I caught up with Smoke DZA, nee Sean Pompey, as he was en route to his show in Ottawa at Ritual tonight. Yesterday he released his highly anticipated mixtape, K.O.N.Y 2012, featuring Wiz Khalifa and A$AP Twelvy, among others – download here. Make sure to see him at Wrong Bar tomorrow night where is performing with Flat Bush Zombies – get your tickets here.
You just released your mixtape K.O.N.Y. 2012, is that in reference to the charity group and viral video and why?
Definitely not, the reference is an abbreviation of King of New York (a movie), but I knew that the word KONY was going to strike up a lot of complications. A lot of my inspiration for this mixtape came from watching that movie.
You’ve lived in NYC (Harlem) your whole life, a city with a lot of talent – do you think it’s harder to make a name for yourself there and set yourself apart?
Definitely – it starts everywhere – but New York… I feel like I have everywhere, and now I have New York and that’s why I made this mixtape about it.
How would you describe Lifestyle rap?
I don’t rap about anything I haven’t done or been through. I define Lifestyle rap as living – all my journeys and tribulations – I put it into my rap.
Weed is a prominent theme in your work, to say the least, how much would you say it’s a part of your creative process?
I don’t necessarily need it, but I like to do it – my friend is saying i’m lying ***laughing in background*** it just helps to get me into the creative zone.
How would you describe your style?
Laidback, smooth – in your face when i’m angry – straight to the point. Clean and bosslike.
Who would you like to collaborate with?
Snoop Dog, 2 Chainz, Juicy J, Fabulous – the big dogs.
GeorgiaS
https://twitter.com/#!/GeorgiaShearman