Up Close with Up and Coming Rapper McCoy Price
Friday, November 25, 2011
Although hip-hop seems to be on the back burner of the Providence music scene, local up and coming rap artist McCoy Price is trying to alter that perception. In just the past couple years, Price has released three mixtapes, been featured on a mixtape released by Lil Wayne’s record label and is poised to make a name for himself outside of Rhode Island.
GoLocal caught up with Price to discuss life, lyrics, his famous associations and what’s up next for this talented local artist.
What first got you interested in hip-hop?
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTI started liking rap as a kid when I would hear my older cousin Trevor rap. My father and godfather would pick me up, and usually have on some rap music in the car such as Biggie or Dr. Dre and I would just listen and recite lyrics; things kids do. At age 12 or so a neighbor of mine, Ralphy, convinced me to start writing.
How did your upbringing influence your style and lyrics?
Rap was my way to escape and zone out from the struggles and drama that goes on with being raised in the projects. Through music I was able to paint a picture of what I went through and seen first hand. Things like death, women, money, drugs, desires; the list goes on. Music kept me grounded and gave me something to do.
Hip-hop seems to be an under-appreciated element of the local music scene; how would you describe the hip-hop community in Providence?
I love my city, but not a lot of people in it. It's the hater capital. Many people, including artists, don’t want to see you win if they're not winning. Everyone wants to be the "best" from here and the first to do it big. If we would support each other more and stop silly beef we all would be winning. Until then I will keep doing what I do: good positive music that represents where I'm from.
If you could change one thing about the current Providence hip-hop scene what would it be?
I would like to see local artists who have great potential be treated just like any other major act that came down and performed. That means opportunities to play the best venues, have great sound quality equipment, etc; as long as they can step up to the plate. Just because I'm local, I'm not gonna do your shitty show just to put money in your pocket.
How did you become associated with Richard Sostre and how has he helped shape your career?
He is an entertainment manager who happened to be a family friend since I was a baby. His discovery of Ryan Leslie was really what made me believe in his work. Richard basically schooled me on the industry and let me know what it would take to make it as a rap artist, especially from Providence.
Can you discuss Grind Mode Cypher Vol. 1 and how you became involved?
My cousin Lecture, who also raps, introduced me to a local artist/producer named Lingo, who allowed me to record in his studio, which helped us form a music relationship. Due to this relationship, I was able to get in shows, such as opening up for Sheek Louch, and eventually being part of Lingo's Grind Mode CypherSeries. This series features RI Rap Cyphers, being professionally directed, which gives local artists the exposure we need.
Can you talk a little about being featured on the upcoming Unsign Mixtape Vol.1, which is presented by Lil Wayne's Young Money Entertainment and what you hope comes out of this?
I gained a connection through a mutual friend who has some people in Miami affiliated with Young Money. The company Grind City Ent. just put out there first mixtape sponsored by Young Money which featured a track by myself called "Hate on Me" ft. Khyree. I hope to gain exposure out of RI, which is my ultimate goal for 2012.
You've released three mix-tapes (All Eyes On Me Vol.1, Follow The Leader and HipHops NewBorn), do you have plans to release a full-length album?
I'm working on my first full-length album now; set to drop sometime 2012. Paul Lowe Jr., a local producer and good friend of mine, is creating a lot of the beats for it. I’m just taking my time on it so it comes out right.
Lastly, are there any upcoming projects you wish to share?
Yes, I'm releasing my 4th mixtape titled Legend in late December. You can find all my mixtapes on datpiff.com by searching "McCoy Price." I also will be featured on a Clinton Sparks mixtape, which is being promoted by NewEnglandHipHop.com, where you can also find me.
See Price in action on YouTube at youtube.com/user/MccoyPrice87 and follow him @McCoyPriCe.
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