Prepare to witness the epitome of the resilient and digitally savvy 21st century entrepreneur. Trail tightly as he rifles out a blast of inspirational brand building tips to progressive work ethic attitudes that’ll help you ascend in your very own position.

1. What is the start-up story behind Dope Couture?

Man doesn’t want to work a 9-5 job. Man gets an idea for a clothing line. Man starts clothing line in college. Man has fairly successful clothing line while in college. Man graduates college and keeps making clothes. Man now has brand and 2 boutiques and will never look back. How weird is it that I just referred to myself as ‘Man’? Weird. Right, I know.

2. Describe your clothing/visual concepts, what is it like? What are three words that best define it?

Clean +Upscale + $wag. I’ll be honest I didn’t put a lot of thought into this answer. Shoutout to CMart. He does all of the graphics for the line.

3. What is your definition of success, and how much of it do you think you’ve achieved?

Success for me is worldwide recognition and support of the things I’ve done. I want to create things that go beyond making people say ‘ oh I had that idea but he got to it first’ to people saying ‘oh yes, this is true innovation or this is amazing’. I’ve achieved a bit. There is much more to accomplish.

4. What are some recent achievements you’re proud of and would like to share?

Opening a shop in Los Angeles, Keeping a shop in IN, and bringing my cut and sew production back from China to Los Angeles.

5. What’s something that’s always running inside your mind lately?

I’m always thinking about how to improve the line aesthetically while keeping it affordable. I am usually trying to think of ways to take streetwear to the next level. My focus also hops back and forth between buying for the boutique and working on the line. My head is usually between those two worlds.

6. What would you spend a million dollars on?

Right now I would invest that into the business. To answer this question the way I think you are intending it to be answered, I would most likely buy property, some ill furniture and an Aston Martin.

7. What’s one incident that would serve as a turning point to your life?

I’ve been incredibly lucky throughout my career and have incidentally had several fortunate turning points. However, the most pivotal moment in my career thus far was running into an acquaintance in Bloomington who happened to be a commercial broker in LA and as a result I found an amazing retail spot in LA.

8. What three pieces of advice would you give to others when it comes to life and career?

Anything is possible if you work hard enough for it. Nobody knows better than you. Trust your instincts. Be prepared to give life and limb if you’re going into business for yourself.

9. What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them?

As vain as it might sound, I haven’t had many failures. There have been a few projects that haven’t been as successful as I would have liked, but I haven’t had any total failures. In those experiences I stop what I’m doing, evaluate the situation and change direction to get back on course.

10. What’s a typical day in your life like?

There’s nothing typical about my day. I’m all over the place. Everyday is something different especially since we moved out to LA. If I’m working on production you can find me downtown meeting with manufacturers, fabric suppliers and other vendors. If I’m designing, I’m posted at my office with my graphic designer cycling through inspiration folders, reading books, and conceptualizing designs. Day to day I try to answer emails-I have an inbox that reaches back years lol.

11. What’s one of the highlighting moments in your career? Why is it so?

Before Don C had RSVP Gallery and was designing I used to communicate with him a little bit and send gear to the Pastelle office in LA for the G.O.O.D. Music crew to rock. I never thought about it too much but looking at it now that was pretty amazing. Kanye is the most important musician of our lifetime and Don C is his manager. The fact that he even acknowledged me was dope. I still communicate with some of the G.O.O.D. Music crew but mainly the younger artists. Also, Chris Julian came up to me at the last Agenda show, shook my hand and told me to ‘keep it up’. That might sound silly but it meant a lot to me.

12. What stops you from throwing in the towel and giving up during those frustrating days of being in this industry?

I am my own boss. I answer to no one. That’s all the motivation I need.

13. Biggest risk ever taken?

Opening a boutique in a town with ZERO streetwear market. I’m Bloomington’s first and only streetwear boutique. It was a sink or swim situation. Student’s were either going to love it and embrace it or they weren’t going to understand it at all. I had my fair share of nay-sayers at first, but now the store is supporting itself.

14. Who has influenced you most and been your greatest inspiration?

I have different people who inspire me in different ways. I was raised by a single mother. She fought to give me the things I wanted. She is resourceful, determined, and courageous and she worked extremely hard for the two of us. She’s the one who taught me that if I worked hard enough for something I would get it.

My employees also inspire me. My team is made up of incredible people who support me to the fullest. Several have been with me from almost the beginning. Seeing them and their work inspires me to keep doing what I’m doing.

From a design point of view, that’s even more difficult to answer. I’m a youngin’ in the game and I’m growing rapidly. The things and people who inspired me a year ago are different than those I look at today. In general, I find inspiration across all facets of fashion, and culture.

15. How do you go about marketing your business or yourself? What has been your most successful form of marketing?

I’m a big supporter of Twitter and social media. Interacting with your market is a key component to success, especially when you’re reaching a younger demographic. The kids that support my brand want to know more about the people behind it than they do about the concept or idea behind their favorite designs. I try to market myself as the brand since the brand is me. I also do it because I feel it makes the brand seem more accessible to my supporters and less like Dope is some big corporate brand driven by P/L reports and margins. At the end of the day I do this because I love it and I love seeing the response of my supporters.

