WELCOME TO ORLANDO

FLORIDA CLASSIC **special edition**

eaturing fslim-e

SLIM GOODYE // WES FIF // RADIO // KC +TRAFFIK // ANTONIO TARVER // 1LEE DJ KHALED // RAREBREED // YOUNG AC PITBULL // SWORDZ // PAPA DUCK

OZONE MAG //  WELCOME TO ORLANDO

eaturing f RADIO HUGO DIAZ & PITBULL FLORIDA

**specialCLASSIC edition**

SLIM-E // WES FIF // rarebreed // kc +TRAFFIK // ANTONIO TARVER // 1LEE DJ KHALED // swordz // YOUNG AC Slim goodye // PAPA DUCK // & MORE

OZONE MAG //   // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG //   // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG //   // OZONE MAG Ready for Change TABLE Editorial by Ms. Rivercity When you look back at your life 365 days ago, were things the same as they are today? For me, life is completely different. Things have either evolved, sped up, been left behind or outgrown – I guess that’s how the life of a productive person should look, but where I’m at today feels so far from the life I knew a year ago. Not that it’s a bad thing. COFONTENTS Since last year’s Florida Classic issue, I’ve moved from Jacksonville, the city I love, and hopped on COVER STORies the Atlanta bandwagon – well, not really, Julia B20-23 Radio offered me a steady position with the mag and A24-26 Slim E since OZONE is the shit, I made the move. As I’m writing this, I realize this is my third Florida Classic INTERVIEWS issue, and each year I’m reminded why I love what A12 DJ Prostyle I do so much. There’s always so much energy A13 Ricky P and talent to be discovered Florida, and let’s face A14-15 Wes Fif it, Florida is running shit right now so you never A16-17 Armstrong know who is gonna pop off next. I know Atlanta A18-19 Slim Goodye is the Hip Hop Hollywood and the mecca for A20-21 Traffik Southern Rap music, but Florida is, well, Florida. A22-23 Antonio Tarver And ain’t no place like home. A28-29 Rarebreed A30-31 POPOV Over these last few years I’ve seen a lot of A32-33 DJ Khaled sunshine state artists come and go, but I’ve also B10-11 1Lee seen a lot of them rise to the top and put Florida B12-13 Skai back in its respected #1 spot. There’s a lot of new B14-15 Young Ac blood emerging that will keep the legacy alive B16-17 KC for us. I respect those of you that refuse to give B18-19 Pitbull up, regardless of how long the process may be B24-25 Sho Zoe taking, you inspire me every day. What up TREAL! B26-27 Swordz (I didn’t forget you in this issue, I just wanted to B28-29 Papa Duck reach out to some of the other people I’ve missed B7 Tony C along the way.) I also support those of you that B9 Oddz N Endz may have hit some road blocks, just know that your spot is still here when you get home. Dee Boi FEATURES you better write your homie back! And to those of A10 Club Listing / Hotels you that aren’t coming home, I want to say rest in A9 Event Listing peace…Toro, you will be missed. A8 Orlando map So back to my original point of change and how necessary it is. This year I voted for change. I always vote, but this time my ballot was about more than electing a person into office, it was a chance to stand for something I always believed in – unity. 365 days ago if you told me our country would come together, despite race, sex, or any other differences, and elect an African American president I would have laughed – because 365 days ago I didn’t think the majority of our nation was ready for change, or unity. I’m glad I was wrong. Hopefully 365 days from now we’ll all be a

OZONE MAG //  DOWNTOWNMAP ORLANDO

 // OZONE MAG Events DME Ent Presents: Ch AMpaign Reign Saturdays Listing @ 11/12 Nightclub Thursday, November 20th Dress code: Swagged up and sexy Open till 5 AM Girlfriends @ Club Whispers (Ladies Night) Music by DJ Q45, Hosted by Sytonnia & City 11th Annual Classic Grown Folks Affair Doors open at 9 PM @ B.B. Kings Music by DJ Kid Capri & DJ Saxwell Friday, November 21st Doors open at 9 PM

Battle of the Bands @ Amway Arena 10th Annual Classic Luau @ The Roxy 600 W. Amelia St. Music by DJ Q45, Bigga Rankin & Cool Run- Doors open at 7 PM nings Doors open at 9 PM Freaky Friday Night @ KOHA Hosted by TREAL We the Best w/ DJ Khaled and Friends College ID half off until 12 AM @ Club Classic formerly Club Paris Music by DJ Nasty & D Strong VIP Happy Hour @ Club Whispers Doors open at 9 PM Music by DJ M Squared, Star 94.5 Ms. B & Joe Bullard Disco’s Classic Extravaganza @ Club KOHA Doors open at 5 PM Ladies free till 11 PM, Free for first 500 people

Alumni J AM @ Club Whispers Sunday, November 23rd Music by DJ Saxwell & M Squared Doors open at 10 PM DME & 102 J AMz Present: 10th Annual Riding Big Car/Bike Concert The Classic Step Show & Comedy Show @ Central FL Fairgrounds Music by DJ Q45, Hosted by Lil Duval & Benji Hosted by Lil Duval & Rhonda J Brown @ Orange County Civic Center Performances by Lil Boosie, Bizzle, Piccalo, 9400 Universal Blvd. Dirty Gee & More Doors open at 7 PM DME Presents: Riding Big Car Show After The Classic Phat Friday @ The Roxy Party @ 11/12 Nightclub Music by DJ Nasty & DJ Q45 Dress code: Swagged up and sexy Doors open at 10 PM Grand Finale @ Club KOHA DME Presents: Classic Weekend KickoffP arty Featuring Disco & City Boyz, Cool Runnings, J @ Hush Nightclub AM Pony Doors open at 10 PM Everyone half-price till 1 AM Saturday, November 22nd 1st Annual Front Line Hang Suite: A Day- time Affair @ B.B. Kings Florida Classic Presented by State Farm Live performance by C.C. Teneal @ Florida Citrus Bowl Doors open at 1 PM G AMe starts at 2 PM Sunday Breeze Reggae J AM @ Club Whis- 1st Annual Classic Day Party pers @ Club Whispers Music by DJ Owen B. & CC the Reggae Ambas- Music by DJ Tank sador Doors open at 1 PM Doors open at 10 PM Free admission, drinks & food Menage Sundays @ Bliss Ultra Lounge The Definition of a Classic @ Club Whispers Hosted by Ricky P, J. Leon, Dee Roc Music by DJ Biz Markie Music by Voice of da Streetz Doors open at 10 PM Dress your best, Doors open at 10 PM

OZONE MAG //  OZONE MAG //  Element Nightclub 39 W. Pine Street CLUB & 407-841-1566 Ember 42 W. Central Blvd

HOTEL Firestone Slingapour’s ClubatFirestone.com 25 Wall Street Plaza 578 N. Orange Ave 407-849-9904 LISTING 407-872-0066 MALL LISTING The Social Bob Marley - A Trib- Fusion OrlandoSocial.com 1 S. Orange Avenue Florida Mall ute to Freedom 54 N. Orange Ave 407-650-0556 8001 S Orange Blos- CityWalk at Universal 407-246-1599 som Trail Orlando The Groove 407-856-7700 6000 Universal Blvd. Screamers 407-224-2262 CityWalk at Universal 360 State Lane Orlando Magic Mall 407-244-0299 6000 Universal Blvd. 2155 W. Colonial Dr. BET Soundstage 407-363-8000 407-648-0779 Downtown Disney Sky60 Pleasure Island 64 N. Orange Avenue Hard Rock Live Millenia Mall Lake Buena Vista, FL 407-246-1599 HardRock.com 4200 Conroy Rd. 32830 Universal CityWalk 407-363-3555 407-934-7781 Tabu Nightclub 407-351-5483 TabuNightclub.com West Oaks Mall Bliss Ultra Lounge 46 N. Orange Avenue House of Blues 9401 W. Colonial 123 W. Church St 407-648-8363 HOB.com Drive 1490 E. Buena Vista Dr. 401-294-2775 Cleo’s Gentlemen’s TD Waterhouse Club Lake Buena Vista, FL 600 W. Amelia St. 407-934-BLUE Winter Park Mall 1310 S. Orange Blos- 407-849-2020 641 W. Fairbanks Ave. som Trail Hush Nightclub Winter Park, FL 32789 407-839-8559 Voyage Nightclub 7552 Universal Blvd. 407-671-3232 17 W. Pine Street Club Classic (International Drive) 321-277-0412 CLUB LISTING 225 S. Garland Icon Nightclub Zinc Bar 20 E. Central Blvd. 11/12 Nightclub Club Status TheZincBar.com 407-649-6496 843 Lee Road 912 W. Colonial Drive 13 S. Orange Avenue 407-539-3410 407-841-1462 407-246-1755 KOHA Nightclub 426 E. Kennedy AKA Lounge Club V MISC. Eatonville, FL 68 East Pine Street 122 W. Church St. 407-740-0556 407-839-3707 407-849-0808 Central Florida Fairgrounds Matrix & Metropolis Antigua Club Whispers 4903 W. Colonial Pointe Orlando 41 W. Church St. ClubWhispers.net Drive 9101 International Dr 407-649-4270 4732 S. Kirkman Rd 407-290-9896 407-370-3700 Eastmonte Civic Back Booth Center Motown Cafe www.backbooth. Destiny 830 Magnolia Drive Universal CityWalk com 7430 Universal Blvd. Altamonte Springs, FL 407-363-8000 37 W. Pine Street 407-351-9800 407-999-2570 Expo Center Dragon Room The Roxy 500 W. Livingston 740 Bennett Rd. B.B. Kings 25 W. Church St. (across from TD 407-898-4004 9100 International 407-843-8600 Waterhouse) Drive

10 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 11 about to do a party. Sometimes we pre-record DJ Prostyle the shows. Words by Ms. Rivercity Photo by Wuz Good Photography Give us some insider info on what DJs can expect to get paid. Don’t ever let a promoter or club tell you what For the Florida Classic you can find a DJ Pro- they’re paying you by the hour. That’s not what style Party at Tabu Nightclub on Friday with it’s about. But an average DJ might get $300 Power 95.3, Destiny Nightclub on Saturday a night. If you just started, I wouldn’t take less with Juelz Santana, and The Roxy for the than $200 a night. Sunday finale. What about a more experienced DJ like your- What’s new with you? self? What’s the most you can earn? April will be two years that I’ve been back With my manager and booking right now, in Orlando from New York and I’m now with we’re around the $5,000 range to do anything Power 95.3 Monday through Friday from 7pm out of town, and that’s not including travel. – 11pm and Sunday from 8pm to midnight. We can work the numbers out – sometimes All the shows I’m on right now are rated #1 it’s less than that, sometimes it’s actually more through Arbitron. I have a promotion company than that. It depends on what day of the week called AllProParties.com. We do Wednesday at it is and what’s going on. I’m a promoter and Roxy, Fridays at Firestone and Tabu, Saturday at I do numbers so I know if I’m going to an Destiny, and Sunday at Roxy. event and they’re expecting 100,000 people and they’re charging a certain amount per What about as far as working with artists? person, I can hit ‘em for $6,000 or $7,000. And I signed a distribution deal with Asylum and a Wednesday is going to be a different price Warner Brothers/Atlantic for All Pro Records. than a Saturday, so it depends. We currently have Traffik’s “Hercules” song in full rotation on Power 95.3. We have up to 40 Is there anything else you’d like to add? stations playing it. We shot the video which Yeah, I just signed a deal with Diddy. I’m an features Pitbull, Jadakiss, and Gorilla Zoe. In a official Ciroc DJ, which is a new group of DJs, few weeks it will be on BET, MTV, and all the strictly big dawgs across the country. I’m going major media outlets. I recently signed Drop to be doing a lot of his campaigning and a lot who’s a real hot artist in Orlando. I also signed of his parties. I just signed a deal with XBox an R&B artist named JaShawn. We also have and in December I have my own global show Big Adept on the roster. We have a reggaeton coming out called Hip Hop 360. It’s gonna be group called Mega Kani. They have one of the shown on Xbox, but I really can’t go into too top records in Puerto Rico. My artists have much more detail than that yet. done a ton of features already. I’ve been sitting back and building up my connects, waiting for the right timing, which is now.

