N.A.B. SIT'S WITH U'KNO THA DON

U'Kno Tha Don

You think U'Kno...but you have no idea! Hailing from the Tri-State area, U'KNO THA DON is like none other. A lot of artists claim to have gone through trails and tribulations, but imagine being tried for a crime you didn't commit, being casted out like a fallen angel, and losing someone you've loved for a lifetime. Beating the odds, proving his innocence and self worth, and coming out a true believer, U'KNO was literally writing for his life. His verses are like Bible scriptures and his songs are his book of life; passionate, raw, heartfelt, reality, U'Kno Tha Don is just that; straight up, no chaser. Hell on earth has brought out something powerful in this young artist. People, take a peek in U'Kno's life and understand his testimony. He truly has a story to tell.

N.A.B: Who is "U'Kno Tha Don"? Explain the name.

U'Kno: First thing, I am a God fairing man. Secondly I am a brand and extremely versatile. I am an artist, model, T.V & radio personality and a business man. The name was given to me by a music producer, and his favorite video game. The name is self-explanatory. ( laughing)

N.A.B: What brought you to love music the way you do?

U'Kno: My Caribbean background had a big role to play. As well as Fugees, Notorious Biggie Smalls and Boot Camp Clique.

N.A.B: Who or what influences you to write the type of music you do?

U'Kno: Life inspires me as well as my mentor Nash. (My Life Entertainment baby LOL)

N.A.B: Let's talk about the year 2007. How did that year effect you physical, mentally, emotionally, and creative wise?

U'Kno: Physically I was beat down, and mentally I was lost. Emotionally I was hurt, and creatively I was a beast. (GOD IS GOOD BABY!…. AMEN LOL)

N.A.B: CHUUCH! Now, A lot of artists fabricate their lives and situations that surround them. Do you feel that going through that trying time as brought the more realistic side out in your artistry?

U'Kno: Yes, because before I had no identity I was a solider. And now I am a leader.

Piece of advice to those out there, you may just want to follow my lead.

N.A.B: What projects do you have out and what projects are you working on right now?

U'Kno: Currently I am featured on Gin Tv’s latest DVD. I just launched my latest video

“Runway”. I am working in my latest mixtape "European Dreams" and "Testimony" with My Life Entertainment. You can say I'm dipping my hand in some fashion projects with my P.R Phoenix and her company Essence of Evolution. Last but never least you can tune to me on allblackradio.com, 99.3fm, starfmny.com and find me hosting on BCAT (Brooklyn Cable Access Television).

N.A.B: What is your main focus for your music? What is the message you are trying to send out to your peers and fans alike?

U'Kno: That there is nothing wrong with being yourself. Dare to be different, stand up for something and fall for nothing.

N.A.B: Are there any major collaborations in the works for your upcoming project?

U'Kno: Nash, Screechy Dan, Lyn Carter, Logan Threat, Lloyd, Usher and many more!

N.A.B: What can the world expect from U'Kno Tha Don in the next 5 years?

U'Kno: God willing, music, fashion and motivational speaking. By the way, once I get my chance I will run NYC.

N.A.B: What advice can you give to up and coming emcee's striving to get noticed or get to that next level of their career?

U'Kno: Be true to yourself, create trends, don’t follow them! Become a leader not follower, and know what it means to become men and women outside of music.

N.A.B: If it is one quote you can tell the world, what would that be?

U'Kno: "For whom much is given, much is expected."

N.A.B : Any last words or shout outs?

U'Kno: Without God I am nothing! Shout outs to my fans, my team, and my family. You can always keep posted with what I am doing by my Facebook.com/U’knothadon, Twitter.com/ U’knomania, or you can find me on Google and You Tube.

WRITTEN BY MS FEFE(NAB)

COURTESY OF THE ELEGANT HOODNESS MUSICAL PROGRAM 2011

TEAM N.A.N.'s OWN G3MZ GET ACQUAINTED!!

G3MZ

G3MZ was born in the spring of 1983, when a fresh and new genre of music was developing and emerging on the New York City streets. Being raised in the heart of BROOKLYN made it inescapable and a natural addition to life. At home, his family would play a range of music from Hector Levoe and Tito Puente to the Motown sounds of Smokey Robinson and Diana Ross to Hip Hop legends Run DMC and Rakim, which all influenced his musical path.

As the years passed and he progressed, he's gained more knowledge of the lyrical, technical, and commercial sides of Hip Hop. He partnered with the emcee OSIRIS aka “OS” and began showcasing their talent at local NYC clubs meeting and networking with AAA LIST ENT. (NY), ADANTE ACE (AOS ENT), ED LOVER of Power 105.1 FM, RAEKWON the CHEF (Wu Tang), DJ KAY SLAY (STREET SWEEPERS), MAD LINX, and many more established and up and coming artist.

Since then, G3MZ expanded his horizons and branched out to the Midwest, Kansas City, Mo. He opened up shows for West Coast headliner THE JACKA (MOBB FIGGA'S) and performed at the double mix tape release party for MELENA (LOOSE CHANGE PRODUCTIONS, KC), SQUIKEE (CHOP SHOP SOUTH, TN), and MS. FEFE (LEGAL CRIME RECORDS, KC). After those performances, STICKY ICKY ENT approached him to be the only out-of-town feature on "THE MIDDLE OF THE MAP COMPILATION", gaining artist and production credits.

G3MZ then relocates back to Brooklyn to continue building a foundation in Hip Hop's Mecca. Him and Ms. FeFeNAB linked up with A.D. THE GENERAL (A-TEAM ENT.) and they began performing at THE ELEGANT HOODNESS. Eventually co-creating THE ELEGANT HOODNESS OPEN MIC, which ran successfully. He also was a part of THE ELEGANT HOODNESS PARK TOUR '08/'09.