16. In three words, characterize who Matte Fields is.

Ambitious, Fearless, Creative.

17. What other artists inspired you and do you admire the most?

We just finished up a collection entitled ‘Planes, Chains and Automobiles’ It was all pop-art influenced so I would say at this moment it’s Paolo Dallara, Slick Rick, Pierre Satre, Warhol, Gottlieb Daimler, Big Daddy Kane and Jean-Michel Basquiat. I consider all those people artists.

18. How do you achieve balance in your life?

For the first three years I was going really hard and not taking any time for myself. I’ve started taking Sunday’s off, or working a short day on Sunday. I love traveling and I get a lot of inspiration when I travel. Traveling helps balance me out and set me right.

19. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?

I would love to answer this honestly but in doing so I would reveal some ambitious plans I’m working on. For now let’s say that in 5 years I see I us with at least one additional retail store. That was easily assumable so I didn’t really answer your question. See what I did there?

20. What’s the first thing you would say to the world if all attention were on you right now?

Dope For President. Peace World.

Oh, and make sure you head on over to Dope Couture to style up for the year!

Technorati Tags: 21st Century, Aesthetically, Attitudes, Boutiques, breaking, Clothes, Clothing Line, College Man, Couture Clothing, Entrepreneur, Epitome, Graduates, Grand Opportunity, Graphics, latest, Line 3, Line Man, Next Level, Opening A Shop, Precious Minutes, Progressive Work, Rifles, Savvy Entrepreneur, True Innovation, Wag, Work Ethic, Worldwide Recognition

1. What is the start-up story behind Keez Clothing?

Well, I always had a passion for clothing, so for me this started off as a hobby.

2. Describe your visual concepts, what is it like? What are three words that best define it?

Complexity , public appeal , exclusivity

3. In three words, characterize who you are.

Hard working, dedicated, and passionate

4. What’s something that’s always running inside your mind lately?

My family. I am constantly missing them.

5. Being in your position, I’m sure it can be overwhelming with the workload.

Yes, it never stops… but hey, I signed up for this, so there is no back downing down.

6. How do you achieve balance in life?

I believe there is time and a place for everything; I try my best to stay focused and humble.

7. What’s one incident that would serve as a turning point to your life?
I would say it was the response that I got from major hip-hop celebrities such as LL Cool J, Busta Rymes ,Cassidy, etc.

8. What three pieces of advice would you give to others when it comes to life & career?
its money that makes money not the talent; stay consistent and driven towards your goal; never take no for an answer.

9. What’s a typical day in your life like?
I start off my day with a morning prayer, then cook some breakfast; I’m a good cook too, by the way. Then, I’ll be at the office replying to emails and phone calls; looking for different avenues to branch out my clothing company. I always keep the music on and I can’t work without it.

10. What’s one of the highlighting moment in your career? Why is it so?
When I saw my clothes on VH1 family business reality show, it felt like my dream came true.

11. What stops you from throwing in the towel and giving up during those frustrating days of being in this industry?
I got my family that looks up to me, so I don’t want let them down.

12. Biggest risk ever taken?
Dealing with overseas manufacturers. I never meet some of them, so it’s hard to wire money to random people that you never meet; it’s just a risk that comes with the business.

13.  Who has influenced you most and been your greatest inspiration?
God, and my parents.

14. How do you go about marketing your business or yourself? What has been your most successful form of marketing?
I have been in lot of trade shows and award shows, and also word of mouth; when you have good products, people will talk about you.

15. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
10 years?
To me, the sky is the limit.

16. What’s the first thing you would say to the world if all attention was on you right now?
Hard work pays off.

For more information on Keez Clothing, make sure you check out their website.

Technorati Tags: Avenues, breaking, Busta Rymes, Cassidy, Clothing Company, Complexity, Exclusivity, Fashion Landscape, Good Cook, latest, Ll Cool J, Mentality, Morning Prayer, Phone Calls, Privilege, Public Appeal, Streetwear Brand, Sxh, Three Pieces, Time And A Place, Turning Point, Typical Day, Workload

Young Kid from Detroit, MI who passion for music through dance & singing in primary school which later grew into a passion for hip-hop and rhyming.

I’ve been involved with music my entire life. It’s something I knew I wanted to do from the very beginning.

2. Describe your sound concepts, what is it like? What are three words that best define it?

My music is soul music, it’s music from the heart. Soul, Love & Passionate are the three words that best describe what I represent.

3. What is your definition of success, and how much of it do you think you’ve achieved?

Success for me is ever evolving. I’m never satisfied. I want more than I can imagine but at the very same instant, I give myself credit for my accomplishments and I take pride in reaching my goals. You can’t skip crawling and go right into walking but you show aim to run.

Thats how I look at things. Be proud of what you have done but don’t let that be the end all be all. In the short amount of time that I’ve really been persuing this as a profession I think my team and I have accomplished a lot of the initial things needed to be done but we have a ways to go.

4. What are some recent achievements you’re proud of and would like to share?

I recently got he opportunity to record in the infamous Stankonia Studios in Atlanta, GA. This is home to the greats, Outkast. I record a record that featured OG’s in the game, Rapper Big Pooh (formerly of Little Brother) & Freeway (Formerly of Jay-Z’s Roc-a-fella Records). That was major for me. I was also featured in XXL Magazine.