Do you have other DJs that spin in the clubs for your parties? Yeah, I’ve tried to build an empire where I don’t really have to DJ anymore. All Pro Parties isn’t about DJ Prostyle, it’s about throwing big parties. We have DJ Nice, DJ Element, DJ Quest, and DJ Eric. We just started a crew called All Pro DJs and we already have 3 DJs in New York, 1 in Boston. Within the next year or two you’re really gonna see that branch out into another big league of DJs.

How’s everything going with the BET show? I still fly to New York every week for 106th & Park on Friday. A lot of people don’t know that I syndicate my radio show. A lot of times I’m live from New York but on the air in Orlando. Sometimes I’ll be on the radio in Orlando, on 106th & Park in New York, and sometimes do- ing radio in another state, while in another city

12 // OZONE MAG more of a personality. Some people change when they get on radio, but I think if you just Ricky P be yourself, people seem to like you more. I’m Words by Ms. Rivercity just myself, do my thing and talk smack.

March 2009 will mark nine years that Ricky P Do you talk smack in general when you’re has been with 102 Jamz in Orlando. Starting at not at your job? the bottom and working his way up, Ricky now Yeah, I’m the same way when I’m on the radio hosts the coveted 6 PM - 10 PM spot on 102’s and when I’m off the radio. There’s no change night show. in personality. I’m just a laidback dude. I like to have fun and I just got blessed with a radio job. Did you start with 102 Jamz as an intern? Well, I wasn’t actually an intern. I applied Are there any other aspects of the radio busi- with them for two years, nagging them and ness that you’re involved in? letting them know that I’d like an internship. I I throw a few parties of my own throughout eventually got hired as one of the Street Squad the week and I also work for a couple parties. members. I was driving the van and doing all I started my own company called Nightlife that. And once I got settled in, I reminded them Moguls and I’m just trying to push that ‘cause that I initially came for an internship on radio I know the whole Ricky P thing is not going to and if they minded me doing my internship last forever. I don’t want to be that old dude in outside of my Street Squad hours. I got the the club, but I do want my company to go on. okay and that’s how I got into the radio portion So right now I’m building my brand and my of it. But, eventually they hired me after two company. Thursday night I’m at Hush, Friday years of nagging ‘em. night I’m at Antigua, Monday and Saturday nights I’m at Element, Sunday night I’m at Bliss, Have you always had the voice for radio or and every first Tuesday of the month I throw a was that something you had to develop and legendary party at the Dragon Room. grow into? I never considered it being a voice; I think it’s As far as the indie Hip Hop artists in Orlando, who do you feel has quality music and po- tential to maybe make it mainstream? I’ve always been a fan of TREAL. They work hard. I’m all about dudes that bust their ass. Don’t come up to me and tell me you’re hot, show me you’re hot. I appreciate dudes that are out here grindin’, like TREAL. KC is killing it right now. I met him behind the scenes work- ing with Nasty and now he’s all over the place. I’m glad to see that he’s finally starting to be well known.

As far as your parties are concerned, do you actually kick it and get your party on, or do you do your thing sober? I’m not the dude in VIP, I’m the dude that’s at the bar with everybody like, “Let’s get a shot!” The VIP is cool and all, but it’s just not me. I’m not into being in the back corner, roped off. I feel like the reason I’m successful is because of the way I act when it’s party time. I may not be dancing, out there doin’ the diddy bop, but I’m mingling with the people and wildin’ out.

OZONE MAG // 13 As told to Photo Ms. rivercity by Matt Weichel from Steezy Pictures

1414 // //OZONE OZONE MAG MAG 4. Flyer’s Wings – Anybody who is really from this city rocks with Flyer’s. They have the best wings, period. We’ve called in orders from Top 10 the studio a hundred times, and you can eat inside as well. So all you out-of-town people Orlando who want some good food fast, holla at them. They’re on West Colonial Drive near Kirkman.

Hot Spots 5. The Trap/Hood – This right here ain’t for If you’ve followed OZONE everybody, especially if you scary. But if you over the last several years wanna see the real Orlando, then you need to slide through the hood. Ivey Lane, Orange then you already know who Center, Mercy Drive, Crosstown, Pine Hills, Wes Fif is. An Orlando rapper Richmond Heights, Tangelo, Crossroads, The known for releasing hit af- Trail, Carver Shores, Texas Ave, I could go on for ter hit under Clientell Music days. Everything’s for sale – keep your head on Group, Wes Fif is one of the the swivel though. (laughs) FIRST names MENTIONED when talking about who’s hot in 6. Magic Mall – On any given day during the O. Now it’s our turn to let Classic Weekend the Magic Mall will be swole; Wes Fif give his take on what’s it’s always been that way. Cars on deck, girls on deck, goons on deck. Everybody having fun hot in his city. Here’s his top in the parking lot outside. It’s located on W. 10 list of places to check out Colonial Drive right between Tampa Ave. and while you’re in town for the John Young Parkway. Florida Classic. 7. Car Detailing Shop – If for some reason 1. DME’s Riding Big Car Show – I don’t you niggas are slipping and your whip is dirty, really have to say too much about this. Nigga’s tighten up and go holla at my dawg n’em in already know what it is when my brother Washington Shores, or outside the Magic Mall. Dawgman does the car show. It’s the perfect This ain’t really a “hot spot,” but it’s necessary. grand finale on Sunday for the best weekend Plus it be jumpin’ too. in FL, in the best city in FL. Hot whips, good food, beautiful women, real niggas, and a 8. Icon Nightclub – This is the longest run- good time. You can’t beat that. ning hot spot on Friday/Saturday night. One time for my dawg Paul over there. This spot is 2. Frontline’s Classic Luau – My big crazy both nights and will sell out early. If you brah Pat Nix has a lot of hot events going on wanna get a taste of how we really rock in my all weekend long at Whispers, Roxy, and some city, this is where you need to be, trust me. I’ll other spots. But the Luau on Saturday night is be there one of those nights. 20 East Central always the lick. It’s for the niggas who wanna Blvd., downtown. One time for D Strong, Disco stunt and have a good time, and not have to Jr., Greg G, Yogi, my whole Icon family. worry about anything. There’s always beauti- ful, beautiful women everywhere, and the 9. Hero”s – It’s now called KOHA, but it’s hottest DJs from around the country. What up still Hero’s to us. Listen, every night, when all City, Sytonnia, Christina, and Omar! the other clubs close, Hero’s is open till 6 AM. 426 East Kennedy Blvd in Eatonville. What up 3. Wildside – My dawg Shami got the hot- Wayne and Disco. test gear in the city, hands down. Anybody wanting to get fresh and get they swag up 10. Orlando! – Fuck it, the whole city is on needs to go holla at him definitely. That’s fire. It’s a lot of spots I couldn’t mention ‘cause for dudes and girls. He’s located at 6203-C2 JB, Rivercity, n’em only gave me top 10. But West Sand Lake Road. Spots like Men’s Closet trust me, just ride through the city and you’ll and Mannequin got some hot gear too. But find something poppin’. If not, slap me when Wildside is what it is. you see me. 407 on the map!

OZONE MAG // 15

Words by Photo JEE’VAN BROWN by Malik abdul

16 // OZONE MAG A key member OF the rap side of Orlando that there’s more to Orlando group The Titus Boyz, than Disney World? Armstrong is now flying Aw man, they’ve just got to pop in my CD and listen. We’re a long way from Disney World, but solo with his new mixtape we can pull magic tricks on niggas. It’s a real The Money Bag hosted by DJ trickery game over here, pullin’ rabbits out of Rell. Armstrong hopes to hats. capture and inspire the rap game with the truth about Are you signed to anyone? the Orlando streets. No, we’re independent getting our own money. You have my label which is Fly Boy Entertain- What do you have going right now? ment, then you have Mook Boy’s label which is Just on the grind. I just put out my first mixtape Fly Goon Entertainment, and we have a couple with my solo project, but other than that, I’m more things going on entertainment-wise. just out here trying to get this money. What obstacles have you been through to You recently dropped a mixtape with DJ Rell? reach this point? Yeah ,I dropped the mixtape with him not too Just about everything that’s related to the long ago. It’s called The Money Bag. streets. When I was younger I was in the deten- tion center, juvenile center, just about every jail How was it working with him? system. A lot of my niggas have ended up in Working with DJ Rell was real nice. He’s a real messed up situations where they are locked up motivational nigga; we got it in real good. I or even dead. It’s just real unfortunate. think he’s underrated but every dog has its day. You have a song called “Blood Gang.” Are you That was your first solo project, right? What affiliated with the Bloods? group were you with before? I’m going plead the fifth on that one. The Titus Boyz, that’s my family. As a whole, it’s about 10 of us. You have me, Mook Boy, and What was your favorite mixtape you put out? Killa Creepa – we’re the main three that have My favorite mixtape was Swagged Out because been on the previous albums. you have a little bit of everything on that album. It’s plenty of juice on there, you even How many mixtapes have you guys put out? have music for your moms and pops to listen About four mixtapes before The Money Bag to. It was just a real mixtape and cutthroat. I did which were Drug Money, Swagged Out, Street it like that because I wanted people to know Thang, and Brick Chasing. exactly who I was and what I was about. But the next one is going be a street gangsta album. It How long have you been rapping? will be some more stuff for the ladies, but still About four years. on some gutter shit.

What were you doing before you started Have you collaborated with other artists from rapping? Orlando? I’m street nigga now and I was a street nigga Yeah, I collaborated with different artists from then. I’m all in the hood, so basically whatever it Orlando, like Young Drop and Fly Ball, just to took to get that paper. I’m still that same nigga. name a few.

What do you have planned for the Classic? What other side hustles do you have? We’re trying to put some shit together for the We’re actually about to open up two new stu- Classic but nothing [finalized] yet. The week dios. One is going to be our headquarters and after the Classic we have a show in Daytona. the other one is going to be open for everyone. If people want information on the studio they What is your ultimate goal with rapping? can go to our Myspace page. My ultimate goal is to show these young niggas that a street nigga can cross over to get that What producers are you going to be working industry money, and be the same street nigga with? and have that same swagger while being in I’m working with a lot of local niggas. I fuck with that market. I’m all about motivation. niggas that fuck with me because I’m not about to chase a nigga down for a beat. I’m going Since you’re from the streets, how do you do this myself and start straight from ground think you can paint a picture to people out- zero. //

OZONE MAG // 17 Abdul alik by M hoto * P rown an B ee’V by J Words

18 // OZONE MAG After moving to Orlando I have worked with. from New York, Slim Goodye earned his street cred and How is your single “I Don’t C You” going right respect in the local scene now? through a lot of hard work, Everybody loves the single. It’s bumping in the not to mention talent and streets. I’m pushing it and we’re just waiting consistency. Now that his for it to pop off. new mixtape is about to What made you come up with that single? drop, Slim can say he’s final- Because when you’re getting money you have ly paid enough dues and has a lot of haters. They might not even know you enough fans to make a sig- but they gon’ hate for no reason, so I made up nificant impact in his market. a song called “I Don’t C You.”