With his mix tape THEORY OF INTELLIGENCE VOL. 1, working with TAZDATMC (SEATTLE) putting together STREETZ ORIGINATED VOLS. 1,2, and 3, as well as a collaboration album with The Ballstar and Ms. FeFe (B.F.G/N.A.B) entitled "BUILT FOR GREATNESS", G3MZ has many other projects, features, and production credits under his belt working the underground circuit. His debut album “B4 DA BEGINNING” was recorded, mixed, and produced by G3MZ himself for his HIGH HATS PRODUCTIONS imprint. It doesn't stop there as he continues to record and perform, building a grassroots fan base of REAL PEOPLE that appreciate REAL MUSIC.

NAB: If you can describe G3MZ in one word what would it be?

G3MZ: Humble.

NAB: What influenced your music the most, and how do you separate yourself from the other artist out?

G3MZ: I would say life in general is my biggest influence. There's so much about life that we dont know yet but my goal to pass on any knowledge I gain to the listeners. As far as seperating myself from the rest I just try to speak on real issues that people with knowledge, wisdom and understanding can relate to.

NAB: You mention that you teamed up with A.D. The General and the Elegant Hoodness Program? How did that come about and what has the experience been like?

G3MZ: That came together from Ms.FeFe she knew A.D. previously to her coming to Ny. We were doing open mics in Williamsburg & we invited N.A.N. to come perform. Ever since then It's been nothing but a great experience. Thru the up's & downs of the industry we became closer to more like a family. We helped the Elegant Hoodness Musical Program grow & expand in a huge way by bringing our knowledge of the industry & connections to the table.

NAB: I see that you're not only an artist, but you produce your own music? What would you say of the two is your bigger passion and is it a challenge to do both?

G3MZ: Yea, I can honestly say I love both with all my heart. I've been writing rhymes since the age of 10, so making songs comes pretty naturally. I started making beats around 19. I would say thats the most challenging because I'm still learning different things about productions everyday. Some times its hard to do both because you gotta make sure the song is good, as well as the beat. So sometimes I prefer to write to other producers beats. I really like to hear other artist on my beats to see what vision they get from it.

NAB: What projects do you have in the works? Are there any future collaboration's you're interested in working on?

G3MZ: We have a bunch of Streetz Radio mixtapes that we've been dropping. As far as solo projects I'm gonna drop a ep "b4 da beginning", as a teaser. Than I'm droppin my official project entitled "Deaf by Stereo". As far as collabs, I'm willing to work with anyone that's making good music. A dream collab would be with Nas. He was one of my biggest influences growing up.

NAB: What would you say was or is your biggest obstacle coming into the music industry and gaining the respect of others?

G3MZ: The biggest obstacle for myself and alot of people coming is not understanding that this is the record business, not just looking at it as a hobby. You have to invest in your self financially and time wise. No one just blows up over night. A lot of people when they first look at me say I dont "look" like a rapper. Lol whatever that means, but once they hear me spit something their perspective changes drastically.

NAB: Where can your fans and supports go to look up your music and stay in contact with you?

G3MZ: They can hit me up on twitter @g3mz718 or facebook g3mz718 or just google G3mz I'm sure a lot of things will pop up.

NAB: What is your goal has an artist and what do you hope to accomplish through your career?

G3MZ: My goal is to be respected for my art. I dont care about making millions of dollars because I've been doing music for a long time and dont plan on stopping any time soon. I just wanna be able to provide for my family doing something I love.

BLACKSTORM FROM NYC TO NC

BLACKSTORM

Self-subsistent artist, BlackStorm. Born in Jamaica Queens, but raised in Brooklyn. By the age of 13 BlackStorm made a recherche'. The music industry is where he felt his path would lay. In doing so, he opt that becoming a DJ would teach him the basics of hip hop. As a young DJ, BlackStorm gained the privilege of working and getting to know some of hip hop's major names. Such as Steve Mandel, The lost Boys and several others. BlackStorm was predominantly djing in his younger years. Going through the stages of feeling out his craft, he decided to pick up the mic. Trying his hand as being an M.C.. Turning out to be a good situation. As an M.C. BlackStorm had the opportunity to open up for major names such as T.I., Young Jeezy, Ashanti and a flock of others. Tearing down showcases, clubs and tours in NY, BlackStorm ventured to Raleigh N.C.. From there he continued to build his brand. BlackStorm won the Achievement Award at the first Annual North Carolina Underground Music Awards. Than was nominated again for the same award. Since than the consistency of making music has been his terminus.

N.A.B.: This might come across as a typical question, thing is SPECIALGIFT doesn't know the answer. How did the name BLACKSTORM manifest?

BLACKSTORM: Well I was always called BLACK growing up as a kid, from my friends and local store owners, but the name storm was added after I realized rap was a talent I had, and from the 1^st time I grabbed a mic, people use to say WOW ya voice is like THUNDER, and they use to tell me when I rapped my point was made clear because the passion and feeling I had when I rapped, so I decided to add storm to the black and there u have it I created BLACKSTORM.

N.A.B.: In the midst of your journey so far, what would you say mostly contributed to your success? Meaning, something that played a significant image on your behalf.

BLACKSTORM: I would say my kids & family really contributed to my success, because I go hard for them, I always said I love to do this music whether I get paid or not, but I also said I want the best for my family, so they are my biggest motivation and of course the fans and supporters, who don't allow me to give up or slow down.

N.A.B.: Hip Hop is definitely not the same this day in age. What does BLACKSTORM contribute to the hip hop movement?

BLACKSTORM: Im basically bridging the gap between wat HOT and wat HEARD, I also feel I will bring life back the the industry, I feel there's no more true passionate music being made, and if it is its not being showcased or promoted, which in my eyes is sad.

N.A.B.: "Hot Like Fire", Blackstorm ft. Mica Swain & Hersh. Elaborate on this and your present activities.

BLACKSTORM: well 1^st off I want to shout out “DJ NAYDEE” from beats planet.com, because he was the mastermind behind the RECORD, well I got the record about 1 ½ or 2 yrs ago, and from the 1^st time I heard it, I knew it was or could possibly be a smash hit. So I recorded my verses and sat on it for a few months, until one day I thought real hard and said wat can I do to make this record bigger then wat it is now, and that's when the idea came to me, I need to get the lovely MICA SWAIN on it, so I reached out to her and the rest was HISTORY. Big big big shout outs to my homie HERSH for blessing the track with his phenomenal vocals.