5. What’s something that’s always running inside your mind lately?

I’m always focused on what more I could be doing. How can I work harder and get closer to my goals.

6. What would you spend a million dollars on?

Haha quite a lot of things. Family would be the first thing. I want to make sure my parents and my little brother are straight then I’d invest in some real estate, put some money in the bank, Blow some money on leisure items and then use the remainder to launch a foundation for charity.

7. What’s one incident that would serve as a turning point to your life?

When I quit my job and put finishing college on hold I realized it was all or nothing. I had to make this work if I wanted to have a chance of making something out of myself in this world.

8. What three pieces of advice would you give to others when it comes to life and career?

Love your life. Set goal, meet and exceed them and continue to learn more about yourself and the world you live in and try to experience as much as you can. No one can tell you no. Where there is a will there is a way and you can always make something happen for yourself but you have to believe in yourself first. Don’t wait for someone to co-sign you or pull you up. Be of use to yourself.

9. What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them?

Preparation is key. I used to rush to finish and release song/projects and as I’ve grown I’ve realized I really have to take the time to cultivate what I’m doing for my best interest.

10. What’s a typical day in your life like?

I’m a studio rat. Every waking chance that I get I’m in the studio writing, producing and/or recording music. Besides that I’m getting back into my work out days so I’ve been incorporating workouts into my schedule.

11. What’s one of the highlighting moments in your career? Why is it so?

It’s tied between releasing my debut album “Seconds Away” and making it into XXL’s print which was a result of the album release. My team and I put a crazy amount of time and energy into putting this project together and I was so proud to see it come to light and for the feedback to be as positive as it was.

When I found out “Seconds Away” had been reviewed by XXL and I was going to be featured in “The Break” Section I went crazy (in all honesty). This is magazine I grew up collecting so it was monumental for me to actually be featured in it for something I dreamt about doing since childhood.

12. What stops you from throwing in the towel and giving up during those frustrating days of being in this industry?

I know what and who I do it for. Music drives my soul. I love the craft beyond any of the superficial benefits. Its not about the money or the fame. Its about being able to create something that not only serves as a release for me but as inspiration to the world.

13. Biggest risk ever taken?

I began to travel a lot more while I was into my 3rd year of College. I decided to postpone finishing college so I could dedicate all my time to my music career as well as quitting my job. That was a really big risk for me but it has been paying off.

14. Who has influenced you most and been your greatest inspiration?

I’m inspired by life and those that have blazed trails before (in my respective craft) but my Mother has been one of my greatest inspirations. She’s such a strong and driven woman that you can’t help but be motivated by her.

15. How do you go about marketing your business or yourself? What has been your most successful form of marketing?

The internet is the biggest tool at my disposal. It’s honestly been the biggest platform for me to connect with people and to release and sell my music. I use social networks like Twitter & Facebook to directly connect with my fans and supporters. It allows them to see more into the kind of individual that I am.

16. What other artists inspired you and do you admire the most?

I’m a fan of forward thinkers. People (not just artists) that push the boundaries and look at things outside the box. I was always a fan of Tupac, J.Dilla, Nas & Jay-Z growing up. They’re the big reasons I create music the way I do.

17. How do you achieve balance in your life?

I honestly love life, I get a high from it. I love what I wake up and do everyday and I motivated to push myself and reach new heights. My faith in God keeps me grounded. I know that as long as I’m alive another day to do things different that all will be right eventually if not at that very moment.

18. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?

I still hope to be creating music. I plan to have achieved certain accomplishments in the industry and have amassed a certain fan base but I want to continue pushing the boundaries and reaching for more.

19. What’s the first thing you would say to the world if all attention was on you right now?

Prepare yourself, we’re about to shake things up for the better.

Technorati Tags: Amount Of Time, Amp, Atlanta Ga, breaking, Fella, Freeway, Game Rapper, Haha, Heart Soul, hip hop, jay-z, Little Brother, Million Dollars, Music From The Heart, Outkast, Passion, Pride, Profession, Soul Music, Stankonia Studios, Xxl Magazine

You’re now watching: Interview x Pharrell Williams by Whitewall

Check out this up close interview with the Grammy Award snatching artist, producer, skateboarder, and designer: Pharrell Williams.

Pharrell discusses about the inspirational artists he currently follows, the mentor he’s worked with, along with sharing his viewpoints on how he likes to present his designs in the context of collaborative pieces with major fashion houses.

What we took away from this interview, and certainly agree to, is that we should always “learn” and “sponge up as much as we can” on our career journey.

Special thanks to Whitewall Magazine for conducting the interview at the beach side Art Basel – Miami.

The newly emerged hip hop duo and lyrical maestro’s behind “In The Cloud”: Flight School – comprising of Day Diz & Musique, recently gave us more valuable insight on what’s boiling in their minds, how to keep your heads above waters in the music industry, as well as a glimpse of what their day-to-day life is like. Check out our exclusive interview with them!

1. Describe your sound concepts, what is it like? What are three words that best define it?

[Flight School:] I don’t think we can put a label on our sound. When we get in the studio and come up with ideas, we go with what ever feels right at that particular moment. The reason we started Flight School is because we both wanted to experiment and not have to follow a certain formula.

