Rhyme Report: Fat Fly Freddie Lee talks the eclectic nature of new project “3 Piece & A Biscuit”

One of the more eclectic creators and performers on the scene, Fat Fly Freddie Lee is catching a lot of people’s attention as a result of his music and his approach to marketing himself and his brand. All of these elements as well as his influences and credentials are the subject of our one on one sit-down available below. Check it out:

Jason Bourne: I see you are a creative artist of many folds. With all of the hats that you wear as producer, artist and songwriter which brings the most fulfillment?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee: Honestly, writing brings me the most fulfillment. I feel like words can tell so many stories and touch so many people. Not just from a musical aspect, but in general. As an artist it all starts with the words/ lyrics. For me they have to be meaningful.

Jason Bourne: I like to see the honesty in an individuals’ answer to this next question; was there ever a time when you wrote a song promising it someone and just felt like u had to keep it to yourself ?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee: (laughs). This happens all the time!!!

Jason Bourne: What ended up happening?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee: I’ve recorded a song to completion and was like “Naaaaaaaah!!”… I’m definitely keeping this joint for myself. The thing with that, is to not let the artist hear it. That way they won’t get excited about a record I might end up keeping. If I decide to keep it, obviously I have to go back to the drawing board and create a whole new record for the person I’m working with. There’s also been times where I’ve had to resist the temptation and just give it up.

Jason Bourne: Your team has described your mission as wanting to break down barriers creatively. Can you give us some insight on that?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee: My thing in creating music is never having a particular sound or genre in mind. I just like to create with a blank canvas. No barriers, no restrictions, no labels. When it’s done, the people can call it what they want; as long as they classify it as great music.

Jason Bourne: The comparisons to Ceelo Green are rampant; is that someone you intentionally drew inspiration from? Who are some other influencers?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee: I didn’t set out to raise any comparisons, but I definitely embrace it. Especially if I’m going to be compared to someone as talented and with as much longevity as Cee-Lo Green. As far as my influences go those include: Prince, Slick Rick, 2pac, The Gap Band and all the great Motown artists. I’m into all the 70’s soul music. That Timeless Hot Sauce is what I call it.

Jason Bourne: As an artist what does the term “authentic” mean to you?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee Authenticity to me means staying true to yourself as a person. If you can do that, it will shine through in what you do as an artist. Having the faith and belief that being yourself is enough makes you “authentic”.

Jason Bourne: The list of collaborators on a mainstream level for you is extensive- give us a crowning moment for you in all the work that has taken place?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee: For me, the moment was having the opportunity to work with Timbaland. He’s one of the greatest Producers of all time! I spent a month with him songwriting and observing his magic, soaking up game. When he encouraged me to keep doing what I was doing, I knew I was on the right path.

Jason Bourne: I have to ask about J Lo and Missy Elliot in particular- how were that experience?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee: J-Lo was cool, she actually reminded me of a chick from around the way. Real chill. Funny thing about being around her was. I was limited to just doing my work lol. J Lo and Timbaland were having a conversation that I just could not jump in. They were talking about new condo’s & $500,000 cars. I had absolutely no business in that BIG Money Talk (laughs). I kept my head down, mouth closed and kept writing! Missy was dope too; she is a perfectionist. That’s why her stuff comes out so Saucy. She’ll spend the whole night perfecting one verse, then coming in the next day to work on it again. Might end up scraping the whole thing. Her attention to detail and pride in her craft is super inspirational.

Jason Bourne: Soundcloud has been a major factor in your distribution of music – Do you limit yourself in how often you release new music?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee: Indeed, it has been in the past. Moving forward I am going to be releasing most of my music on all the streaming platforms. As far as release, it is all about timing with me. I am mindful of giving my supporters new music and visuals as often as I can, but I also allow them time to soak it in.

Jason Bourne: 2016 was a big year for you in winning ASCAPs Collective Urban Music Songwriters Workshop – can you touch on that?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee: It was a dope experience. ASCAP selected a few of their members (writers/producers) and put us in groups. Each group was mentored by well-established writers and industry heads. We had 3 days to come up with a dope record. The opportunity was great in that it paired me with like-minded talent and really hammered in the concept of collaboration. I was truly humbled by the opportunity.

Jason Bourne: In concert you have shared the stage with Common, Maino, Talib, Melonie Fiona and Erykah Badu; talk about some of the gems regarding professionalism and craft curation you have walked away with?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee: Opening for various artist with different styles of music has given me a different outlook on the art of performing on stage as well as a few lessons in taking care of your business (contracts) off stage. As far as on stage goes, I’ve picked up a lot of gems that have helped me improve my stage show. Most important lesson: “Perform like it’ll be your last time. No matter if its 5 people or 5,000.”

Jason Bourne: You are currently promoting the “3 Piece & A Biscuit” EP; what is the vibe of the project?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee: I really wanted to create a project that would touch people in every way. Give listeners pieces of me. I’m touching on Love, Fatherhood, Infidelity, Injustice and just some real feel good music. All for your soul!

Jason Bourne: What can people expect sonically?

Fat Fly Freddie Lee:3 Piece & A Biscuit is a vibe jack!! Sonically I’m giving you some retro Soul flavor with some Hip-Hop sauce.

3 Piece & A Biscuit is available Here

For All Updates: www.FATisLife.com

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Tags: 3 Piece & A Biscuit, Fat Fly Freddie Lee, Interview, Jason Bourne, Rhyme Report, The Plug

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Jason Bourne Jason Bourne...amazing person and journalist...RIP and you'll always have a home with The Hype Magazine and in our hearts! We miss you my brotha! - Dr. Jerry Doby, Editor-in-Chief.