Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Rhymesayers Entertainment has been at the forefront of independent Hip Hop since 1995. Label owners Sean Slug Daley (one half of Atmosphere) and Brent Siddiq Sayers have stuck to their guns and built a huge and loyal fanbase whilst operating largely under the mainstream radar. Now Carhartt is proud to present some of their top artists to Europe for one of the biggest Hip Hop line-ups of the year: Atmosphere, Brother Ali, Evidence, Blueprint, and Grieves & Budo. We spoke with the arriving artists to see how they feel about Rhymesayers Entertainment, the upcoming European tour, Hip Hop, and life itself. Here is the last short interview of our serial with Rhymesayers artists. This time label co-owner and rapper Slug of Atmosphere told us some secrets.
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The Rhymesayers camp is coming to Europe for the first time with a big collective of artists. What do you expect?
Slug: I look forward to playing anywhere. I love music, and I love traveling. I don't have expectations of anything other than myself. I expect to hold myself to high standards.
How do you see the role of MCs and DJs in contemporary Hip Hop culture?
Slug: No different than how I’ve always seen their roles. The DJ provides the soundtrack that we walk, breath, and live to. The emcee is a mouthpiece used for entertainment and information.
How do you see the future of Hip Hop music in general?
Slug: I think it will continue to evolve, while it continuing to represent the people and their movements.
Vinyl releases are decreasing. Even big artists don't release singles on vinyl that often. Do you feel vinyl is only for collectors?
Slug: Yes, I think it's only for collectors. And I don't think we should judge or look down upon the losers who don't collect vinyl.
What advice would you give to producers, rappers, DJs who are just starting out?
Slug: Be honest with yourself, and be honest with everyone else. Be honest.
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(Photo by Molly Mady)
What are your hobbies beside music?
Slug: Being a dad.
When do you feel most at peace?
Slug: When I poop.
What is the most valuable thing you own?
Slug: My beliefs. My truths. My family.
Can you name us some things that you haven't done yet but you always wanted to?
Slug: Time travel.
What is the best thing about being a part of Rhymesayers?
Slug: The family vibe. We all have each other's best interest in mind. We want to see each other succeed and achieve dreams.
Atmosphere Discography
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