What do you have going on right now? Have you put any albums out yet? Right now I’m working on my mixtape with No album yet, but I’m working on the album DJ Greg G that we should be putting in the as we speak. streets next weekend. It’s called The Connect. I also have my new label called Tru Story Music Do you have a title for the album yet? and I have my artists Lugo, Sunti, and my No, we didn’t come up with a title yet. We’re in-house producer Fama Beats. With me and about halfway in and I have about 9 songs Greg G, he was one of the first people I con- done right now. nected with when I came down here, and with me being a real nigga, I stayed with my people What is your goal as a rapper? and kept my circle tight because I don’t fuck I just love music and hopefully one day I with too many niggas. can market myself bigger, but right now I’m straight mixtapes. I could really care less You stated that you connected with him when because I got fans in the street and they know you moved down there. Where are you from? what it is. I’m from New York originally. I’ve been living in Orlando for the last six years. What would you say is your biggest achieve- ment so far? You didn’t have to adjust from the cold My biggest achievement so far would be that weather to the hot weather? I’m respected in my city and respected in the No, even though I was from up top I always streets. Not only having respect in the streets came down for spring break, Memorial Day, and in my city, but also from other artists. and all those other events. If you weren’t rapping what do you think you You started rapping while living in New would be doing? York? I used to play basketball. I went to college on a Yeah, I’ve been rapping since I was in the 6th scholarship; that was my thing. But even when or 7th grade. We would fuck around rapping I was hooping I would be in the locker room in the lunch room and later I decided to take it spitting, or when the coach would pick me up seriously, especially since I’ve been hearing all off the bench I would be rhyming. this garbage coming out. What school did you go to? Who do you like right now that’s not garbage? I went to the University of Missouri. I like Young Jeezy, Gucci Mane, Rick Ross, and anybody of that level in the game. I can relate What were some of the roughest obstacles to them niggas, them other niggas ain’t talk- you went through before you made it to this ing about nothing. point? When I moved out here they weren’t really So you come from the streets? showing love, so I had to gain my respect. First Oh yeah, certified 100% street nigga. you’re a freshmen, sophomore, junior, then you’re a senior. I’m a senior right now about to How many mixtapes have you put out? graduate. Orlando is a hard city to come up in. This will be my 6th one coming out. I also did It’s like crabs in a barrel because everybody is one with DJ Khaled. He’s the only other DJ that trying to come up.

OZONE MAG // 19 Words by Photo Jee’V by an Brown Kristy of R ain Productions , LLC

20 // OZONE MAG With his new single “Hercu- How do you think living in New York, Ohio, les” hot in the streets and and Florida has influenced your rhymes and DJ Prostyle backing him, lyrics? I left Brooklyn when I was 13 to move to Ohio, rapper Traffik is in his own but then I left Ohio and moved back to New lane. While you’re on your York to try to get my record deal popping way to the game or partying over there. I used to mess with a lot of rappers during the Classic, pop in his like Wu-Tang; I been around for a long time CD because this rapper has and I learned a lot up there. But I really didn’t something FOR EVERYONE. get the thing I was looking for up there so I was thinking, let me move down to Florida. I What do you have going on right now? was going to move to Miami but I moved to I got the “Hercules” song out right now. It’s Orlando. been getting a lot of buzz and play in Orlando. We’ve got Jadakiss, Pitbull, and Gorilla Zoe What made you move to Orlando? for the remix, and we just shot a big video for Well, actually when I was in New York, I met that. I’m just working on my album right now. this chick from Miami and she put me on to Florida. But I didn’t follow her all the way to What’s going to be the name of your album? Miami. I stopped in Orlando. I guess you can Die Hard Fan. say it was the will of God and everything has been working for me since I got here. I can’t When does the album come out? complain. We’re pushing for the second quarter, and we’re trying to drop the single in January. Was it hard adjusting from the North to the South? When you collaborated with Jadakiss, Not really, because when I was living in New Pitbull, and Gorilla Zoe, were you guys all York and moved to Ohio, I got put on to dif- together? ferent music. When I was living in New York I Yeah, we were all together. was listening to all New York shit. When I got to Ohio that’s when I got put on to Ice Cube, How was it working with all of them? Bun B, the Geto Boys, and all them other cats. It was crazy. I learned a lot from each one of So it definitely affected the way I was rhyming them. Pitbull told me to “stick to my grind,” because it told to accept all music. That’s one Gorilla Zoe told me to “have fun”, and Jadakiss, thing about me now; I love all music. he just told me a lot. It was really legendary for me. Your song “Dead Homies” is a really good song that some people, including myself, can How did you hook up with DJ Prostyle? relate to. How has having some of your loved I hooked up with Prostyle like in 2002. I was ones passing affected you? back and forth from Ohio to Brooklyn – I was Well it’s crazy because actually in 2002 two born in Brooklyn and moved to Ohio after I of my cousins died. One of my cousins had graduated. I came down here and just hooked just got shot in a random shooting in Dayton, up with him through listening to the radio. I Ohio. My other cousin was 32 and died from heard him doing his thing so I started freestyl- lung cancer, so I lost two close cousins in one ing, and then I used to go to the clubs he was year. It’s made me look at life differently and at and I would give him my CD. I would stay not take it for granted. on my grind like that. He would play some of my joints on the radio and I would freestyle Besides your album coming out, do you have for him and that’s how I met him. It’s crazy be- any mixtapes coming out? cause a lot of people thought I knew Prostyle I did a mixtape called The Hoodlum. That’s but I didn’t know him at all, it was all just a what really caught Prostyle’s attention. I did hustling thing. When I moved down to Florida that with my homeboy Vegas Stacks and Syl- I was listening to 102 Jamz and I heard him labus right in Pine Hills in my crib. It got a lot of talking his shit like he do and I just got at him, underground love. so he got my rhymes and would play it on the 5:00 Traffic Jam. What do you have going on for the Classic? I will probably slide through some clubs.

OZONE MAG // 21 . Rivercity by Ms Words Antonio “Magic Man” Tarver hardly needs an introduc- tion, especially in Orlando. As the town’s hometown hero, Antonio has used his success in boxing for chari- table work with children, and even co-signing some of the city’s musical talent.

22 // OZONE MAG What’s been going on since your last fight a leadership program, I show the kids that it’s against Dawson? ok to get out here and have dreams. When you I’ve just been watching the landscape of the look at Barack Obama winning the presidency, light heavyweight division. Roy Jones just that’s a feel-good story that should make fought Calzaghe, which was very interesting young black kids say, “The sky’s the limit.” to me. A lot of people feel that Calzaghe’s the There’s no excuse for failure. I come from a less gatekeeper to the light heavyweight division, fortunate environment and at one time I was but I beg to differ. We have the Chad Dawson a lost soul, and I think God [blessed] me and I rematch coming up in March or April. I lost want to give blessings back. my last fight to him, but I’m undefeated in rematches. In fact, after all three of my losses On the note of being a target when you’re suc- I came back and won by knock out. Hopefully cessful, can you speak on the situation with once I reclaim my championship then we Superhead and how you’ve dealt with her can see what Calzaghe’s really made of. He’s putting your private business out in public? fought Hopkins, he’s fought Jones, but there’s I’m human and we all mistakes. You might think one intricate name that he’s missing – he’s about the moment, but you don’t think about never faced Tarver. tomorrow. One day I made a bad decision that I regret, but I can’t take that back. I faced the Do you feel like you were 100% prepared to music on that. Fortunately I have a supportive fight Chad Dawson? wife that understands that as a man, I’m going I would say I was 100% prepared, but in to make mistakes. I’ll forever try to make that up boxing, there’s little things that can happen to her for the hurt and embarrassment it caused during the fight that will offset you, things her. I’m thankful that she has a forgiving heart that you have to adapt to on the spot. The first and knows I love her dearly. round we came out and felt strong, but for some reason I got into this aggressive, one-di- What was being in the Rocky movie like? Are mensional fighter that’s not me. It allowed him you going to try to pursue anymore acting to do some things that ordinarily he wouldn’t roles? have been able to do. I fought an ordinary I was a co-star in one of the biggest sports fight, and even in doing that, the fight wasn’t franchise movies of all times, and yes, I’d really as much of a blowout as it may have seemed. like the opportunity to go to L.A. and do some Yes, he was more active than me, but a lot of work. But right now it has to be suitable for those punches weren’t landing. If you look at my schedule and that’s what makes it tough. his face and my face at the end of the fight, I can’t juggle [acting] with my [boxing] career it’d be hard to see who won because he was because I’m only a year or so away from the swollen everywhere. The only thing that was end of it. I don’t want to spread myself thin swollen on me was my arms and wrists from and have any regrets. I’ll have more than blocking all of his shots. But the judges don’t enough time to do acting, commentary, and really award [points for] defense a lot. They work on my promotional company once I don’t appreciate good, scientific boxing. The retire. object of the game is to hit and not be hit and I’ve perfected that. Granted I’m 39 and I’ve What about working with some of the local got a birthday coming up, but it was a very talent? I hear you’re a supporter of Slim E. competitive fight. In the rematch I will make I think he’s the next big thing. I’ve heard a some adjustments, box my style of boxing, lot of great rappers along the way and I’d and prove to be the better fighter. compare him to Jay-Z and T.I. when you look at his lyrical ability. Hopefully the masses will feel As far as Orlando is concerned, you’re a the same way and take Slim to the next level. hometown hero. What responsibilities come D.S.K. is a movement. along with that? You want to make your hometown proud Anything else you want to let people know of you, in anything you do. You want to be about? your best. And you do that by staying out of I’ve got my big Super Bowl weekend and trouble, not being in the news with negative Celebrities for Charity. We’re having a big press because a lot of people are rooting for poker event at the Hard Rock Casino in Tampa, you. I wasn’t trying to be a role model, but if along with my celebrity golf event. I got some I can be a positive influence on the inner city friends of mine like Ken Griffey Jr. participating kids I welcome that opportunity. That’s why with me. It’s my time to give back and it’s for a with my Antonio Tarver Foundation, which is great charity.

OZONE MAG // 23 MS. RIVERCITY Words by PHOTO BY WUZ GOOD

24 // OZONE MAG As an emerging artist in the And I was working with Dee Boi; he’s incarcer- Southeast, Slim E knows ated right now. Free Dee Boi. I was working he’s good and isn’t afraid with a producer named KP and Fed Up Re- to tell you so. Despite hav- cords with Black Mike, Head, and Murda. ing a strong confidence in Explain your affiliation with J.U.S.T.I.C.E. his recordings, a solid team League. behind him, and a dream he’s Rome from D.S.K. had a relationship with finally fulfilling, Slim E is Ivan and Chuck, the managers of J.U.S.T.I.C.E. still humble. League, for quite some time now. He sug- gested that we do something kinda like a joint He won’t go on and on about how he’s the venture deal, so Rome, Ivan, and Chuck set it best, or how he’s the king of the throne. He up. Now it’s J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League/D.S.K. won’t tell you how his J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League- produced records can outshine a majority of What’s it been like working with J.U.S.T.I.C.E. what’s currently in mainstream rotation, even League on the production tip? though they can. But with the assurance of a They’re Grammy award winners, so they’re leader, and the qualities of a boss, Slim E will clearly some of the best producers in the boldly let you know that his music speaks for game. They know exactly what they’re doing. itself, and that his label D.S.K. can hold its own They actually taught me a lot of things I ain’t amongst the competition. even know about music and recording. It’s a good chemistry. I feel comfortable around So you were raised in Atlanta. How did you them. Rook, Colione, and Kenny are like fam- end up in Orlando? ily. I really don’t work hands-on with other I was actually born in Orlando. My mama producers, they just send me the beats. With moved to Atlanta when I was pretty young. I J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, it’s something different. was always back and forth from Florida and We stay in the studio. They working hard. They Georgia my whole life. love what they do just like I love what I do, it works out better that way. From a music standpoint, is one city more productive than the other? Who were the other producers you were I feel like how productive you are is based on working with? the artist. I don’t feel like the city got anything I got a couple tracks from a guy named to do with it. It’s a lot more people in Atlanta, Beat Down out of Orlando. He’s hot. And I of course, but like I said, productivity is based was working with The Professionals. As far on the artist. I was raised in Atlanta but I got as J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, they’re the best. I’m my deal in Orlando. blessed to be in this position. I always listened to everything they’ve done. They did [Rick How did you get the deal? Ross’s] “Maybach Music,” [Young Jeezy’s] “Bury My labelmate DirtyRed, who’s also an artist Me a G,” and [2 Pistols’] “She Got It.” Everything on D.S.K., I know him through a mutual friend they do is a hit. Once I got in the studio with down here in Orlando. Lattimore would ‘em we just vibed off top. always tell DirtyRed, “This cat from Atlanta can really rap.” One day me, him, and DirtyRed Besides working in the studio, what are some were hangin’ around rappin’ and DirtyRed said, other things you’ve experienced since link- “Ay, you good, I think you should come meet ing up with the D.S.K. and League? my folks ‘cause my people can get you where Since I got with D.S.K., my whole life changed you need to go.” So we went to meet the Boss from day one. We vibed before we started Rome, a.k.a. the 7 Star General, and I rapped working. I signed the deal before I even for ‘em. A couple weeks later, Rome, the CEO recorded one song with D.S.K. We’re family. and owner of D.S.K., flew to Atlanta with two Rome is really like a father figure to me. The of his friends and Antonio Tarver. We sat down experience is crazy. Everything we do is big, it’s and talked about it. He brought me back to boss shit. Rome goes all out. Everything came Orlando, signed me, and the rest is history. with D.S.K. – the money, clothes, cars. It was a real deal. It wasn’t just something on paper. MS. RIVERCITY Words by What were you doing prior to signing with PHOTO BY WUZ GOOD them? And you went to the OZONE Awards with Actually my brother Antwain, a.k.a. Big Skinny, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, right? had a label and I was with a group called Playa The first trip I took with the League was to the Partnaz. It was myself, Hookman, Kinfolk, OZONE Awards in Houston. They were nomi- Hustle, and Chocko. We was doing shows. We nated for producers of the year. It was cool. We recorded an album that was never released. was up on business. They had cameras on ‘em

OZONE MAG // 25 like crazy. They’re stars. But we take everything you’re in the streets of Orlando or Atlanta, it’s we do very seriously. in all the hood spots.