2. What is your definition of success, and how much of it do you think you’ve achieved?

[Flight School:] For us success is being able to live of Music. Of course a big house and a flash car would be nice but for the time being we are just happy to be making quality music. As far as achievements go, we are at the start of our Career, we have only yet released one single as a group.

3. What are some recent achievements you’re proud of and would like to share?

[Flight School:] Our first single “In The Clouds” would have to be one of our greatest achievements. We are also really happy with the response we got on our “trust issues” remix – over 70.000 views on Youtube.

4. What’s something that’s always running inside your mind lately?

[Flight School:] We are both so busy lately that we hardly have time to think haha. Both of us are really focused on finishing our first album so we can release it (for free) on December 15th on www.welcometoflightschool.com

5. What would you spend a million dollars on?

[Flight School:] I think we would probably build a nice studio with an Ocean view somewhere in California and just make music all day

6. What’s one incident that would serve as a turning point to your life?

[Flight School:] The two of us (Day Diz & Muzique) linking up and deciding to start Flight School. Before Flight School we were both producing and writing for other artists. This project has really given us the chance to show the people what we are all about as Artists.

7. What three pieces of advice would you give to others when it comes to life and career?

[Flight School:] The early bird gets to worm! if you want to make it big you gotta put in the hard work! but apart from that, i think you need to be passionate about what you do …and most of all you should have fun with it.

8. What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them?

[Flight School:] You’ll hear plenty of stories on the album, i think we will let the music answer that question haha

9. What’s a typical day in your life like?

[Flight School:] We both pretty much make music all day every day. If we are not working on Flight School together then we are individually producing and writing for other artists.

10. What stops you from throwing in the towel and giving up during those frustrating days of being in this industry?

[Flight School:] It’s the passion and the love we both have for Music. We both have days where we doubt ourselves or think we are not good enough, but who doesn’t! We just try and keep each other motivated and keep it moving.

11. Who has influenced you most and been your greatest inspiration?

[Flight School:] our inspirations for Flight School would Drake, The Weekend, Frank Ocean, Tyga, Miguel, Joe Budden…stuff like that.

12. How do you go about marketing your business or yourself? What has been your most successful form of marketing?

[Flight School:] When you’re just starting out and you don’t have a big budget, the Internet is your best bet. We spend ours on Social Networks and emailing different Blogs about posting our music.

13. How do you achieve balance in your life?

[Flight School:] Sports and Women! haha and of course kicking it with friends and family

14. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?

[Flight School:] Hopefully still making music on an even larger scale, that would be a dream come true for both of us.

15. What’s the first thing you would say to the world if all attention was on you right now?

[Flight School:] Follow us on twitter lol @FlightSch and don’t forget to check out first single “In The Clouds” featuring Joe Budden. You can download it for free at www.welcometoflightschool.com! also, the “In The Clouds” music video will be released in the next few weeks! shout out to our dude Aaron Man who directed it!

Once again, we’ve secured another exclusive & inspirational interview with Travis Siflinger, the founder of the L.A based BR4SS Underwear company. For the young entrepreneurs out there (which I know you’re watching), this is one interview session you certainly have to pay attention to, as Travis kindly shares with us his invaluable insights on his daily work routine, how to cement a strong foundation for your business, along with a traumatic  turning point in his life which injected him with the unbreakable strength and determination to skyrocket to where he is today. And yes, Dreams do come to life to those with focus, confidence, and a “BR4SS” attitude.

Company Details:
Title: Travis Siflinger – Founder – BR4SS Underwear
Industry: Youth Lifestyle
Type of company: Mens Apparel & Accessories Brand
Year founded: 2010
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Number of employees: 2

1. What is the start-up story behind your pursuit as an undergarment designer?
I started BR4SS when everything in my life was falling apart and this was a project that kept me sane – I saw a void in the market, put together my ideas and next thing you know, I’m going to our pattern makers house in Los Angeles stripping down in her living room and developing a custom fitted product that we refined a handful of times until we were finally happy with it. BR4SS is Quality, Comfort, Fit & Style.

2. Describe your visual concepts, what is it like? What are three words that best define it?
Bold, Gritty, Stylish

3. What is your definition of success, and how much of it do you think you’ve achieved?

Good Question and I’m probably the wrong person to ask at this time. A quote I recently heard was from Music Mogul Steve Lobel. “Patience + Sacrifice = Success” With that being said, I’m just focused on working hard and letting things build organically. We’ll see what happens from here….

4. What are some recent achievements you’re proud of and would like to share?

We’ve been shipping our products around the world to distributors in Japan, Australia & Sweden – That and the addition of our first US Sales Rep on The East Coast is definitely pretty exciting!

5. What’s something that’s always running inside your mind lately?
Jetting off to the South of France with a gorgeous girl – haha.

6. What would you spend a million dollars on?
If it was to blow, then it would definitely be a Ferrari, world traveling, good food and great experiences with some of the people in my life.
If it was to be smart with, I’d definitely make some diversified investments and see what happens.

7. What’s one incident that would serve as a turning point to your life?
A few years ago I got in a bad car wreck – I ended up going head first into the center divider of a freeway at 40mph in the pouring rain. Besides losing alot of money in vehicle upgrades, I almost killed myself and it makes you realize that you should try your hardest to live a productive life.

