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interviews
| Interview - Everyday Process |
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| Friday, 30 March 2007 |
Everyday Process has released their new album "The Process of Illumination and Elimination" with Cross Movement Records.
eve the zealot reviewed their album and is now asking the questions.
Hey, guys, how's everything?
Great!
God is good, benevolent, kind, merciful, the list goes on!
We know that one of the most exciting things going on
with you is the release of your debut CD, Everyday Process: The Process of Illumination and Elimination. I want you to know,
I thought this CD was bangin' from start to end. Overall, how do you feel about the finished product?
Thanks! We're
thrilled that heads are feelin' it. All glory to the MOST HIGH! We feel great about it. We feel honored and privileged that
the LORD has entrusted His priceless and timeless message of the gospel of Christ to us. We are privileged that CMR has invested
sooooo much into some young kats they have been discipling over the years. We think the music is God-honoring, Christcentric
(just like the DC crew and our fam...no pun intended), and relevent in terms of artistry, sonic quality, and content. Christ
as well as the scripture is always relevent...people just don't see it though. They are blind. So we feel the music we have
released this go around is full of culturally relevance that points to the truths of God.
Would you re-state for
our readers what the purpose of this project was?
Simply to illuminate the unbeliever with the light of Christ. John
3:16-21, John 1:1-9, and many more sections of the scriptures expound on this. We want people to see their need for a savior.
Also to illuminate some believers in terms of getting to know their God better. So we're shedding light on several things
throughout the project relating to the life of believers and followers of Christ. The struggles, the mandate, the call, purpose,
the hope we have, and more. Illumination! We also wanted to focus on the concept of elimination for the believer and the unbeliever.
For the believer...to learn to Kill Sin like timothy brindle so eloquently put it and to learn to hate what God hates. This
brings about a "process" of eliminating things in our lives and walk that hinder us and would stand in teh way of us looking
more like Christ. For the unbeliever...to recognize and ponder on John 14:6. There is NO other way to the Father except through
Jesus Christ. this brings about a "process" seeing Jesus for who He really is...man's only means of salvation and redemption!
Since
evanglizing the lost is something I know you find biblically relevant to your own lives, please tell us what you have planned
in terms of getting this amazing artestry and important content out to folks who don't yet believe the Gospel?
One
strategy we want to use is partnering with the Christian consumer. For them to buy not just one cd for themselves, but to
buy one for an unbeliever they know as well. This is why we have intentionally placed evangelistic songs directed to the unbeliever
on the album. We also love using the means of the classic hip hop "mixtape". this can be good for urban street level minstry.
Hittin up the block and the corners and choppin' it up with kats. Then there is the age old method...justy be a witness however
you can and where ever you are. Music and hip hop and cd's are not the only way to reach people. Ministry and reaching out
to the lost is not just for when you are in the booth or on the stage...it's in everyday life. At work, at school, at the
market, on vacation, or whatever. We must preach the gospel verbally as well as with our lifestyles all the time. We should
never be punching out on our "Christianity clock". We are also planning to do some more ventures in the city we are based
out of...Chester, PA. We have a heart, burden, and passion for the people there.
 What are your favorite songs on the project and why?
Ha! All of them. For real though...each of the songs have their
own feel and are unique. I guess it just depends on the "mood" we're in or what we're focused on or consumed with at the moment.
If we are feelin "hit the block-ish", then we might throw on "Resist the System". If we are encouraging the body and reminding
them of their duty and mandate from God, we might throw on "Give 'em the Gospel". It just depends on varying factors. We like
all of the songs!
We know that you're signed to Cross Movement Records. How excited are you about this? How has
the affiliation proved valuable thus far?
The affiliation is great! but many heads don't know about the history between
EP and CM/CMR fam. they didn't just come see us at some show and was like, "OOOHH! They can spit a lil' bit. And they love
Christ! Let's scoop 'em!" Nahh. CM and the surrounding fam have discipled us and been in our lives for YEARS. I (Iz-Real)
have known them since about 9 or 10 years old before there was even the formation of the crew "Cross Movement". I (Mac) first
heard them when I was a freshman in collage. my boy CZ put me on to them. I found myslef being taught more about the scriptures
and the truths of God by their cd's moreso than in church! I found out that CM was based in my area. i started going to a
ton of their shows. Ha! if it was within like a 4 hour drive...i was there. They started joking about how I must have a home
in each of these cities because I was at all of theses shows! we just eventually developed relationship. We have experienced
countless Bible studies in TRU-LIFE's house and other places. We spent months and even a couple of years being schooled on
particular books of the Bible. No exaderation. Phanatik and Tone Bruno and other CM heads took us through studying the book
of Proverbs over like a period of 2 years! One book...hittin it in depth...for 2 years!!! So we are indebted to these kats
for any type of spiritual maturity we may have gained. So for us...the albums, beats, rhymes, and all that is just a plus.