N.A.B.: Who is BLACKSTORM FAM?

BLACKSTORM: Blackstorm is a artist/producer & engineer extraordinaire who not only is aiming for spot in the industry he is actually trying to become a major player and leave a powerful stamp in the game. And F.A.M.M is my team/company which means “FOR ALWAYS MY MANZ” who will become one of the biggest brands/names in the industry.

N.A.B.: You have been acquainted with A.D. the General, Gifted, N.A.N., N.A.B. & Elegant Hoodness Musical Program for quite some time. From the beginning of your acquaintance to now, in your opinion how has Elegant Hoodness grown?

BLACKSTORM: I can honestly say I think I was actually around when AD & the whole team started to do there thing, I mean from doing shows, to studio sessions to doing videos in the neighborhood we all are from, and to see AD take something that was a just a vision back then and turn it into a reality is so inspiring & such a blessing. I have seen and heard people talk about ELEGANT HOODNESS from ny to nc, so I would say ELEGANT HOODNESS have grown tremendously and im beyond proud of AD & N.A.B for real, besides shes not just a associate I know or heard of, she is actually my FRIEND & SISTER from another mother.

N.A.B.: Anything you would like to express, at this time? Something that signifies your overall determination.

BLACKSTORM: IF YOU DON'T KNOW NOW, YOU WILL LATER, BY THEN IT WILL BE TOO LATE.

N.A.B.: What should the world and your fans look forward to from BLACKSTORM?

BLACKSTORM: A BREATH OF FRESH AIR, SOMETHING THE GAME HAS BEEN MISSING. I put it to u like this, wat ever u feel the game should be doing or u missed, just know I will be the one to bring that to the industry. Without trying, because it's second nature.

N.A.B.: Where can we find more of BLACKSTORM music? etc?

BLACKSTORM:www.reverbnation.com/blackstorm

Also for all other inquiries, bookings, feats & party and mixtape hosting

Please contact my manager LEITA WESLEY (336)408-9986

ALSO U CAN FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER

@BLACKSTORMFAMM

@LEITAWESLEY

@FAMMCLIQUEINC

@DJSHEP1FAMM

WRITTEN BY : SPECIALGIFT_NAB

COURTESY OF THE ELEGANT HOODNESS MUSICAL PROGRAM 2011

BIZZY Tore It Down In Kc Missouri @ E.H.M.P'S Grand opening

Twilla Oglesby a.k.a Bizzy was raised in Kansas City MO. Bizzy started her music career at the age of thirteen, freestyle battling in middle school where she became known locally as artist Bizzy. By the age of sixteen as a freshman in high school Bizzy began writing and recording her own music. While taking the time to study and perfect her craft, Bizzy put together her first single titled "Dope Girl" which spread through the streets very quickly. Catching everyone’s attention and seeing where the buzz was taking her she decided to joined up with a childhood friend , also a local rapper and formed a group whom went by the name "D2G". Now 20 years old she’s come into a successful music career steadily heading towards excellence, mark ability, and a profitable career. With the help of an agent Ad General to help press forward her talent and advance her career she’s released a new mixtape May 1st of 2011 called "The Right Back Rockin” Mixtape Vol 1. Currently performing at open mic sessions and a number of personal shows at various venues throughout the Kansas City Metro Area the audience response has become extraordinary. Responses like this are what lead to her winning the “Team NAN” award at her latest event, “The Elegant Hoodness Musical Program Showcase” in Kansas Missouri. With a great support team and the loads of energy she brings to every performance she is surely closer to advancing her career to a professional level.

NAB: What does the name Bizzy represent?

BIZZY: The name Bizzy came from my years while I was attending middle school I was always caught by the principal freestyle battling in the hallways and when he caught me he would say "Oglesby I see you keep yourself busy in these hallways I hope that gets you that A you need" after hearing him say it so much I took the word busy and turned it into something that represents me personally "Bizzy"

NAB: What or who were some of your influences growing up that inspired you musically?

BIZZY: Some of my influences growing up was Notorious B.I.G, Tupac, Juvenile, LiL Wayne, my sister, brother, my mother and family members inspired me to keep pushing being that my family was built on music they knew I had what it took to get where I wanted to be.

NAB: How did you become acquainted with the Elegant Hoodness Musical Program and what do you think about what they represent?

BIZZY: I became acquainted with Elegant Hoodness when I logged into my face book page and seen that Ad General was in my inbox talking about a show that was coming to my home town I sent her some music and she was on my heels about the show since then at first I was going to past on it but she kept pushing and didn’t let me give up so I ended up following through with it I think the Elegant Hoodness Musical Program represent something that mean something to many artist out here everybody deserve a chance and that’s just what they give a lot of artist.

NAB; What was it like performing at the Elegant Hoodness Showcase and leaving with the Team Nan award? Would you recommend this to other artist coming up or independent?

BIZZY: Performing at the Elegant Hoodness program was an experience I’ll never forget I performed in front of crowds all the time but I have never been recorded live so that was something new to Bizzy everyone thought I would be nervous but they thought wrong knowing that I was going to be seen from everywhere I was pumped and ready it was a great show and a great experience. leaving with the team nan award made me feel like I had what it took to get to the top because I had competition and I really didn’t know what I was up against so winning team nan was a great feeling would definitely recommend this to other artist.

NAB: How would you describe your style of music and what goals have you set for yourself as an artist?

BIZZY: I would describe my style of music as one of a kind I say that because every time I perform or freestyle for somebody they would tell me they like my style of rapping and that its different from any other they have heard so I definitely feel that it’s one of a kind. The number one goal I have for myself I have always wanted to be signed with a major record label because I know that’s what I deserve and I know I have what it takes to reach my goal.