8. What three pieces of advice would you give to others when it comes to life and career?
1: A strong foundation and team is everything – If you don’t have it, you’re wasting your time. In my opinion, nobody is “Self Made”
2: What we’re doing really isn’t rocket science, so keep it simple & try not to focus on the end result.
3: It’s an old saying – Everyone wants to enjoy the cake, but when it comes time to making it from scratch, those same people are nowhere to be found. I would say most of the people in my life are “acquaintances” as opposed to real “friends”

9. What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them?
In a previous business venture I got involved in an interesting partnership that ultimately broke – I learned alot about what to do in business and more importantly what NOT to do. This time around I plan our work and then work that plan.

10. What’s a typical day in your life like?
Wake up at 5AM to my 3 year old, get him & I ready for the day – On the road at 6AM making East Coast Calls – Into the Office at 7AM and work all day – Lots of phone calls/emails/everything else in between until I leave at 4PM. Phone Calls all the way home – Then it’s time to chill w/ my lil tyke, grab some dinner, do some chores, work some more and crash around 11PM. If there’s something good happening at night, I’ll definitely check it out.

11. What’s one of the highlighting moments in your career? Why is it so? This would definitely have to be an event I produced in 2008. After months of planning, we had 5,000 people in attendance, dozens upon dozens of clothing labels exhibiting, sexy models, vehicles on display and Mickey Avalon was performing LIVE. In the midst of all of this – I got a call from my lady at the time saying that she was having our kid right then and there, so I was off to the hospital – CRAZY!

12. What stops you from throwing in the towel and giving up during those frustrating days of being in this industry?
The name BR4SS originates from “brass balls”, which is really just that attitude of keeping the head up, pushing forward and making things happen. After spending the last few years going through hell in my personal life, I welcome the stress that business brings!

13. Biggest risk ever taken?
Saying “Fuck you” to a good paying job to pursue my passions and spending over $20,000 that was invested by friends and family, knowing that If I don’t pull this off, I’m going to have some people pissed off at me.

14. Who has influenced you most and been your greatest inspiration?
My friend Greg Taniguchi has been a good mentor of mine – He’s a super smart guy that runs the Marketing department for Brembo USA, which is the automobile braking company. He’s always pointed me in the right direction and I respect his opinions.

15. How do you go about marketing your business or yourself? What has been your most successful form of marketing? Definitely the internet and events – Anything Non-Traditional – We haven’t ever been in a position to consider any traditional marketing like magazine ad’s, but maybe that’s not a bad thing.

16. In three words, characterize who you are.
Dreamer, Workaholic, Foodie

17. What other artists inspired you and do you admire the most? ELSE ICR: A Los Angeles Graffiti legend – Super Humble Guy that has introduced me to a ton of people – www.elseicr.com
Ed Hume: A partner in BR4SS and one of the most talented graphic designers I’ve worked with – www.edhumedesign.com

18. How do you achieve balance in your life?
This is a good question because I’ve learned BALANCE is everything. My partner Ed has been a critical part of me mellowing out, appreciating the “now” and still staying productive. Before, I was so focused on the end result and trying to predict the future.

19. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?
Who knows – I definitely didn’t see myself with a 3 year old or building an underwear brand at 27 years old, so I’m just going to go with the flow, keep making chess moves, learning, networking and trying to have fun in life/work.

20. What’s the first thing you would say to the world if all attention was on you right now?
Get off your ass & make some things happen! An idea is worthless without execution.

We’re back with another exclusive hip hop artist interview, featuring ChrisCo who recently collaborated with Royce Da 5’9 and Crooked I for his latest single “Good Time”. With no further ado, let’s learn more about who ChrisCo is and what’s on his mind.

1. What is the start-up story behind your pursuit as a rap artist?

I started Djing parties when i was 13 and being in front of a crowd, playing music, made me want to take it further and start rapping.

2. Describe your song concepts, what is it like? What are three words that best define it?

My songs are very high energy, with a lot of aggression. I talk about a fast lifestyle and my love for spittin.

3. What is your definition of success, and how much of it do you think you’ve achieved?

My definition of success is earning the respect of the veteran MCs, and the ones I’ve been able to work with have showed me mad respect.

4. What are some recent achievements you’re proud of and would like to share?

Being able to work with Royce and Crooked as well as going on tour with Slaughterhouse has been the most recent achievement. I also got a record with Styles P that I’ll be releasing in the next few weeks that I’m real stoked about, make sure you look out for that

5. What’s something that’s always running inside your mind lately?

PUSSY

6. What would you spend a million dollars on?

KUSH

7. What’s one incident that would serve as a turning point to your life?

The first time I recorded with Royce back in 08. After that the music started taking off

8. What three pieces of advice would you give to others when it comes to life and career?

Do what you love, always work hard, and never give up

9. What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them?

I made some mistakes when i first started out, but was able to learn from that as i gained more experience in the music industry

10. What’s a typical day in your life like?

Wake up, smoke, hit the studio, smoke

11. What’s one of the highlighting moment in your career? Why is it so?

Going on tour with Slaughterhouse. Being able to go on the road and open for four of the best MCs is something I’ll never forget

