ReviewSTACKS.com – Rap reviews, features and commentary

RS: What brought you into the rap game?

Draft: Since I can remember I’ve always been interested in music. I remember being 4 or 5 dancing to Kool Mo Dee. I just always felt like I wanted to be heard. Add that with a love of music…an emcee is born.

RS: What aspect of the music do you enjoy most? Do you prefer writing, recording, or performing?

Draft: I love the writing aspect of music. When you write that hot song, [there's] no better feeling [than] when you see everybody react.

RS: ATL is full of people trying to break into this game, what does it take to stand out in Atlanta?

Draft: I think it takes individuality. [What is out there now] is so much of the same thing.

RS: Have you found the hip-hop world to be more collaborative or competitive?

Draft: I mean, its a little of both. I’ve collabed with a few people…but at the same time it is a business.

RS: Who are your primary lyrical or stylistic influences?

Draft: Mostly artists like Curtis Mayfield, Jay-Z, T.I., Common, Del la Soul, 9th Wonder, J Dilla. I could go on forever.

RS: What is the goal or message with Forever Young?

Draft: My goal with Forever Young is to just show people that there’s more to the South than what you hear on the radio.

RS: What does your music offer that sets it apart from everybody else’s?

Draft: I think its offers a perspective that the hip-hop world hasn’t seen. I try to approach my music as a poet and not a rapper.

Draft’s track by track comments on Forever Young:

• 1.”Forever Young” (feat. Sean Emcee,  produced by The Beat Medic) – This is about keeping that young attitude through your whole life.
• 2.”Party Til (produced by The Beat Medic) -It’s a like a old-skool/nu-skool house party type record. Something to play when you’ve got time, women and alcohol.
• 3.”That’s Us” (Feat. Sean Emcee, produced by The Beat Medic) – When I wrote this, I wanted to make a ‘94 sounding joint, recreate that classic hip-hop sound.
• 4.”Let’s Roll” (produced by J-Haze) – This track is something that you play for your girl. It’s about trying to make a relationship.
• 5.”Early and Late” (produced by The Beat Medic) – So many people rush through life. I’m a firm believer in being patient. Good things come to those who wait.
• 6.”Ganja Music” (produced by March Pedro) – I guess you could say I’m a “fan” of marijuana.
• 7.”Stay Real” (feat. Rapsody, produced by J-Haze) -This song is about how so many artists are willing to sell their integrity. Its getting sickening!
• 8.”What Can I Do?” (produced by The Beat Medic) -  This track is just a venting session.