L'Daialogue's "InDAIpendent" Press Release and Cover Art; EP dropping Jan 28, 2010

MEMPHIS EMCEE L’DAIALOGUE DICAPRIO RELEASES HOT NEW EP; “INDAIPENDENT” WITH PRODUCER MIDI MARC


For Immediate Release:

MEMPHIS (January 26, 2010)- Entering into 2010 as an artist is probably one of the most interesting times in music. Most major label artists specifically seem to be distraught with the way the actual business of music is going. With the advent of the internet, many artists are beginning to take control of their destinies and create their own projects from scratch. While all this is going down, many artists are also shunning the major label structure all together. They are becoming independent or as L’Daialogue would like to say “InDAIpendent”.

Memphis emcee L’Daialogue DiCaprio has been doing that very thing since day one. With his recent project, InDAIpendent produced entirely by Hopkins, South Carolina native Midi Marc, he is bringing a totally different light to that subject.

“I felt like it was time to really fly the flag and make it cool to do your own thing,” L’Daialogue adds. “I believe that even if every song on InDAIpendent doesn’t necessarily fall in line with the title, it’s definitely going to be the line in the sand of my catalogue.”

The EP was initially inspired by a real life trip to a record label for a preliminary photo shoot for this project. “I was physically escorted off of the premises by security” L’Dai adds. “After that I was like ‘I’m really about to go in and show that my movement doesn’t need that energy to be successful. I’ll do it on my own.”

The sole producer of the project Midi Marc sonic contributions range from the bass-thumping “Don’t Get It Misconstrued (I’m From The Hood Like You)” to “Departure Zonin’” with its reggae-influenced vibe to “InDAIpendent” with its smooth-low end sound. “I really believed in this project and the concept from the start” says Midi Marc. “I think people really can relate to the freedom of an artist being himself with no constraints or interference.”

At a slim 6 tracks, this EP is sure to turn some heads and hold the complete interest of the listener. “I appreciate even before this project dropped, we’ve had so much interest and support” L’Daialogue said. “It’s the real thing. Lyrics. Production. Concepts. We’re taking it back to the producer/emcee essence.”

The project will be available for download on January 28, 2010 on L’Daialogue and Midi Marc’s respective websites. Re-release per physical and digital distribution are planned for a later date.



####

TRACKLISTING/CREDITS FOR INDAIPENDENT:

1. Cane's InDAIpendent Intro
2. Don't Get It Misconstrued (I'm From The Hood Like You)
3. Da Shape Of Ya
4. Departure Zonin'
5. Dreamschemes
6. InDAIpendent

MIDIMarc Spotlight on Wake Your Daughter Up - Hip Hop and Audio Blog [OVAGROUND SOUNDZ EXCLUSIVE]

Yo,


What's up world? Long time no hear from, right??? Lol.

Check out this new interview with my mans Midi Marc and cop that InDAIpendent EP if you don't have it yet. It's really moving strong in the streets mane. Don't miss out.

-L'Daialogue

___________________________________________

LINK: http://midimarc.blogspot.com/2010/02/midimarc-spotlight-on-wake-your.html

Hip hop is the direct descendant of the Bronx, a sound that was developed in the '70's. Since then, it has went not only nationwide, but worldwide. Each region has added it's own flavor and style to the basic building blocks of the hip hop sound. It's evolved, for the lack of a simpler word. It's difficult enough to master one region's sound, but to be able to conquer multiple regions, that takes something, even though I know cat's won't admit to it. One of the best to cover the soulful sounds of the north and the ass shakin' sounds of the dirty south is South Carolina's MIDIMarc. I actually become aware of MIDI's talents before we started the blog, as he was a regular on the Justus League's message board, The Lawn. MIDI's soulful chops and sounds drew me in as he provided beats to some of the local emcee's on the board. It wasn't until much later when we had some conversations via email that he showed me his secret identity. MIDIMarc was just as comfortable makin' the southern fried funk as he was throwing down an Al Green sample. I'm by far an expert on the southern sounds, but MIDI provided the energy and "nastiness" that I would expect from the dirty dirty.

This spotlight has long been in the making, as MIDI has been a strong supporter to WYDU, something that I've always appreciated. This should have happened two years ago, but good things come to those that wait, so here it is.....



















DOWNLOAD LINK: http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?wkw52lvnr1c

We want to thank everyone for the feedback on "Da Shape Of Ya" and to all that expressed interest in the the release of the project.

We both stand behind our creation 200 percent and hope that the music not only earns a spot in your iPod, Hard Drive, Thumb Drive, CD Player, Tape Player(If you're still dubbing tapes). If you find the music to you liking the best thing you can do is recommend the music to a friend. There is no greater compliment than word of mouth.

No matter where we go in our careers nothing is ever going to sound like "InDAIpendent"...it is now officially the sound of L'Daialogue and MIDIMarc. -MIDIMarc


InDAIpendent TRACKLISTING:

01. Cane's InDAIpendent Intro
02. Don't Get It Misconstrued (I'm From The Hood Like You)
03. Da Shape Of Ya
04. Departure Zonin'
05. Dreamschemes
06. InDAIpendent


MIDIMarc Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/beatsbymidimarc
MIDIMarc Blog: http://midimarc.blogspot.com/

--------------------------------------------

INTERVIEW:

WYDU: What's good man? For those that aren't familiar with you, while don't give them a little introduction and where you come from?

MIDIMarc: I'm MIDIMarc and I'm a champion producer from Hopkins, SC.

WYDU: I've known about you and your music even before starting the blog, first hearing you on The Lawn back in the day. Exactly how long have you been honing your craft? How did you get your start?

MIDI: I've been making beats since 1997. I had people in my hometown that brought about a great deal of inspiration (DJ Prince Ice, and StreetSide Records) but the straw that broke the camels back was when I herd Wu-Tang Forever. That album made me want to see what I could do as far as making music.

W: Let's talk about your sound. It's really hard to pin down, because I've heard beats of yours that sounds as soulful as the best but I've heard you put down some southern "crunk" type beats that could get nasty with the best of them. What's your secret for being able to cross into what is essentially to different strains of hip hop?

MIDI: Versatility is the key. When I say I love Hip Hop music I mean ALL of it. The beats that you hear from me are a reflection of what I grew up listening to. Being raised in South Carolina I was exposed to the greatest music from every part of the country and it all played a large part in my sound today (which is still growing by the way)

W: You and I have talked about this before in limited conversations, but what is your take on the whole North/South thing? A lot of cats that are into the more "traditional" sound reject any forms of southern music that isn't Outkast...

MIDI: It can be very discouraging when you do something with all your heart and soul and there are people that say that it "isn't real". I made the decision to not let it bother me and make what my spirit tells me to make.

W: Is there any one thing that you would say is "ruining" hip hop, at least the way we know and love it? How do you change that?