What do you love the most about making Where are some spots people should check music? out while they’re in Orlando for the Classic? I love everything about music. It’s funny that If you wanna have you a good time, there’s I say that now ‘cause I do this on the regular. I plenty of clubs down here. The Roxy on Friday can’t really take nothing away from nobody, and Whispers on Saturday are my favorite two but a lot of folks just ain’t really into what they clubs. If you like the hood crowd, you can go to do. I used to have dreams about recording in Firestone or Icon. If you want some good food the studio. Now I do it like it’s nothing. I love you can go to the Jamaican spot by Magic everything about music, from recording to Mall. Mama Nem’s got the best breakfast. For writing to performing. That’s all I do all day. shopping I go to the Millenia Mall, Sak’s. The Men’s Closet has a few spots for Hip Hop gear. When you finally got to live out your dream and got in the studio for the first time, was it What do you think of Orlando’s music scene? everything you imagined it would be? It’s a lot of talent in Orlando. A lot of artists are Nah, actually, I imagined being in a big studio starting to get deals down here. Everybody’s with a lot of major artists, shit like that. But cool with everybody. It ain’t really no beef in once I got in the studio for the first time, it was Orlando Hip Hop. People work well with each at an apartment and the microphone booth other. was in the closet. (laughs) Once I got in a real studio it felt good. It actually gave me some What songs do you having buzzing? time to learn how to record first. “Who Da Fuck Iz You” is buzzing like crazy in Atlanta. Central Station is going crazy How much of your real self, Eric, comes out in over that. It’s a club banger! It was actually your music? How personal do you get? produced by OZ N Da Deacon from Orlando. Slim E is Eric, so it comes out all the time. “Hey” and “Money 2 Blow” featuring DirtyRed Everything we talk about at D.S.K. is real life, is going crazy. We work hard at D.S.K. We don’t what we’ve been through and what we plan to make nothing but hits. Of course everybody is do. Eric may be a lil more humble at home, but gonna say that about themselves, but you can they’re pretty much the same person. check it out for yourself.

What are some real life things that you’ve Have you hopped on the R&B/Rap collabora- written about in your songs? tion trend that is real popular right now? What I talk about the most in my last five Yeah. I worked with Blaze, who’s originally records is how I got this deal. I always wanted from Gary, Indiana. They’re in Atlanta with a deal but I never knew how it would happen. I Oomp Camp Records. They did Baby D’s “About talk about the things that have changed. I also Money” and Rocko’s “Karma.” I worked with like to talk about everything I’ve been through, them through the League. I love talking about the struggle, you know, the stuff that a majority a woman on a track. That’s one of my special- of the artists talk about but I talk about it in ties. I make songs for all women – whether I’m my way. I just talk about my life. I just want my talking about how sexy a woman is, how inde- story heard. pendent she is, or tellin’ a woman to keep her head up. I even talk about the women in my When does your album come out? life – my mother, my grandmama, my sister. I have a mixtape bumping in the streets called D.S.K. Presents: Slim E Definition of a Boss. The al- What do you look for in female? bum Slim To None is coming out in summer 09. It’s obvious that looks are the first thing you notice. But I really wanna see where she’s at How would you define what a boss is? in life, and what she has going for her. That’s My definition of a boss is someone that holds what turns me on. She’s gotta be all the way their own and does everything they say they real. I love an independent woman with a do. Somebody who controls the situation. good head on her shoulders. A nigga who runs shit, a nigga that calls the shots. That’s a boss. I explain it on my mixtape. Is there anything else you want to mention? Slim to None coming in 09. Slim E, a.k.a. The If someone is reading this right now and Gucci Vuitton Don, a.k.a. The Son of the Boss. wants to know what the Definition of a Bossis, I ain’t really gotta talk about it too much, I’ma how can they get the mixtape? let the music speak for itself. D.S.K. – Down If you go on myspace.com/downsouthkingpinz South Kingpinz – is on the way. We D.S.K. you can download the mixtape from there. If – who the fuck is you?

26 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 27 yson Terrence T Photo by s. Rivercity * 28 // OZONE MAG Words by M Rarebreed’s name is sugges- ‘cause it gives me an urgency of wanting to do tive of his uncommon char- the right thing. Whenever I’m on stage, what- acteristics, yet in spite of ever the situation calls for I try to do it. I may try to give some history to the crowd concerning his moniker and larger than civil rights, where minorities came from in the life persona, Rarebreed is United States to get where we are today. just like anyone else in this world. His values are real. How did you become a part of Big Spenda His struggles are real. And Entertainment? his messages are real. It’s DJ Mark T, who’s big in the Broward and Dade these virtues that have made County underground, broke my mixtape in him a key building block for 2006. I was actually about to sign a deal with Miami’s Big Spenda Entertain- DJ Blackout and Team Blackout when Mims was taking off with “This Is Why I’m Hot.” I was ment, and possibly the future actually inside of the camp when that started backbone for Florida under- popping and the song got so big they had to ground Hip Hop. focus all the attention on Mims. It left me pretty much on the backburner. I had to make a deci- Give us your life story in a nutshell. What was sion if I wanted to sign with them or not. So, I growing up like for you? just built up my lyrics and went with it. Mark T I’m a single parent kid. My mom raised me. We kept playing my mixtape. Big Spenda Entertain- lived in a lot of cities in Florida. I was born in ment heard it and it was a domino effect. It got Sanford, Florida but I was raised in Belle Glade. the best mixtape of the year at the Gainesville I’ve been here since I was four years old. I’ve Music Summit this year. Benzino, formerly of the been rapping for a while. I don’t want to say my Source Magazine, heard my mixtape and he put personal life is something different from any me in the Independent Grind of the Monster other unprivileged kid growing up in the hood. Mag and Hip-Hop Weekly. I met Big Spendas It’s all the same story no matter where you’re in April and we inked the deal April 14th. They from. A lot of violence, a lot of betrayal, a lot of liked what they heard and flew me down to stuff that went on in the city I grew up in, pretty Miami and made it happen. much made me the lyricist I am today. Is there anything else you wanna let people So you’re from the same city as Papa Duck. know about? Why did it take you guys so long to combine My ninth full-length album is going to be called efforts? Training Day. It’s like I’m in training. My mixtape We’ve basically always been together; it’s just I just did with Real Nigga Radio was actually my that our music reflects different avenues in eighth underground CD in stores. Whenever Hip Hop. He was doing his thing on one end you get an album from me, or a CD, or a song, and I was doing my thing on the other. What I’m going all out. I ain’t trying to change up my separates his style from mine is that I’m more lyrical style for nobody. Hopefully I’ll put out grimier. If you hear one of my records, I may Training Day with major label distribution. We’re cover some historical events or you may hear shooting the “Big Spendaz Anthem” video on a straight New York type punch line, where South Beach in October and we’re taking that I don’t even sound like a southern rapper. straight to MTV. I’m going hard with the music... On another track I might sound like I’m from Houston or an L.A. based rapper. Or I might be The rest of this interview is featured in OZONE going a hundred miles an hour with the lyrics Magazine’s October issue. like I’m from Chicago. My lyrical approach is far different from Papa Duck’s approach.

When you get on stage you really take advantage of having a strong voice. What are some messages you want to get out there to the people? Music is about leaving the trouble behind. I got a real troubled past and I want to leave that behind. I vent out a lot of anger through lyrics. Like when you saw me perform in Atlanta, that’s a powerful city as far as the civil rights movement and Martin Luther King being from there. Whenever I’m there I go by his grave

OZONE MAG // 29 What are you working on in the studio right street team like you do? now? Without promotions you have nothing. You I’m working on a project with my partners might have the hottest rapper you ever heard J-Russ and Cash Chris. We’re working on a in your life, but if he’s not promoted right, you mixtape called 3 Kingz. We’re gonna do what have nothing. Compare that to these artists we do, promote the fuck out of it, and keep that have no talent whatsoever but they got it movin’. J-Russ runs with us real hard. He’s their internet game so tight that everybody a Blok Mova affiliate. He was on the second believes the dream they’re selling. verse of “Set It Off” with Nore and Swizz Beatz. What are some things you’ve learned over Why do you feel like you’re the “Man of the the years as far as effective promoting and City?” ineffective marketing? If you pay attention to the song, it’s about The most beneficial thing is to be consistent. the whole city in general. It’s talking about If you’re not consistent, that whole month you how they wouldn’t let us in so we’re kicking promoted was for nothing ‘cause everybody the doors down. I’ve been here so long and I will forget about it. Your project will flop and represent nothing else but Orlando. As far as die out. One thing I’ve noticed that is a real “Man of My City,” that’s a single that anybody waste of time is trying to recoup money by can use – whether you work a 9-to-5, whether selling your CDs. By the time I sell one CD, I you hustlin’ or going to school, if you feel like coulda hit 20 people with a free CD. People you’re the man of your city, then you’re the gotta understand that before you make man of your city. It’s an anthem. money you gotta take a loss. If you’re not ready to take that loss, you’re gonna be in the Where does your production come from? same position for the rest of your life. Everything we do is produced by OZ N Da Deacon. They’re our in-house producers and Besides the people you already mentioned, they got a lot of heat. They’re about to really who are some artists in your city that you’ve impact the industry ‘cause they’re landing a lot worked with? of records that nobody knows about yet. But I’m trying to do something with KC. Me and we put them on the same level as The Runners TREAL got something coming up. Me and Clint and Oddz N Endz and everybody else in the O Dawg just did a record together. He’s been that’s doing things. doing his thing. Pretty much everybody else is in our camp. We’re trying to make a household Tell me about your company BlokMovaz name until people get to know us. Entertainment. We’ve been a movement for about 4 years You voice some pretty strong opinions in now. Me as an artist, we’ve been doing this your music about radio playing the same strong for ten years. I’ve always been known music over and over. for my promotion game and pushing other I understand how radio works but I feel like artists. As time went by and money was being a lot of these radio stations are scared to wasted, I decided to push myself and make go against the grain and step outside their this movement happen. I put people in the boundaries. But there’s a lot of people that will. right places to complete the puzzle. We just Shout out to DJ Nasty, Greg G, Disco, DJ Nice, dropped a mixtape called BlokMova Radio DJ Slique, Orlando Mixtape Kings, every DJ in hosted by DJ Slique, our official DJ, and Priya Orlando has played my record more than 5 B from Power 95.3. We got a lot of interviews times. We appreciate the love. But as far as ra- with big names and just let them speak how dio, we’ve gotten adds in certain cities but not they feel. We got a lot of good feedback on it. in Orlando yet. Sooner or later it will happen. If they believe in something they gotta go for it Do you still offer promotional services to instead of always playing the politics game. other people, or concentrating on yourself? Right now I’m concentrating on myself but What else have you been doing to get the my street team is big enough to take on any music out there? job. We’ve done a lot of stuff for Memorial Day In last six months we’ve appeared on over 40 Weekend and Spring Bling. Our street team is mixtapes worldwide. I’ve done over 30 shows. well known. We do get busy and help other I’ve done over 500 drops for DJs in the U.K. people, but we’re not really taking on other They picked up “Man of My City” and made accounts. We will eventually, but right now, their own Techno version. We kinda have a lil we’re moving towards the goal of taking our single deal overseas. It’s blowing up over there. movement to another level. We’re supposed to be doing a couple shows in Australia. A lot of different things have come How important is it for an artist to have a full from promotion.