12. What stops you from throwing in the towel and giving up during those frustrating days of being in this industry?

Just my overall love for hip hop music

13. Biggest risk ever taken?

Moving to LA with $200 to my name

14. Who has influenced you most and been your greatest inspiration?

I’m a big fan of Swollen Members, and they’re success motivates me to work harder at my music

15. What other artists inspired you and do you admire the most?

Termanology, Jadakiss, Biggie, Tupac, Eminem

16. How do you achieve balance in your life?

KUSH

17. What’s the first thing you would say to the world if all attention was on you right now?

Go watch the video for my new single “Good Time” feat. Royce da 5’9″ and Crooked I

Check out the Jersey based Electro-Hop trio: Scy, Bry, Pwol; aptly titled the “Triangle Offense.” If you’re a fan of raw-witty lyricism and just pure good music for your ears, you can expect these guys to deliver.

1. What is the start-up story behind both your pursuits as artists?

Bry: We’ve been friends for many years and individual artists during our college years. We’ve helped produce each others work, and through those experiences we found that our musical minds combined could create something special. That’s how Triangle Offense came together. Our 3rd member, Pwol, is continuing his education in the Philippines and we use different internet tools to share our music and ideas together. We’ve completed our first mixtape using this method, spreading our story of friends sharing a musical bond that spans across the world.

Sci: DYLAN…DYLAN…and…DYLAN. We spit hot fire.

Bry: What do I think of suck-sess? It sucks! Too much stress, I guess I blew up quick… Sorry Em/Jay, had to borrow your lines. In all seriousness, success is doing what you love, being able to share it with people, and making a living out of it. We’ve got the first part down, the second is coming along just fine, and the third will come in due time.

Sci: We’re thankful for being where we are in just a year and a half. In this time, we’ve made and released some music and videos that we’re quite proud of, performed for many different crowds and had the pleasure of meeting a lot of new people. We’re learning a lot about ourselves during this journey as well, which is the ultimate reward. There are some specific achievements that we can name, but all in all, being able to do what we love is what we’re most proud of.

Bry: How fast things change. When we first started our journey, we had nothing except the music and a plan. In about a year, we’ve experienced a lot of ups and downs, met a lot of great (and maybe not so great) people, and we’ve begun to see the transition from what started out as a hobby to a full time career.

Sci: Shake Shack. We LOVE burgers. “LOVE” like…”Fatal Attraction” love. “Crank up the Luther Vandross and Barry White” love. “Powder blue Roc-A-Wear suit, white Nike” love.

Bry: When our first mixtape was completed. We put in countless hours of hard work towards that project and to finally have it in our hands, ready to give away to the world, was an amazing feeling. We knew that this first mixtape could be the beginning of something exciting. So many emotions, frustrations, blood, sweat, tears, limbs, and guts were involved in the process. But we knew that if it could change our lives even in the slightest way, it was worth it.

Sci: Don’t be afraid to put your heart into either one. While it might hurt sometimes, it will only be fully rewarding if you know you’re giving your all. Even in a loss, knowing that you gave it your all leaves with you without regrets.

Bry: Failure? A lot of what we go through is trial by fire. We don’t know all of the outcomes to the plans we have with our music. Failure happens when you don’t have a plan, or you don’t stick to your guns. With that said, we never feel the feeling of failure as long as we learn from our mistakes and stick to what we believe.

Sci: We can show you better than we can tell you…
“A day in the life of Triangle Offense: Part One”: http://youtu.be/JdFT8YYnpEU?hd=1
“A day in the life of Triangle Offense: Part Two”: http://youtu.be/df69jUAzfaA?hd=1

Bry: When we signed our first autograph. It meant a lot to us that someone wanted to have our signature on their stuff.

Sci: Just being there for each other. Our music career will only work if we work together. We’re really a team. We all wear different hats and have different responsibilities, but we’re friends first. Real friends are there for you at your best and also your worst. Real friends inspire you to do your best and pick you up when you’re down. That’s what we do for each other. Also, we make sure to not carry around any towels to throw in.

Bry: I don’t know if its a risk (yet), but sticking with our game plan. There are so many times as an artist that you may feel that what you’re doing may not be working, but as long as you trust your circle (in our case, a triangle) and stick to what you believe in, you don’t really have much to lose.

Sci: The Kardashian sisters. We hope we can be a trio as amazing as they are.

Bry: We put a lot of time and effort in reaching out to our fans, whether its using social media or in person after a show. It’s important to us to thank as many people as we can for coming out to a show, and for them to stay in contact with us through social media so they can watch us grow. Its also important that you answer as many questions fans may have, and always provide them with content when they hit our pages up.

Sci: Crazy, sexy, cool. Tender, love, care. T-Boz, Left Eye, Chilli. The Learning Channel. Sorry. 12 words is the least we could agree on.

Bry: We mentioned Shake Shack already right? From a musical standpoint and aside from the obvious (YMCMB and MMG!), we really admire Far East Movement and Theophilus London’s way of marketing their brand to their fans. They’re internationally known but have that grassroots work ethic. We also admire Apple. Think different.