MIDI: I don't think anything is ruining hip hop right now...I think its still growing, and its still a new genre of music when you compare it to other forms of music. Folks who are whatever age have the way they remember it and the new generation has the way that they view it now. As long as kids are getting the same feeling I got when I saw the emcee battle
between Kid n Play on "House Party", or the feeling I got when I saw Omar Epps on the
turntables in "Juice", or the feeling I got when I saw the "We're All In The Same Gang"
video..I say let them eat cake


W: Where do you think hip hop goes from here? Is going to fizzle out from over saturation, or do you think this online thing takes it even further into the future?

MIDI: Like I said..its still growing, so I'm gonna sit back and enjoy the ride. You have to do way more than over-saturate to make this culture fizzle out. The only prediction that I feel comfortable about making is that there will be a huge increase in successful independent artist.

W: On to my questions I ask every producer, simply because I'm always curious. What are your weapons of choice when it comes to production?

MIDI: Right now i'm on FL Studio and the Novation Xio25. Who knows what I'll add to the setup though.

W: Let's talk about the whole "Hardware Vs. Software" debate, what is your take on the whole thing?

MIDI: Why choose when you can have both..haha..seriously.

W: Who are some of the MCs you'd most like to work with?

MIDI: Nas, Rakim, Project Pat, Bun B are some names that came to mind right now. Honestly there's no person I wouldn't work with though.

W: At the end of your life, you are given a chance to remix one hip hop song before your last breath, which one do you take and why?

MIDI: Pete Rock and CL Smooth - T.R.O.Y. it would be great to get that remix out before my last breath cause I wouldn't be able to hear any of the negative feedback from touching a
classic..haha

W: Speaking of remixes, which is harder, crafting a remix or starting from scratch for a new beat?

MIDI: I'm the type of producer that can't force out a beat. As long as I'm inspired or at least have a tune in my head I can knock either one out.

W: Your latest project was with L’Daialogue, what can listeners expect from that EP?

MIDI: You can expect dope beats and dope lyrics. You can also expect me to post a download link right now also (Download Here)

W: What else do you have in the chambers that you are working and what else can we expect this year from MIDIMarc?

MIDI: More beats, more singles, and more EP's produced entirely by me.

W: Any last words to the groupies and the followers?

MIDI: To the groupies, please have a copy of your shot records and recent HIV/STD test results. To my followers...keep on following..cause I'm a keep on creating.

L'Daialogue-InDAIpendent (Produced by Midi Marc) [CDQ]/[FULL DOWNLOAD w/ ADDED EXTRAS]

http://www.mediafire.com/?wkw52lvnr1c


L'Daialogue-InDAIpendent (Produced by Midi Marc)


01. Cane's InDAIpendent Intro
02. Don't Get It Misconstrued (I'm From The Hood Like You)
03. Da Shape Of Ya
04. Departure Zonin'
05. Dreamschemes
06. InDAIpendent


ALL TRACKS PRODUCED BY MIDIMARC FOR ANGRY CHIMP MUSIC (BMI)


ADDITIONAL ARRANGEMENT/
EDITING AND MIXING BY MIZUNDERSTATISTIC for Affillieated Vischunz/DRDP Productions/Reba's Furst Born (ASCAP)

All Rights Reserved (c) 2010



EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: MIZUNDERSTATISTIC & L'DAIALOGUE DICAPRIO


________________________________________________


As promised...it is FINALLY here. The full-CDQ download of one of the most anticipated EP's of this year!!!

InDAIpendent was a project that me and Midi Marc seriously planned out and let the chips fly as they may. The beats, rhymes....everything was on the level AND we took it there mane.

So please enjoy this project and give any feedback and/or comments to midimarc.blogspot.com and thaovaground.com. Hit us up mane.


Download this thang mane.

-L'Daialogue

LDaialogue DiCaprio- InDAIpendent 2 EP (Produced Entirely by MIDI Marc) [OVAGROUND EXCLUSIVE] [NEW MUSIC] [CDQ]

Here we go again... *gets the CD player ready for some bump*

L'Daialogue x Midi Marc has FINALLY come back together with a new project after almost a 3-plus year hiatus from their critically acclaimed underground classic: InDAIpendent EP to release the follow up to that project titled (wait for it): InDAIpendent 2 EP.

As expected, this project definitely sticks to the script and reflects what most blogs and fans already know about these two: soulful, hard-bass driven tracks with lyrical, rapid fire flows in a marriage that spans between different subject matter in an EP form.

The project mirrors its predecessor and adds on MORE bluesy sounds and MORE fire raps. It's a match made in Southern heaven.

The production is handled ENTIRELY by Midi Marc and the lyrics are handled ENTIRELY by L'Daialogue.

This project is a RETAIL project that is available NOW on Itunes/Google Play Store FOR SALE FOR $3.99 and available for live streaming on Soundcloud on Midi's page & L'Daialogue's page respectively.

Definitely support good music and vibe out on these country rap tunes as Pimp C would say.

Check out the streaming link below and the Itunes link is embedded within the player below.

-MiZUnderstatistic

P.S  The Bootleg Friendly Version of InDAIpendent 2 will be available soon but please note, it WILL NOT be the full project so gone cop that original and support the homeys off principle. #yesssssurrrr -MiZ

L’Daialogue’s "Resume Rap Up-2009": Part 1

This is how I started off my year (200(9) Shine):

Now last year...I called 2008 the year of "switch hustles". So, that can only mean that 2009 is the year of "either the shine or grind". I prefer shining AND grinding.

After I just brought in the New Years in Memphis at the Level 2 Club in the VIP section (and trust me...I will NEVER stand in the regular line ever again). But after I gave the club owner my Bluff City Daialogue CD, he looked at it like "Man, that's a tight cover." But, he never played a track though. This won't be how it is this year. But I don't hate...lol.

I spoke to DJ Kenny Kaign and the Bluff City Daialogue 2 is coming plus some more projects. Also...I got some projects with MidiMarc (shouts out mane...let's get it homey), J-Snizzy (my young nigga is bumpin'), Olde Soul (a possible 12 "inch and more) and On1Ne (my West Coast folk...on every project). Plus, a whole lot of secret projects, production and random verses. So, musically...I will have a lot going on and I will execute!

Enjoy the new year...toast to the mans...and peep the motto.

-L’Daialogue

I think I have accomplished ALOT of things this years and I have more things to come in 2010. But, I just wanted to have a little rundown of my year.

January 2009-December 2009:

January 2009: I didn’t actually have a computer during the first month of the year so I didn’t really get to do too much music out during that month.

February 2009: MiZUnderstatistic finally finished the track that became “Marielaveau (Go Hard)” for the underground collective-known as Tygah Woods (consisting of Mr. J’ai, J-Dubble, DJ Mike Swift, D. Francis, Blaze The Verbal Chemist, Slangston Hughes and Rusty Lowdown).















The 7-man collective recorded and released the single to radio with a wide-spread response in that region (hence the Soundscan above). Here’s a portion of an interview with me & MiZUnderstatistic:


Transcribed interview by: M. Notceb

MiZUnderstatistic: "Marielaveau actually started as just your regular beat. Nothing more nothing less. L'Daialogue was the one who came up with the idea of throwing Tygah Woods in the mix."