30 // OZONE MAG Born in New Jersey, Popov became an Orlando resident when he was 5 years old and has repped his city, along with his Dominican heritage, ever since. Known for his guerilla marketing tactics over the last decade, Popov decided to focus his atten- tion on himself and his new single “Man of My City,” an an- them that is quickly spread- ing through Orlando.

Words by by M MS.s. R RIVERCITYivercity * Photo by Wuz Good Photography

OZONE MAG // 31 Words by Randy Roper Photo by Wuz Good Khaled possesses a résumé longer than DMX’s rap sheet, so if he feels he’s the best, who are we to argue? Especially since his definition of “we the best” is bigger than himself. “OZONE is the best, I’m the best, the people that support me and my al- bums are the best,” says DJ Khaled. “Anybody lov- ing this Hip Hop music is the best.” Well, since he put it like that, HE COULD SAY he’s the Florida Gov- ernor and we wouldn’t object.

32 // OZONE MAG Your third album just came out. How does producers and getting the beats first. And then it feel? I hear certain things in the beats, and I be like, I feel great, man. My album’s in stores. #1 “Yo, I think Lil’ Wayne would be crazy over this independent album; [my] third album that’s one,” or Ricky Ross, or Akon, or T-Pain, or Nas, been the #1 independent album. I’m shooting or Game. That’s what I’m good at. I’m good at the video for “Go Hard” so look out for the just putting joints together, man. video with DJ Khaled, Kanye West, and T-Pain. We’re doing it real big and I’m really excited, What’s more important to you: having a hit but it’s all about Ace Hood. [His album] Gutta record on the charts or in the streets? is gonna be in stores November 18th. We The Hit record in the streets. Of course you wanna Best. Def Jam. Ace Hood. The future, you feel have a hit records on the charts, but usually, me? hit records on the streets become hit records on the charts. You’ve gotta get the streets hot Do you think you’re the best DJ in the game to be on the charts, and not only that, but right now? the streets are what’s going to feed you, feel For me to say I’m not the best, I’d be crazy. I’ma me? That’s what I make. I make great street say, “We the best!” you know what I’m sayin’. anthems. I make great music for the hood and I’m definitely one of the best, amongst others. for everyone. But the streets is what I’m talkin’ And at the same time, I like to represent that ‘bout, that’s how I got here. “we.” I’m all about the team. So, by me being the best, I got that “we” involved too, feel me. What do you think is the difference between your first album and the new album you just What was it about Ace Hood that made you released? want to sign him as the first artist on your I’ve had three albums, so the first was the label? introduction of me making albums. I showed He’s a superstar. When you see him, he looks the world I can do it. [That album] Listennn like a star. When he raps, he’s a beast, he’s was a classic. Then I came with We The Best a monster, he goes in. His swag is crazy. He and showed people that it wasn’t an accident. makes hit records. He has a hit record right This is what I do for real. I gave you “We Takin’ now called “Ride” featuring Trey Songz that’s Over” and “I’m So Hood,” “Brown Paper Bag,” crawling up the charts like crazy on every records that will never go away, they’re in countdown. His album is crazy; it’s called the history books as Hip Hop classics. “I’m So Gutta. He’s part of the We The Best movement, Hood” and “We Takin’ Over” are records that are that whole Florida movement. And at the just classics. We Global just showed you that same time, he’s the future. He’s young, he’s got we’re gon’ continue doing it on a global level, that energy. He’s the hottest new artist in the getting bigger and bigger. At the same time, game right now, period. we’ve got “Out Here Grindin’.” that’s one of the biggest street anthems in the game. “Go Hard” You’ve make a lot of anthems with a lot of is so big out there, with Kanye West and T-Pain. big artists. How do you get all of these artists So, right now, we’re grindin’, man. I make music on one track? for the average person. So, my albums get big- I got relationships, man. I’ve been in this game ger and better... for years. I’ve been in the game since I was 13, 14 years old. I got great relationships. Real The rest of this interview is featured in OZONE recognizes real. We respect each other, and we Magazine’s October issue. make great music together. And at the same time, people know I make great music, and we help each other. I’m like the Set Up King, you know what I’m sayin’. People that usually get on my singles got a single coming out after, or they already have one. It’s just more heat for the fans. So, I’m that fire starter. And I’m also the torch holder, where the fire just continues and won’t stop.

How do you decide which artists will be on which songs? I be vibin’, man. I be in the studio on that Hen- nessey and Red Bull, and I just be in that zone, picking beats, or making beats, or getting with

OZONE MAG // 33  // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG //   // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG //   // OZONE MAG Yeah, I was on Power 95.3 for about four years, and I was with 102 Jamz prior to that for about 5 years. I got laid off in December because the company cut back.

What do you have going on for the Classic? I haven’t got word to be tied into anything event-wise down there. But pretty much I got my company, Tony Entertainment Group, where I’m managing a couple of artists so I will probably spend a big bulk of that time working on promoting their stuff.

Who are the artists you have on your enter- tainment group? One artist I have right now is Supa. He was with a group a while back called Under Pres- sure. He’s also a producer. He produced for Trick Daddy, Trina, and he also did a song on the Drum Line album, so right now I’m just working on trying to build his story as a solo artist and as a producer. Then I have another artist named Tyna Vargas and she’s actually a songwriter out of Orlando, but now she’s here in Atlanta. I’m also working with Ms. TONY C Concepcion. Words by Jee’Van Brown What made you start tonycfam.com? The website is pretty unique. I started it to DJ Tony C is trying to conquer more than target people who appreciated my work as a the average DJ. From creating a buzz for his DJ. They can also see what events are going website tonycfam.com to DJing back and forth on at the clubs; they can check out the Hip between Orlando to Atlanta, you can say he Hop, R&B, and pop culture news, as well as has his hands full. reach out to me. It’s also an avenue for up and coming artists to network because when What do you have going on right now? you’re a DJ you have a lot of cats coming I’m actually in Atlanta as we speak. A partner of up to you in the club handing you CDs then mine is opening up a club at the Underground. you’re stuck with the CD all night and you might end up leaving it at the DJ booth or What is it going to be called? at the bar. So instead of doing that, they Club Sub-Zero. We plan on bringing the can go to my website www.tonycfam.com upscale level of clubs there. We’re working on and set up a profile and upload music. The a few different nights like a diverse night, col- good thing about it is I’m going listen to your lege night, and of course it’s going to be a very music because it can’t be posted until I do. respectable, fun crowd. Even though this is the So it’s like the Tony C version of MySpace and Florida Classic issue, a lot of people from Atlanta I’m Tom. I haven’t checked to see how many are going to be coming down for the Classic and members I have so far, but last time I did it it’s planned to be open in November. was over 100 members.

Are you going to be DJing there? What artists in Orlando would you say are Yeah, I will be DJing Thursday, Friday, and popping right now? Saturday. Well because I’m a fan and also support them, I would say TREAL. I really think the What’s going on in Orlando right now? city, DJs, the mayor, and the whole state of Actually I just came off a few spots in Orlando. I Florida should get behind them. Wes Fif, was at Elements, Tabu, and Roxy. that’s another one I would co-sign, and 2shae is one to watch. Of course I’m not going to You were on the radio down there, right? leave out my artists.

OZONE MAG //   // OZONE MAG Oddz N Endz Words by Jee’Van Brown Photo by GrazMagicPhoto.com

You can find the production duo Jay Houston write “So Fly.” We also have new tracks with and Philip Nino (above, l-r), otherwise known Mack Maine and Juelz Santana. as Oddz N Endz, in the studio any time of day. Whether Nino is doing his thing at the radio Do you have any artists you’re working with station, or both producers are making hits for and trying to develop? artists like Slim of 112, this team is making sure Nino: Yeah, we have a phenomenal singer by their work is heard. the name of Evan Clap who we’re messing with. We’re messing with Young Jones, he’s pretty hot. How is everything going? Joe Boom, he’s really good and Magnolia Chop Nino: Everything is going good. “So Fly” is #7 on – you don’t even understand, he’s a beast. We the Billboard Top R&B and Hip Hop chart. We’re are developing our own empire called Anotha starting to get a lot of looks and producing for One Records. But as of right now, we don’t have some artists, but nothing we really want to talk artists we’re trying to push out, we’re still in about until the record comes out. our experimental stages. Evan Clap and Young Jones are from Orlando. Magnolia Chop is from How did you guys hook up with Slim? the N.O. and Joe Boom is from South Florida. Nino: I’m a radio personality at 102 Jamz and my friend Ricky introduced me to Slim. We just What kind of production equipment and hooked up and made a hit. software do you use? Nino: We don’t use an MPC. It’s actually all rela- When you’re are in the studio producing, tive to what you’re comfortable with. Some peo- what is the process you go through? ple get it in on Reason, some get it in on Fruity Nino: Jay Houston does the majority of the Loops, and others use Pro Tools, but whatever programming, and I may come in and touch up you use, use it the best. We don’t have anything with a concept or he comes with a concept. particular we use to make hits. If it sounds good and we like it, we’re going to use it. How often do you create the beat right there in front of the artist? Would you say you have a signature sound? Nino: We prefer to do it like that. Some people Nino: Not really, we try to make all of our stuff are hands on and so are we. When an artist is in sound different. The only way you will know if the studio, I feed off the energy from the artist it’s our track is is if you hear our tag line in the being there. We’re producers, not beatmakers. beginning. If we wrote the song you’re going It’s more than just sending beats through email. to hear a plane sound, like on the Slim and B.G. song. Besides music, what else do you two do? Nino: Besides producing and radio, we also Do you plan to stay in Orlando? have a company called Write Brothers, where Nino: Oh yeah, we here. I’ve been on the radio we do a lot of writing for our tracks. We helped for the past four years so we riding out here.

OZONE MAG //  Words by Ms. Rivercity PHOTO BY MALIK ABDUL

Recognized as the CEO behind the label 2 Dog Records, 1Lee recently found a new niche as an artist. After funding several projects for his artists Big Koon and Hollywood, now known as Certified, along with the solo artist Willo Da Don, 1Lee landed his own hit record with Plies titled “Actin’ Like.” As the direction of his company changes, 1Lee hopes he can open even more doors for his own artists.

1100 // // OZONE OZONE MAG MAG What made you want to branch out from the childhood friend of mine and an original mem- CEO role of 2 Dog Records and pursue the ber of The Strangers, Willo Da Don. That’s how artist role? it got started. It was a natural progression into it. When I first started doing music I was in a group and Explain the process for getting your com- then I moved into the CEO role. I was putting pany up and running and how challenging it my money behind all my different artists and has been. no one could score like I’ve learned to score. 2 It was definitely challenging. I think for the Dog Records is a brand name; it’s an entity that most part, as a street person, everybody looks everybody knows, but nobody was giving me at you as if you’re going to be here today and that smash hit. Nobody was giving me what I gone tomorrow. They looked at 2 Dog like it’s was trying to coach them into doing. It’s similar another street person trying to start a label, to Nelly and the St. Lunatics – they were a looking for a way out. And it’s much more than group first and everybody saw that Nelly was that to me. I’m such a musical person myself. I gonna be the first franchise to break off and think with me coming out and singing, people make a way for everybody else. I’m gonna show will see that as the reason why I got into music, everybody how to do it, and then we’re gon’ all not because I’m a street person looking for a come back together and make more music. way out. I love music and I have talent.

