Sounds From The Underground: Hip Hop Lifestyle and Marketing Podcast presented by Insomniac Magazine

On this episode of Insomniac Magazine's "Sounds From The Underground" podcast, an eclectic group of Hip Hop artists share their inspirations and provide some insight into their takeaways from marketing.  Featured artists include Dell P (Philly), CasanovaOnTheMic (Guam), Twan Mack (Milwaukee), Messiah Black (Pittsburgh), Cassandra The Goddess MC (NYC), The Scribes (UK), and JuleUnique (Long Beach).

On this episode, IZ-REAL speaks with a Chicago music and art scene staple Sharkula. The prolific rhyme practitioner has been creating non-stop for the better part of two decades, crafting over thirty albums, EPs, mixtapes and other projects. With a one-of-a-kind approach and unrelenting dedication to the culture, this veteran emcee is a Hip Hop original.

On this episode of Insomniac Magazine's "Sounds from the Underground" podcast, we hear from producer, filmmaker, and record label president David C-Doc Snyder. He discusses the new Public Enemy album, directing their live performance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, distributing his film "Heights Girl 2," and the latest on The Spit Slam Record Label Group, which he runs alongside Hip Hop icon Chuck D. 

On this episode of Insomniac Magazine's "Sounds from the Underground" podcast, we hear from a handful of indie Hip Hop practitioners who share their inspirations and give insights into some of their marketing efforts and takeaways. They touch on topics, including branding and creativity and provide a perspective from things they've put into practice within their careers. Hit play and dive into some Hip Hop tips of the trade from rhyme artisans Indigo Phoenyx, Irie-1, Mark 4ord, Sam LaRoche and Three Five.

In this Insomniac Magazine interview, the legendary emcee and freedom fighter, Chuck D talks with Israel "IZ-REAL" Vasquetelle. The iconic artist provides insight into Public Enemy’s newly released masterwork What you Gonna Do When The Grid Goes Down. He shares his thoughts about  the current state of affairs in 2020, working with Rage Against the Machine reboot and supergroup Prophets of Rage, a newly minted deal with Def Jam, and drops jewels from his immense career in the music industry. The frontman for one of rap's most potent groups, and in many ways the voice of a generation, continues to bolster messages of empowerment and the importance of Hip Hop that rebels against society’s ills. During this in-depth talk, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee enlightens and inspires while imparting immense knowledge from decades of railing against the hype, raising the roof, and fighting powers that be. 

On this episode, rising Hip Hop artist Pounds provides insight into his role as Big Pun in the upcoming Big L biopic, branding, working with Daupe Records, collaborations, and his music industry journey so far. The upstate New York rapper conducted the interview while on break for a music video production on the docks of a Boston shipyard. 

On this episode of Insomniac Magazine's Sounds From The Underground, the manager for the legendary Roc Marciano imparts music industry insight. Jazz has worked with the mic phenom since the early days of his career. This Hip Hop vet shares jewels from the trenches of this successful indie giant's camp, their distinct approach to monetizing music in a world dominated by streaming, licensing to TV and much more. 

Legendary emcee Ras Kass made history in 1996 with his iconic album Soul On Ice. Since then, he’s continued to make impactful Hip Hop music with social and lyrical potentency. From his deals with a major label to his creative approach to marketing his independent releases, Ras Kass shares insight into his journey in the music industry. Speaking with Israel Vasquetelle, the the west coast mic phenom talks about his new project INCS, Hip Hop, the election and more. 

Cedric Miller aka Ced Gee entered the Hip Hop game decades ahead of his time. As a member of one of the most groundbreaking groups in the genre's golden era, Ultramagnetic MCs, he did double-duty as emcee and producer. Beyond creating classic music with Ultra, he also crafted multiple songs on "Criminal Minded" the iconic debut album from another of Hip Hop's most influential and revered groups, Boogie Down Productions. If that weren't enough to solidify a prominent place in Hip Hop history, in 1991, Ced produced the notorious Gold-selling track, Funk Compton, by another Bronx talent, the late Tim Dog. In this interview, the veteran beatsmith and emcee, provides insight with Iz-Real into his career, early drum machines used (including E-mu's SP 12), as well as current production gear, insight into his new projects and much more. Ced shares that he just wrapped production on an upcoming music video for his new "Delta 5" track (listen below) and is currently in the midst of working on his first, yet to be titled solo album, and other projects. Don't sleep on this discussion with a true Hip Hop legend, Ced Gee.

