The fact that we still have artists that people are really interested in hearing, me as well, prompted us to do another one because the first one did so well. II, TELL ME THE THOUGHT PROCESS BEHIND THIS ONE. Isa Ransome (© Urbanology Magazine 2014 Archives) Even in the midst of speaking about the album, he serves to do more than any routine answer would. II, released this past Friday, is the follow up to the first entry that debuted several artists from the Strange Music label who share Tech N9ne’s same mutinous nature on the mic.ĭespite being in the midst of the pre-promotion period for the project when we sit down, Tech N9ne reminds me that he’s never been one to narrow down his thoughts to just that.

His resistance to any shackle, whether it is from either party, directly reflects the essence of his label and movement, Strange Music. One audience wishes to partake in an artist that’s already 15 albums deep in the game, while another wishes to hold onto their underground sire of hip-hop. The other is where that same name is being elevated by the commercial canon. One is of robust underground status where his name is idolized amongst a cult-like following and the hip-hop elite for his razor-sharp flow, impeccable lyricism and undeniable hustle. He’s now in a peculiar situation, however, being stretched between two worlds. As an independent artist, this is the uncensored place in which Tech N9ne lives and breathes.Īs an independent artist, this is the uncensored place in which Tech N9ne lives and breathes. It’s the type of interview that can extend into industry politics, relationships, motivation or the topic of maturity. I can do whatever the fuck I want to do.”Īs a long-time journalist, I often get a sense of when an interview transitions into a conversation, free of the barrier that separates the person from the public image. This is clearly Aaron talking, not an entertainment persona with a collection of politically correct, filtered responses meant to purify a message for delicate ears. Regular clothing aside, he still rocks the standard dark shades that conceal his current annoyance as he discusses a certain type of enthusiast: the entitled fan. His posture is composed, hunched forward free of the eccentric garb he’s often seen in.

“I got shit from fans for working with Wayne and everything,” says Aaron Dontez Yates, more commonly referred to as Tech N9ne.

Tech n9ne song for his mom