LA.CityZine brings you rapper, Abstract Rude, as part of our Know Your LA Bands series. Forget the stereotypical thug music. With rhyme and rhythm that flows this smooth, politics and touchy subjects will never sound harsh again. As a prominent rapper in the LA scene, Abstract Rude writes the lyrics that can only promote the common good. His experiences from his former group, Abstract Tribe Unique along with Freestyle Fellowship strengthened his skill and in turn his skills has strengthened the youth of today.
Although LA is best known for gangsta rap, Abstract Rude is the co-founder of the Project Blowed workshop - the longest running open mic youth workshop in the world. Combining soul, philosophies, mad beats, and his need to give back whether it is in mentoring, co-writing, or performing, Abstract Rude brings us back to old school ethics yet propels us into the future with his creative soul.
Want to catch a show? He has one coming up on August 14th when he performs at the This Is the Life film screening as a part of LA’s first ever Downtown Film Fest. Too long to go without this chill LA rapper? Then feel more than welcome to check out this interview he was gracious enough to give us below.
Could you give a brief description of your music?
Hip hop soul with a rude boy twist.
How long have you been playing music? How many instruments can you play?
I’ve been singing since I could talk and I’ve had piano lessons since age 9. I can play some things like hymnals and Christmas songs.
Where do you see your music in 10 years?
iPods and cell phones downloaded Also, maybe it’ll be in film, TV, and Sesame Street.
What would be the best compliment someone could give you about your music and why?
If they told me, “It helps me through tough times.” That means it has useful applications for the soul.
What’s the best piece of advice someone has ever given you and did you take notice?
Own property and be true to yourself working on the 1st and daily grind for the 2nd.
What would be the best piece of advice you could give someone trying break into the music business?
Get online through iTunes and other digital download services.
What’s your memorable experience on the road story?
I got arrested on my birthday in ‘04 on the CaliComm tour for sitting in the car drunk with the heat on idling in park. (It was snowing during November in Boulder.) Apparently, the key can’t even be in the ignition with you in the passenger seat if you are over the limit. It cost all my merchandise loot to get a lawyer and beat the rap. It was traumatizing while it was happening but now it’s funny while I reminisce.
Dead or alive; What 5 acts would you have play with you at a festival?
Shit, that’s a tough one. Why would I want the toughest acts to follow or play before me? Lol. Well, if I got to open, I’d say Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley, Beastie Boys, Freestyle Fellowship (’93) and Pharcyde (’93).
How do you get ready for a live show?
I listen to any one of those five acts while catching butterflies in my stomach.
What’s your favorite song to play live and why?
Right now, it’s Ruca’s Sublime Remix which Awol One & I did on their remix LP. Maybe because everyone knows the lyrics.
If you could rid the world of one song, what would it be?
That sad song Bush be singing about terrorists.
What messages do you hope your songs send out to listeners? If any.
There are alternatives to acting a fool and being stupid in the streets.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
Our president!
Do you support any local charities? If so, who? If not, would you like to?
No, I’m too broke but I do give change to cats in the street. If I could support a charity, I’d create one for the at risk youth, because I don’t know how these so-called charity groups do their funding. Wouldn’t wanna be supporting some big wigs luxury ride, you feel me?
What’s your favorite LA radio station and or DJ? Why?
I got to say KXLU with Mike Nardone and KPFK with Fidel. Mike’s been down for the art of Hip Hop since day one in LA. Fidel is a freedom fighter; I can dig both of their purposes.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Weed.
What’s the best cure for a hangover?
Weed then another beer. I hear Menudo’s good.
What would be your perfect LA day?
The beach, no phones ringing, playing ball followed by cold drinks, and blazin’ one while watching football or something. Then that night, go to a cool spot or something. I’m easy like that.
What three things could you not live without?
Water, wind and fire.
Tell us a fact about yourself we probably don’t already know.
I love cats and Nag Champa incense.
Photos by Marie Mendoza and Kasim Patton
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2 responses so far ↓
1 Tiffany Nocon // Jul 24, 2008 at 8:39 pm
I love Abstract Rude! One of the best underground cats in the game with paid dues. Great article!
2 Kasim Patton // Jul 25, 2008 at 1:18 pm
It would be nice if we could get credit for the photos you used. Other than that it’s a pretty dope article.
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