In this episode of “People’s Party With Talib Kweli,” Kweli and Jasmin Leigh sit down with rapper, writer, producer and one half of the legendary duo Organized Konfusion:
PHAROAHE MONCH
Pharoahe earned his rightful reputation as an underground king and one of hip hop’s most respected lyricists. Here’s some of what we discussed:
• The deep rap lineage of his hometown Jamaica Queens and his song ‘Queens’.
• The origins of his name and how much of it really had to do with Monchhichis.
• Producer Paul C and how essential he was to the group Organized Konfusion.
• How John Coltrane helped Pharoahe develop his style as well as overcome his asthma.
• Organized Konfusion’s ties with O.C. and The Diggin’ In The Crates Crew.
• The importance of his Organized Konfusion rapping partner Prince Po.
• The significance of his Pharoahe’s song ‘Agent Orange’.
• What the song ‘Simon Says’ did for underground hip hop and Rawkus Records.
• The vibe, creative atmosphere and artists inspiring each other at Rawkus.
• Pharoahe and Common both have singles entitled ‘The Light’ out at the same time.
• ‘When the Gun Draws’ and it’s lyrics being written from the perspective of a bullet.
• Feelings of Eminem giving Pharoahe a shoutout on ‘Rap God’.
• Covering the topics of mental illness and depression coming from first-hand experience.
• The making of ‘Assassins’ featuring Jean Grae, Royce Da 5’9″.
• Rock N Roll contributing to Pharoahe’s vibe, music and attitude.
• His latest project Th1rt3en and recruiting Daru Jones and Marcus Machado.
• Pharoahe’s love of dark hip hop like Mobb Deep and M.O.P..
• The internal process of making the song ‘Racist’.
• Keyon Harrold’s son being attacked by a Karen.
Speak On It!