Endemic Emerald is one of the most talented producers in the game! Kicking off his career in the UK, the behind the boards mastermind has now become a permanent fixture on NYC’s underground hip hop scene. Although Endemic spends nearly every waking moment in the studio, he took time out from his busy schedule to chop it up with Insomniac Magazine.
For readers who might be unfamiliar with your history and past material, briefly tell them about your accomplishments in the music industry.
Peace! I have had albums signed and released on labels such as EMI records, Duck Down and IDC entertainment. Worked and produced with many of the all-time greats and current greats like Wu-Tang, Boot Camp Clik, Tragedy Khadafi, Planet Asia, Roc Marciano, Immortal Technique, Skyzoo, Easy Mo Bee and many more.
How would you define your sound? What makes you different from other hip hop producers?
My sound is like the 90’s rawness with an updated feel sonically and sampling structure wise. The way I got my samples pieced together is unique in my opinion and the melodic vibe of my music is what makes it stand out.
Do you have a specific process when recording or is it more of an “in the moment” type of vibe?
I have my methods, but most of the time it’s influenced by the records and samples I have at the time. Generally I tend to have 10-15 basic ideas down at a time and probably 7-8 of those will turn into full beats and songs.
Cool! What major obstacles did you have to overcome when starting out? How did those difficulties strengthen your commitment to your career? And also, in your opinion, what is the main difference between UK’s hip hop scene and the one we have in the U.S.?
In the U.S. scene artists are much more likely to collab and build with one another. In the UK cats tend to be very funny when it comes to building with other camps. The vibe I have got ever since I been in New York is friendly, welcoming, and moving forward together as a unit. In the UK everyone just wants to be clicky with their movements.
What particular artists, producers, DJs and albums inspired and influenced you when starting out?
Producers such as RZA, Premier, Easy Mo Bee, The Bomb Squad, etc. and pretty much a lot of the late 80’s/early 90’s New York rappers such as Wu-Tang, Boot Camp Clik, Gang Starr, Rakim, KRS-One, Chuck D, DITC and Smoothe Da Hustler.
Nice! Which artists intrigue you now?
Roc Marciano’s lyrics and wordplay are second to none and Tragedy Khadafi’s pen game is still outstanding!
So true! If you could choose one emcee from the past (80’s – 90’s) to produce, who would it be and what would you do to update their sound sound for today’s audience?
Tough question! I would probably have to go for Redman. Sonically I would use the raw vibe from the 90’s but utilize unheard of music. Particularly British Psychedelic rock groups and add in organs and sound effects to bring things up to date!
What can we expect to hear(features, style of tracks) on the upcoming “Black Bag Operation” EP?
Militant in your face music! Artists such as Tragedy Khadafi, Royal Flush, Ruste Juxx, Kasim Allah and a few surprises will be on the EP. A range of sounds will be on the set.
Do you have any funny, bizarre or memorable recording sessions or tour stories that stand out in your mind?
The session where we recorded the “Counterstrike” joint at Goblin studios in Queens was a memorable one for me. Nutso was having his mixtape release party next door in the bar that night and he came through after and just jumped on the joint right away! I think we recorded Royal Flush’s verse late that night and there were many artists there that were vibing to my music. This was a true inspiration!
What are your likes and dislikes about the music industry?
I like the fact of being involved in the New York scene. It’s a family affair and everyone seems to build together and be very welcoming to myself and the music. What I dislike is the fact that most of the sales are now in digital format. It seems to be only the younger generation who buy and support artists because of this. I am defineably from the old school of buying hard vinyl and CD copies. It is however good to see vinyl making a comeback.
What do you hope to achieve career-wise within the next 5 years?
To be on a regular work touring circuit with the artists I work with and future collaborations. Also to have a classic catalogue and get placements with some of my all time favorite emcees(Redman, Rakim, DITC, etc).
Any final thoughts? Shout outs?
Much respect for the interview. Look out for “Black Bag Operation” and my other projects coming this year. Shouts out to all my Brooklyn and Queens people all day! Peace!
Facebook.com/EndemicEmerald
Twitter.com/EndemicEmerald
Instagram.com/EndemicEmerald
– Interview by Kevin Keith