L'Daialogue: "Well, Mr. J'ai and J-Dubble are fam anyway...so, I definitely wanted to get them in the 'yo again. But, then they started telling me about the new click Tygah Woods and the members. I was like 'I want to see if they want to get down on this music tip."

MiZUnderstatistic: "Once L'Daialogue gave me what he wanted...I started building the track with these loud thumping drums. Also, I had to have the melody to seem Creole-feeling but not necessarily Creole-sounding...if that makes sense."

L'Daialogue: "Mane, I was just thinking: Blaze, Francis and Slangston has to feel this. J'ai and Dubble are certified beasts..it was just like I wanted to get that good old feeling we always have with the music that we do together."

MiZUnderstatistic: Then, I added this swing to the beat that really made the track what it was. After the bassline, it had a strong essence. All it needed was the emcees."

L'Daialogue: "Yep, just like MiZUnder said...the emcees came through on this one. I needed a hard name to describe the track and all I could think of was the voodoo priestess named Marie Laveau from New Orleans. Not that we practice voodoo but it defintely had that homegrown feel that showed New Orleans and Memphis in the same breath."

March 2009: After producing some more outside tracks, Midi Marc and I began formulating what would become the InDAIpendent EP. Now, Midi Marc was throwing me all types of tracks that were certified bangers. So, for the majority of March…I was in an out of studios recording those tracks.

April 2009: I got my first show of the year at Club Rio in Palm Springs, CA (via the homey On 1Ne aka Playa Beez). Me, Olde Soul, Mellowhype, B-Webb, ACCTAFUL and the rest of the clan travelled out to the desert for that show which turned out really good.















Also, I finally leaked a remix track I did with MIDI Marc off of the Project Pat album “Real Recognize Real” entitled “Keep It Hood” featuring myself and South Carolina emcee Fat Rat da Czar. Stupid street record mane. Also, I finally got sucked into the world of Twitter(www.twitter.com/ldaialogue). Networking at it’s finest!


May 2009: This is the month that I actually came up with the title of the EP that is now called InDAIpendent. I was initially going to name it “Calisthenics” because of how I felt it wasn’t a stretch how I was speaking on real street issues and other outside issues that the game seems to say you can’t dually speak on. But, I settled with InDAIpendent. I clubbed in Beverly Hills with the GMC homeys and one in particular ended up getting in a “twitter beef” with P. Diddy (*cough* FoxxFiles lol *cough*).













I also was on the Qui Roll Inc release “Keep N It Real” (which can be purchased on: http://cdbaby.com/cd/quirollinc) on the track “Up N Cali”, produced by Avalanchi. Hot track mane! Also DJ MiZUnderstatistic & myself released a mixtape entitled “Bluff City History: Memphis Underground Clazziks Vol. 1” which was a mix of all of the underground tracks I grew up listening to. This tape did really well in regards to downloads. Then, I got into some preliminary promo with the Bluff City Daialogue 2 mixtape.


June 2009: Bluff City Daialogue 2 dropped….killed the streets of Memphis! Hundreds of units moved in the streets courtesy of DJ Kenny Kaign. Plus, I dropped a track with a Drake feature entitled “So Much 2 Obtain” that used a sample from Drake’s ‘So Far Gone” mixtape track entitled “The Calm”. Spoke on some real Memphis-ish mane.












I also did a remix to Tyler Woods (not Tiger Woods) 9th Wonder assisted single “Prove Myself” and that remix did real numbers. Woooooo!!!! I hope you caught that download because that probably did international numbers for real. My homeboy L.E.G.A.C.Y did a mixtape together DJ MiZUnderstatistic called “Suicide Watch: The Memphis Edition”, which came on the heels of his album “Suicide Music” that was produced by Khrysis. I had a few tracks on that tape that was pretty cool seeing that it kept along with the theme of the suicide watch and all. Scary yet hard mane.


July 2009: Off of the mere sight of Oddisee’s instrumental album, “Odd Summer”…I went into the studio and created a 4-track EP that took the internet by storm (with permission from Oddisee of course). Then, unbeknownst to L.E.G.A.C.Y…I wrote a letter to the Justus League. No, not a written letter. I just wrote a track to the Justus League that got kudos from DJ Flash when he came to Los Angeles. Definite yay!



















August 2009: I started off August rocking on iMegatron x hailmegatron.net presents: iMegatron Mixtape by my close blogger friend Hailmegatron (www.hailmegatron.net) who has been a supporter since day one. Also, Crumwell (formally known as “Crummy”) finally dropped the ever-elusive “Seven Summers” album (you can purchase here: http://tiny.cc/XYenW ) which I had the only feature on the whole album. I was flattered and I bumped that whole disc (including my track off the LP, “Before the Summertime Burn”) which will be getting broke out again this Summer 2010.



















September 2009: I got a top-notch feature on DJ Cannon Banyon and Midi Marc’s Good Ass Remix Pt. 2. Very good mixtape mane. Plus, I released (unofficially) the very first mixtape on my dudes, Tygah Woods. I felt the world needed to know what was up mane.


















October 2009: I had a double-whammie this month. Actually, a triple-whammie. First, I dropped the Simple Soul Joint with my little homey, J-Snizzy. Beautiful music. Plus, off the strength of the first one…Oddisee dropped Odd Autumn and I bless ‘em with Odd Daialogue 2. A underground classic and the downloads numbers was in the hundreds. Plus, I started pushing the first single off of the InDAIpendent EP to DJ’s and blogs alike. So far I have been getting great reviews from the single...




















November 2009: Okay…so, I started getting some more InDAIpendent-related interviews and I dropped a few buzz singles. The first one entitled “My Game Shows” is still floating around off the strength of the 9th Wonder intro and his call for someone to sample the 25,000 Dollar Pyramid theme. MiZUnderstatistic took to the call and the rest is history. Plus…Midi Marc had this crazy idea to expand out buzz output by dropping these beat tapes. I, as always, love pub in all forms. Then, he hits me up and tells me that this MJ mixtape that he worked on hit 12,000 downloads. I was like wow! Then, he told me about this other tape, a Biggie tribute and he threw the single “Da’ Shape Of Ya” on both tapes. Almost 30,000 downloads mane. Wow! Oh, and I did a promo video in front of Universal Records for the InDAIpendent project and ended up getting kicked off the premises by security…lol. I guess.
























December 2009: I finally hooked up Kenny Kaign for the final tape, Bluff City Daialogue 3. It’s a great tape in my opinion and culminates a 2-year relationship with my mans in this mixtape thang. The downloads gave me a lot of motivation as they do with all of my projects. I also was featured on Hailmegatron’s latest mixtape: Rise of The Fallen. I actually gave him an exclusive song “The Streets Fight” and it fit in very well. I liked that whole tape actually.























I also recorded another 2Deep record called Brothaz Of Tha’ Struggle 2 coming in 2010. I actually flew out to Memphis to track out those records and ended up recording another project along with it. The vault is getting packed lol.

