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Ridah Redd has been cutting it on the underground for a while, but now he is starting to get some love from both sides of the pond. We sent Tricksta to get the lowdown...
Where are you from and what’s the Hip-Hop scene/industry like there?
I’m from Palm Beach County FL, the Hip-Hop scene over here is a little more unique than other places. One thing I can say is there’s no place like home. Everyone here is pretty much chasing the same dream but chasing it differently. What I mean is majority of the artists here are independent with their music so they really have an “I can do this on my own” type of mentality. After gaining the knowledge I did in this business, I have a better understanding of why you should have that attitude. Half of these major labels are out to screw upcoming artist like myself out of a good record deal. That would be one of the main reasons for the development of that mentality.
How long have you been rapping and what or who influenced you to pick up the microphone and start writing?
I’ve been rapping for 8 years going on 9. I got involved with making music at the age of 14. I started off producing and later gained interest for writing. My boys and I use to sit in the garage on the hottest days here and write rhymes lol those were the good old days. My influences were and are my family and friends, plain and simple.
What have you released so far and what has the response been like?
So far I’ve released 2 cds; an album (My Neck of Tha Woodz) and a mixtape (Remember Me). The feedback from the locals is an experience. At times their responses make me feel like a celebrity but I never let it go to my head and consider myself a star because I’m not, honestly speaking.
What would you say is the most popular track that you have released to date?
I have a song on my mixtape titled “On the Way”, I wrote the song based on how I felt at that moment when I found out I was going to be a father. Basically I made it for the men who are expecting a child, the men who are there for their children, and the guys who refuse to be involved because they claim they aren’t ready. I’m a very conscious rapper I don’t limit myself to club music. No offense to those who love to make club music but that’s just not me, I need people to relate to my music. If I can’t ride in my own car and vibe to my own music than it’s not good enough to go on a cd for everyone else to hear.
What producers do you work with?
I work with Sean Buck, Ghost, Dame Grease, Dead Beat Leo and of course myself because I am a producer as well.
What artists have you collaborated with and what’s the most memorable collaboration that you have recorded?
I’ve collaborated with other local artists like K Dot, Kallosity, Hitt, Sean Buck, Jayde, Pat Black, and Charbel Khadish. As far as producers go I’ve collaborated with Sean Buck, Ghost, and Kajmir Rayal. Every collaboration to me is memorable regardless of who I work with.
Who would you like to collaborate with, i.e. your wish list?
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Monica, Ludacris, Mary J. Blidge, The Game, Faith Evans, Z-Ro, Ciara, Maxwell, Gladys Knight, Tyrese, Mariah Carey, Trick Daddy, and Marlon Wayans “believe it or not that guy can sing”.
What’s your label situation? Who are you signed to and do they have distribution?
I am signed with Godfather Records and yes we do have a distribution.
With so many rappers in the game how are you planning to make noise and get noticed?
By continuing to think outside of the box and make the type of music I love to listen to, the same type of music bringing me this type of recognition right now.
Have you featured or hosted any mixtapes?
You can check me out on coast2coast mixtapes with a number of big names.
Are you working on new material?
Of course! I’m working on a demo and another album. The demo will be out within the next 2-3 weeks.
What’s been the most memorable gig and why?
I’m still waiting on that!
Any major plans for the rest of the year?
Yea making LeBron James my biggest fan!
Anything big in the pipeline?
Yea going on tour to the UK!
What radio stations in your area are supporting your music?
So far 90.7, the one radio, 101.1, & Dade county radio.com
‘Big name’ collaborations seem to be the way for ‘underground artists’ to get more exposure. Do you plan to do this?
NOPE! I don’t need any “Big names” in order to blow. I rather help a local become established than to help someone who is already established.
Have you done any music videos to promote your latest release?
My song “To the Core” type in “Ridah Redd” on www.youtube.com
Who made the video?
Carlos “A-Game” Miller a local video director. A very gifted person at what he does.
Do you have a My Space page or a website?
Yep! www.myspace.com/ridahreddmusic & www.godfatherrecords.net
Describe your style in 5 words.
1) Consistent
2) Honest
3) Versatile
4) Relaxing
5) Conscious
Do you have a direct link for people wanting to buy your music on-line?
You can go on iTunes and purchase the album or single individual songs, your choice.
Would you ever sign to a major label?
Of course! Who wouldn’t? Only if the deal is sweet enough.
Do you have a manager or booking agent?
Yes, William Kofi from Invigorator Management in the UK.
Why should people buy your music?
Easy! I can make something out of nothing. I put my heart and soul into everything I do especially my music. I have a passion for good music and a purpose in this industry. I am history in the making and I will let it be known!
Any shout-outs or anything you want to add?
I want to give a very very very special shout out to GOD for giving me the strength to wake up each and every morning. I would like to give a shout out to my momma, my wife and son, the rest of my family and friends for loving and supporting me unconditionally throughout this entire process. I probably wouldn’t have made it this far without their love. Here’s a shout out to Godfather Records and everyone involved, BI who made this all happen by recognizing my gift, Q’s, Kamaal, Kallosity, K Dot, Hitt, Sean Buck, Jayde, and Mikey and Caity from Stay Fly Wear. Thank you all in the UK for supporting me. I really appreciate the love and as soon as I come to Europe I will return the favour by rocking those shows for you guys!
Interview by Tricksta
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