Interviews

Published on February 10th, 2020 | by MuzikScribe

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T3: Soul Survivor

Raw and potent as ever, legendary Detroit, Michigan, native emcee / co-founding member of Slum Village, T3, recently returned with his latest tour-de-force, ‘Mr. Fantastic,’ a golden era of Hip Hop inspired EP produced by Ruckazoid and Teeko. The impressive eight track collection also features SV alum (the late) Baatin [“Mr. Fantastic”], Dank [“Turn Me Up”], Botni Applebum [“Dream”], Lake Stovall [“Nue U”], as well as Frank Nitt & Illa J [“Relax”].

 

 

Let’s hop right into this solo EP ‘Mr. Fantastic’ — Conceptually, what does this title represent both to and for you?

The title ‘Mr. Fantastic’ symbolizes me being a founding member, as well (as) torchbearer, for the Slum Village legacy for the entire time.

The set’s 2nd entry, its title track, features Baatin — Tell me about this song; how did it come to fruition?

This track is by far my favorite on the EP…for many reasons. Number one, when I first did the track I wanted to do a dedication to J Dilla and Baatin. I (also) felt like it was the best way to re-introduce myself. Second, I had no clue that Ruckazoid and Teeko had vocals, unreleased vocals of Baatin, so I laid my parts down and when I got the track back to my surprise…Baatin verse was heartwarming; the vocals was (a) magical fit.

‘Mr. Fantastic’ is a Delicious Vinyl project — What particular string of events actually led to this inking?

First off, shout out to my man Frank Nitt who presented the EP to the heads of Delicious Vinyl! And I was like, “Cool!” I felt like they would be a perfect fit. They are (a) classic label known for doing iconic records. Perfect home.

Switching gears here, how has not only the industry itself, but even more-so you, either changed and / or evolved since your whole inception into music?

The music game changed in many ways; the artists now are very hands on with his or her career…and from shooting your own videos in some cases, to marketing and promoting. And I think that’s a plus and a negative.

Longevity, what do you attribute yours?

One, we have been very blessed.  Two, we made some classic records. (And), three, would have to be (the) non-stop touring in the U.S. and Europe.

What do you want people to get from your music?

Hopefully people will get a sense of freedom to be able to do what you want to do musically. When I set out to create this EP, I was just putting in place things that I thought the game was missing; more up-tempo boom bap records, feel good records, non-concept heavy.

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?

I love where Hip Hop is right now, especially on a business end. In my day, people was getting set up with bold contracts. I just wish creatively some of my peeps would push the boundaries a little more.

Do you have any other outside / additional aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?

Yeah, I’m writing a book on my life legacy, and thinking about opening a tavern.

To date, what has been your greatest career achievement(s), at least thus far anyway?

My greatest achievement, I’d  have to say, it’s being able (to) touch fans internationally and globally, to see the people who grew up with me and love my music, as well as a younger generation, discover Slum Village.

One track of yours that you think defines you and why?

All my music is a part of me. I can’t say that one song defines me.

What are your fondest memories of both Dilla and Baatin?

Fondest memories would  be us – Dilla, Baatin – before getting signed, going to a temporary service to get jobs and we  just cracked jokes for hours and us just laughing. On one of those occasions, it was this guy’s voice that was very unique to the point we started mimicking it. Anyway, it ended up being the hook of one of my favorite SV songs called “Hoc N Pucky.”

Lastly, what’s next for T3?

More music!

 

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