$eamless as DJ $crilla...

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People always say that “Real recognizes real.” This is true because for me, “Fly recognizes fly.” I want to bring some attention to some Fly people around Cleveland who are making moves in the city and truly fit the definition of what the modern American man should be. I sat down recently with Cleveland rapper DJ $crilla. Not only is he an Ohio Hip Hop Award winner, but his attitude on music, style, and life make him an extraordinary emcee and person. His sophomore album titled “$eamless” drops April 5 and in preparation of his album release, we spoke more about his music, his career, and the man himself.

So $crilla…

Your new album is titled “$eamless,” is there any significance to the title?

$crilla: “$eamless” is a musical experience from beginning to end. It represents both my love for rapping and dj’ing. I decided to put a lot of elements of DJ’ing into this album, and you’ll be able to hear that in the music. I called the album “$eamless” because the album has no gaps/deadspace. Each song is transitioned and mixed into the next.

Your debut album “Me, Myself & I” won Album of the Year at the Ohio Hip Hop Awards. With such a successful debut, how did you approach your sophomore follow-up?

$crilla: It took about a year and a half to complete “$eamless”. It was really important for me to take my time and try to come with a strong follow-up to “Me, Myself and I”. However, I wanted to make sure I didn’t try and recreate another “Me, Myself, and I”. I’m at a different place in my life, different challenges and obstacles. I wanted this album to reflect on the ups and downs I went through, yet express them in a new creative way.

Who is your musical inspiration?

$crilla: Musically, I’m inspired by passionate and talented people. I have a wide variety of people I listen to for inspiration. 2pac, Lupe Fiasco, Coldplay, Linkin Park, and Stevie Wonder are a few. B.oB. is another artist I think is super talented, I want to see him be as big as Jay-Z.

Who inspires you in life?

$crilla: I’m inspired by my family of course. They have overcome some challenges, and that makes me work harder. I’m also inspired by Cris Carter (former Minnesota Vikings Wide Receiver). He turned his life around when it was in turmoil, to become a truly great person. I had the chance to meet him and he was even cooler than I had imagined.

What is your favorite article of clothing?

$crilla: I like a lot of different clothes, but my favorite brands are Elusion and American Apparel. If I had to choose a favorite article, it would probably be any of my American Apparel hoodies. Plain, simple, yet fly.

What makes you a modern American man and all-around Fly guy?

$crilla: I’m not sure I’d classify myself as a modern American man, but I think my versatility makes me all-around fly. I’m able to place myself in a variety of environments and cultures and still be me. I think that says a lot about a person when they can adapt well.

What is your favorite cocktail?

$crilla: I don’t really have a favorite cocktail. But my favorite drink right now is an Arnold Palmer.

What’s the best kept secret about Cleveland?

$crilla: Best Kept Secret about Cleveland? New Heights Music Group!

Who would you love to record a track with?

$crilla: I’d love to record B.o.B, Bun B, Ludacris, or John Legend.

What is the best lesson you’ve learned about the rap game?

$crilla: The best lesson I have learned is you can’t please everyone. A lot of people will try and change you, and you just need to remain true to who YOU are. So what if some people don’t like you, don’t let that stop you.

What advice would you give to aspiring emcees?

$crilla: Invest in yourself. Don’t be afraid to lose money, because most artists do. I’d also advise people to not half-ass things. I understand everyone has a different financial situation, but really invest in your music and presentation. If you hand someone a CD that looks like you just burned the CD and wrote your name with a sharpie….Someone will be less likely to listen to it.

Who are the Top 5 artists in your ears right now?

$crilla: 5 artists I’m listening to currently (in no particular order) B.o.B., Big K.R.I.T.T., Lupe Fiasco, AZ, and of course Michael Jackson. A mix of old and new!

What is your favorite place to travel to?

$crilla: My favorite place to travel to is Tampa, Florida. I just seem to always have a great time everytime I visit, so that is my #1. San Diego is a close second.

What is one thing you want to achieve before you leave this earth?

$crilla: I’d like to have a family, raise some children and put them through college. Simple, yet fulfilling.

What can we expect from DJ $crilla in the future?

$crilla: You can expect more creativity, and just all-around good music. I’m going to stay focused, and try to be the best person I can along the journey. Peace!

THANKS TO DJ $CRILLA FOR A GREAT INTERVIEW. YOU CAN FIND MORE OF HIM ON TWITTER @DJScrilla and @NewHeightsMusic

Until the next tip, Fly Right

The Official Men’s Fashion, Style and Lifestyle blogger for Z1079: Adrian Stupica a/k/a The Flyest White Boy In Cleveland

Allow me to introduce myself Click here to know more about me.

MAKE SURE YOU PICK UP DJ $CRILLA’S NEW ALBUM “$EAMLESS” ON iTUNES STARTING APRIL 5!