So, 2009 was very much a transition year for me. I focused on my music and as a result started to see some of this hard work began to play off. 2008 was the year of “switch hustles”. 2009 was the year of “shining and grinding”. Now, 2010 is the year of payoffs!!! I’m speaking these things into existence now. Watch for me AND get the name correct: L’Daialogue DiCaprio.

Holla whenever,


L’Daialogue


P.S. Part 2 is going to be for the year's links...so if you did miss out, you can hit up all of the downloads in one place. Let's get it!

Artist Spotlight: L'Daialogue's KevinNottingham.com Interview 02/05/10

LINK: http://kevinnottingham.com/2010/02/05/artist-spotlight-ldaialogue-dicaprio/


By: Justin for KevinNottingham.com


L’Daialogue Dicaprio is putting on for Memphis. Linking up with producer MIDIMarc, L’Daialogue produced a new project portraying the struggle of the independent artist with InDAIpedent. He gained buzz & controversy from some for his Odd Daialogue series, employing Oddisee’s Odd Season EP’s for projects. We spoke with the Memphis emcee and covered topics like how he linked up with MIDIMarc, his thoughts on the current Memphis scene and clearing up the misconceptions about Oddisee’s approval of the Odd Daialogue series. Hit the jump to learn more about L’Daialogue Dicaprio.


Introduce yourself

Well, I am L’Daialogue DiCaprio…an emcee/producer from Memphis, Tennessee…owner of Affillieated Vischunz/DRDP Productions and part owner of Ovaground Undaground SounDZ with my DJ MiZUnderstatistic.

Why the name L’Daialogue DiCaprio?

Well, I actually was called L’Daialogue was given to me by my homeys in my neighborhood. I started off as Lil’ Die..then to Lil’ Dai…to L’Daialogue. The reason its an apostrophe between the L and the D is to acknowledge my past as Lil’ Die but to let you know that I’m a grown man. Plus I foresaw all these Lil’ rappers early on like “they’re going to have to change that as they get older”. Lol.


Who are some of your musical inspirations?

Well, being from Memphis…all of our blues and soul legends from B.B. King, Al Green, Willie Mitchell and Issac Hayes. Also, Willie Hutch, Bobby Womack and David Ruffin are musical legends that I personally look up to. So, pretty much all the soul movements from Stax Records to Motown to Hi Records. All of that.

Current projects readers should know about

Well, right now…I have just released an EP entitled InDAIpendent with the producer MIDIMarc. That is the most recent project that is making its rounds on the net/blogosphere.

Plus I have my Odd Daialogue series using the beats of Oddisee, the producer from D.C. that has been getting me a lot of other attention lol. But that’s moving around too.

And I’m working with my cousin High Ruler King Cane in our group 2Deep and we’re dropping a project entitled Brothaz Of Tha Struggle 2: Still Strugglin’ later this year and me and MIDIMarc are going to do another InDAIpendent project for the summer. So, it’s a lot going on over here.


Past projects readers should know about

Well, I have a lot of past projects but the one series that I think would catch a person up to speed is the 3-part Bluff City Daialogue series I did with DJ Kenny Kaign. That would be the most recent project to show people my most prevalent direction I’m driving right now.

Now as you mentioned, recently the Odd Daialogue series got you some major attention with widespread opinions on it. Talk a little about that and I guess the question on everyone’s mind is – was Oddisee involved at all, giving the okay for these EPs?

Oddisee wasn’t involved personally in those projects. But, way before…like when he dropped the first Odd Summer joint, I got in contact with him. He didn’t have a problem and pretty much was like do what you do. So, ever since he dropped the Odd Summer, Autumn and Winter joints…I have had a mixtape to match it.

And I have been seeing little comments and what not but that’s not what it is. I contacted him and I have an open line. If it was a problem, Oddisee woulda got at me a long time ago.

Man, promotion goes both ways. I’m putting folks on him and vice versa with the Odd Daialogue joints. Now, would it be the same if I dropped something over another producers joints? Man, Bun B just dropped a mixtape No Mixtape over a slew of beats by different producers with no permission…are you getting at the Bun? No. So, let it be what it is…

Definitely. I think was good to clear that up cause a lot of people didn’t know the facts. Now how did you link up with MIDIMarc?

Man, I linked up with Midi Marc a few years back off of his buzz from a Jay-Z mixtape he did. I caught a few beat tapes from him and I was digging his beats. I hit up like “we need to work immediately mane.” He was down. We did the Project Pat remix with Fat Rat da Czar and from there we decided that we needed to do another project. That’s how InDAIpendent came about at the end of 2009.

Now what do you think of the Memphis hip hop scene atm? Obviously there’s a lot of vets still putting in work like Playa Fly, 8Ball & MJG, Three 6 Mafia, etc. but it feels like there hasn’t been a new emergence of artists from the area in awhile. What are your thoughts on this and do you feel like you’re changing this with your movement?

Well, there’s a lot of new artists coming from Memphis and the energy is definitely switching from a more crunk vibe to a more soulful vibe. An example is Three 6 Mafia’s “Stay Fly”. That was a crunk song but it has that element of soul that has long been needed to bridge the gap between the old and the new.

Now, as for the city…you got folks that’s rhyming from a First 48 perspective because that’s a reflection of their neighborhood. Then, you have me…someone who’s purpose is to bridge the 2 worlds together. I’m from North Memphis but then I went to college. So, I have a corporate mind frame with a street-conscious essence.

So, yeah…I hear the streets and it’s a blend of both because the city is changing and the style is changing too. I have a base in both worlds…so some may think I’m one way and then I bust you across the head with a different sound. Just because I’m from Memphis and have a more energetic style…don’t think I won’t lyrically take you out. A lot of people have caught “L”’s like that…easy.

If you had to pick one song to define your career up to this point, what would it be?

I would actually say…the title song off of InDAIpendent. That song is the love, frustration, the history and future of where I see myself in this game. I am more than what people want to see and I’m still not everything I want to be yet. And the lyrics hit so close to home…like me asking “What you know about this struggle, trick/ Buzz means nothing/ when your cd drops and your only fanbase is your cousins”. That’s some deep words there. So, that song…me proud to be doing it on my own is a declaration that I will stand on.

You’re stranded on a desert island and can only have one album to listen to, what’s your choice?

Man. That’s a hard choice. But, for me…just because I would never see home again and this album has elements of Outkast, Bobby Womack, Cee-lo etc…8Ball & MJG’s In Our Lifetime Vol. 1. All my favorites on one.

Any shout outs or last words?

Definitely shouts out to KevinNottingham.com for always holding it down mane. You, MIDIMarc, MiZUnderstatistic, High Ruler Warlord King Cane (my other half of 2Deep) and everyone else who has supported my movement. It’s definitely more to come folks. Also, check out me on Twitter: @ldaialogue and my bandcamp page: www.ldaialogue.bandcamp.com for all the exclusives mane. 2000 Tennessee is gonna be a beast, homey!

-L'Daialogue

InDAIpendent Ep. 1: L'Daialogue Getting Kicked Out Of Universal Music Group

Hey Young World,

The first episode of L'Daialogue's "The Making Of My InDAIpendent EP" captures him directly in front of Universal Music Group as an in"DAI"pendent artist symbolically (and literally) standing in front of a major label preparing for a photo shoot and subsequently being escorted off of their premises...