Sci: There’s so many things that go into it. Not taking on too much and being aware of our limits. Part of being strong is knowing your weaknesses. We’ve learned to focus on what we do best. Being a jack of all trades is cool, but can be worthless in the long run if you’re a master of none.

Bry: Not sure exactly, I haven’t decided between the Maybach or the Bugatti. Musically, I hope that we’ve made our mark in the music world and contributed into the next generation of music. Other than that, all I can wish for is that in 5-10 years we’re all healthy and happy.

Sci: “LIKE” TRIANGLE OFFENSE ON FACEBOOK AND FOLLOW US ON TWITTER – @TRIOFFENSEMUSIC!

DJ Kid Chunky. My buddy. Antony Xumphonphakdy is undoubtedly one of the most down-to-earth deejays I’ve had the privilege to know.A bubbly personality is evident not only on the tables, but also in real life.

Part deejay, part chef (I’m sure he’ll be snatching those Michelin stars in no time), part friend. Allow me to introduce ya’ll to DJ Kid Chunky. I’m pretty sure he’ll earn his stripes not only in the clubs, but start snatching Michelin stars.

1. What is the start-up story behind your pursuit as deejay?

I always had a ear for music. it started out going over a friends house. He had turntables. He taught me how to mix and teaching me the basic. That was 10 years ago.

2. Describe your musical style, what is it like? What are three words that best define it?

Hip Hop and Rnb. I get the Crowd going. Define it? It’s CHUNKY CHUNKY AND CHUNKY!!! lol

3. What is your definition of success, and how much of it do you think you’ve achieved?

Life is always a struggle man. Success to me is being happy. Music make me happy so I conquer that already. I still got along way to go.

4. What are some recent achievements you’re proud of and would like to share?

I haven’t achievement nothing recently. I’m just on the daily grind. I stop DJing for 4 years and I just started getting back on the map in the US.

5. What’s something that’s always running inside your mind lately?

What kind of person I would be without music. That always cross my mind. Music is my soul and always been my fire to life. Even in the shower I have music playing and when I’m sleeping I have my headphones on. It’s like Coffee I don’t have music I go crazy.

6. What would you spend a million dollars on?

First I would Spend it on my Parents and Siblings. Then I probably spend it on sneakers. You know I’m a Sneakerhead. lol

7. What’s one incident that would serve as a turning point to your life?

When My Grandma past away. Getting the phone call from my dad before I got on stage to do a show in RCA BANGKOK THAILAND. I couldn’t see her last days.

She was the biggest supporter in my life. When everyone said I wasn’t going to be nobody, end up in jail or dead. She was always there. That made me change my life around. All she wanted from me was to happy and follow my dreams. I’m doing that now.

8. What three pieces of advice would you give to others when it comes to life and business?

1. Believe in yourself. 2. Don’t half ass. 3. Have fun while your living.

9. What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them?

My failures was always been when I listen to other people and never listen to myself. It’s good sometime to listen to people but, they’re not you. I’m not scare to Fail anymore cause it make me stronger. Plus when you think about failing you stress yourself out. Now I’m learning how to live a Care Feel lifestyle.

10.What’s a typical day in your life like?

Now that I haven’t put music as my main goal. I have a 9 to 5 job. I wake up go to work. Come home work on my music. Seeing whats new out. I like to Eat so I eat good everyday. Living a Grown Man life now. Boring until the weekend comes.

11. What’s one of the highlighting moment in your career? Why is it so?

Every time I get on stage it’s a highlight. I’m just bless I can make people dance, smile and enjoying their nite.

12. What stops you from throwing in the towel and giving up during those frustrating days of being in this industry?

It was my dream to become a deejay. It became a part of my life no matter how frustrating it get I couldn’t throw in the towel. I did take a break for four years after I came back Thailand. Cause I finish cooking school in Thailand came back to the state. Started to work as a chef. The Chef job took most of my time from music. 6 days a week type deal.

13. Biggest risk ever taken?

Moving to Thailand in 2004

14. Who has influenced you most and been your greatest inspiration?

My Grandmas they never let me down. They had the biggest heart. I work harder in life now cause that’s what they always taught me.

15. How do you go about marketing your business or yourself? What has been your most successful form of marketing?

The music speak for it self. If I have a gig I spread the words to my friends and they tell their friends. My most successful form was Friends. They always down to support me. I’m bless when it come to marketing. I don’t work that hard in Marketing. KID CHUNKY SPEAK FOR ITSELF…

16. In three words, characterize who you are.

Kid, Chunky, and Bless

17. Excluding yours, what company or business do you admire the most?

Yours Andrew Wang. I was there when u explain to me about your idea. I watch you build it from the ground up. And your still going strong. Like you said “A strong mind will always succeed”

18. How do you achieve balance in your life?

I keep God,my family and friends close. If I didn’t have them I wouldn’t be so humble. I love you guys and you know who u are. Music is the key to my life.

19. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?

