Staten Island has a great history in hip hop. The famous home of the Wu-tang Clan, the New York City borough has given birth to many hip hop legends. Carrying the torch into the future, Tha RealNess continues the tradition with one thing seldom found in the newest generation of rappers -authenticity.
When did you start performing? Performing always came natural to me. Since I was twelve, I could freestyle on cue in front of large crowds rather it is in the schoolyard or the corner in my neighborhood. I just never had that fear of failing. No stage fright, I guess I’m blessed that way. I study my craft vigorously and feel if I’m scared for success, than success will just pass me by… always focused
Name some of the artist who have inspired or influenced you. Do you have an hour so I can answer this question? There are so many talented artist that I have studied and worked with that inspire me in a daily basis. My main influence was my brother Bayz; he showed me all there is to know about music from how to compose songs and even my whole approach to the business aspect of music. He recently passed but his teachings stay with me no matter what the decision may be. I was always a fan of Jay-Z and his will to succeed. He’s a great business mind; he’s someone I aspire to be. Lyrically I always admired Big Pun. Being Puerto Rican he’s someone I idolized as an emcee.
How would you describe your style? I grew up in the 90’s era of hip hop and it shows in my music sometimes. I try to mix up my style according to beat selection and also what concept I’m trying to address. Word play is something I pride myself in so tongue twisters in my rhymes are a must. I like to make rhyme schemes that just suck you into the song. I’m very precise when I write .I try and portray my story and feelings through my songs so my fans can visualize my mind state at the time. As an artist trying to come up in this game, I feel your style must be ready to switch at the drop of a dime. If not, you become one dimensional and nobody wants that.
Do you have any major offers on the table? Well, I have been working on my craft diligently and have been blessed to be able to work with some talented unsigned producers and artists. I’m working on a mixtape hosted by France’s #1 mix tape DJ, DJ King Flow called ” Wasted Talent” it will be out late may early June. I just linked up with UMA who will be representing me in the future and has already pushed me in the right direction as far as my career. I have partnered up with my boys Mike Checks and Hoffy to run my brother Bayz’s recording studio (523 Studios). I have other things in the works but I’m not able to speculate on till management does what they have to do. Big things are happening and my dreams, aspirations are getting closer to reality.
What advice would you offer other aspiring artists? I would tell anyone trying to get into this business is that anything is possible with hard work and perseverance. You must be willing to work harder than the next man because everybody wants to be a star. The ones that stick with it are the ones that shine. Perfect your craft before leaping for the spotlight because one false move on the rise to the top can destroy an artist. And, at all costs remain humble to the opportunities you get because they only come once and a while so BE READY…
Any shout outs? I would love to give some love to my family, wifey, and daughter. My team Mike Checks, Hoffy, and everyone involved with my 523 movement. Much love to my borough Staten Island. I love New York, it’s the reason I do what I do. R.I.P DAVID “BAYZ” STAGNO. Thanks to my manager and his team of people who are working to get me to my goal. Thanks to all of the artists that have helped me and worked with me in the past that have got me this far.
