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DAVE AMATO (Gangstasparty.com): 1) First Off.. I would like to ask u: How did you get your name AKIR?
AKIR:Back in high school I really was interested in being a graf writer. I came up with the letters as a tag and my homeboy was like, "Yo, that's dope, there is a similar word in my language that means the goodness". From that point it kinda stuck with me cause I would write it everywhere I could. Then my homeboy T-ro came up with the acronym when we started our first record label in '98. It fit with what I wanted to stand for. Now I wear it with pride you know. It helps me maintain a standard with my music and with my life.
DAVE AMATO (Gangstasparty.com): 2) What is your style?
AKIR: I would say I am pretty laid back unless you get me on one of those break beats, then I rip it out the frame. Most of my focus deals with family and social commentary. I think in hip-hop there is a strong divide between the "underground" and "major" genres, I hope people are willing to embrace the fact that I am not gonna be boxed in.
DAVE AMATO (Gangstasparty.com): 3) Where do u get your inspiration from ?
AKIR: On the day to day I run into all kind of inspiration. Most of my inspiration comes from friends and family. Im constantly travelling so things I see walking the block, drivin on highways, walking through airports all add to it as well. The news is also a huge source of inspiration.
DAVE AMATO (Gangstasparty.com): 4) With no album out, AKIR is already nominated as The Source's Unsigned Hype and XXL's Chairmen Choice. He has also released a single titled "Politricks". Tell us about this your hit?
AKIR: Yes, I am very proud of these achievements. Every little bit counts. Especially when you are independent and have a small budget for advertisement. People seem to really respect these particular accolades and they have definitely opened doors for my career. I never realized the power of a single until I had one. Many radio stations won't even play your music unless it is on vinyl, although the vinyl market is slowly coming to a hault. I guess if you went through the long and expensive process of creating vinyl, than they respect you as a professional.
DAVE AMATO (Gangstasparty.com): 5) In March, Akir will release through Viper Records his debut album titled "Legacy". Is there anything specific you're trying to say with this album? What's the reason for this title? Who are the guests?
AKIR: Yo, Legacy is definitely a piece of art. Unlike Street Edition, we had time to prepare this product and collaborate with other artists and camps. The main focus of this album was to reflect on what we all need to do in life before we die. I feel the most important tasks to be providing something significant spiritually, financially, educationally, and emotionally to your immediate family and to the generation behind you. This album marks the story of AKIR and others like me (you) who are preparing to be the generation to make moves. With the issues and tools we got from the elders, the insecurities and talents we built ourselves, the bright eyed potential, along with mischievious ways of the youth we all struggle to make something for our people. This is our LEGACY.
DAVE AMATO (Gangstasparty.com): 6) Is there a track that u prefer?.. And why?
AKIR: Damn that is a hard one. When I was recording, my favorite was always the newest one I just layed down. They all have very special meaning to me. The one that seemed to gel the most in the shortest amount of time was Apocalypse. People go crazy for that song everywhere I perform it.
DAVE AMATO (Gangstasparty.com): 7) How did u hook up with Immortal Technique? What do u feel to say about him?
AKIR: Tech is the homie. We have been chillin together since like 16 or so. We met through Southpaw in high school. Tech has always been free spirited to say the least, so the life he has achieved for himself is definitely the right fit. I am very proud of him for his accomplishments and I think he hopes the same for me. He has been a tremendous help, as you know he executive produced my album.
DAVE AMATO (Gangstasparty.com): 8) Have u planned a tour for support this album?
AKIR: I am talking to many promoters in different places to set something up. If you like my shit email NY@theagencygroup.com and tell them you wanna see me in your area.
DAVE AMATO (Gangstasparty.com): 9) Is there a rapper or producer that u would like to work with?
AKIR: Large Professor
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