So the CMR affiliation is great...BUT the family atmosphere and bond between kats is even better!
Your CD is clearly
aimed at both the Body of Christ and folks who don't yet know the Lord. If you only had one thing to say to each camp, what
would it be?
Oooh! Well....to the Body of Christ, we'd say to always shine the light of Christ in this culture and
never give in. Do this by prayer and diggin in the Bible for sustenance. This helps the believer to remember the hope that
they have, what they have been saved from, and to be constantly reminded of the wonder and beauty and grandeur of the Christ!
To the unbeliever, to remember the vanity and meaninglessness and brevity of this life, and to strive to get an ACCURATE look
at Jesus and what He offers.
 I must say, guys, you two make a dangerous team. How did you two get together?
Thanks. We go back in various ways.
We met through Iz-Real's wife (then girlfriend) in the mid/late 90's and really didn't start off on the good foot. I (Mac)
was trying to be the big brother protecting his sister in the LORD and didn't want her dating dudes I didn't know. We eventually
found out that we did the same thing. Trying to use rap as a tool and method to reach kats. So we eventually teamed up. Around
the same time we found out that Mac knew my (Iz-Real) dad. They worked out together. So...our family's have been connected
for years.
Mac, your skills as both a lyricist and a producer are solid as evidenced by this album. Which task
do you prefer and why?
Much appreciated! Well...I'm torn. I love both. TRU-LIFE discipled me on the beat tip. Took
a young dude under his wing and didn't withold any knowledge from me. That's my mans! Cleve Foat aka Earthquake was also instrumental
in schooling me. Trust me...those dudes are beasts on the beats and kats still (to this day) haven't heard all the heat from
them. They got archives of hotness that many have and may never hear. They should drop a beat album. I love to write as well
so I must say that I love them equally. Both tasks provide unique opportunities. When I'm doing a beat and the artist FEELS
it...then I get to serve as the launching pad. It's like the LORD uses the work of my mind and hands to inspire the artist
to rep Christ! Amazing! They'll say "Mac...you brought it out of me on that jawn!" I'm honored and humbled at the same time!
When I have the pen in my hand...I feel like I'm given power. While the world pushes their propaganda (most of it is meaningless
and pointless), I get to push the message of the cross. Sometimes I'm in beat mode...other times I'm in in rhyme mode. Either
way and in either one...always gotta shine the light. that would be Lampmode! Ha! Whatup Esso!
It's apparent to
me that you guys grind with the Lord on a regular basis. The content on the album shows this. Our readers my be interested
in how the Lord has been rockin' you lately in His Word and in life in general.
Right now, we are big on wholistic
Christianity! Balance. It's like...we can't stay locked down in our house readin the scriptures and prayin, but not go out
and live it! At the same time...we can't be out all the time and never spend time gettin it in with the LORD in prayer and
in the scriptures in community as well as alone. many things in the Christian life must be balanced or else we can easily
lose focus. We are also big on family. We're both married and Iz-Real and his wife have been been blessed with a beautiful
daughter, and I (Mac) and my wife are expecting our first child...a boy in about one month. A Godly life in the context of
family is important as well. We're also big on discipleship as well as close knit community in the local church, and active
service in and through that local church. This keeps the believer accountable to God and to the Body of Christ.
Mac,
I spoke with you at the last First Fridays, but I was interested in knowing which local fellowship you both attend and how
important it is to your lives.
Iz-Real: I attend the Way Thru Christ Ministry located in Chester, PA. Mac: I attend
a Calvary Chapel (Delaware County) located in Media, PA....transitioning to a new church plant called Epiphany Fellowship
located in Philly. We both see our local church body and community as HIGHLY NECESSARY and VITAL. The Christian life was MEANT
to be lived out in COMMUNITY!!!
You guys are both very blessed to live in an area a lot of others envy in terms
of the density of like-minded Christians who enjoy hip hop. What good things do you see going on in the Christian Hip Hop
community?
We agree...HOWEVER...it took sacrifice and dedication on someone's part. CM was dedicated and faithful
and the LORD honored them with a movement in this area. With the LORD involved and if He sees fit...a movement can take place
anywhere the believer is. Look at Dallas and St. Louis and Tampa and the Baltimore/DC areas. There's a ton of great things
going on in the HHH community....however....we must remain focused on the main thing...Christ. I see spiritual growth an maturity
as well as artistic growth. we need to keep that going. We are seeing plenty of solid wholistic Christianity and discipleship.
