Busta Rhymes: ‘I’m like a kid in a candy store’
By Brian Dukes
Staff writer
http://www.fayobserver.com/article?id=299903
When the Projekt Revolution 2008 concert pulls into Raleigh on Friday, it will feature a power-packed lineup that includes Linkin Park, Busta Rhymes, Chris Cornell, The Bravery, and more.
For Busta Rhymes, born Trevor Tahiem Smith Jr., touring with such a wide array of performers reflects the diversity in his own, multiplatinum-selling, 20-year career as a rapper.
“I’m like a kid in a candy store,” Rhymes said in a recent phone interview. “Performing with these guys is the best thing in the world for me.”
Doors open at 1 p.m. for the music festival at Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion at Walnut Creek. The show starts at 2 p.m.
Rhymes, who was given his rap nom de plume by Public Enemy frontman Chuck D., has come a long way from his 1991 debut with Leaders of the New School, a New York-based hip-hop group. Rhymes’ highly energetic vocal delivery was on full display on tracks such as “Case of the P.T.A.” and “Scenario,” a tune by A Tribe Called Quest on which Rhymes took full advantage of his guest spot.
Since then, Rhymes has enjoyed chart-topping success, with four No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot Rap Singles and Hot 100 charts, as well as several Top Ten hits.
In between rehearsals for the tour, a very busy Rhymes talked about the tour, working with Linkin Park again, and his growth as an artist as he looks forward to his upcoming CD. “Blessed” is slated to be released in September.
Q: Looking at the Projekt Revolution lineup, this is quite a mix. What are your thoughts on sharing the stage with Linkin Park and Chris Cornell?
A: I’m fans of all those guys. I’ve been a fan of Chris Cornell since he was in Soundgarden. And you know? Me and Linkin Park used to record in the same studio before they put out their first record.
Q: Really? That’s cool. You’ve been able to see them grow.
A: Oh, yeah. It’s been great to see them develop since our days recording next to each other in New York. I’ve got a tremendous amount of respect for those guys. They’ve been very supportive of what I’ve been doing, and of hip-hop overall.
Q: You and Linkin Park recently collaborated on “We Made It,” the first single and video from “Blessed.” And now you guys are touring together. What was it like to work with those guys after all this time?
A: It’s like the stars were aligned. That’s a blessing, because at the end of the day, not everything works out. Sure, you may do collaborations with other artists, but very rarely do you get to actually perform the tracks live with them that you collaborated on. I’ll be able to perform every night with those brothers.
Q: Can we assume that “We Made It” will make it on the set list?
A: The last thing I can do is tell you that. The element of surprise is a very powerful thing. If people come to the show already knowing what I’m going to do, then what’s the point? I think I’m going to hold onto that bit of knowledge with dear life.
Q: Sorry. We had to try.
A: (laughs)
Q: Way back in your Leaders of the New School days, did you ever think you’d get to this point?
A: Absolutely not! I didn’t even think I’d be making a record when I was with Leaders of the New School. At the time, we were still in school and just messing around with rap. Fortunately, we were able to develop what we had into something skillful that people started to believe in. And to have that lead to where I’m at now, I’m really blessed.
Q: Are you satisfied then?
A: You know, Dec. 12, 2009, will make my 20th year professionally recording. This has been an unbelievable reality for me. I’m absolutely satisfied with where I’m at. I’ve made a lot of money, and I’ve got a lot of love from friends, fans and family.
Q: Where do you go from here? How does Busta Rhymes top Busta Rhymes?
A: One thing that has always allowed me to continue to grow has been to always look beyond. There’s still a lot for me to accomplish. I want to keep reaching new heights in my growth as an artist, a businessman and a man. You’ve got to be able to evolve and change with the times.
Q: As one of rap’s elder statesmen, what advice would you offer up-and-coming rap artists today?
A: My key word of advice for any artist — whether it’s music, sculpture, painting — is to just “do you.” Because you never have to practice that or remember that. Just be who you are, and no one can take that away. Oh, and always, always be willing to gamble on yourself, especially when no one else is.
Q: What can people look forward to when “Blessed” comes out?
A: It’s another level from me. I’ve gone through a lot of things in the last few years. Some were very difficult. And I’ve not had a chance to give my point of view on those things, because I wasn’t allowed to due to circumstances. Also, this album is a complete culmination of all the skills and lessons I’ve learned throughout the years.
Projekt Revolution 2008
Who: Busta Rhymes, Linkin Park, Chris Cornell, The Bravery and others
When: Friday. Doors open at 1 p.m. Show starts at 2 p.m.
Where: Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion at Walnut Creek, Raleigh
Tickets: $20.75 to $60.75 through Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster.com or by calling 223-2900
Staff writer Brian Dukes can be reached at dukesb@fayobserver.com or 323-4848, ext. 411.