[Feature] Problem: Definition of a Problem

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Interview by Pershia Alcorn
Photo by Topshelf Junior (@weshootpeople)

JENESIS Magazine may just be getting acquainted with artist Problem but he’s made plenty of moves behind the boards to earn the respect of many in the industry. Other than offering help to other artist with writing on tracks, Problem’s already dealt with a label deal with Universal and now continues his path with an evolving career with Diamond Lane. Check out Persiah’s Q&A with Problem.

What does it mean to be Problem?

I’m Problem to the industry. Musically, that is [laughs]. I’m here to run amuck!

The first song I had ever heard from you was “I Don’t Think They Like Me” back in 09. I loved it, but I always wondered if you kept that sound what lane would you be placed in. My question is back then, compared to now, have you found your lane and if so do you have just one?

Thanks a lot, I appreciate that. I did that record in my baby mama’s bedroom! [laughs] I’ve definitely found it. I’m in the Diamond Lane! Straight up!

[Laughs] Okay! I did a little research before we got into the interviewing process and I read that you’ve worked with Ye’, John legend, Snoop Dogg, and DJ Quik before? You’ve got to give us some detail on how all this transpired.

Timing! Timing was everything in my journey. I’ve been blessed to be in the room with those great artists. And honestly, getting there was the easy part. Staying there is the struggle, but I feel like I’m ready!

I also read about your deal with Universal. It was a 2 single deal and you stated that “I can say that what happened over there wasn’t their fault or my fault. It was just a lack of knowledge and not knowing the business and what I was supposed to do as an artist to push my own project.” There was a time in the business, especially in LA, in which so many young acts were getting these 1 single or 1 single deals, but often were left unaware of the business aspects and general understandings. Looking at your situation with a naked eye do you believe that it could be categorized as a Cali Swag District situation or an Audio Push situation? No offense to those guys. They had some good music.

To be honest, I don’t really know their situation like that, but I wouldn’t trade what I went through for the world. The fact that I even was able to obtain a deal is a huge accomplishment!

How is indie life? Let us know about the structure of Diamond Lane from the music to the business aspect.

Diamond Lane is family first. So our situation is a tad different from the rest of these other indie companies. We’re a crew first. Been together for over ten years and will be together forever! But best believe it’s run just like Interscope, Def Jam, Warner, etc.

Critics have dubbed this new generation of rappers as “new nostalgic.” Virtually saying that nothing is original. That often the amazing music our generation is producing replicas that of the past too much. I don’t get that feel from you at all! How do you think you’ve managed to create a sound that is true to you?

I learned that being you is way easier than trying to be someone else! Staying true to myself, my team, and my beliefs has gotten me this far, so why change now? You know?

What’s next after Welcome To Mollywood? Any major tours or features? Hopefully no reality shows. We can’t let you go out like that!

Yo [laughs]! Not sure about the reality shows but make sure you grab that “Welcome To Mollywood 2″. It’s already done. Bad Lucc’s “Amerikkan Nightmare” experience is coming! Just stay tuned. It’s bout to get real interesting like what!

Follow Problem on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/itsaproblem

Download Welcome To Mollywood 2 Here: http://www.livemixtapes.com/mixtapes/18411/problem_welcome_to_mollywood_2.html