So before this song you actually had experi- Do you feel like the time and money you’ve ence being a singer? I think most people saw invested so far is paying off? you as the man behind 2 Dog Records, but I think we’re well on our way to being put in didn’t realize your other talents. the position where it’s gonna pay off. It has I was actually an original member of the group a lot to do with timing. I heard E Class say in The Strangers, which is one of the groups I an interview that he invested over $750,000 had signed to my label. I started out singing before he made his first hit with Rick Ross. on hooks and they would rap about whatever He had small success with Jacki-O, but it still I was singing about. We separated and then I wasn’t her time. He didn’t see big success until signed Willo Da Don. I sang hooks on some of Rick Ross came along. It’s like that with me. his biggest songs. When I signed Big Koon and Now with me putting out the single, I’ve got- Hollywood, anytime you get one of their CDs ten the biggest response faster than I’ve ever and hear somebody singing on the hook, it’s seen on anything I’ve put out on my artists. a good chance it’s me singing. All the songs I I think our label is strong and the majors are did were street songs or hood anthems and definitely looking at 2 Dog. They all know who those are the ones that everybody in the hood we are. We have gotten calls but none of the attached to – like “Fly As Me” and “I’d Rather situations were necessarily in our best interest. Do 100 Years” on Big Koon and Hollywood’s But we have everything lined up where it’s project. All the songs I sang would be the top really gonna pay off big for us. songs on their CDs, so it was a natural progres- sion into doing it. What else do you have planned for yourself and 2 Dog Records? Speaking of Big Koon and Hollywood, why I just got finished recording the next song. did you give them the group name Certified What we wanted to do was capture the streets. after everyone was already familiar with I’m doing street R&B. I’m living my life through their other name? R&B. It’s been so many years since we’ve had Words by Ms. Rivercity It was a decision made by radio, like with 2 a group that the gangstas and hustlers could PHOTO BY MALIK ABDUL Pistols. We couldn’t go to radio with the name listen to. As a street person, we don’t listen to Big Koon. There was a derogatory connotation Ne-Yo or Chris Brown. We don’t go in the trap behind the name, like a racial slur, so we had to and play those records. We was listening to give them a group name for radio. We came up H-Town or Jodeci. I’m the closest thing to one with the name Certified because they’re certi- of those groups that the trap people will listen fied all the way across the board, everything to. I’m so deep in the streets and with the they do from street to corporate. angle I’m going, I think the streets will receive it like they’ve never received anything before. When did you first come up with the idea to I’d like to end the interview by saying, with start a record label? 1Lee, when this project comes out it’s gonna I came up with 2 Dog Records in 2000. From be something different that nobody’s ever ‘95 to ‘98 I was in the group and when we done before. Everybody should pay attention separated I was doing my own thing for about to it and know that it’s gonna be something two years. I came back to my hood and started so street, so strong, and so undeniable that it a label again. The first person I signed was a can’t help but to win.

OZONE MAG // 11 Words by M s. R P ivercity hoto by Browns J ones Photography

From radio play to award nomina- tions, the Skai is the Limit for this Tallahassee songstress. Quickly becoming the talk of Florida, Skai is preparing for her future as the next big thing in R&B.

1212 // // OZONE OZONE MAG MAG What made you want to pursue singing respect. The songs I sing, whether they’re professionally? original songs or cover tunes, for the most Since I was little, when I was about 6 or 7, I part, I’ve always gotten a good response be- was singing in church. People would tell me cause I sing positive music. Once people heard when I sang that my voice touched them and or saw me sing in Tallahassee and these other inspired them. Ever since then I knew singing places, once people saw me out in the streets was something I wanted to do, especially if it working my mixtapes and singles, they started made people feel that way. supporting me and my situation. It just kinda snowballed from there. What about song writing? Do you put to- gether your own lyrics and choruses? Have you been approached by any major I do a majority of my own writing. I just labels yet? branched out and got with a few different I have been approached by a few A&Rs from songwriters that are assisting me now. But some major labels, and I was actually negotiat- my songwriting is inspired by things that ing certain things with Plies and Big Gates’ have happened to me or my friends, or even Records. We were trying to see what we could from a fictional standpoint, things you wish do and what could happen, but at this point would happen. That’s how I write my music. A we’re still searching for the right situation. majority of it comes from a realistic standpoint though. So you’re up for an SEA nomination this year. How does that feel? Out of all the songs you’ve written and sung, I’m up for two – one is for Best R&B Indie Al- which ones have been the most special to bum and one for Best R&B Artist of the Year. you? Every song I write is important to me, but one You put out an album? in particular is titled “Guardian Angel.” I wrote It was actually a mixtape called Skai is the Limit. it for my mother who passed away in 2002. We released that in late 2007. It created a lot That song has definitely been one that’s most of buzz for me. Myself and Exclusive J, who is personal to me. I have some other songs also, the road manager for Tay Dizm, actually put one is titled “Why You Didn’t Call” which got it together ourselves. It was definitely a lot of radio play in Tallahassee, Gainesville, and a few work, but I want to do it again. other areas. I guess a lot of people could relate to that song. It was one of those realistic situa- With your look and sound, I’m picturing you tions in everyday life. in a movie like Dreamgirls. Is that something you want to do one day? When you lost your mother, how did you (laughs) It’s funny you ask that, because I could overcome that situation? see myself having different roles in movies. As It was definitely an obstacle I had to overcome long as they’re not scary I’m okay. But yeah, because she was basically the closest person that’s definitely way down the line ‘cause the to me. I basically learned to channel those main focus is to finish a project. I’m cur- emotions into my music more. Music helped, rently working on an EP. We’re going to have but of course there’s that void that can never it finished at the end of this year so it can be be filled. released first quarter.

Was “Why You Didn’t Call” the first song I know music is your life, but what are you you’ve had on the radio? like outside of the booth? Yeah, it was the first song I remember being I like everything that regular girls like. I like on the radio. It was a great feeling because I shopping, watching movies, hanging out with didn’t really know it was gonna be on the ra- the girls, going to parties and different events. dio. The program director here, Jay Blaze, gave Aside from being Skai, I guess, I don’t want to me a call the day he put it on the radio. He say I’m the regular average girl, but to a certain was getting different responses from people extent I am. calling in after they heard the record. It was great to hear the positive feedback in my local Do you have anything else people should be market for something I wrote. checking for? I appreciate everyone that has supported me You have a lot of support in your hometown thus far. People will definitely be finding out and Florida in general. How were you able to about me and hearing more from me. You can get people’s attention? check me out on Myspace.com/kisstheskai and I don’t want to sound like I’m cocky, but the Youtube.com/skaichannel. very first thing was having talent that people

OZONE MAG // 13 WORDS BY MS RIVERCITY PHOTO BY HANNIBAL MATTHEWS

wherever Young A.C. goes, he steals the show. A longtime protégé of Power 96’s Teddy T, Young A.C. has been groomed for the spot- light he’s finally receiving with his new J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League produced track.

1414 // // OZONE OZONE MAG MAG So you’ve been up to a lot lately. I see you at take it upon myself to meet all the PDs so they a lot of places with Teddy T. have a good impression. That’s why I’m the Yeah, Teddy’s been with me since I was 10 muthafuckin’ flyest. years old and I’m 20 now. That’s like fam to me. This is what we do now. Explain your label situation. We got a digital release situation through What made him want to work with you when Deepside Industry/Universal. Janie Jennings you were only 10 years old? How did he worked that out so they can get my songs on discover you? iTunes. On the other hand, I’m not signed to a I ain’t gon’ brag on myself, I’ma give it to ya in major label. I’m on Deepside and we’re indie his words – I was 10 years old and I did a show right now. We ain’t really shoppin’ for a major at this middle school in Miami. Teddy T said I label deal. We got the money. Asante Samuels was hollerin’ at girls like, “What up, lil mama,” is the #1 cornerback in the league and that’s like I had swag at a young age. I was always my CEO, and we got Silk, we been gettin’ hood focused. You know, he been a wild man, but I money. Now it’s just about gettin’ our heads was cool around him and played my role. together, movin’ forward, and gettin’ mo’ money. We don’t really need no major label. When did he first put you on his radio show? Well, he’s full time management now so he Whenever I see you at events, you’re real doesn’t have the radio show right now. But he quiet and kinda to yourself. You’re definitely had the #1 radio night show in Florida on Pow- not the in-your-face type of dude. Are you er 96 with Lucy and DJ Def. I was exposed to always like that? the show when I was like 12 years old. I started When I meet people I have to get an impres- doin’ drops on other people’s beats, you know sion of ‘em. I roll with older niggas like Puncho what I’m sayin’. I was crazy with the freestylin’ and they always tell me gangstas move in and shit, so he started me at a young age. He’d silence – not that I’m tryna be a gangsta or have me do drops and freestyles on different nothin’, but they always tell me you got two beats and every night he’d bring his show in ears and one mouth. I listen and soak up with a different one. what’s goin’ on. When I get an impression of you I can start to talk to you more and be Your song “The Flyest” is produced by The social with you. It’s been workin’ for me so far, J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League. What made you decide but I don’t want people to think I’m anti-social to get production from them, as opposed to or nothin’. some of the other big producers in Florida? A lot of producers will work with you if you A lot of upcoming artists run up to people got your money right, but one thing I respect telling them, “I’m the hottest shit.” about the J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League is that they’re I don’t wanna be the one to tell you about it, I like a private society. You can send ‘em your wanna let the performance speak for itself on shit and have your money right, but if they CDs, mixtapes, and shows. I wanna let it speak not fuckin’ wit’ your music, they ain’t fuckin’ for itself. At show-and-tell, I always showed, wit’ you. You see they only do the best – the never told. Rick Rosses, the Jay-Zs, the Waynes, the Jeezys. Teddy T sent ‘em my shit ‘cause he had the What has been one of the most memorable connect, and they liked my shit and I had my moments as a rapper so far? money right so they got back at me. I went As of right now, it’d probably be the OZONE to Atlanta and recorded the song. I stayed in show in Houston at TJs DJs. I showed my ass the studio for 12 hours and came out with a and it was a lot of people out there. I’d like to banger. thank Julia Beverly and TJ Chapman for lettin’ me expose my talent and be seen. I got a lot What have you been doing to promote the of feedback off that situation. People can say song and get it spinning? what they want, but I fuck with the last OZONE We got Team A.C. gettin’ it out there. I ain’t Awards. gon’ say it’s just me, it’s a team – my general manager, Teddy T, my CEOs Silk and Asante What do you have on deck for the next year? Samuels, Deepside Entertainment, Puncho, I’m just releasin’ mixtapes like crazy. Me and the GUNS, my publicist team – Damian and Bigga Rankin got one comin’ out. I’m on the Edna, Mad Dog, my radio rep Orlando, it’s a Hittmenn DJs tour. Shout out to Kaspa. I’m big ass family. Everybody’s workin’ together. at the next CORE Retreat in Vegas. Other That’s what’s gettin’ it out there. I take it upon than that I’m just workin’ on the album First myself to go to every radio station playin’ my Impression. “The Flyest” is the shit! They can shit, even before they play it sometimes. I download that on iTunes.

OZONE MAG // 15 Words by Photo Jee’V by S an B ue kwon rown

1616 // // OZONE OZONE MAG MAG You have probably danced How did you hook up with The Runners? and sang along to a few of Me and The Runners have been cool for about the songs KC has written four years now, if not longer than that. I met hooks for, like Ace Hood’s them through DJ D-Strong. He told me about these producer cats and he had already heard “Cash Flow” and Young Jeezy’s some of my stuff so he felt like we would be “Go Getta.” But now KC is step- good working together, and he was right. ping from behind the pen to prepare for his debut album. Are you working on your album now? The album is pretty much complete but we’re I know you’re out in L.A. right now. What are really working on the pre-album, which will be you working on? the prelude to the album. It’s a way to get out Right now I’m working with my choreographer the material for a new artist. I feel like music is David while juggling time in the studio with really accessible, so you can’t hold on to your The Runners. material because there are so many people trying to do it right now. The plan is to give it How has it been since you signed with Danja? to all the DJs so people can get it in their head It’s been pretty good. He’s probably one of the before I force them to buy something. I can’t most talented guys I know so every time we’re put an album out and people don’t know who I in the studio it’s a very fun experience. One of am because the way the economy and CD sales the great things is there is no boundaries with are right now, you have to have major fans first. the music we do, and besides the business part, Some people buy albums and the two singles he’s a pretty down to earth guy. It’s good to do is the only good thing on the album, I want business with people you enjoy being around, people to know that everything we do is good it makes things much better. quality music.