NAB: I see you have a mixtape out “The Right Back Rockin” Vol 1, How did you pick the title and what was the thought process putting the mixtape together?

BIZZY: I came up with the name The Right Back Rocking Mixtape Vol 1 because it represents my struggle at a point and time I was down I was homeless for almost a year with no way of making it out at the time all I could think about was doing music getting back on a stage making something of myself so when I was blessed with a job and my own place my mom brought me a mic and she told me not to let anything get in the way of what I’m trying to do so the songs I wrote why I was in the streets I put them to beats and I was Right Back Rocking with my music so I made it into a mixtape. the process of putting this mixtape together it took a lot of pain a lot of downs a lot of people putting me down money that I really didn’t have to spend but I put my last into it most of my time and a lot of my energy.

NAB: Where can supporters and fans find out more about you and your music? Any shout outs you want to give?

BIZZY: Supporters and fans and find more about me and my music mainly by all my music and fan pages I have a music page on MySpace I have a twitter a face book or they can shoot me a direct message and I’ll take it from there. I would like to give a shout out to my mother my sisters and brothers my family my fans god my significant other my father Ad general and Ms Fefe the who Elegant Hoodness movement and everyone else that’s been there thank you..

written by: Gsteam843

Courtesy of The Elegant Hoodness Musical Program 2011

THRILLA CARTEL ~ E.H.M.P. SITS DOWN WITH THRILLA, LET'S GET TO KNOW HIM

THRILLA CARTEL

Originally from South Jamaica neighborhood of Queens New York, Thrilla was raised by his mother and later his older sister. As a young man Thrilla had to go through more than enough as a child. With his stepfather in the picture, who was known for selling narcotics and a mother spending a lot of her time out on the town, it was expected to take its toll on him. Typically Thrilla would come home to arguments over drugs and police constantly coming to the house trying to prove their case of drug trafficking. Although Thrilla was involved in sports such as basketball in school, he still became affiliated with multiple gangs and began selling drugs, robbing fellow classmates for money and engaging in street fights for credibility. Trying to get away from some of the negativity between his mother and him, and the incarceration of his step father who was charged and convicted for the distribution of narcotics (serving a sentence of almost 10 years) from Feb 2001 to July 2010; Thrilla was recruited to play basketball for Montgomery College Up State NY. A fighting incident, lead to a bad reputation with the school and after about a year Thrilla decide to leave college. With all this going on, it was just a given for artist Thrilla to pursue his passion for music, which got him through a lot of the obstacles and negativity going on in his life. At times writing was like a bedtime story for him. Very strong willed not to be like his stepfather he chose to focus his talents on pursuing a career in music and is now an up and coming underground artist from New York.

E.H.M.P.: Thrilla Cartel is_____________________?

TC: Thrilla Cartel is an underground artist from a south Jamaica neighborhood of Queens in New York .

E.H.M.P.: What makes you different from the other indie artists out there?

TC: What makes me most different from every other artist I would have to say is my voice. I have an original sound , I don't sound like everyone else.

E.H.M.P.: How did you hear about The Eleganthoodness Musical Program?

TC: I was actually informed by my manager Joe he found out about it in the Barber Shop by a dude name EQ who told him about it.

E.H.M.P.: What were your emotions like after you found out that you had won the showcase on March 16th at Club Pyramid?

TC: Well I was surprised but more relieved after I won. You know anxious to get one under my belt you know. Let's just say I did my homework on these events politics as usual. But in this case I just wanted it more then the other guy even though he was a crowd favorite.

E.H.M.P.: What made you get into hip-hop?

TC: Well I fell in love with music at the age of 11 and had always loved drawing art since the age of 4..so I've always been an artist. but what made start actually writing was when Eminem came out with the Slim Shady LP, which motivated me to start writing instead of drawing my pictures.

E.H.M.P.: What's next for Thrilla Cartel?

TC: Well, what's next for Thrilla…damn!...A whole lot of showcases, radio interviews and studio time as I'm working on my third mixtape, which is untitled at the moment. Just grinding you know…"CAN'T STOP THE HUSTLE".

E.H.M.P.: Describe your sound. What are you trying to convey to the listeners of your music?

TC: My sound is what a person with some believers but millions of doubters, very little support but millions of haters would sound like if that person could write music and bleed their actions on paper. Lots of people say what moves them is hunger but I'm more than hungry I'm starving. I'm trying to convey motivation to create determined listeners to go out in the world and strive to their goal with dedication. You know, I mean it might sound crazy but everyday we live brings us a day close to not living. I'm just trying to make it before I'm taken.

E.H.M.P.: How do your fans contact you?

TC: My fans mostly contact me through the internet. Facebook.com/thrillacartel, Twitter.com/thrillacartel, Reverbnation.com, Myspace.com/thrillacartel and or Datpiff.com where you can download my current mixtape The Reconcruction.

WRITTEN BY: JAY, ADTHEGENERAL, SPECIALGIFTNAB

GET TO KNOW RICO RICARDO ~ TEAM N.A.N.'S NEWEST MEMBER

RICO RICARDO

The struggles that many endure may be parallel to one another but tell a totally different story, when it is read. Rico Ricardo’s life mirrors tales of hard times and finding ones way in life; but his determination for success highlights a different caliber of a person. His life's journey has led him to high moments of achievement and low points of being locked up. Determination is what jumps off the page in the book of Rico's life. His eagerness to reach his goals and determination to bounce back from hardships and hurdles has made this resilient young man, who he is today. Ricardo’s courageous nature to tackle the obstacles before him and reach out and connect with others has put the spotlight on his movement and beckons the world to watch and be amazed.

E.H.M.P: In 5 words describe to the world who is Rico Ricardo.

RR: human, life, humble, artist, creative

E.H.M.P: What is it like to be Rico Ricardo?

