We are back with another interview with the current "Underground Uprising "Artist of the Week", B$tone! We asked him some questions about his music and writing technique, as well as his thoughts on AZ Hip Hop and who he would like to work with in the future, and more. Read on to get some insight into B$tone.
Where is B$tone from? What was it like growing up there?
"Chandler, Arizona It was dope. I was born in 95 with three older brothers who had a lot of influence on me growing up. I was involved in a variety of different hobbies throughout my childhood. The first one was drawing at 5 years old. Then later, i got into karate with my brother and we eventually earned our black belts. After that, it was skateboarding, then music. "
How long have you been in the AZ Hip Hop scene?
"I started rapping 7 years ago and started doing shows in the AZ Hip Hop scene about 3 years in."
Favorite AZ artists?
"The first artist I have to mention is David James. He actually taught me how to rap. His older brother, John was best friends with my oldest brother, Nate Jones so that's how we crossed paths. St. Pierre, I also knew before I ever rapped and he pushed me and helped me become a better artist as well. I met Yo$h in the early EPOD days and he definitely stands out to me. One of my current favorites is Jalopy Bungus and we may or may not have a feature in the works right now. Also, the homie Ohpenmiind is dope and we got a record out already. And I can't forget my favorite AZ producer, Wrex, who's been producing and engineering my tracks since day one."
Biggest challenge in your career so far?
"My biggest challenge is probably being a perfectionist. Sometimes I overthink and am my own worst critic. It has held me back from the amount of content I could potentially release but that’s something I’ve been working to improve."
What do you think of the current state of AZ Hip Hop?
"I think it’s pretty solid. There’s a lot of artists that have become successful out of AZ. So it’s inspiring and motivating. It shows that it can be done."
What advice do you have for newer artists?
"Keep practicing. Put in your 10,000 hours. Be consistent and release as much content as possible. Network and do shows. Never be satisfied with where you’re at, keep improving and evolve your craft."
When was your 1st performance? What was that like?
"My first live performance was opening up for Lil Durk. It was a great experience. I had a few songs on St. Pierre’s set and on my second song the time got cut off and I had to finish my verse acapella."
Can you talk to us about your writing technique?
"When I first learned to rap, I started studying the greats and their writing techniques. I noticed their structure of rhyme schemes, wordplay, and double entendres and began to memorize their verses. I also practiced freestyling all the time and still do. I feel like that combo of things helped me develop my sound and continues to do so. Nowadays, I’m a lot better at freestyling and often get inspiration for verses from freestyles. What inspires you? The fact that we only have one life to do what we want. That alone inspires me to make a living off my passions and put my talents to proper use. I want to be able to work for myself and live life to fullest."
Who would you like to work with in the future?
"2 of my favorite artists that I would love to be able to work with in the future are Belly and Clever."
What’s the next move for B$tone?
"More singles, more videos, and more shows. I also have an EP I recorded a while back that should be dropping within the next one month or 2."
by: Steven Sandage