Yeah, he got moved from the premises..lol. But, he made a cool point and connected it with his EP.

But, check it out. InDAIpendent IS coming soon. Word to MIDI Marc.

-MiZ

SEA’s 2010: My Story from the Southern Entertainment Awards in Memphis Pt. 1[OVAGROUND EXCLUSIVE]

(above: me and Midi Marc. We are InDAIpendent mane!!!!)

My experience at the Southern Entertainment Awards 2010 was great. I literally flew back out to Memphis this year and I wasn’t going to miss this year’s show. Also, I heard that my mans Midi Marc (along with DJ Eclipse & DJ Cannon Banyon) was coming through so you know I wasn’t going to miss it this year.

My experience really consisted of the 2nd days which were different informative forums about topics ranging from producer’s getting their publishing in order to finding the best lawyer to handle your business on the legal side.

I really had a beef when I was going to these forums. Not a beef BECAUSE of the forums but because I didn’t see ANY Memphis artists in the crowds at all. It was just me and my cousin Cane from what I could see.

I'm not saying there were NO Memphis artists at the SEA's. Just the forums where I felt like the underground folks NEEDED to be.



















(above: SEA's Producer forum w/ Midi Marc [far left] )


You could argue that I couldn’t have known if the people attended were from Memphis or not. But, most of the people from out of town had shirts and things to let you know they WERE NOT from Memphis.

Actually, shouts out to South Carolina, North Carolina, Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi SPECIFICALLY. I saw them in the house hard.

I attended the producer’s forum that featured So Sincere (from DTP), Midi Marc, Chris “Mayday” Rucks from Dynamic Producer and Courtney "Coko" Eason, Sony ATV Publishing. I mean, they REALLY gave out a lot of knowledge about getting your publishing correct and getting paid. I would have thought that somebody from the city would want to hear that seeing how people complain that they get (and are getting got) from the money end and what not. But, whatever.

I spent the latter part of last Saturday just hanging around the Marriot hotel and the Cook Convention Center in downtown Memphis. It was a lot of artists and networking going on and that was cool.



















(above: me and High Ruler King Cane (2Deep) w/ DJ Cannon Banyon [right])


I ended up spending my last night in Memphis on Beale Street with Midi Marc and some of the homeys from the Boondak Syndicate just kickin’ it. Got to show the cold (it was 30 degrees) yet historical elements of downtown Memphis before I had to go home early Sunday.

Now, due to baggage beef with Delta Airlines…I had no PHYSICAL copies of the InDAIpendent project on me…but I still laced folks with copies straight from my computer which I bet will be worth something in the next few years you watch. Plus, my downloads are in the mid-thousands anyway with distribution coming soon (shameless plug).



















(above: The independent burned "InDAIpendent" disc held by Midi Marc)


In conclusion, home was great and I wish I had more time but at least when I was there, I handled business and made some valuable connections for years to come. And trust…I will be back.

-L’Daialogue


P.S. Shouts out to Janiro and DJ Infamous who I met on accident trying to enter the freestyle competition that ended up being cancelled. I wonder why emcees hopped out??? Maybe, because L'Daialogue was in town??? That's what I heard lol. But, shouts out.

Plus I have video footage coming very soon. Stay tuned!!!!

InDAIpendent Ep. 2: At The Southern Entertainment Awards 2010 in Memphis

The second episode short has L'Daialogue back at home attending the Southern Entertainment Awards with his cousin High Ruler King Cane of their group 2Deep. He also finally meets the sole producer of the InDAIpendent project, Midi Marc and kicks it in beautiful downtown Memphis.

L'Daialogue's InDAIpendent EP produced by Midi Marc is here.

DOWNLOAD NOW: http://www.mediafire.com/?wkw52lvnr1c

Inside The Mind...L'Daialogue (Hailmegatron.net Interview)

All I have to say....INDAIPENDENT EP COMING THURSDAY....JAN 28, 2010!!!!!



-L'Daialogue

______________________________________________


Off of www.hailmegatron.net:


Another day, another interview. This time I ask L’Daialogue the infamous 15 and get his input on them. He puts in his input on the state of underground hip hop (which is very very interesting) and many other things. Artists/Producers get at L’Daialogue. He’s a smart rapper who knows his music and his culture and doesn’t try to change either of them.

Check the interview under the cut.

-Mega


_____________________________________________




















1. Please state your name and musical occupation


My name is L’Daialogue DiCaprio and I am an emcee/producer from Memphis, Tennessee. I also have an independent label, Affillieated Vischunz/DRDP Productions along with a production company, Ovaground Undaground SounDZ with my DJ/producer, MiZUnderstatistic.


2. How did you find out about myself and www.hailmegatron.net


Man, I found out about hailmegatron.net through the man himself…lol. Actually, I saw a cool article he wrote on the original site a long time ago (for the folks who have been following since day one) and I have been an avid reader/supporter since. Plus, he’s an independent blogger which means that you don’t have all of that other b-s when you come through. Only good original independent music.

3. When did you start music and why did you start doing music?


I started with music like when I was 11 or 12. I came up in the church and my mom was a missionary so I was around gospel music from at an early age. I also played piano in the church so that was my basis in music in general. Very fundamental in regards to strictly music. I wasn’t allowed to listen to too much other than that.

Now, with hip-hop…that came around the same time. I used to write a lot of poetry and with that I started writing rhymes around the time I was in junior high school.

When I actually started writing, I wrote songs like crazy. It got to the point before my house burned down in 1998, I had over 1500 songs written. So, yeah… I was heavy in the hip-hop by the time I hit high school.


4. Who is your biggest influence, musically, and how did this influence shape the way you make music today.


Musically, being from Memphis…my true basis in music is structured from the blues and the soul music that I still listen to. B.B. King, Willie Hutch, David Ruffin, Bobby Womack, Willie Mitchell and Al Green. We call that “pimpin’ mane” music. You probably hear Juicy J say in front of his tracks “play me some of that pimpin’ mane”. That’s what he means.

I listened to all of the legends of hip-hop from the East to the West but I was really immersed in Southern hip-hop early on. Geto Boys, UGK, 8Ball & MJG, Three 6 Mafia, Outkast, Goodie Mob…I was very heavy into that. They showed me that I could do this music from a region that still even with all of the accolades and awards does not get real respect in hip-hop in my opinion.



5. If you had to describe your musical style, how would you describe it?


My rap style is kind of like how Bruce Lee was trying to explain his fighting style in Enter the Dragon. The art of fighting without fighting. Well, my style is the art of rapping without rapping lol.

But, really…I have a very fluid style that adjusts to pretty much any beat. I didn’t really have the luxury to be relegated to my region to say, “Hey, I’m just listen to Primo beats” or “I’m listen to Dr. Dre beats”. No, I had to listen to them plus the T-Mix, Mannie Fresh, DJ Paul and Juicy J beats. So, I had to better than your coast AND my side. If you listen to me rap…you can kind of figure that’s my competition. To answer the question simply, it sound like dialogue. You can interpret that anyway you want.