RR: It’s challenging at time’s but mind is always open and ready for the challenges. It makes me who I am today. All I can think about is giving back but of course I don’t got it like that. I learn everyday who is true to me because one thing I’ve learned people change their way’s and switch up like light’s. I find that to be very disturbing to me. Just because I’m a real person and people will tell u that. I never understand how some can be so snakish. I just take it one day at a time and expect the unexpected but learn to expect nothing. It’s how I got to live life to stay afloat.

E.H.M.P: Who is your biggest personal influence? And who is your biggest musical influence?

RR: R.I.P, I would definitely say my mother. It’s her birthday today, 4/13. Also Happy Birthday Momma. Never blame your past on your present. I use to always blame how I grew up and what I been through, on my struggles now. You know life is what you make it. You can change how you living at any giving time. You also got to learn, to learn from your mistakes. You can not blame your past on what’s going on now because that’s what kept me down and never moving forward. Music influences, I got to say 2 Pac and I can’t leave out Big Pun as well. 2 Pac, smart man intelligent activist. Very lyrical and driven to get back to poverty and teach ghetto America what we did not know. What was going on around us. He is a teacher for many R.I.P 2 Pac. Big Pun was a great lyrical Latin artist. I’m half part Cuban, so to have a Latin artist as good as he was, was a great thing. Also I looked up to him as a heavy guy, spitting the way he did. He amazed me with his delivery R.I.P., Big Pun.

E.H.M.P: What’s the reception that u get from your peers, and others that u grew up with when they discover that you are a rapper?

RR: Some really surprised and amazed, lol. I would be surprised to, if I didn’t know I could rap, lol.

E.H.M.P: Describe to us your dream performance. The town (or country) arena, crowd, response, and how do u plan to obtain that dream?

RR: I really don’t have a performance. I just love music and want to be able to travel anywhere to give a lil bit of Rico Ricardo, me, to the world.

E.H.M.P: Why do you rap? What makes you different or better? Why should we listen to you?

RR: I love music, is why I rap and it is self therapy for me. I love being creative. I would never say I’m better than the next man. I would say I am therapy. (My Music). Everybody goes threw things, so when you hear my music it tells you that your not alone. Whatever it is your going through. someone else is rite their going through the same thing. My music is deep.

EHMP: What is your work ethic like and how would you make changes for the better?

RR: Never stopping!!!!! Success is not even in my vocabulary. Something I like to say. I will be the same at the top of the mountain. As I was at the bottom so I will never think I’m to large for anything. Just the way I am.

EHMP: How did you link up with A.D. The General, Ms FeFe NAB and The Elegant Hoodness Musical Program?

RR: I linked up with the both by knowing Ms FeFe for many many moon’s. She is a best friend of my cousin in Kansas City. We linked up after me running across her on myWWW.MYSPACE.COM/THERICORICARDO page. We started talking and it was a wrap. We did our first song called (GET CLAPPED) ft. Ms FeFe N.A.B & G3mz. After that we just worked on the other projects such as “Candy” and “Dope” which is my sisters, coming soon Santina Vega C.E.O. of Yo Vega inc. Another song called “F Yo Click” on a cd call HookMandinie which is a friend in Kansas City artist name Albaleani cd which is out now. Time passed and I just got so interested in the Elegant Hoodness Team N.A.N & N.A.B. movement. I could do nothing but ask who was running this great team of artist / business minded people that had the same drive that I did. Question to that was A.D. the General, so Ms FeFe N.A.B. hooked it up and I said what is it i need to do to be involved and to prove that I can do and be apart of this movement. At the time after we talked. I got locked up for six months and when i got out we started back where we left off. ((Moving as a team))

E.H.M.P.: You are one of the newest members of Team N.A.N. Missouri. How does it feel to be a part of a world wide movement?

RR: It feels good especially coming from Kansas City and working with a huge team N.A.N. that has made an impact on the underground scene worldwide. The goal in my city (well my goals) is to keep my name going and buzzing but get to places where none will ever hear my music. Now I’m global and love being with such a strong team that has the same passion as Rico Ricardo! Thx to my sis Ms FeFe I love her for that one. One of the best female rappers in my opinion. Love what we do and love my team. I don’t think they could have chosen a better person to join in my opinion. Just because I am motivated love music, networking and love to give back. It It is very hard in this world to come across people that got the same mind frame in this world. Especially being an artist doing business ((my opinion a lot of artist are selfish. My team goals are to give to the artist what more can u ask for. Team N.A.N. & N.A.B. work like Ms FeFe say’s to me All the time. ((Networking to increase your net worth enough said!!))

E.H.M.P.: The Elegant Hoodness Hoodness has it’s Grand Opening April 30th in Kc Missouri your home town? How did that come about?

RR: “FAN MUTHA FUDDGIN FANTASTIC” Lol I mean the feed back was great from my town. Proberly didnt’t know we had >> meaning it’s hard to trust people period. To do this event and have people fly here and get people together to actually do a music competition. Wow!! Never did nothing like it here. We all enjoyed our selves. It was a drams free, You know the show was great. Especially when Tech N9ne comes without an invite. He is a hard person to contact. Out of no where he came through. Much love to Tech N9ne for that. Strange music but it went great. We will be doing it again in August 2011. Also celebrating my 31st birthday in the same event. So I look forward to doing it again. Team N.A.N., N.A.B., Yo Vega, Whatcha Saay Record’s Rico Ricardo is on goooooo mode.Notthing but up from here. Much love and respect to my whole team from Kansas City to New York. We love what we do and we never going to stop it!!!!!!!!! Shout out’s to everybody doing music, never let anybody tell you can’t do nothing. It only makes you stronger and I hope it does you as well Rico Ricardo Whatchaa Saaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyy Rec Yo Vega Ink. Team N.A.N & N.A.B. That’s fam ishhh Niccccaa!!!!!!!!!

