Blu - In Blu We Trust

Blu’s reputation as one of the game’s most underrated emcees is undeniable. With a range of different musical projects under his belt, the Southern Californian artist does not have to prove anything to anybody anymore when it comes to mic techniques. Lately, the word has been around that Blu is contemplating to replace the microphone with an involvement in the film industry. Being a favorite among our readers, we had to reach out to the former Crip for a quick chat and find out if we can expect more music from him or not.

Your music catalog so far has been embraced by fans and critics alike. How do you feel about this appreciation?
It is more than appreciated. Honestly, I feel like my catalog is unique as hell. I put so much effort into it. I carved out my sound and style and I think my fan base knows that and they can appreciate it as well. With this, it is like chess. The closer you get to the king, the more focus you have to invest to take the game.

How was the experience performing your album No York! live during Rock the Bells?
It was dope man. Initially, it was intended for a band, so it could have been bigger. But all in all, the blessing was getting the music out there and we did just that. Events like these certainly differ from regular concerts since you can convey your art in a different, more intense and complex way than just work down a playlist. The original art is preserved in performances like these.

What was your first contact with music and when did you decided to become a recording artist?
Let’s see. I have to give it to LL Cool J, I’m Bad, the cassette. After that, during junior high I was cutting over my older cousin’s Brandy and Whitney Houston instrumentals which probably also explains my soulful influence.

You once stated that your career behind the mic won’t last once you reach 30 and that you would like to work on more film projects. Being in your late twenties, do you still feel that way?
Today I will say, my music could last. But ultimately, I have to say yes. I feel more connected with film these days. The art of filmmaking, its complexity is fascinating to me.

Could you tell us a little bit where your fascination for film is coming from and also share some details about your current film projects?
Film is film bro. Motion photography. Movies. There is nothing like it. It is the same with music, but music arrived first in my life. So it is the same love, the same appreciation for me.

Your collaborative effort with Exile, ‘Give Me My Flowers…,’ arrived somehow unexpected. How did the release come about and do you have more surprising music projects coming along?
This is definitely no trolly. We have been sitting on it for quite some time. One day, we decided to give it to those who have been waiting so long for it as we considered it unfair to keep this gem away from them.

What is the status of your collaborative album with MED, which is set to be produced by Madlib?
We have been back and forth on this project. Kanye West took some beats, Black Star took some beats – the list goes on. So as of now, we are back to the drawing board. But don’t get it twisted. We are sitting on some serious heat though.

Los Angeles has always had a vibrant underground scene. What is so special about this town?
You can look at it how you want it. At the end of the day, this is LA, the entertainment capital of the world. Creative energy comes off naturally here.

Why the name Blu? Sam Trinh – Riverside, CA
Simply because I was a Crip.

Top five songs and artists that make you press the repeat button the most? Danny Mota
The Roots “Make My,” Peedi Crakk’s “God Bless the Lyrical,” The Throne’s “Otis,” School Boy Q’s “Figg Get The Money” and King Krule.

Do you go through phases where you are only recording one style of music or are you constantly recording tons of different styles around the same time? TC, Connecticut
Both actually, but with my projects, I tend to keep consistent in a particular sound or style.

Do you think the new school wave of technology and advancements are making it easier for newcomers to make a splash or harder due to the over saturation of bad artists? – Nikhil
Both. I wouldn’t stand in its way, if it is the way to follow, know what I mean?

Yo Blu, name us your top 5 movies of all time. xx – Feiy
Wow. Five movies would take me a day or so to answer because I love so many motion pictures. I can sure tell you my favorite directors though. Stanley Kubrick, Wes Anderson, Michel Gondry, Spike Lee and Jan Luc Godard.