Ear Hustle

Exclusive Interview: Rapper Precise A Chicago Mover And Shaker

Precise

Chicago is home to some of the most talented people in music. Artist such as Common, Kanye West and Twista represent the talent from the city. Chicago is still breaking down barriers to become known more for the music instead of the violence that plagues the city.

A Chicago native and rapper Precise uses his smooth flow and musical background to make his mark in Chicago rap scene. He shares with us his passion, thoughts on Chicago and current projects in the interview below.

We see that you are making moves in Chicago, how did you start your music career?

I have been an emcee for over a decade. I started off in a group called Nubearth. It consisted of myself, Creole the Individual (Victor Moore II) and Ideal (Christopher K. Rice) R.I.P. We were in a crew called The Allergix. I have always been around music. My father played saxophone and guitar in a Haitian band. Rehearsals were in the basement of my house every weekend. That’s when I developed my love for music. As of late my stock is getting higher and Ive been acting, hosting shows, doing some motivational speaking and the music keeps getting better and better. Im in a good space.

Who are some of the music legends that have inspired you musically over the years?

I have been inspired by so many people from so many different genres, Grover Washington, George Benson, Sting, Public Enemy, De La Soul, KRS ONE, Guru from Gangstarr, Quincy Jones, Chaka Kahn. That list can get long. (laughs)

 

What unique ability or skill do you have that makes you different from other rappers?

I think the unique skill and ability I have that makes me different from other rappers is being me. No one can be a better me than me. (laughs)

precise

Our readers were Ear Hustling and shared your video “It’s On Me”.  How did you come up with the video concept and song?

When I wrote that song I was going through some major life changes and during that time I realized I was not taking responsibility for me. Its on each one of us to be responsible for what we share to the world via all these mediums. There is a specific tone in the industry right now and I want it to change. In order for that to happen I cant make anyone else do it. I have to because I am in control of me. 

Now with respect to the video, I wanted to showcase where I am from. Chicago is a beautiful city and they people are the heartbeat. I wanted to show that heartbeat. We were able to get some great footage. I have artwork by 2 great Chicago Artists, Nicole Malcolm and Just Flo. We added the shot of Dusable Museum because of what Dusable represents to me personally because we are both Haitian and because of the significance of The Museum in our community.

The current rap music has become very commercial; Many are saying that hip hop is dead what are you doing differently as an artist to change that persona?

I have a duty when it comes to this culture, part of this duty is to make sure people are clear about what this is. Hip Hop is a Culture, rapping is one of the elements of this culture. This distinction needs to be made clear, because the shift in the spirit of Hip Hop started to change when rap was usurped by the corporations and redefined. So now you have people speaking about the status of Hip Hop when their only exposure to it is through rap music.

The music is commercial now because people can capitalize off of it. There is nothing wrong with commercialization if you are allowed to tell your own story or at least provide balance.

As an emcee in the culture of Hip Hop I feel like the spoken word is important and speaking the proper words, those that carry a high vibration are powerful and affect change.  It is because of the ability to change the atmosphere with words and vibration that I choose to be the balance, ultimately tipping the scales towards a state of mind that understands, respects and nurtures our culture.

If there was one person, dead or alive that you would have loved to work with; who would it be and why?

I would have loved to work with J Dilla. His production was masterful and raw. There is freedom in his music.

We seen the trailer for your new documentary “Chicago Hip Hop: The Underground”, what inspired you to highlight Chicago underground?

“Chicago Hip Hop: The Underground” is a project created by filmmaker Hugh Grady. He was inspired to shine the light on artists throughout the city who have notoriety and are continuing to strive towards their dreams.

There are so many talented artists in Chicago and because of the lack of necessities that are required to sustain any type of lucrative music industry many of us are forced to leave. When I travel I get so much love so I understand that motivation and its ok, it just makes it better when I come back home.

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What are some of the projects that you are currently working on?

I just finished up Ladies Love Mixtapes the EP. It’s a project created with women in mind. It was sparked from a conversation I had with Kevin Maxey of Whpk CTA Radio. The project is focused on a relationship and the experiences within those relationships. I approach it like a short familiar story. I try to touch on the emotion and what it feels like within those stages of a relationship. I’ll be releasing it in the spring. The video for the lead single “Take Our Time” produced by Tye Hill is done. I’ll be doing a special release for the ladies so stay tuned.

Its On Me is coming FINALLY in 2014

In your opinion, what is the most difficult part of being in the entertainment business?

In my opinion the most difficult part of the entertainment business is having to be aware of individuals who don’t have your best interest in mind. People make a lot of money in this business and sometimes it just feels like everyone is on the take. I’m not worried about them, because I know there is enough to go around and I am protected.

Precise

On a national level, Chicago has become the poster child for violence and gangs.  How can we as Chicagoans improve our city?

 I wouldn’t say Chicago has become the poster child for violence and gangs. I would lean more on the perspective that Chicago is a reflection of a condition that the entire world needs to remove itself from. There is a sense of despair and hopelessness that permeates many of our minds.  In order to change this we must get to a place of love. We have to remember who we are and why we are here. We are great and capable of achieving any goal we set our minds to. It is important for us to recognize the power of the creator inside of us and see it in each other. We can change this sense of despair and hopelessness to prosperity and love when we see the greatness of the creator inside of one another.

If you were given the power to change one thing in the world as it is today, what would that be?

If I was given the power to change one thing in the world as it is today, I would have more people tap into their imaginations and live out their dreams. This would change everything.

When can we expect you to drop some new material and where can your fans find you to connect?

You can expect some new music very soon. I have been working with a few different producers from across the pond, Vinz O from Switerland and Dray Yard from Belarus. I’ve also been working with Harry Hunt and amazing violinist and musician from Chicago. I have a lot of music online.

Precise

You can stay up to date with Precise music and shows at the links below

BandCamp | FaceBook | Twitter | SoundCloud |

Website | Blog | YouTube | iTunes | Instagram

Precise Will Be Performing At

The People’s Memorial Tribute To Nelson Mandela:

Celebrating A Life & Legacy

Sunday December 15, 2013

Beloved Community Christian Church of God in Christ (COGIC)

6430 s. Harvard Chicago, IL

Time: 4pm-6pm

2 Comments

2 Comments

  1. Pingback: Nya's Story: Chicago Artist Fights To Help Daughter With Rare Cancer | EarHustle411

  2. Pingback: Precise | DJ Preme.com

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