Already making a name for himself, James Richard Brooks also known as So Realistic/Reala, has opened up for Kendrick Lamar and Talib Kweli, Skeme, Fly Union, Asher Roth, Action Bronson, Oddisee, OverDoz & Elzhi.
After just one listen to his track "Reala (than the rest) Andolini" I was hooked! The beat and flow are on point and I absolutely love the video..I had to know more about the Hip Hop eMCee from Arizona.
So Realistic "Reala (than the rest) Andolini"
Miss R: I LOVE the video for "Reala (than the rest) Andolini" which was filmed in Tokyo...How did you end up there?
I play professional America-football in the Japanese X-League so that's why I was out in Tokyo. And, of course, wherever I go I'm working on my music. I love it. I'm traveling the world just doing what I love, I'm extremely grateful for that.
I appreciate you taking the time to peep that video. Thank you.
Miss R: Name Some of your musical influences. Who did you listen to growing up?
My biggest influences, within Hip Hop, are Talib Kweli, One Be Lo, Masta Ace, Jean Grae, Lupe Fiasco, Brother Ali and Jay Electronica. Lately I've been listening to a lot of J. Cole, Drake and Kendrick Lamar because I feel like that's the bar right now for dope Hip Hop. I keep my ear to the streets so I know what's "hot" and at the same time I make music that I like, so if my fans like it, and I gain new fans, that's a huge plus.
Miss R: How long have you been making music?
I wrote my first verse to a Grayskull instrumental in 2005, I was 16 years old.
Miss R: Do you come from a musical family?
No one in my immediate family was musical per say, but I had an uncle who was in a band growing up. For me, I think, I got into music because of how certain songs/artists made me feel. I feel like that's why music is so special and it'll never die because there's songs like "Zion Train" by Bob Marley, that literally re-inspire me every time I hear it. Every time I play that song it FEELS brand new and to me, great artist make you feel that certain way.
Miss R: How would you describe your style to those who may not have heard your work? And how do you differ from other artist?
Tough question, I don't really know, nor do I care about having a specific style. I make music that I enjoy. What would you say my style is?
As far as differing from other artists, I think I'm just myself. There's no other me so if I'm just myself, I stand out.
Miss R: You have a unique sound which is why I'm excited to hear more from you.
You are about to drop your new album "Left Brain" what can your fans expect from this album and where can they get it?
Miss R: Where has been your favourite place to perform? Where would you like to perform next?
Miss R: Have you ever competed in battle rap?
Na I haven't. I don't battle, I got too much to say to waste time battling. I'm trying to enlighten, encourage and educate. I have zero time to degrade another rapper. With that said though, I do talk about "sucks rappers" the rappers who exploit our culture for money and the rappers not carrying on tradition.
Miss R:What has the feedback been like from the people in your home town?
Good and bad. Some people fuck with me, support me, some people hate on me and some people think I should be in the NFL as opposed to chasing dreams. Everyone's entitled to their own opinion. That'll never affect me, slow me down or speed me up.
Miss R:Are there any other artist/producers you would like to work with in the near future?
Black Milk, Masta Ace and Jhene Aiko
Miss R: What was the last album you bought?
Geez, umm... Good kid ,Maad City, maybe?
Miss R: What are your plans for the near future? Are there any other projects you're working on?
I just want to get this album out, promote it, market it and try to get the most out of it. I'll have a follow up project early 2016. I'm already working on that.
Miss R: Thank you for your time and all the best with your Album and future projects.
MUSIC: soundcloud.com/so-realistic
TWITTER: @RealaAndolini
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