Do you produce also? Since you wrote a lot of rap hooks, can we I just write songs and sing, but these days pro- expect R&B/Hip Hop music on your album? duction is not just making a beat so I would say No (laughs) I definitely won’t be rapping. I got I do produce as well. When I’m songwriting and into writing rap hooks because the opportunity I’m there with the artist, I have to morph them was presented and I was able to do it, but I’m and tell them how to sing the song. still a singer first. I don’t plan on staying in the same box, but I can’t say if I’m going to start For a songwriter, what’s the procedure for rapping. I do plan on evolving. writing a song with an artist? I just listen to the track. The track usually has a What’s going to be the name of your album? mood to it and I just go in the booth and come The name of the album is tentative right now, up with the melody because I don’t really write but we’re playing with It Is What It Is. anything down. Once the track is played I figure out if it’s a club song, or a love song, then I write The pre-album is like a mixtape? it down. As far as with the artist, the song is al- It’s kind of a mixtape, but there’s not going to ready done and when it’s finished we present it be anybody hosting it. It will sound like an al- to the artist and if they like it we go from there. bum and you can download it in December on This year I wrote “Cash Flow” for Ace Hood and my MySpace, which is myspace.com/kc78music. “Boss” for Rick Ross. The Runners and I came up But the first two singles are on my page, which with the beat and figured out who was going are “I Know What You Doing” and “Late Night.” to be on the hook.

OZONE MAG // 17 Though the title to his latest single would lead you to think that he is loco, Pitbull is far from “Crazy.” He knows exactly what he’s doing. Since busting on the scene in 2003 with his Lil Jon-assisted ode to ass “Culo,” Pit has built his name and brand as the premier bi-lingual rapper on the planet. Whether it be through keeping a musi- cal alliance with Lil Jon or hopping on the right Reg- gaeton hits, Pit is swiftly approaching being a house- // PHOTO BY J LASH hold name from the bricks Garland to the barrio. by Maurice Words 18 // OZONE MAG Tell us about the unique situation you’re in an island, and to establish myself in the music right now with your record label. game with my own lane. I’m the only one who After this single “Crazy” I’m a free agent. I’m is bilingual who has been able to tap dance negotiating with labels as we speak. If anyone through all different cultures. I have my own wants a sweet digital single deal I suggest you company, Mr. 305 Inc., where I have my artists go through The Orchard. Cornbread, Sincero, and Young Boss who is already signed to Universal Republic. So none Why did you decide to use this avenue this go of this should come as any surprise. It was all around? part of the plan. I want to have longevity like It’s an avenue for me to continue to sell. “Crazy” Celia Cruz who can still do shows and get love, is at 250,000 sold on iTunes. With The Boatlift I but I also want to be an entrepreneur like Gloria only sold 100,000 in stores because TVT went and Emilio [Estefan]. That’s how I want my bankrupt, but I sold 1.2 million digitally. So I’m career to be. not new to the digital game. iTunes and all the phone carriers make money one way or the At what point would you say you took your other. They help you market and get your radio destiny in your own hands, career-wise? up. I always had a team in place, so when the I took my destiny in my own hands when I was company gives me money, I give it to the team on Luke Records. Luke is the blueprint; he sold and do our thing. But for a record like “Crazy” millions on his own. When I got to TVT I formed without a major selling 250,000 in 5 weeks is alliances with everyone in the building. These pretty fucking amazing. artists walk into these offices like their shit don’t stink and think these people are gonna want You mentioned that you are in negotiation to work for them. But Mr. Gottlieb tied [the with major labels. What is attractive about employees’] hands behind their back and said them to you right now? he wouldn’t pay them if they kept fucking with I’ve never been looked at as a big boy in the me. At that point me and Team Pitbull went game even though I’ve been doing big boy out on our own. That’s what it’s all about. When numbers. It’s always been an independent these artists go out on tour, they gotta pick up grind for me, but now, I get to plug into the business cards. It’s all about networking. That’s machine. I’m not looking for an artist exclusive the only way you survive. deal, and I’m going to cut a 360 deal either. I’m cutting a different deal because I bring my own You’ve recorded political songs speaking on fanbase, a diverse fanbase. the situation in Cuba, but you’re more known for party tracks. Why do you think people Speaking of which, tell us a little bit about would rather hear those types of songs? your new social networking site. I put out “American War,” a very political song, PlanetPit.com is a place where I can keep up which is on YouTube right now. But to turn on with the fans. Everyday I’m putting up new the TV and see all the negativity, people want things to keep people updated, entertained to go to the club and escape. I make all types and educated. I got someone who can handle of music, but that’s the kind of music I have to the shit on the daily and I tell them what I want continue to put out to survive. I cater to my fans on there. Personally, I’m computer illiterate. in order to be catered to, and now it’s my turn to give them what I want to give them. The clas- You have a television show now as well right? sic album that I never got a chance to do, a full Yes. La Esquina. It means “the corner” in Span- spectrum of music. Not just dope, the streets, ish. It’s 2 weeks in and it’s the number one show or political shit, I’m gonna be talking about on Mun2. That network went from 6 to 24 mil- everything they’ve been seeing. I thank God I lion viewers in one year, might I add. We touch wasn’t plugged all the way in early because I on what’s hot in society and twist it and make it got a good perspective on things now. funny with a message in it. The rest of this interview is featured in OZONE Back when you came on the scene around Magazine’s November issue. 2003, what were some of your goals? My goals have always been that by 30 I would have my own company, ownership, living on

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20 // OZONE MAG WORDS BY MS RIVERCITY PHOTO BY J LASH

OZONE MAG // 21 “I’m just a young dude trying to mother is Puerto Rican but she’s from Brooklyn, have fun, and that’s going to New York. My dad is from Mona Heights, show in my music,” says Radio, Jamaica. He taught me a lot about my heritage the 20-year-old R&B singer from so I gotta keep it real for the rude boys. Miami Beach. While attending How did you secure a deal with Asylum? high school, Radio was inspired At the time, my manager did a lot of business by his peers to start singing with Big Gates and originally we were trying – not to become rich and famous to get in the door with Slip-N-Slide. Then, of as most people would think, course, Big Gates’ incarceration set things back Radio simply wanted to pull a and that didn’t go through. But that didn’t lot of girls. A few years later, stop my manager from working hard to get his catchy ladies’ anthems not that deal. So Big Gates had a friend in New only attracted the attention York who signed Lil Will and brought Boosie and Webbie to Asylum. I started working with of females, but also Big Gates Selim Bouab and he’s the one who flew me to Records. His work with Big Gates New York and signed me. He’s a senior execu- eventually landed him in front tive at Asylum and also the President of Unau- of execs at Asylum Records, thorized Records, the label that Lil Will is on. where Radio signed his major deal in May of 2008. Now with When did you first realize you could sing? a world of opportunity at his Was it something you were always into? feet, Radio talks about how A lot of people started singing as a kid in he got his start, working with church and stuff. But it was never like that with me. When I moved to Florida and started Pitbull, future television ap- making new friends, it was a group of kids that pearances, and how he hopes to sang. I was hanging around all these singers beCOME the R&B version of Plies. and I wanted to do what they did. They was getting all the girls and stuff and I wanted to Where are you from originally and how did get girls too. I wanted to [sing] to reach out you end up in Miami Beach? and talk to the ladies. I was actually discovered I’m originally from Hartford, Connecticut. I by Carl Hobbs, who used to work with Kevin was born and raised out there and I moved to Cossom (KC) back in the day. I met my man- Florida because my mom wanted me to be in ager when I was 16 and he molded me into the a different environment. At the time, my mom artist that I am today. I’m blessed to have him and pops were going through some marriage as part of my family. problems. My mother moved us out to Florida. I was out here for a couple years when I met So had you not discovered your talent as a up with my manager. He was doing some singer, what do you think you’d be doing things with Big Gates Records and trying to today? Would you have gone to college for pop off Plies’ career. something? I’d definitely be in college. One thing that I Do you feel like Miami is a better city for you love doing aside from singing is cooking. If I career-wise? wasn’t singing, I’d probably be cooking it up in Most definitely. Miami is where I lay my head. college somewhere, learning how to become It’s beautiful. When I wake up I’m inspired to the next big chef. I always knew in high school write good music. Miami is definitely a good that whatever I was gonna do was gonna be city to pop off as an artist. creative.

You come up with a lot of records that would You mentioned your relationship with Big fit the club scene in Miami. Does the nightlife Gates. Who are some other people you’ve there inspire you? worked with? I’m a very energetic dude, which definitely I linked up with Pitbull and Hugo Diaz. They’re translates into my music. I’m just a young pretty cool cats. Pitbull definitely gave me dude trying to have fun and that’s going to game and good advice on how to succeed. show in my music. I can see how that would He’s a real laidback, humble guy and I love to be good for Miami because it’s a party city. hang out with people like that, people that aren’t arrogant or cocky like other celebrities What’s your nationality? out there. Also, Plies has had a big influence on I’m half Puerto Rican and half Jamaican. My my whole career.

22 // OZONE MAG What have you learned from Plies? When did you develop the ability to write He told me if you get into this game, do what songs? I know you said you picked up the you do, take what you need, and don’t let no- singing when you were in school. body take shit from you. Every time I go to his Actually, my English teachers always told me shows he’s larger than life and I always wanted I had great writing skills. My stories were so to be the singing version of what he is. I want detailed and my plots were outlandish. Writing to be the R&B version of Plies. is a skill I’ve done well at academically through- out my high school career. And as I’m going What are some big things you’ve been able into this journey in singing, I like to write to to experience since becoming serious with about emotions and real life situations, things the singing? that I’ve been through. Being that I love to I linked up with Chris Brown and did some write, I just put my thoughts into a melody and shows. I got to do some things with the Boys that’s how I come up with my music. and Girls Club of America. I thought that was big. I did a lot of fundraising events to raise Are you hoping to do a lot of hook collaborat- money for cancer research, things of that ing like most of the big singers in the game nature. And you know, just hooking up with right now? different celebrities like Plies, Pitbull, different I’m always up for a collaboration. I do a lot of producers. I got a chance to meet The Runners collabos with rappers. I always refer to myself when I was in Orlando. I got a chance to meet as a pretty-looking thug. I do my thing for Hugo Diaz. Every city I hit up I make sure to the ladies but I definitely keep it real for my meet up with people, try to have a sit-down brothers in the hood. If anybody wants me to with them and they give me advice. do a hook on their song, I’ll definitely do it. I won’t work with just anybody, but if they’re hot You’re going to be working on some things I’ll work with them. If you want to collaborate with MTV too right? with me or book me you can call my manager Yeah, for Spring Break I’m going to be doing an Anthony at 305-725-0894. MTV tour. I’ll be in Mexico, Acapulco, Cancun, Jamaica – one of my homelands. I’m gonna You already put out a CD, right? Was it an be out there doing my thing on tour. I’m also official album or was it something for promo- making a guest appearance on The Real World. tional purposes? Hopefully they don’t have me doing some- I had a lil mixtape thing going on. It was a thing too crazy. That’s a good look. I’m also great success. Locally I get a lot of love, but I going to be on the Conan O’Brien show early didn’t have that national push yet. Radio sta- next year. I’m also working on a few more TV tions definitely showed me a lot of love. I had appearances. the city behind me supporting me. I’m thankful to have people behind me that care about my What about your music? You have some music like that and enjoy it. The fact that they songs out right now too. enjoy it makes me want to keep doing what The “Flawless” single will be for sale on iTunes I do. soon. It’s produced by J. Lacy from Texas and remixed by Hugo Diaz. So what’s the significance behind your name Radio? It’s kinda unusual. What is the song about and what inspired it? I want to set the record straight on that. I tell It’s about me just hanging out, having a good people my name is Radio and a lot of people time, and seeing a beautiful girl that’s flawless. start laughing but it’s something that I take Sexy ladies inspired me to write the song. very seriously. The reason I call myself Radio is I came together with J. Lacy to write a hit because the only thing bigger than radio is TV, record. He wrote the chorus and I wrote the and I’m not going to call myself TV. Radio is en- verses. What really inspired me was seeing a tertainment. Radio is larger-than-life. I’m an en- lady walking down the street and I was like, tertainer and when I hit the stage that’s what wow, she’s flawless. people can relate to. It’s like, wow, this guy is a good performer. The reason I call myself Radio So who are some celebrity females you think is because it’s entertainment, it’s the way I get are flawless? my music out there, and it’s larger-than-life. I don’t want to sound cliché, but Beyonce is flawless. Alicia Keys is definitely a flawless Website: Myspace.com/officialradio female. I love everything about her. And Gabri- elle Union, wow!

