z1
z1 of DPA, producer/lyricist
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
I've been making beats since '95 when I came home from UMES. My mom got me a Gemini mixer because I expressed an interest to be a DJ for the local artists in the MD/DC/VA area. I didn't really pursue that dream like I should have but as I was looking for turntables at pawn shops, I picked up a drum machine and it was all over after that.
From '98 to '02, I slowed down with making beats as I focused more on school and my career. After completing my Bachelors in Information Systems Management and a Masters of Arts in Religious Studies from Howard University's School of Divinity, it became apparent that my dreams could be realized. One of those dreams included being a producer/lyricist because I've always had an ear for beats and I've never really stopped writing lyrics. So, I'm doing what I can to inspire someone else so they don't give up like I almost did.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
Although this page is dedicated to my gifts as a producer, I do perform at churches, local events and events dedicated to the elements of hip hop.
Your musical influences
DefJux, DeepSpace5 artists, J-Dilla, Waajeed and Bling47, Pete Rock, Premier, Theory Hazit, JULZ, GreyMatter, Madlib, 9th Wonder, Kev Brown, OddiSee, SymbolycOne, IllMind, OhmegaWatts, Tranqwild, SUNZ, OhNo, J'neiro Jarel, Cream of Beats, Kakophoni
What equipment do you use?
Yamaha DJX keyboard, Roland R-70 drum machine, Kawai Q-80 sequencer, Portastudio 8-channel mixer, Numark TT-1625 turntables, a bunch of used vinyl, tape decks with tapes, downloaded sound bites, beat break records, bass guitar. PC, Steinberg Nuendo & Wavelab, Waveflow, and for convenience and simplicity, Moonfish (a compact, 3-track phrase loop sequencer created by BramBos).
Anything else?
I haven't started selling my beats just yet but I am interested in getting them out to artists who have higher standards for their lyrical content much like I do. If you like what you've heard and you have no problem maintaining the level of integrity with lyrical content that I do when you use the beat, we might be able to hook something up. I'm making this available only for a short amount of time since I do plan to eventually start selling beats, although the integrity issue will still hold. As a dedicated lyricist, I cater what I do to those that are of likemind; if you don't hear me mouthing off, cussing on or sounding ignorant on my own songs, don't expect me to allow someone else to tarnish the name/legacy that is associated with my beats. I'm about elevating this culture, not contributing to it's downfall.
Contact me if interested; Christian artists especially.
