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When you hear the name Baby Face Monster you immediately wonder who‘s the person behind the name.  Ear Hustle 411 discovered the talented rapper on Twitter and we were undeniably impressed by his music and dedication to his craft.

Baby Face Monster is a multi talented rapper from Chicago who not only uses his skills in front of the mic but also behind the scenes where he is the editor in chief and creator of multiple entertainment websites.He uses his skills to push other artists as well as himself in the spotlight to gain more exposure.

Baby Face Monster talks exclusively with Ear Hustle 411 about his music, life in Chicago and the struggles of being in the entertainment business. Here’s what he had to say……

We know that you were raised in Chicago; can you share with our readers what part of Chicago you are from and how did growing up in Chicago influence your music?

I was raised in “the Wild 100’s”. Since early on, my music was an outlet for me to escape my surroundings. It was more therapeutic than anything. The situations I’ve been through and witnessed in my neighbor are all in my music.

Your name Babyface Monster is very unique; please tell us what inspired your come up with that name?

Raekwon of the WuTang Clan, 1 of my all-time favorite artist’s inspired the name! By chance, me and friends bumped into him and Ghostface Killah at the Plaza on 95^th. It was during their WuTang Forever tour in ’97. They were very cool. I guess they were just lounging until their show later that night. They hung out with us for a while, gave us advice and even got a chance to hear me spit.

He said “Yo, this kid with the babyface is a monster!!!” It was a very defining moment in my early career. That statement stuck with me and eventually became my stage name.

As far as marketing and promotions, what measures do you use to promote yourself as an artist?

With each song, video, album, and event I put together an elaborate marketing campaign. I execute multiple music marketing strategies: both online and grassroots.

1^st I funnel promotion through music platforms that I have designed and created:

• Editor of Chicago hip hop blog,  Chi-Bangerz.com
• Editor of Central Illinois hip hop blog, 217hiphop.com
• Editor of music business blog, HiphopBusinessBlog.com
• Author of e-book series, DigitalHustleBook.com
• Program Director & Host at MidwestMinuteRadio.com
• Event Coordinator at MidwestBlogTour.com 

2^nd I reach out to every other hiphop platform in the universe and request blog placements and radio interviews.

3^rd when I have gained placements, then I spray the music reviews and interview to my fans through a number of social media networks. My favorites are Twitter, Facebook, Stumbleupon, Digg, and Linkedin. 

4^th once I’ve garnered enough buzz for my project I create my own event or tour based around said project to sell CDs and merchandise.

You recently released your second album “The Making of A Monster”, what makes your album different from others in your genre?

This is a concept album that introduces me to an industry crying out for genuine artists who don’t have to make up nonsense to sell music. Instead of just writing 16 bars with a hook, I approached this album as an artist sculpting masterpieces. 

Over the past several years Chicago has been nationally recognized for violence, gangs and corruption. The phrase “Chi-Raq” is being used to describe the violence in Chicago.  How do you feel about Chicago being called Chi-Raq and what can we do to make positive changes in the city?

I think it’s a fallacy created by the media. From the things I’ve experienced living in the hood these problems have always existed, but every had turned a blind eye. That is until the highly televised deaths of young black men like Blair Holt and Derrion Albert (both from the 100’s).

I hate to say it, but in my opinion Chicago will never be fixed. Our city is corrupt from the inside out: from the mayor’s office, to the police station, to the meter maids, to the school system, to the parents. I believe it starts there.  

We are brought into this world to grow and leave our legacy for others.  What is the biggest impact in your life that you want to be remembered for?

When I leave I want to be known as the champion for the independent artist. Years ago, working on my laptop in my small basement apartment I vowed I’d find a way to market my music. I’d like to teach my peers how create exposure for their life’s work without having a major budget. That’s what my book series, Digital Hustle is all about.   

 What do you think about the current state of Hip Hop in Chicago?

It’s bigger than ever! Local artists are becoming national artists every day now. It’s always exciting to see who is next. Also, there are always dope live shows to attend.

What was the inspiration behind “The Making of A Monster” and which song(s) are your favorite?

Metamorphosis. The concept behind the album is me as an artist opening up the door to a world of new opportunities. I have been working tirelessly on this project for 2 years to get the sound exactly how I wanted it. I believe it’s on the verge of gaining me international recognition.

Howl at the Moon– This song is told from the point of view of man who is hungry for success.

Fresh– This song is an ode to old school hiphop.

Gone– This is a cool, up-tempo song that is awesome to see performed live.

Who would be your ideal team of producers be (dead or alive) to make an album with and why?

Dre, No ID, Traxster, Zaytoven, Big K.R.I.T, Kanye. Most of these producers I’d like to work with for the soulful sounds they’ve created on previous works.

If you were only able to record one more song, what would it be about and why?

I always wanted to write a song for my daughter. It would be righteous to have something she could listen to from her old man even when I’m not here anymore.

If our readers would like to stay up-to date about your live performances and new music, how can they stay connected to you?

Website| Facebook| Twitter| YouTube| Sound Cloud

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