6. If you could sit in a studio session of one artist, alive or dead, who would it be and why?


I would want to talk to so many people but if I had to chose…just because of his recent passing, I would want to talk to Mr. Willie Mitchell. He was produced many of Al Green’s greatest hits, ran Hi Records and still recorded in Royal Studio in South Memphis up until the day he died. I mean…Mr. Mitchell was 81 years old still going strong. He actually did some work on a recent Al Green album in 2005. I would love to hear his wisdom from being in the game all those years. I would just listen to that man speak.


7. Are you currently working on any projects?


Yes, I have a 6-track EP coming out very soon entitled InDAIpendent produced entirely by my homeboy Midi Marc. It is a hard-hitting project mane. The project was recorded and conceived under the concept that since it’s such a cool catchphrase for people to say that they are “independent” artists…I’m letting people know what that struggle is.

It will be released online exclusively in the next few weeks. It will also be on www.hailmegatron.net also! So, definitely, I want everybody to support my first project of 2010. It is a jewel for everybody that listen and it is an honest approach of what I see as a turning point in the game today. INDAIPENDENT!!!!


8. Would you like to do any features with any other artists?


Yes. I’m at the point where I would love to collaborate with artists. Especially with rappers. But, the thing I believe that hinders a lot of collaborations to my opinion is egos. I am a musician and if we are like-minded artists…why can’t do music together?

You may catch a lot of my projects online like really official with certain artists and producers that are official projects. Then, I have the Odd Daialogue series that is an unofficial project that uses instrumentals produced by D.C. producer Oddisee. So, it goes both ways with me because if I was on and extended my hand to artists and producers, everybody would want to hop on board. So, depending on how I feel and how I’m moved…I am down to work with all artists. Let’s get it!


9. What is your opinion on the current state of mainstream hip hop?


Mainstream hip-hop right now is lost and corporate-owned. Mainstream hip-hop is not necessarily all bad but when you have blind piano players being played in the same 8-song rotation, it’s kind of hard to pick out the Steve Wonder in the bunch. Even if you do find that one diamond in the rough, it is so many regular old pebbles in the rock pile that after a while people don’t even want to search anymore.

I also think that the mainstream is unfairly used to access the validity of the culture and that’s not the case. I barely (and I emphasis barely) listen to radio “programming”. But, then that’s a whole different discussion of radio’s whole role in the downfall of mainstream hip-hop.

10. What is your opinion on the current state of underground/independent hip hop?


In certain ways, I think that so-called “underground/independent” hip-hop is no better than mainstream hip-hop. But, that’s not because of the same reasons though.

I think it is a clear separation between underground and independent hip-hop that really don’t need to be there. Underground hip-hop to me is people, just like me…that are putting out there music independently with the help of no majors. I am underground hip-hop. I drop independent records with no label push. Underground hip-hop can be Waka Flocka Flames. It can be Jay Electronica. So, there’s no distinction to me. The underground is music not widely accepted by the masses.

What I do not like is that because of certain subject matter artists get pigeonholed and blackballed to a certain extent because of that mainstream hip-hop conditioning. Fans don’t give certain music a chance because of whatever. Some pure “hip-hoppers” would have a problem with me because I’m not what you would call a “backpacker” rapper but lyrically I’ll rip them to shreds. I’m not what you would call a “gangsta/trapper” rapper either but I’m from Memphis, Tennessee mane. Check First 48 for proof of how they get down in my city.

So, in my opinion the definition of underground/independent music is music that gets exploited until it becomes mainstream. Then the cycle goes back around again. The state of that is up to the people. If you hate on a mainstream artist but then you turnaround as an underground/independent artist or fan and put out or support some wack music, you are just as worse as those wack programmers at radio from both ends. Just because you put yourself under that underground/independent tag doesn’t make you exempt from making a hit. It also doesn’t make the fans exempt when you’re “jerking” and “doing the stanky leg” off the next song that they play on the radio.



11. How has social networking sites (Twitter/Myspace/Facebook) changed how your music gets to different people?


It has definitely evened the playing field for me. I came from a time 5 years ago where I had at least 100 cds on me at all time. I had to account in the discs, the artwork and the inserts into every press run. I was more than breaking even in hand-to-hand cd sales but overall cd sells started falling everywhere.

Now, you have MySpace and Twitter where your music can be previewed through direct links and people can get a better sense of who you are as an artist. I never really used facebook for more than keeping up with my homeys from school but now that opens you up to a different fanbase to preview and support your music.

Also, you have independent blogs too. So, an artist have more ways to get there music there and with more exposure you can lead your fans to support music via digital downloads and more. I have been getting my music downloaded daily in the hundreds off of single songs all the way to my most recent mixtapes.

12. What is your favorite track that you have ever recorded?


My favorite track. I couldn’t choose from my tracks like that. I talk about so many different subjects and concepts that if I chose one, I would have to chose another one that was better. To date, I have 1000 plus recorded songs and I still have more to say. Plus, I don’t feel like I written my best verse yet because I always can write something better. That’s my Sisyphean task I guess. Create the best track that could never be topped. I got a little more time to do that though.



13. Everyone is critical of their own music; if you could change one thing about your music, what would you change and why?


I wouldn’t change anything…lol. But, for real…I am evolving as a man so I’m going to change as I grow. That’s not a thing that I can stop. So, as I change….my music will change.

I can’t rap about certain things because I’m not there anymore. You can’t still rap about what you’re doing in high school because what happens when you graduate? You got to rap about something else.

It would behoove a lot of the other rappers to take that credo a little more when they’re bustin’ guns and selling 1000 kilograms of dope from their luxury condominiums. It’s crazy. You got to change something somewhere down the line.

14. Random question: Do you consider yourself an Autobot or a Decepticon?


Man, I’m an autobot. Optimus Prime with shoulder missle-type dude. Plus, I’m always ready for a fight. But, then I be on that Megatron stuff too. So, I’m half and half.

But, I do know this: that the classic Transformers film from the 80’s is way too overpriced on Ebay. Lol.


15. Do you have any last words/shoutouts you’d like to say?


I would like to thank Hailmegatron.net for all the support and I want everybody to check out the InDAIpendent EP coming very soon!

I appreciate every text, email, comment (positive or negative), download, cd burn and bought show ticket. Hit me up on my twitter: www.twitter.com/ldaialogue, MySpace: www.myspace.com/ldaialogue and website: http://thaovaground.com for all the new happenings and thangs. 2000 Tennessee is going to be an interesting year. Holla at me!

60 Seconds with L'Daialogue DiCaprio [OVAGROUND EXCLUSIVE]

Yooooo,


Check out this vid as I a verse for 60 seconds in front of the Live From Memphis cameras. Actually it was one of the last verses from my project with Midi Marc entitled "InDAIpendent" off the actual track entitled "InDAIpendent" and I felt like it was the best verse to explain my perspective of the game coming into it as an artist from Memphis.

And shouts out to the peeps at Live From Memphis....AND the new mixtape is coming soon!!!!