That needs to keep happening and can always happen more.
What future plans can you guys share in terms of hip hop
and ministry?
An album release party on Saturday April 14, 2007 in Chester, PA. (just south of Philly) featuring Cross
Movement, deejay essence, R-Swift, B Morr, and more. Also....A CMR HIStory Tour this summer! LORD willing....that should be
God-honoring, Christcentric and simply BANGIN'! EP is planning to do Truth or Lie volume II mixtape cd for strictly evangelistic
purposes. we are just seeking to remain faithful the LORD and to relay on Him for everything. We're just submitted to living
this life in a God glorifying manner so the lORD will get His due props and continue to go through this "everyday process"
of being made more like Christ.
Any last words you'd like to leave with Rapzilla visitors?
Strive to be
mindful of the wonder and awesomeness of God. How great He really is. Se Him like he should be seen. He'll blow ya mind everyday
all day! Holiness first til' we're under the earth!
Thanks for your time, guys. God
bless you in all you do.
Likewise sis. Grace and peace! |
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| Written by Philip
Rood |
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Eric Cross has recently signed with Beatmart Recordings. We had a little chat with him about it and what to expect
from his upcoming album.
Introduce yourself for all those that don't know you.
For all those that don't
know me I go by the name of Eric Cross a.k.a E Cross. I
come from the midwest Milwaukee, Wi were I was born and raised. To know more about me you can check out www.ecrossmusic.com.
You just recently signed with Beatmart, how did you hook up with the label?
I
hooked up with Beatmart when I went to Fla.vor Fest 2006 back in November. I met Todd Collins we conversated for a little
bit about sports and all that good stuff and then he asked me for my cd; so I gave it to him and to make a long story short
he loved my music and my performance which he got to see later on that night. Todd and I keep in touch for about three months
before I signed the contract and here I am. It's truly a blessing from God.
What are your plans with Beatmart?
My plans with Beatmart is to just play my
role in helping to continue the success that they have already obtained, while making good music that will motivate believers
and non-believers towards a stronger relationship with Christ.
 When can we expect your album to release?
You can expect my album entitled "The Art of Composition" to be released
sometime in late summer early fall.
When will you start recording the album?
I will
probably start recording the album in late March or sometime in April.
Anyone special you want featured in the album?
As far as anyone who will be featured
on my album that is still up for debate. However the one person who will be featured on my album is my guy D-M.AU.B. hailing
from Cincinnati, Ohio also Soul P and I are going to lay down a track; so that should be exciting.
How about producers? Just Todd Collins?
As far as producers I'm assuming Todd
is going to be doing most of the production however he did have an open invite for producers to lay down some beats for my
album. So we will have to wait and see.
If you could have anyone featured who would it be?
If I could have anyone feature on the album it would be J.R., I love his voice and Theory Hazit his
lyrical ability speaks for itself.
How do you feel being signed with Beatmart Recordings?
In regards to signing with
Beatmart Recordings; I feel extremely honored that Todd saw something in me to give me this opportunity so I'm extremely honored
and excited to be part of the Beatmart family |
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Interview with Joe L Da Vessel
1. How long have you been rapping?
Approx. 14 years - since 1984.
2. who were your musical influences?
Stevie Wonder, Frankie Beverly, Donny Hathaway, Rakim, LL Cool J and many others.
3. why are you rapping for the Lord?
I was called as a child but did not answer the call until much later, at which time many aspects
of my life changed so I decided to offer my gifts & talents back to the Lord.
4. who are your musical influences now if any?
Tye Tribbette, Israel, Tonex, LeCrae, Trip-lee, Common, & The
Roots among others. 5. where do you want to see your ministry go?
I want to continue to see lives changed by the message of Christ shown through this music ministry.
In addition, we will continue to produce quality entertainment for all to enjoy!
6. what has been the biggest change in your life since you commited your life to Christ?
I would have to say my outlook on life. I try my best to see life as a continuos series of opportunities
for God to show off!
7. what has been your biggest obstacle to overcome since commiting your
life to Christ?
Probably the process of growing & maturing spiritually while my flesh wants to remain the
same old Joe.
8. what projects are you working on currently?
The new album "The Big Shank Redemption," preparing for the Stellar Awards, getting ready for
Melodic's (my band) upcoming schedule.
9. what has the Lord revealed to you lately?
The fact that I am one of the sons of God the prophets spoke of long ago and
that '08 is the year of new beginnings.
10. Can you share a short testimony?
God has brought me from a life of drugs, alcohol, violence, depression and grief to a life of
joy, peace & hope - all to His glory in Jesus' Name. |
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What was your inspiration for this project? Why'd you decide to do a 2 album project covering the fall
& its redemption?