WRITTEN BY: JAY, ADTHEGENERAL, SPECIALGIFTNAB

RICO RICARDO ~ TEAM N.A.N. NEWEST MISSOURI MEMBER

RICO RICARDO

The struggles that many endure may be parallel to one another but tell a totally different story, when it is read. Rico Ricardo’s life mirrors tales of hard times and finding ones way in life; but his determination for success highlights a different caliber of a person. His life's journey has led him to high moments of achievement and low points of being locked up. Determination is what jumps off the page in the book of Rico's life. His eagerness to reach his goals and determination to bounce back from hardships and hurdles has made this resilient young man, who he is today. Ricardo’s courageous nature to tackle the obstacles before him and reach out and connect with others has put the spotlight on his movement and beckons the world to watch and be amazed.

E.H.M.P: In 5 words describe to the world who is Rico Ricardo.

RR: human, life, humble, artist, creative

E.H.M.P: What is it like to be Rico Ricardo?

RR: It’s challenging at time’s but mind is always open and ready for the challenges. It makes me who I am today. All I can think about is giving back but of course I don’t got it like that. I learn everyday who is true to me because one thing I’ve learned people change their way’s and switch up like light’s. I find that to be very disturbing to me. Just because I’m a real person and people will tell u that. I never understand how some can be so snakish. I just take it one day at a time and expect the unexpected but learn to expect nothing. It’s how I got to live life to stay afloat.

E.H.M.P: Who is your biggest personal influence? And who is your biggest musical influence?

RR: I would definitely say my mother. It’s her birthday today, 4/13. Also Happy Birthday Momma. Never blame your past on your present. I use to always blame how I grew up and what I been through, on my struggles now. You know life is what you make it. You can change how you living at any giving time. You also got to learn, to learn from your mistakes. You can not blame your past on what’s going on now because that’s what kept me down and never moving forward. Music influences, I got to say 2 Pac and I can’t leave out Big Pun as well. 2 Pac, smart man intelligent activist. Very lyrical and driven to get back to poverty and teach ghetto America what we did not know. What was going on around us. He is a teacher for many R.I.P 2 Pac. Big Pun was a great lyrical Latin artist. I’m half part Cuban, so to have a Latin artist as good as he was, was a great thing. Also I looked up to him as a heavy guy, spitting the way he did. He amazed me with his delivery R.I.P., Big Pun.

E.H.M.P: What’s the reception that u get from your peers, and others that you grew up with when they discovered you are a rapper?

RR: Some really surprised and amazed, lol. I would be surprised to, if I didn’t know I could rap, lol.

E.H.M.P: Describe to us your dream performance. The town (or country) arena, crowd, response, and how do u plan to obtain that dream?

RR: I really don’t have a performance. I just love music and want to be able to travel anywhere to give a lil bit of Rico Ricardo, me, to the world.

E.H.M.P: Why do you rap? What makes you different or better? Why should we listen to you?

RR: I love music, is why I rap and it is self therapy for me. I love being creative. I would never say I’m better than the next man. I would say I am therapy. (My Music). Everybody goes threw things, so when you hear my music it tells you that your not alone. Whatever it is your going through. someone else is rite their going through the same thing. My music is deep.

EHMP: What is your work ethic like and how would you make changes for the better?

RR: Never stopping!!!!! Success is not even in my vocabulary. Something I like to say. I will be the same at the top of the mountain. As I was at the bottom so I will never think I’m to large for anything. Just the way I am.

EHMP: How did you link up with A.D. The General, Ms FeFe NAB and The Elegant Hoodness Musical Program?

RR: I linked up with the both by knowing Ms FeFe for many many moon’s. She is a best friend of my cousin in Kansas City. We linked up after me running across her on myWWW.MYSPACE.COM/THERICORICARDO page. We started talking and it was a wrap. We did our first song called (GET CLAPPED) ft. Ms FeFe N.A.B & G3mz. After that we just worked on the other projects such as “Candy” and “Dope” which is my sisters, coming soon Santina Vega C.E.O. of Yo Vega inc. Another song called “F Yo Click” on a cd call HookMandinie which is a friend in Kansas City artist name Albaleani cd which is out now. Time passed and I just got so interested in the Elegant Hoodness Team N.A.N & N.A.B. movement. I could do nothing but ask who was running this great team of artist / business minded people that had the same drive that I did. Question to that was A.D. the General, so Ms FeFe N.A.B. hooked it up and I said what is it i need to do to be involved and to prove that I can do and be apart of this movement. At the time after we talked. I got locked up for six months and when i got out we started back where we left off. ((Moving as a team))

E.H.M.P.: You are one of the newest members of Team N.A.N. Missouri. How does it feel to be a part of a world wide movement?

RR: It feels good especially coming from Kansas City and working with a huge team N.A.N. that has made an impact on the underground scene worldwide. The goal in my city (well my goals) is to keep my name going and buzzing but get to places where none will ever hear my music. Now I’m global and love being with such a strong team that has the same passion as Rico Ricardo! Thx to my sis Ms FeFe I love her for that one. One of the best female rappers in my opinion. Love what we do and love my team. I don’t think they could have chosen a better person to join in my opinion. Just because I am motivated love music, networking and love to give back. It It is very hard in this world to come across people that got the same mind frame in this world. Especially being an artist doing business ((my opinion a lot of artist are selfish. My team goals are to give to the artist what more can u ask for. Team N.A.N. & N.A.B. work like Ms FeFe say’s to me All the time. ((Networking to increase your net worth enough said!!))

E.H.M.P.: The Elegant Hoodness Hoodness has it’s Grand Opening April 30th in Kc Missouri your home town? How did that come about?

RR: “FAN MUTHA FUDDGIN FANTASTIC” Lol I mean the feed back was great from my town. Proberly didnt’t know we had >> meaning it’s hard to trust people period. To do this event and have people fly here and get people together to actually do a music competition. Wow!! Never did nothing like it here. We all enjoyed our selves. It was a drams free, You know the show was great. Especially when Tech N9ne comes without an invite. He is a hard person to contact. Out of no where he came through. Much love to Tech N9ne for that. Strange music but it went great. We will be doing it again in August 2011. Also celebrating my 31st birthday in the same event. So i look forward to doing it again. Team N.A.N., N.A.B., Yo Vega, Whatcha Saay Record’s Rico Ricardo is on goooooo mode.Notthing but up from here. Much love and respect to my whole team from Kansas City to New York. We love what we do and we never going to stop it!!!!!!!!! Shout out’s to everybody doing music, never let anybody tell you can’t do nothing. It only makes you stronger and I hope it does you as well Rico Ricardo Whatchaa Saaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyy Rec Yo Vega Ink. Team N.A.N/ & N.A.B. That’s fam ishhh Niccccaa!!!!!!!!!