Yessir!!!!!!!!!!!!!


-L'Daialogue


Live From Memphis Website Link: http://livefrommemphis.com/60seconds/2956-60-seconds-with-ldaialogue

L'Daialogue- MemphisMadeMe Pt. 2 x A Freak Of Nature x On 2 Da' Next 1 [NO DJ/CDQ] (OVAGROUND EXCLUSIVE LEAKS)

Yo,

What's up?

Yessir...the last one is almost here.
The last one you ask? Bluff City Daialogue 3!!!! The last one of the trilogy mane.

And since DJ Kenny Kaign has given me the green light and I have a little time before the InDAIpendent EP drop....check out some of these exclusive leaks from the Bluff City 3 tape until Monday when the full tape drops.

The MemphisMadeMe Pt. 2 track is the second part of the original "jackin' beats"-esque Memphis based classic that continues his take on classic old school Memphis beats.

A Freak Of Nature and On 2 Da' Next 1 are also tracks that are vastly different having one being inspired by Phonte of Little Brother and the other from Gucci Mane. Kinda makes you wanna listen now, huh?

Check it out mane.

Bluff City 3 coming this Monday!!!!!

InDAIpendent EP coming Jan 2010!!!!!

-L'Daialogue

LINKS:

MemphisMadeMe Pt. 2 (CDQ)-
http://www.mediafire.com/?mj2ynmirm3n

A Freak Of Nature (CDQ)-
http://www.mediafire.com/?t433quog0on

On 2 Da' Next 1 (CDQ)-
http://www.mediafire.com/?dttwgzznjyg

L'Daialogue- Friends feat. MIDI Marc (Produced by MIDI Marc) [OVAGROUND EXCLUSIVE] [NEW MUSIC]

The birthday boy is on a roll with his latest single from the project InDAIpendent 2. The single, Friends featuring MIDI Marc on the vocals is a play on a oldie but goodie Hip-Hop track with a Southern twist. 

Sooooooo, check it out below and just know....INDAIPENDENT 2 IS COMING SOON!!!!!!!!!

-MiZ

LINK: https://soundcloud.com/midimarcbeats/ldaialogue-feat-midimarc

INDAIPENDENT 2 IS COMING SOON!!!!!! [OVAGROUND EXCLUSIVE][NEW MUSIC]

INDAIPENDENT 2 IS COMING AUG 5, 2013!!!!

Get ready and check out the promo vids, music previews AND all of the other goodies following up to the release date.

Check it out below. Still our June Hustle trying to get that Maybach... #yessur

-MiZUnderstatistic 

NEW MUSIC FRIDAY: L'Daialogue- My Game Shows feat. 9th Wonder (LO-FI Mix) [Prod. by MiZUnderstatistic]

Hey,


Here is some new L'Daialogue to hold you over until the InDAIpendent EP drop. It was inspired by a YouTube video with producer E. Jones and 9th Wonder speaking about 80's inspired music. DJ MiZUnderstatistic got a hold of the lo-fi original sample of "$25,000 Pyramid" and the rest is history.

Check it out. InDAIpendent coming soon!!!!

-MiZ


LINK: http://www.mediafire.com/?m2vygzmnujv

L'Daialogue- 3 8 1 2 7 [OVAGROUND EXCLUSIVE] [NEW MUSIC] [NEW PROJECT]

Once again it's onnnnnnnnn,

Memphis, Tennessee emcee L'Daialogue DiCaprio is coming back in classic style with his latest project titled 38127.

The title is a direct reference to the zip code of the neighborhood he grew up in North Memphis which is known by Frayser a.k.a The Bay Area. Whether its tracks like "10 Watkins and Rangeline" which references the MATA Bus Line that used to run directly through his neighborhood or "Snap" which speaks about the legendary North Memphis basketball upstart Jimmie Snap Hunter or "Big Brown Van Pt. 2" which puts the listener in the passenger seat of L'Dai's old Econoline Van as he flows like a masterful orator over the piano-guided track...this project is close to home because its about his home.

38127 features many of the usual players from the Ovaground Undaground SounDZ crew like High Ruler King Cane (2Deep), Babi Memphiz, Mellowhype and J-Snizzy. 38127 also boasts production from J-Snizzy, Rick Flare (Beat Arkitekz), On1Ne (Polyphunknik Productions) and The Clazzikal Clazzik Team (MiZUnderstatistic + L'Daialogue DiCaprio).

So, turn up your headphones or speakers and vibe out with these sounds from the Northside of Memphis.

Download link is below. Check it out and support.


-MiZUnderstatistic 


P.s This project is released in honor of Reba T. Becton (R.I.P) 

TRACKLISTING

1. 38127FrayserBayAreaIntroduction

2. 10 Watkins and Rangeline (Produced by MiZUnderstatistic)

3.       Innasections Revisted Pt.3 feat. Mellowhype (Produced by MiZUnderstatistic)

4.       Small Town Big City (Produced by Rick Flare)

5.       A Pharoh & Da King Ish Freestyle feat. High Ruler King Cane

6.       The Conversation Keeps Goin... (Produced by On1Ne)

7.       Life Coach (Produced by On1Ne)

8.       Power (Remix) feat. J-Snizzy (Produced by J-Snizzy)

9.       InDAIpendent 2 Commercial Interlude

  10.   (I Know) She Ready feat. High Ruler King Cane (2DEEP)  (Produced by MiZUnderstatistic)

11.   Im From Tha Bay (MiZUnderstatistic DSG Remix) feat. Babi Memphiz

12.   Southern InDAIpendent Real (Original Version) (Produced by MiZUnderstatistic)

13.   Outta Here (Produced by Rick Flare)

14.   Snap (Produced by MiZUnderstatistic)

15.   Big Brown Van Pt. 2 (Produced by MiZUnderstatistic)

16.   Memphis Flyer (Produced by MiZUnderstatistic)

17.   Big Pimpin Remix feat June & Big K.R.I.T [BONUS TRACK]

Produced by MiZUnderstatistic & L’Daialogue DiCaprio for Affillieated Vischunz/DRDP Productions/ Reba’s Furst Born (ASCAP)

All Rights Reserved © 2014 

_______________________________________________

DOWNLOAD LINK #1 : http://ldaialogue.bandcamp.com/album/3-8-1-2-7
DOWNLOAD LINK #2 : http://www.audiomack.com/album/ldaialogue/3-8-1-2-7

L'Daialogue Interview on Urban Hollywood Radio 01/19/2015 [OVAGROUND EXCLUSIVE]

Yup, yup...

Last night I was kicking with my folks at Urban Hollywood Radio promoting the Initiate.Movement 2 project. It was a very cool interview and everybody tuned in from all over so that was cool.

Cop the Initiate.Movement 2 junt and be on the lookout for Part 3. What up R-Tistic??? Lol.

Check out the playback starting at 43:40 so get stream on mane!!!! 

New music coming soon!!!!