It was a couple different things. One of them was this underlying division in the Christian
hip-hop world where people feel like some artists rap for the world and some artists rap for the church; so I wanted to do
two projects with one being evangelistic and not as heavy, and then the other one could be theological and teaching. That
was the first piece of my inspiration. The second came from wanting to do a story just to do something different. The story
that inspired the album was the conversation that I had with this dude in my neighborhood, just sharing the faith and I had
the chance to ask him a couple questions about the gospel. He looked real puzzled and I asked him if he had heard of Adam
and Eve before, and he was like, “nah.” So I knew I needed to do an album that was in laymen’s terms just
explaining the situation of the fall and why the world is the way it is, and then the redemption and what the Father and Holy
Spirit are doing to redeem humanity.
What was your biggest challenge in putting this project together?
The
biggest challenge was creatively to still be consistent with the story and still teach a little bit. I wanted to be able to
explain things in laymen’s terms, but not lose the creative aspect. So keeping all of those things in my mind was probably
the most challenging part. I had to keep the whole story consistent, and not over simplify things but still be creative so
I don’t lose the people. You don’t want them to get burned out hearing your voice, so figuring out ways of how
I could keep their attention.
"MySpace" and "Desires in Conflict" are sure to be both well received and controversial
at the same time, how are you prepared to respond to the criticism?
I think most definitely in writing the songs
I was prayerful to be sensitive since those topics were sticky. So I tried to do it in a tactful way so that it didn’t
seem like an attack or ignorance, but it was done in compassion. If someone did raise the question, I would challenge to listen
to the song with me or listen to it again and at least consider the tact in which it was done. I hope they’ll give me
the benefit of the doubt and see that I’m still trying to communicate the Lord’s heart while communicating His
compassion at the same time.
The Midwest seems to be growing rapidly with artists like yourself, Json, Thi'sl,
Lecrae and others; why do you think so many Bible-centered emcees are now emerging from this part of the nation?
I
don’t know man. Just being in St. Louis and the Midwest in general we pool from so many different parts of the country
as far as influence, so I think at least everybody gives it an ear. The down south cats give it an ear; the east coast cats
give in an ear, so everybody can kind of peer in and check it out. So, I think that’s what’s doing it right now.
What keeps you motivated in wanting to keep growing and challenging yourself as an emcee?
One
of the things that keeps me motivated is listening to a lot of the people I look up to. Like, I look up to Da’ Truth
as an artist, and Cross Movement, Shai Linne, and others. They’re like my big brothers and I aspire to artistically
be on the level that they’re on more and more. I’m still a fan of those guys.
What's some of the
music that you're listening to right now?
I don’t think I’ve listened to any music, man. I’ve
just been listening to beats over and over, like fifty times. I copped the Everyday Process album and got a chance to listen
to it. I listen to a lot of contemporary like Steven Curtis Chapman and stuff like that man. That’s about it man, those
and instrumentals.
What is one thing that you've been studying in the Word of late or that God has been teaching
you?
I’ve been studying a few things, and they’ve all kind of centered around the same thing. Right
now I’m in the book of Jeremiah and just been going through that verse by verse; been in that for probably a couple
months. I’m just looking at the Lord’s heart and His heart for Judah and Israel and how He wanted the best for
them. He’s holy and His ways are the best ways, but they were just caught up in the culture and worshipping idols. So,
I’ve just been studying the heart of the Lord and His holiness, and how because of His holiness He wants the best for
His people, which is holiness. A lot of times, we just don’t see His ways as the best ways, so just being convinced
more and more of His holiness and His desire for good things for us.
What's one piece of advice you'd give
to Christians who want to continue to grow closer to the Lord and stronger in their walk?
Be more concerned with
being somebody in Christ versus doing something for Christ. It’s so easy to want to get busy in service and in ministry,
which is great, but it should never take precedent over our worship unto the Lord. Stay in His face and doing the basic things
like studying the Bible everyday and prayer. They seem like the ABC’s of the faith, but they are so easy to forget.
Don’t forget the basics; don’t feel like you’re past that. We should still have the heart of a child and
not forget about those basic things.
What can we expect from the upcoming "Our World Redeemed?"
Most
definitely a mood change. I know that Our World Fallen was really serious, but very timely with all that’s going on
right now. This next one is going to be a lot brighter with more celebration and more worship. It’s going to complete
the story, so it’s going to complete some of the missing pieces. It’s going to be real encouraging and different
from the first one.
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Why the title "The Premiere?" 
How is it to be with Beatmart?
How did you get born again?