Married with Kids. Lol that’s what I want the most. But, I’m living each day it is my last. So what ever 5 or 10 years bring me. I’m going to embrace it. Live ,laugh and learn

20. What’s the first thing you would say to the world if all attention was on you?

F*CK ALL YALL..lol just Kidding. I don’t know man. Wait wait I would say “ IM BACKKKKKKKKKKKK”

Technorati Tags: 10 Years, Antony, Bubbly Personality, Crazy 6, Grandma, Happy Music, Headphones, Lol, Michelin, Million Dollars, Mind Music, Music Is My Soul, Musical Style, Phone Call, Privilege, Siblings, Sneakerhead, sneakers, Stripes, Turning Point

Got another special treat for all streetwearxhiphop readers  I’ve secured ya’ll an exclusive interview with Pioneer’s East Asia DJ Battle’s Champion of 201, who also happens to be the CEO of Busan’s DJ Academy “The Skool”.

I want ya’ll to give your undivided attention. Meet DJ Pandol.

1. What is the start-up story behind your pursuit as deejay?

There was no real DJ scene in Korea in the 1990s. It was very disorganized and underground. There was no national or even regional champion or recognition to be had.

So, I learned by watching others at first and then I started following the DMC Championship videos. I studied them very closely. Especially DJ Roc Raida (DMC Champ).

I had to order the videos and all my DJ gear from other countries because it wasn’t really available in Korea at that time. And remember, this is well before you could easily shop online. I had to do everything through the post office and magazine advertisements.

I read the Source and DJ Times magazines (imported) to keep up with the scene. Korea was totally different back then.

2. Describe your musical style, what is it like? What are three words that best define it?

turntablism, hiphop, soulfunk.

3. What is your definition of success, and how much of it do you think you’ve achieved?

i think about Success is never final. My definition of success is “keep on my way, everyday.” and how much of it…? hmm just everyday =)

4. What are some recent achievements you’re proud of and would like to share?

Won the 2010 Pioneer EastAsia DJ battle.

5. What’s something that’s always running inside your mind lately?

I’ve been practicing everyday for the past month to prepare for the Asian Championship that I won last week so, I am still in a practice mode so to speak.

So I am still spending a lot of time making new beats and party mix set. I feel great doing it so I am in no hurry to change my mindset. A lot of creativity right now.

6. What would you spend a million dollars on?

open the Korean banquet noodle restaurant. (and i’ll buy you big drink. =)

7. What’s one incident that would serve as a turning point to your life?

see no.12

8. What three pieces of advice would you give to others when it comes to life and business?

learn, practice, enjoy.

9. What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them?

Last year, I came second in the Pioneer DJ Competition in Seoul, Korea. I had expected to win. So I was disappointed. But, I took the loss as an opportunity to win in 2010… and I did win. So, I guess I can say that my failure just re energized me to face the challenge again.

I don’t get disheartened easily. Which is lucky because otherwise I would no longer be a DJ. This industry is full of challenges but most of them are quite petty. So, I don’t really get that stressed out about them.

10. What’s a typical day in your life like?

teaching my students at my own dj school(TheSkooL). making beat, take a lesson video and review of dj gears, and practice. repeat.

11. What’s one of the highlighting moment in your career? Why is it so?

2010 Pioneer East Asia DJ Battle 1st. cause I’m a first asia DJ Champion in the Korea.

12. What stops you from throwing in the towel and giving up during those frustrating days of being in this industry?

Actually, 4 years ago, I totally had quit the industry. See, in 2006, there had been no official DJ competitions in Korea. Ever. So there was no way to be a legitimate DJ Champion in Korea.

And I was frustrated! I wanted to be recognized as the #1 DJ in Korea but there was no way to do that. I had to go to another country to win! Unbelievable. So, I was fed up with the business, industry and DJ scene in Korea. So I quit.

I deleted all my music, gave away my equipment and “got a real job”. I totally disappeared. Even my industry friends couldn’t find me. I decided that I needed to focus on other things besides DJing.

So, I was working for a computer company and had totally given up. I even quit listening to music! I was through. But, I couldn’t quit. It wasn’t any 1 thing but I just couldn’t go on without living and expressing myself through music. I had even left Busan!

But, after just 1 year, I came back and restarted my career. And now, 5 years later, I am the CHAMP of Korea and Asia!

13. Biggest risk ever taken?

see no.12

14. Who has influenced you most and been your greatest inspiration?

Family.

15. How do you go about marketing your business or yourself? What has been your most successful form of marketing?

I don’t know marketing. but still play music a lot of many places. and i have my DJ School, website also (www.djpandol.com). many videos on youtube.

Now I’m making Official Promotion m/v. Use my winning set.

16. In three words, characterize who you are.

dj, cooker, solo. =)

17. How do you achieve balance in your life?

I have no balance. I am 1000% DJ Pandol. My whole life revolves around the music, culture and lifestyle of DJing and turntablism here in Korea. There is no man behind the mask so to speak.

18. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?

5years…Busan city. 10 years…Big Busan city.

19. What’s the first thing you would say to the world if all attention was on you?

mic check, 1,2,3!

For more information, check out www.djpandol.com

For his latest music:
https://files.ucloud.com/pf/D684349_723495_64582
https://files.ucloud.com/pf/D684349_723495_64528

Technorati Tags: Asian Championship, Busan, Deejay, Dj Battle, Dj Gear, Dj Magazines, Dj Scene, Dj Times, East Asia, Magazine Advertisements, Musical Style, New Beats, Pandol, Pioneer Dj, Practice Mode, Regional Champion, Roc Raida, Skool, Times Magazines, Undivided Attention