Hip Hop Juggernaut Smokes is an Asian American rapper from Wisconsin. The electrifying MC is a witty, multi-talented, and passion-filled rising star in the world of Rap music. Smokes has been featured in XXL Magazine, The Source online, OnSmash.com, AllHipHop.com, VladTV, YoRaps.com, Sirius/XM Satellite Radio and more. He has collaborated with such renowned artists as Three 6 Mafia, Joell Ortiz, Tone Trump and Young Joc just to name a few.
Moreover, Smokes won the “Outstanding Artist of The Year” award at the prestigious 8th Annual Underground Music Awards and he has shared the stage with artists such as Kid Cudi, Wiz Khalifa, Kardinal Official, Asher Roth, Three 6 Mafia, Joell Ortiz, Diggy Simmons, Tone Trump and many more.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO: “GOT THEM” FEAT. JACKIE CHAIN
AllHipHop.com: What’s Good Smokes? I understand right now you’re on a national tour with Jackie Chain, The Yellow Boyz and others. How is that going?
Smokes: The Tour is going pretty well. It’s called the Asian Hip Hop Summit Tour and we’re hitting all of the major cities including New York City, Atlanta, Chicago, DC and we’ll be down in Austin Texas for the SXSW Festival. It feels real great to be out on the road interacting with the fans and I’m honored to be sharing the bill with such talented artists as Jackie Chain and The Yellow Boyz. For more info on the tour check out: www.Facebook.com/AsianHipHopSummit
AllHipHop.com: What Project are you currently pushing?
Smokes: Right now the main focus is centered around the new project entitled “The Pre Party,” which is a Mixtape I’m dropping before I release the EP called “Ecstasy at the After Party” in first quarter 2012.. The Pre Party features Joell Ortiz, Jackie Chain with production by DJ Pain 1 and Sean Divine. In addition I have some songs on there featured with Nipsey Hussell and Three 6 Mafia. “The Pre Party” is a melting pot of sounds, from Hip Hop to pop, to Dub step, etc. It reflects my love and appreciation for all genres. You can download it on my website www.SmokesMusic.net
AllHipHop.com: What have been some of your bigger singles to date?
Smokes: My standout records to date have been: “I Luv Da Party” and “Glowing.” “I Luv Da Party” peaked at # 3 on the CMJ Charts. And “Glowing” is currently doing well on the Rap Attack Charts and the Rap Network Charts. Most indie artists make music based on what they hear on the radio or what they perceive major labels wanting. I just try to make music from the heart. I keep it authentic and that resonates with the fans.
All Hip Hop: If you can change one thing about the music industry what would it be and why?
Smokes: I would bring back the love and passion for the music. I don’t think people love music has much as they use to. Music used to speak for us when our words couldn’t; we’ve got to get that feeling back.There are too many artists and not enough fans. Artists should never forget what it was like to be a fan of the music. I’m still a fan of Hip Hop.
Smokes ft Three 6 Mafia “Fetti Clap”
AllHipHop.com: Which Artists Have Inspired You?
Smokes: I’ve been inspired by 2 Pac, Michael Jackson and so many more. Right now the artists I’m on tour with like Jackie Chain and The Yellow Boyz inspire me as well.
AllHipHop.com: What Is Your EP Going To Be Like?
Smokes: “Ecstasy at the After Party” is going to be fresh and exciting. It will be Cinematic, Motivational and Passionate. It will contain some really big songs and my goal with the EP is to bring my fans into my world while thoroughly entertaining them.
AllHipHop.com: How can people get in touch with you?
Smokes: For booking and press email Contact.Imperialmusic@Gmail.com. Check out my music and tour updates on www.SmokesMusic.net and follow me on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/Smokesmusic
AllHipHop.com: Any Final Words For The People.
Smokes: Yes, Shout out to All Hip Hop. I have major respect for everything All Hip Hop does. Also big shout out to all of the MC’s, DJ’s, Producers, Bloggers, B-Boys and B-Girls out there working hard to keep the culture of Hip Hop alive.