WRITTEN BY : JAY, SPECIALGIFT N.A.B & AD THE GENERAL

GET TO KNOW YUNG STARR & KARDIAK

Quick! Name the greatest tag teams of all time. If you are a wrestling fan like me, this question is harder than it seems. A tag team by definition is two people working in concert to accomplish the same goal. If Yung Starr and KardiaK were a wrestling tag team, they probably would have the name of “The Naturals”. These two gifted and talented emcees are destined to be the future of the music industry. “Ladies and gentlemen, may I introduce, ‘The Naturals’!” Greatness is calling their name.

Yung Starr, would be the cocky, mouthpiece of this “hip hop” tag team. Born in East New York, Yung Starr would be the first to tell you that he started rhyming at the age of three and hasn’t stopped since. Although the youngest member of “The Naturals”, Yung Starr has been writing and performing for the past six years at some of the most legendary venues throughout NYC, including The Supper Club to name a few. Influenced by the likes of BIG, Jadakiss, Big Daddy Kane, Joell Ortiz, Nas, and Rakim, Yung Starr has grown to become one of the most well respected emcees in his community and is now looking to take his career to the next level.

KardiaK is the grizzled veteran of this team. Having seen more than his partner in rhyme, his experiences will and have offered valuable knowledge not only to his partner, but to everything that they are going to achieve in the music industry. Kardiak, the self proclaimed, "superhero of rap”, was born in Queens, but raised in the Cypress Hills section of Brooklyn. It was here that, thanks to an older sibling and the encouragement of his neighborhood that he decided to pursue rhyme and the passion he had for it! Inspired by the likes of Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, KRS –One, LL Cool J, and Slick Rick among others, Kardiak has decided that he is out to return the industry back to its lyrical roots and will not let his predecessors down.

E.H.M.P: Can you give me one word to describe each of you?

YS & k: (KARDIAK) Determined. Determined defintely, I’ve been through alot of stuff. No matter what. No matter how hard the fight, I got to keep going. I didnt want to give up, if I dont keep going who’s going to do it for me. It’s not about me anymore. Now I have a baby girl and at the end of the day I have to make sure she has what she needs. So defintely determined. Determined is the best way to go.

(YUNG STAR) Dedicated. I say that because I’ve been rapping since I was three. I’ve been going strong since the age of eleven. It’s always been a passion for me. Always. Can’t nothing stop me from doing what I have to do. I’ve done argued with my mom’s about this an all that. I feel there’s nothing that can deter me away from this. I got cut in the face for this sh*t. You know what im saying? That’s when you do a certain thing and you got people respecting you for what you do. Then you have somebody who is not known or somebody who just wants to be where you are. That hate element is a very fat gun. That’s what that was. I tore the show down, I guess he was upset cause he wasnt where I was at. Long story short, he cut me in the face, tried to slit my throat. Ummmm shout out to you, “I’m still here and the girls love this anyway”.

E.H.M.P.: Who decided that you come together?

(KARDIAK) Again that was a decison we mutually made together. Like he said, I was rapping. Everybody knew I rap. Everybody used to tell me about this dudeYung Star blah blah blah was nice. I didnt know it was him. That’s sad. We used to chill out I didnt know it was him they were talking about. So one day we were in a cypher everybody was spitting. Everbody going in. They were going in, everybody was going in. I spit, then he started spitting. I’m not the kind of dude that doesn’t like competition or actual talent cause it only makes u better. So knowing he was that good, I had to be around him. I had to see why he rapped the way he did. What inspired him. So we started building on that kind of relationship. Ever since then we been like brothers. That’s real talk. Like even before and after this we gone always be that. That’s the love we have.

(YUNG STAR) It was actually a decision we made amongst ourselves. Like, we were on the block one day. Everybody was spitting. It was a little cypher we were doing. So, I didnt know that Kardiak rap. At that point the only people I knew that rhyme, was me and some other dudes I know, “they lazy”. So we in the cypher, I seen him spit. It was nice. It was dope. Boom, we started to talk. One day I believe I had a meeting with Doug (Pulsar Ent), we were going over some contract. I told Kardiak to come through. So we went over there, he spit. Doug fell in love with it. That was it!! We been going strong since.

E.H.M.P.: What is your take on hip hop right now?

YS & K: (KARDIAK) I love hip hop, You know what I’m saying? I love the whole aura of it. I love some of the new artist that came out but I got to feel some special way. It’s not lack of talent cause that’s disrespectful to the people thats been doing it for so long. It’s a different element. It’s something new. Something like “A breath of fresh Air” maybe. That’s the best way to put it and I think we are that. To sum it up real quick, I think we are that new breath of fresh air that will bring a lot of old hip hop fans back and some new ones. Get their head’s boppin with some new music.

(YUNGTAR) My take on hip hop right now, I feel like it’s missing that loyalty. What I mean by that is loyalty to the fans. This is not any disrespect to any artist out there doing there thing. I’m a young dude, about to be 18. Who grew up looking at Hip Hop from a different stand point. I grew up listening to Big Daddy Kane. When I watched him perform and other artist perform, their drive was just about giving their all. Artist today I don’t feel that they give us that same drive. You know that ooomff, like old artist did. They don’t give their all in there music. So we have to bring that back. That passion. A lot of artist do it strictly for the money. Not to many artist do it for the love of music. So when that element was lost, A lot was lost in there music.
E.H.M.P.: Describe your relationship with A.D. the General. What’s your relationship like with her?

