This up and coming rapper, DRE-SKI is slowly becoming one of my favs to stay in the know about. He actually has opened up for Fabolous and Lupe Fiasco in his music career. Opening up for both artists was probably one of the best experiences of my life. Back when Lupe Fiasco dropped “The Cool” I was able to talk to him on a personal level to talk about industry life and what it’s like to be a mainstream artist. Fabolous is in my top five of favorite artists.
As of right now he’s back at it again dropping his new EP entitled ‘4 Real Ones Only 2.’ Here is the inspiration behind his latest project. This EP is another special project to me because it continues to showcase my growth with my music. This is also the second installment of my 4 Real Ones Only series and this one is seven songs vice four. At first, I was going to keep it at only four, but consulted with a few people and they all said seven is a good number. Plus, when it came down to picking the songs I wanted to be on the EP, I had too many good ones to choose from and I wanted all of them to be heard. This EP has a grittier feel than the first one. It also displays a different side of me as an artist and my versatility.
Growing up he often listened to the best names in hip-hop, such as Jay-Z, DMX, Dip Set, Nas, and Biggie! Here’s his definition of hip-hop. Hip-Hop is everything. Its honestly the soundtrack to my life. Growing up listening to Jay-z, DMX, Dip Set, Nas and Biggie made me look at life different. I’ve listening and applying the hustle mentality that Jay-z was talking on his “Reasonable Doubt” album. Nas gave me my prolific inspiration. Biggie’s “Read to Die” album will always go down as one of the best rap albums ever made. DMX’s “Its Dark and Hell Is Hot” got me trouble as a kid because my mom wouldn’t let me listen to his lyrics. Yet, I still snuck the CD in my house and would play his album before my mom got home from work. Dip Set was pivotal during my high school years because everyone wanted a flip phone and dress like Cam’ron and Juelz.
Aside from music, the rapper is also focused on becoming his own boss, including signing emerging artists to his record label. I always wanted something of my own that I could rep. Branding yourself is important. Creating XB Music Group allowed me to learn the music business and also turn a dream into reality. Allowing them to further their careers in music. DRE-SKI is determined, ambitious and authentic. Definitely someone you should be in the know about!
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