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s. Rivercity Words by M

Hailing from Southwest Florida, Naples to be exact, Sho Zoe has been making some recent noise in the club circuit. After his song “Sho Nuff” got people’s attention, Zoe followed it up with the current song “She Get It” produced by DJ Quest.

24 // OZONEOZONE MAG How did you link up with DJ Quest for the people dancing to the music you make? song “She Get It”? It feels real good, especially when they don’t He’s a big DJ out here in my area. He’s on 105.5 know who I am. I can be standing right next The Beat. I approached him. I used to see him to ‘em and they’ll be goin’ crazy for my song at clubs and stuff and would give him my CDs and not even know it’s me. They’re not really and mixtapes. This year I put out a mixtape familiar with my face yet, they’ve just heard my that did good, I kinda found my style. He just name and my songs and stuff. produced a beat that fit me. So you actually go put the record in the club What about the other song you have poppin’, yourself? “Sho Nuff”? How did you get that out to the We travel all week long. I barely get to rest. people? I rest like 2 or 3 days out of the week. We’re It’s a song I had for a while, like a year, and I trying to break the records all over the Florida never released it. Finally someone heard it and area. said it was hot. That’s how I hooked up with my management. I did the video for the song, There’s a lot of Haitian pride in Florida. How which is actually on BET.com right now. do you represent the movement? The movement started before me, but I feel When you say you hooked up with your like I’m taking it to another level. I really put management, who exactly is that? passion into what I do. It’s not all about that, Down Low Records. They’ve been around for I represent that too, but it’s so much more to a while, ever since I was younger. I used to me than just that. always see ‘em and give ‘em my CDs and tell ‘em I rap. I’ve been rappin’ for like 5 or 6 years Like a lot of rappers, you got your start in and I finally got an opportunity. high school. How have you progressed since then? How does having management through Well, right now I really feel like I know myself them help you out? real well. At first I was just experimenting, tryin’ It’s really helping me. I’m getting a lot of expo- this and that, and now I perfected my style. sure. At first I was only getting exposure in the When you hear something now, you know area I live in, now I’m traveling more, doing that’s Sho Zoe. I really put passion into it now. shows here and there, in and out of the state. It’s really helped me get my name out there. Are you starting to hear from fans yet? Oh yeah, they love me, especially on Myspace. Getting a music video on BET.com isn’t the I’m like a Myspace celebrity. I really push it to easiest thing to do. How did you get your the limit on Myspace. I’m on there like 24 hours video on that website? a day. I’m on there when I travel. I feel like it’s so My publicist Elora Mason set that up. important, it’s like an online street team.

How long have you been working with Elora When you first started rapping, did you think Mason? you’d get this deep into it? Actually, a few months now. My management Nah, I really didn’t. I always knew I had what hooked all that up. it takes, but I didn’t know if I was really gonna take it there. I didn’t know it would become a You mentioned catching DJ Quest’s atten- full-time job. tion with a mixtape. How many mixtape projects have you done so far? As a full-time independent artist, how are This year was my biggest mixtape, but prior you able to generate enough income to to that I had about four or five mixtapes. We’re make ends meet? doing an independent album, but we’re doing That’s real hard. Sometimes I don’t generate it, an EP first. but I’m out there in the streets sellin’ mixtapes, travelin’ and stuff. I make beats too, that’s The two records we were talking about are another way I make money. targeted towards the clubs. Would you say you specialize in club records, or do you do What’s next for you? other kinds of music as well? I’ve got a new mixtape droppin’ around That is my specialty. That’s what I love doing. Thanksgiving called Grand Opening with DJ On my album is when I get more personal and Quest. I’ve got another mixtape with Krunch, start talking about different situations. I’m on a lil’ mini college tour right now, and I’ve got a show at DJ Khaled’s birthday bash What’s that like to be in the club and see coming up.

OZONE MAG // 25 Graphics by Adolfo Photo s. Rivercity // Words by M

Known around Duval County as A dangerous lyricist, Swordz is back on the scene with a new mixtape TO LET THE STREETS know that he ain’t GOING nowhere.

2626 //// OZONEOZONE MMAGAG What do you have going on right now? management goes, I’ve been back and forth We’re actually cocked and ready wit’ a mixtape over the past 5 years with a few different man- right now. We’re gettin’ the final mix and agement situations. I ain’t sayin’ they didn’t mastering done, some overall production stuff have my best interest in mind, but at the end done to it. It should be out by the time this of the day, I gotta do what’s best for me. So interview comes out. I’ve been concentrating I’ve been runnin’ everything on my own for the on my shows. The name of the mixtape is Get last 2 years. It’s been good for a nigga. It’s been Ya Money Up – it’s self-explanatory. Most of the stress free, drama free. I can’t tell you the exact production was done by my homeboy Rodney reason why shit ain’t popped off the way it’s P. from Average Joe Productions. The rest of it supposed to, but all I can tell you is that for ’08 is industry tracks. It’s hosted by my homeboy and ’09, if they ain’t fuckin’ wit’ me I’ma make DJ Q45. them kick themselves in the ass and ask why.

Why didn’t your usual producer DVUS do the Back in the day you used to be on the free- tracks? style circuit real hard. Do you think you could He had a lot of shit goin’ on during this mix- still eat some dudes up in a battle? tape. At this point, no bullshit, I was writin’ a I’m still on that! If you know Swordz, you know mixtape worth of material every week. After I’ve always been about lyrics. Regardless of a while I guess it got to be a bit much for us what a nigga stands for, regardless of what a to get in the studio at the same time. He was nigga been through, I’ve always been ‘bout doin’ one thing and I was doin’ another thing lyrics. If y’all niggas thinkin’ a nigga was sleep, so I went on ahead and did the mixtape. He this mixtape finna wake your ass up. A lot of did do the mixing, mastering, and overall the shit niggas ain’t been gettin’ over the last production as far as puttin’ it all together. I got 3 or 4 years, they’re gettin’ it now. Half of the a few singles on the mixtape that he did the mixtape is songs, and the other half I’m rappin’ production on, but I was just testing the water from the start of the beat to the end of the and gettin’ some new blood under my belt. beat. But I don’t do the freestyle battles like that, mainly ‘cause I’ve been there and done You have a new song called “I’m So Hated.” that and I don’t have to prove myself to these What inspired you to write that song? niggas. They know what I can do. Make it It’s one of those self-explanatory joints. It’s a worth my while. Put the cash pot up to a thou- lot of muthafuckas that fuck with me, but at sand, or some stacks, and holla at me. I can’t the end of the day that’s how I felt so I put it be doin’ these battles for $200. I don’t feel like I out there like that. That’s how I was feelin’ then have to prove myself over and over. It’s always and that’s how I’m feelin’ now, so I put it in the been there and it’s always gonna be there. streets and the people are taking to it. It’s an overall good look for a nigga. Your performances are another strong quality. What’s been your favorite shows so far? What are some other bangers you have out I’d have to say the ones where the audience there? don’t know who a nigga is or what a nigga I got “I’m So Hated” that’s beatin’ the streets is ‘bout to do. Like a lot of these Hood Rock up. “Work” is doin’ alright. We also got a video shows I’ve done, I like doing ‘em ‘cause my for that. We got this joint that’s about to be back is against the wall. I don’t know what hittin’ the street real soon, I’ve just been real to expect from the audience and they don’t picky about when I wanna put it out there. know what to expect from me. That’s where It’s a song I did called “Hell Yea.” We put it on my comfort zone is at. Unless I’m constantly DVUS’ Myspace page for a minute and as far as challenging myself it’s not really doing nothin’ a single, that one is a problem! for me. I like doing shows in cities where they aren’t up on a nigga like that. Shows where Over the years you’ve had several manage- they don’t know what to expect and I blow ‘em ment situations, a few deals on the table, the fuck out their shoes and they like, “What and a lot of performances. Why do you think the fuck was that?” nothing solid has materialized yet? I think it’s a combination of things. I always felt What else do you want to let people know like I was ready, but me being as special as I about Swordz? am, maybe internally I wasn’t ready. I look at I ain’t been nowhere! I’ve been planning, the situation like the stars have to align. You’ve plotting, and strategizing, and now I’m back got to have the right song, the right team, the in y’all’s niggas asses like toilet paper. This right people lookin’ at you; everything has to mixtape is dropping. We got a Duval mixtape happen at one time. I ain’t sayin’ everything’s following that. The long awaited studio album aligned right now, but we’re plotting and is finally getting ready to hit the streets around planning and we’re damn sure ready. As far as Spring of next year. Keep watchin’ for me.

OZONE MAG // 27 Words by M s. Rivercity // Photo by T 28 // OZONE MAG errence Tyson When defining the under- can depend on a person with no doubts, re- ground Hip Hop scene in the gardless of the situation. I’d rather have loyalty southeast, one name is synony- than money. We’re actually shooting a movie mous with the Florida street based off that song. movement: PapA duck. While Speaking of loyalty and your new situation many have backed off and with Big Spenda Ent., how is this new deal go- faded away when sudden fame ing to benefit everyone involved? What are the missed them, he became even plans for moving forward? hungrier for the limelight. Papa We finna go hard. I’m not the type of person duck’s patience over the years to have one foot in and one foot out. I’m all has been relentless and honor- the way in. You can’t find nobody that’ll say able, a virtue that recently paid something bad about me. I love the fact that off when he joined forces with they pay attention to their artists. They’re out Big Spenda Entertainment. there on the road with us from time to time. That means a lot to me. We’re setting up a tour throughout Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and So you have a new situation with the Miami- South Carolina. I’m coming with the album The based label Big Spenda Entertainment. Explain Streets Is Mine. The first single off the album is the details behind that. “Florida Boy.” My pa’tna Rarebreed was already [signed to] the label. Me and Rarebreed are both from You always pull up in the nice cars when you Belle Glade. We grew up on the same street make an appearance. and all. When we went to Houston for the Yeah, that’s some “Florida Boy” shit – Chevys OZONE Awards, Big Spendaz saw the buzz and and Donks, Cutlasses and Caprices. That’s we connected. We all got together and they some street shit. I’ve hosted a couple car liked what they saw and I liked what I saw. shows, like the East Coast Ryders Car Show, a Everything panned out perfect. show in South Carolina, and Dawgman’s car show in Orlando. I just bought a ’76 donk with You’re featured on the cover with Bigga Rankin 36,000 original miles. It’s in the paint shop for the second time. How long have you been right now and it’s got my name on the side of working with him and what are some things it. For any artist that wants to paint their name you guys have accomplished together over on the side of they car, I was the first one to the years? do that. I’ve been working with Bigga for about five years now, since the first mixtape we did You have some other songs that have gotten a called Welcome to My Hood. Working with lot of attention lately. Talk about those. Bigga Rankin has brought a lot of notoriety. I’ve got the “Good Pussy” record, and the remix He goes hard, I go hard. It’s just meant to be. with Trina. It’s gotten a real good response – like when I say I’ll fuck a woman if her period You have a popular underground record called is on but only if she spotting. That’s just real “Fuck Boy.” What or who were you writing shit. “Haitian Flag” is a real hot record for the about? Zoes. “Do You Wanna Ride With Me,” produced It’s about a lot of different people. That record by my boy CP Hollywood. I did a mixtape... is true from beginning to end. Every time I go out of town, everybody, even the radio The rest of this interview is featured in OZONE stations, thought I was talking about Plies, but Magazine’s October issue. I wasn’t. Plies is my dawg. He gave me an op- portunity to produce the first track off his first album. We got a good ass relationship. That’s my nigga. A lot of people got that miscon- strued. But that’s a true record. The people that hear it, that are in those situations, they know who I’m talking about.

Obviously the song is about loyalty, or more specifically, disloyalty. You feel pretty strongly about that. I believe in karma. What you dish out is what you get in return. Loyalty is something a lot of muthafuckas don’t have. Loyalty is when you

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