YS & K: (KARDIAK) A.D. The General is looking out for Kardiak right now. She looking out for Yung Star. She know we on the come up. She know we trying to grind and make it happen. Ever since we started our media run, she has been coaching us, holding us down. We first was introduced to her when she hosted our mix tape. I guess she took a liking to us. Got to be something. She’s been there every step of the way every single interview and believe in her. So far she said she will be with us. Shout outs to A.D. The General. I guess our relationship is still growing as artist, cause were both artist. You can ask this question in another couple of months to get another answer.

(YUNG STAR) I first me A.D. The General at the age of 14, but she doesn’t remember. On the set of “It’s not a Joke This Year” video shoot by my cousin ”Word Spit” shout to Word Spit. We spoke a little bit that day, when I found out who she was again cause Doug came to me and said A.D. will be hosting the mixtape. I didn’t recognize the name but when I got to the radio station and saw her I was like ooo, that’s u? She hit me with who are you? (laughs) it’s cool it’s been a good while she’s real cool and down to earth we can have a converstaion on the artist tip. I respect everything she’s doing as she respect’s what I’m doing. I don’t co sign to much but I will co sign. Our manager told us a lot about the connections and network A.D. has and she does, everything she said would happen has.

E.H.M.P.: Who brought you to Pulsar Entertainment? What has this meant to your respective careers?

YS & K: (YUNG STAR) I was introduced to Pulsar Ent through my father. Now my father Big Dave shout out to Big Dave. He was friend’s with Doug for a long time. At first I was doing so many things on my own and with my father. That we hadn’t had the opportunity to actually link and work. Some time had went by and I noticed some things were changing. He was actually doing something. I’ve had so many ppl tell me they can do this and that and it doesn’t fall through. With that being said, I said let’s go over there again. Went over there everything was good. Like you know what this is where we going to be. I’m comfortable ever since than, nobody really knew me I wasnt known just in my hood. It wasnt where it is now. Now I’m on so many differnt radio stations it’s retarded. Pulsar Ent took it to another level. I saw myself on a website and remember banging on the desk somewhere. I loved it. Doug didn’t even know I was on there. I was happy to know I can be googled. I’ve been running with Pulsar for two years now. Looking back from then till now, I see I have made some progress. Thanks to Doug.

(KARDIAK) Our first goal was to be googled. It’s not even like the progress was getting in the studio for a little while. It’s an on going thing. It’s still the beginning. When I told people I was on a mix tape. Shout out to Doug for making that happen. they was like ooo Kardiak is on a mixtape, then they thought that was it. Then I’m on a album, then they heard I was coming out with my own album. Then I’m coming out with my own mix tape. Cause of Pulsar we’ve been able to keep moving, It has to be something. I swear I’m not wasting my time. I know Yung Star not wasting his time and I know Pulsar isn’t wasting his time. I know this is going to be something and going to do something. And it’s all because of that meeting. When Doug heard me spit. I dont like riding somebodies coat tale. I have never been that kind of dude. That’s not how I was brought up!! I didn’t even want to spit his Yung Star father was like go in. He put some beats on and I attacked them. Like he said he loved them and we’ve been going hard since. Pulsar is like a family to me and that’s like what you said A.D. this is a business. You dont know what will happen in the future but right now Pulsar is where its at. This is where its going to happen thanks to Pulsar.
E.H.M.P.: Can you tell us about your future projects?

(KARDIAK) I have alot of shows coming up. Did my first show, Shout outs to Pulsar for he made that happen. Shout out to william, still a little nervous I want peolpe to hear me. That will over power the nervousness. I have this project coming up called Kadik chronicles, every week I’m going to drop a freestyle on a industry beat, If I can get some regular beats I will do that. I’m aiming to get a lot of beats from artist I respect that’s already in the industry. And hit them with some bars with a different concept and a bunch of different free styles. Just to let them know every week I’m going to put out something out for free just so people know I’m out here. I want people to know who I am through my music. That’s the best way for people to get to know you. Then I have my mix tape coming out in the summer time followed by my first album coming out called “Surrounded by my thoughts” that’s going to be crazy. I’m tellin y’all real rap from a real dude, who’s willing to give u a piece of me. There’s alot of artist that don’t want to be honest. I’m not scared to be myself and I’m ready be honest.

(YUNG STAR) Like I said I have “legal injection” dropping and we got my solo album “Mind of a Teen” in the works. Alot of show’s lined up, will be at the five spot coming up. We will be performing at Elegant Hoodness Musical Programon the 21st of May. Shout outs to Elegant Hoodness. You can find me all over the place.
E.H.M.P.: What’s next for Kardiak and Yung Starr?

(KARDIAK) Like I told you a lot of shows, a lot of music. What I have coming out in June. “Surrounded by my thoughts” coming out that’s my first album. Just trying to be in everybody face. At the end of the day music is all about dedication and progress. So what I plan to do is be at as many venues as possible. Elegant Hoodness is one of them. Anything I can get on. If I got to pay a dude cause he got a buzz, I’m a do it. Trying to be everywhere.

(YUNG STAR) In my eye’s my next step is to just be better in everything every aspect of my career. Elevate my shows elevate my music elevate my name. I plan to be doing a whole lot more interviews and shows. I have a show coming up at thefive spot. You will also see me at Elegant Hoodness Musical Program April 2o in NYC. I have my solo mixtape on May 25 called “Lethal Injection” so be sure to get that. Right now we have our Audio Man Slaughter mixtape hosted by A.D. The General, thats fire. Then following my mix tape we have my solo album ” Mind of a Teen” in the stores right now and on itunes. My first single “Run this” off the Audio Man Slaughter mix tape. Progress is still the process.

E.H.M.P.: How can your fans contact you?

(KARDIAK) Kardiak spit’s fire on facebook. Lots of videos and free styles coming up real soon. Twitter @kardiak84 on twitter

(YUNG STAR) twitter @yung_star

WRITTEN BY: JAY, AD THE GENERAL, SPECIALGIFT