Some argue that mainstream hip-hop is not as meaningful as it used to be, and that “real” hip-hop is dying out. Cleveland rapper Navy Blu purports that hip-hop with substance isn’t dying; many just refuse to acknowledge its existence.
In an exclusive interview with rolling out, Navy Blu discussed his take on pop culture and the future of hip-hop.
–steve simpson
With a huge decrease in album sales in the urban market, what is your motivation for continuing to make music?
Despite the decrease in album sales, I continue to make music because music is my passion. I’ll always rap because it’s what I was born to do.
Do you view your independence as an artist as an advantage or disadvantage? Why?
My independence is only an advantage because I have creative freedom to say what I want to say in my music. I wouldn’t be any good to a major label because I’m not a sellout.
In your song titled ‘Nothin’ In Me’ you say, ‘Pop ain’t a queen, she’s a harlot, a skeeze.’ Explain what that means.
I believe that pop culture is an evil, empty system that corrupts the souls of men. So, if pop was put in the context of a woman, calling her a ‘skeeze’ would be an understatement.
If you could collaborate with one artist, dead or alive, who would it be?
If I could collaborate with any artist it would be Scarface. He’s influenced me a lot.
What would you do with your first million dollars?
[Laughs.] If I had a million dollars I’d tithe, take care of my parents, cancel all of my debt, buy a house, invest in my music, start a second business, and save the rest.
What do you think is the most impressive feature about your new EP UNCONSCIOUS
Aside from my lyrics, I’d say the most impressive feature is the fact that you can listen to the entire project without skipping a song. It’s truly a classic!
Check Navy Blu out at myspace.com/navyblu9, and twitter.com/navyblu9. His album entitled Unconscious is available on iTunes and at cdbaby.com.
