In today's episode, we sit down with JFKratez.

JFKratez is a producer from the DMV area. During our phone interview, we talked shop about his production set up, being a self contained business while being an artist, and how his production brought him full circle back to his family, and working with his brother. 

On how his name came about:

People who work with me, where ever I set up the studio, we've always called it the Krate. The Krate is wherever I'm at, and we're all going to have a good time.

On how many hours he puts into his craft:

How much time do I devote to music during the week? All the time I'm not at work.

EP 66 - "JFKratez"

In today's episode, Gastor sits down with Wordsworth.

Wordsworth is an emcee hailing from Brooklyn, NY, a member of the amazing eMC crew, and one of the hardest working artist around. In today's episode, we discuss the standards that he maintains for himself, the joy in collaborating with different artist (like JSoul on their new EP, Blame it on the Music), and the importance of supporting artist early on in their development. 

On how he maintains such a high standard with his lyricism:

I'm very self-aware of if something is hot or is corny. I always think outside of myself and put myself in the audience and ask "would they would be inspired by that?"

On the competition in hiphop:

I know there's a Nas, there's a Jay, there's a Kendrick, there's an Em. So I know that when I'm writing, if it doesn't sound of the caliber to be on the same track with them, then I don't think the verse is hot.

EP 67 - "Wordsworth"

In today's episode, Esco sits down with ELPJ.

ELPJ is an artist out of the DMV area who recently released the e.p. Canei Kick It?! During his visit, he talks about his many aliases, the early stages of his writing, and his up and coming plans.

On his creative process:

I've never been the type to write fast. I take my time. I want my music to sound as good as possible. Nothing should ever be sub par.

On the role that hiphop has played in his life:

When it comes to hiphop, it wasn't just the music of choice; it was my culture. The way I walk, the way I talk, everything is from there.

EP 68 - "ELPJ"

In today's episode, Gastor sits down with Jahrell.

Jahrell is an emcee based out of Toronto. During the sitdown, we discuss his linking up with Erik, his creative process, and why he goes above and beyond with all of his videos.

On his reasoning for putting in so much effort into his videos:

Songs are great but I feel that visuals are what draws fans in. I love the hands on process, from scene 1 to scene 50. That's something I want to be a part of.

On the creative process behind New Black Soul 2:

It was a much more personal project. I produced most of the project. I barely had features on it. I feel like I made that project for myself, so that I can grow as a human being.

Jahrellmusic.com

Stoops2Stages.com

EP 69 - "Jahrell"

Stoops2Stages is an interview series hosted by Brooklyn comedian, Gastor Almonte. 

Gastor will be interviewing various comedians, musicians, producers and artists. During the interviews, expect to hear insight into the daily routines of these artists, the struggles with balancing work and art, and the hard work that goes into making it happen. 

Stoops2Stages

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