 -MiZUnderstatistic

Much love to the @urbanhollywoodradio crew @queencookee @angelinathediva and @djmixmastercash...that interview was fun!!!! More music coming soon!!!! #weareurbanhollywood #initiatemovement #blessings #ldaialogue #memphis #losangeles #newmusic #neworleans #bumpin #southernraptunes #ovagroundundaground #affillieatedvischunz #frayser #swag #bluffcitydaialogue #ibuiltmyownbuzz #establishmyposition #contentnevercontent #2#ldaialogue #memphis #losangeles #newmusic #neworleans #bumpin #southernraptunes #ovagroundundaground #affillieatedvischunz #frayser #swag #bluffcitydaialogue #ibuiltmyownbuzz #establishmyposition #contentnevercontent #2deep #indaipendent #yessuuurrdeep #indaipendent #yessuuurr #38127 #38127vet #frayser #acceleratedradio

A photo posted by L'Daialogue DiCaprio (@ldaialogue) on Jan 20, 2016 at 12:10am PST

MIDIMarc Rap and Ramen Interview

I have been sooooo late on my interview game.


But, then again...MIDI Marc has been getting all of the interview in the last few months. Here's another great interview by my man on Rap and Ramen: rapandramen.blogspot.com


Check it out mane. InDAIpendent is coming soon homey!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


-L'Daialogue

__________________________________________________

LINK: http://rapandramen.blogspot.com/2010/01/need-to-put-spotlight-on-midimarc-w.html


It really is hard to find talent these days, especially when the Internet is quite oversaturated with people of all genres on the scene. So it's quite a surprise and breath of fresh air to stumble upon South Carolina producer MidiMarc. Producing for well over a decade, Mr. Marc (not to be confused with Mr. Marcus) has truly honed his craft and continues to climb higher with his witty skits and soulful backdrops. Yours truly was blessed to have an interview with the young "Super Producer-In-Training"


Noir Negro: Ok MidiMarc, first of all I have to state that I found your work by word of mouth and I'm glad I took the time out to listen. How long have you been producing for?



Midimarc: I'm glad you're digging the music, thank you! I've been doing my thing since 1997. I started making beats after I heard Wu-Tang Forever (Wu-Tang Clan, 1997).



NN: Hahaha that's a true Hip-Hop fan. Was it any particular track that stuck out to you or was it the album as a whole?



MMarc: Man! As soon as I started Disc One and "Reunited" came on, my life changed! The RZA was still known for heavy sampling, but busted me over the head with fresh violins and what not. I listened to the album everyday for a year and a half, real talk.



NN: Hahaha, I feel you. RZA can have that kind of effect on you (no homo). I've listened to a lot of your projects, such as "MidiMarc Tribute to Michael Jackson" (listen), "The NewPrint w/ Jay-Z" (listen), and the entire Shootin Breeze Instrumental Series, especially the Wario edition (listen). Is it strictly just you behind the boards or do you have a team that helps you out?



MMarc: The Shootin The Breeze Instrumental Series is actually produced by DJ Cannon Banyon and I, he makes beats as well. We won't say who did what on the projects though haha. I do work with other producers though and the collaborations are on the way. Right now, my fellow producers are Hollywood, Cap, A Dot McCray, and Encore.



NN: The lineup already sounds official and I'm a fan of the "Keep it Mum' Production Ethic. You get points with that one. In a day and age where producers are getting more recognition while Superproducers are getting pushed aside, how do you feel about this new surge of creativity?



MMarc: I feel like technology has evened out the playing field somewhat. Nowadays, you have folks fresh out of high school with access to the same software as a 20 year veteran Producer. You can't rest on any laurels anymore. Everyone has to prove that they want it. There's a lot of speculation and opinion on things happening these days with the culture (Hip-Hop). It's still growing, so there are a bunch of questions that haven't been answered yet. Whatever the industry has in store for an up-and-coming producer like myself, I'll be ready.



NN: I like that response. Artist makes the Producer or Producer makes the Artist?



MMarc: Even though dope production is the only thing keeping the music interesting these days, I feel like the artist and producer make each other. Use Gangstarr as an example. Some would say that Guru wouldn't be who he is without DJ Premier, but NOBODY was looking for Premo until they saw what him and Guru was doing. Also, the music that a Producer makes with an Artist creates a sound that he doesn't get while working with someone else. You don't get the same feeling from a Timbaland and Jay-Z song that you get from a Timbaland/Magoo track or Timbaland/Missy track. The artist brings something out of the Producer and vice versa.



NN: That's deep and insightful that you put it that way. Not many cats understand the bond to make magic like that. Normally, rappers have to go out and perform live to get noticed. How do you feel the producer's hustle is any different?



MMarc: I feel like these days since there are soooo many folks trying to rap that you can get a lot done as a producer by simply going to where the rappers are and passing out Beat CD's. It's still a hustle, but dope beats are in a real demand right now at every level of the music industry. From local talent shows and up, everyone needs beats. The hustle is different and the same. It's the same because you need to be seen and your music needs to be heard and it's different because if your production is dope, everyone wants to know you. Beat CD's, remix projects, compilations, you can't go wrong...."if you build it, they will come." haha.



NN: Lmao! I definitely vibe on that statement. Is there any specific artists that you work with right now and is there anytime soon that we can expect more work from you?



MMarc: Right now, I'm working with some great independent artists and producers. I mentioned my producers earlier, but as far as artists go, I'm working on joints with Fat Rat the Czar, Ntelligence, Preach Jacobs, Dan Johns, Big Hodge, L'Daialogue, Boondak Syndicate, Jim Snooka, Deezus, Ron Payton, Singapore Kane, Marly Mar, T-Roc, TrapStar, Open Mike, Hollywood, Diablo Archer, and Top Billion. The next projects up to bat are: Shooting The Breeze Instrumentals Vol. 4, InDAIPendent: a project with Memphis emcee L'DaiaLogue, and Mediocre: a beat cd made by fellow producer Encore and myself. If there's one thing to expect from me, it's "out of the blue" beat projects. There is nothing better than doing what you love. I'm having so much fun with this music.



NN: And by all means, continue to have fun doing this. You always got to keep that passion going through thick and thin. With the instance that Dr. Dre has delayed his highly anticipated album Detox for yet ANOTHER YEAR, do you feel that you're a perfectionist as well or do you let the fans decide and critique?



MMarc: I don't think i've really tapped into the Perfectionist in me yet. I'll get a glimpse of it when I produce a compilation from top to finish, meaning selcting each rapper and creating a beat for each project like Dr. Dre does. Of course the fans are going to critique the final product, but that's only if I like the beat enough to let anyone hear it. If I don't like it, it's deleted before anyone hears it. A true "tree falling in the woods" scenario.



NN: Good point. Well we'll definitely be paying attention to your moves in this new year and decade. Anything you would like to say to artists on the come-up trying to be successful?



MMarc: It's all about baby steps. Take pride in your work and let the world know that you love and stand by what you do. And anything past two shakes means that you're playing with yourself.



NN: I think that you're going to make it very far in this business. You show talent and humbleness, and that's a rare combo in this industry. You got to keep us updated with the progress as we'll meet again somewhere down the line. Thanks a Milli, Bro.