge is a 23 year old, young black male a Southside Chicagoan, an Ivy League Graduate and an overall egghead and arrogant prick (laugh). I recently released the Kidz in the Hall album, titled “School was my Hustle”, with my partner Double O. I am considered one of the biggest signees to the revamped Rawkus Records. I also have a solo record due later this year. Here is a brief Q & A with Naledge enjoy.
What got you interested in creating music, is making music something that comes naturally to you?
For me, making music is like breathing. Whatever is going on in my life, I can relate it to music. When I write music, it is very personal to me. It is like my diary.
If you could remake any song, what would it be?
“I’m Black and I’m Proud” by James Brown or “Ghetto Child” by Donny Hathaway.
For our readers who’ve never heard your music, how would you describe your sound?
Common and Jay-Z sprinkled with some Native Tongues.
Your cousin is Memo from the Moleman crew, how influential has he been in your music?
He was my introduction into hip hop. He was the only person I knew who wanted to make rap music for a living. He encouraged me to love hip hop before I even knew what it was.
Explain Kidz In the Hall for those who are not in the know.
Kidz in the Hall is myself and my homeboy/producer/DJ Double O. It is a group we created in college that is similar to Gangstar or Black Sheep. It’s a movement created around the idea of an individual chasing one’s dreams even if you are being misunderstood by the masses. In school, the kids in the hall were the people most misunderstood by authority but many of them turn out to be late bloomers.
How did you move from being an Internet phenomenon to the latest artist on Rawkus Records and working with Just Blaze?
Alot is due to John Monopoly (talent scout and former manager of Kanye West). Once he was sold on my music, he pitched it to anyone who would listen. Just Blaze became a fan through Double O passing him a demo. From there he said he wanted to work with me. 
Does being from Chicago influence your music or style at all?
Of course. We are all products of our environments. Chicago has a distinct flavor to it. It is a very gritty, racially segregated, southern rooted and community driven. All of that reflects in the music and in the way we approach hip hop as a means to address issues about everyday life.
You are one half on Kidz in the Hall - why do you feel the need to go solo?
Well the solo deal just kinda happened. Double O and I had an understanding that we were just trying to break in the industry anyway possible. Rawkus initially offered the solo deal. It really was just a great opportunity for me to put music out so I couldn’t pass on it. Double O has outside projects as well but we know that the Kidz movement is our foundation.
What is your relationship with Just Blaze?
He’s the homeboy. He lets me know what he likes and doesnt like about the music I make and we just vibe from there and try to make it better.
Why did you choose to go with Rawkus for your solo album?
They offered the best deal and made me a priority.
The track you did with Cornel West right now. How did that come about?
The magic of Pro-tools and not having to be in the same place at the same time.
Tell us about Naledge is Power; what were your expectations of this album?
It is not done yet, so that is hard to say. I can say that I expect this album to be considered a classic among hip hop albums.
What was the biggest risk you took with this album?
Umm…I experimented with some singing…we’ll see how people like it.
Have you seen a growth in your music from earlier material mixtape material to the album material?
I mean everything gets better with time. I consistently try to grow creatively and make the best music possible. My style is just a lot more polished than it used to be because I am comfortable in my style.
What do you want people to walk away with when they finish listening to your album?
I don’t want them to be able to walk away. I want them to play it until the CD scratches (laughs).
Are there artists out there that you’d like to work with that you think would be a good fit for collaborating with that you haven’t already?
Nas, Common, Pharrell, Andre 3000 and Kanye.
You have worked with a who’s who of producers - how did you set that up was it the power of the dollar?
Producers that I have worked with mostly reached out to me through love for my music. My budget is not that big but the potential for my album is big because of what I do creatively as an emcee. Many producers have just embraced me and want to be a part of my movement. People like Ninth, Just, No ID and Pete Rock all have given me music just because it felt right to them.
You tour quite a bit so I have to ask what city/country has the best groupies?
Well…I have a girlfriend…so I can’t partake these days. Still, I guess I’d say Los Angeles and London have the friendliest women.
What is the craziest tour story that you can share with us?
We tried Absinthe in Germany. I can’t really discuss the rest of that night…
Where the weirdest place a fan has ever recognized you?
An airport bathroom. Any stranger trying to talk to you while you piss is always going to be weird.
What’s the view on your audience?
My audience is girls that like to sleep with nerds and backpackers that are nerds.
What was the last record that really impressed you?
I like the Clipse’s new joint. Fall Out Boy is really killing em right now. Lupe’s record was dope. I also loved Lily Allen’s record.
What other projects do you have in the works?
The solo record and I am also working on some songs for the new Soundbombing record.
What artist should we be on the lookout for in 2007?
Amy Winehouse.
Why should I buy your album?
Because there’s 20 dollars in every jewel case (laugh).
Any shout outs?
Shout out to my muthafucking self!!
EL.FIN
Online:
rawkus.com
myspace.com/naledgemusic
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