Dom Pachino’s accomplishments in Hip Hop go back well over two decades when he helped make music history as part of Hip Hop’s royal family, the Wutang brethren group known as Killarmy. During his career, he’s toured the planet, appeared on television, and films. Since those early days, he’s launched his own record label and has continued his momentum by releasing a slew of projects through Napalm Records. In this discussion, the lyrical powerhouse shares insight into his life in the music industry, lessons learned, and his most recent endeavors. It’s time to get into the trenches with rhyme vet Dom Pachino.

Insomniac Magazine editors Israel "IZ-REAL" Vasquetelle and Kevin Keith examine innovations in Hip Hop through the decades in this new series as part of Sounds From The Underground. On this episode of the podcast, they delve into the 1980s and discuss some of the most groundbreaking acts in the genre. 

If you know Hip Hop, then you know that the most talented artists are not found on the top of the charts or going viral. That type of visibility is a seriously good look if you can get it, but many times it's nothing more than a fleeting spell of vapor fame. Instead, some of the most impressive emcees can be found grinding in the trenches, well-below the surface, building success from the ground up. True Hip Hop heads know Insomniac Magazine has been digging deeper to unearth gems for over two decades. Today, we continue the tradition of shining a light on talent on this interview conducted by Israel Vasquetelle with Rocdwell, a charismatic Detroit emcee who regularly delivers uplifting music that celebrates self-empowerment. Take time to delve into this in-depth discussion about music, inspiration and more. 

In this episode, Israel Vasquetelle interviews Jackie O. Asare, a veteran music industry professional whose career began in the early 90s and continues to present day. She's worked with artists such as Lecrae, Mýa, Teddy Pendergrass, Freddie Jackson, 112, Cormega, Three Six Mafia, Lil Jon, Naughty By Nature, Prodigy of Mobb Deep, GURU and more. She's held the position of Publicity Coordinator for Sony Music and Director Of Media Relations for iconic Hip Hop labels including Priority Records and Loud Records. As well, she's the founder of Jackie O & Co a boutique public relations firm based in Atlanta. Over her illustrious career, beyond working with many music legends, she's worked projects for major brands in film, television, technology, and much more.  In this discussion, Jackie shares immense insight from her amazing career and including sharing many tips for artists and others seeking publicity. 

As we venture into 2020, it’s only fitting to do so with an artist who’s always projected the future of Hip Hop, the legendary Kool Keith interviewed by Israel "IZ-REAL" Vasquetelle.   I suggest that the true measure of success for an artist in any genre of music is longevity. Some will be able to shock their way into the consciousness of social media for a fleeting moment with viral flukes. However, it's likely that spotlight will fade fast and the notoriety won't even live as a distant memory on the fringes of viewers' minds. Today, many consider that stint of attention success. In reality, it’s more than that; it's staying power--always being sought out by fans, even if those fans' numbers are minuscule in comparison to the view counts of spectacle artists on YouTube. What counts in a music career is what lasts--something worth remembering and cherishing, even if just by a small group of die-hards who carry the torch and continue to spread that fire decades into the future.   If civilization as we know it were to end, and I had a bit of advance notice to put aside just a handful of artists' albums for storage in an indestructible time capsule for whoever happens to emerge from the rubble to learn about the essence of this thing we call Hip Hop, it would clearly be a difficult task. There are so many artists to choose from, and of course, only a finite amount of space in any hypothetical time capsule. I would certainly have to include the obvious masters of the craft, including Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, Run DMC, Rakim, Public Enemy, et cetera. But really, what self-respecting Hip Hop head wouldn't include these names from the golden era? These acts gave the genre its edge, beats, scratches, flair, and the development it needed to reach the masses. However, others have pushed creativity in Hip Hop far; these are rappers' rappers. One such emcee, in particular, has propelled far enough to reach celestial bodies during his more than a third of a century in the industry, yet he's far from celebrated by the masses. For this reason, I would be negligent in curating a theoretical time-preservation container that fails to revel in his contributions. This is not just to give him his just due, but to enlighten those who haven't yet been tainted by the mediocrity that Hip Hop has become, and so that they may discover an utmost practitioner of an essential virtue from the genre's inception-- originality. Over the decades, this performer has taken it further and further, transcending the genre's sound without selling out the essence of the culture. To some, he's a superstar, to others, his name is not known. Beyond those who will discover his presence within the time capsule, I present to anyone aspiring to learn about what it takes to become a true one-of-a-kind, this enigma. He's an unsung legend whose career demands both acknowledgment and reflection from those inspired to delve into the essentials of what it means to be a Hip Hop original. An innovator and in a class all to himself, some know him as Kool Keith.     Since the mid-eighties, he's made music for love of the art. Through the golden era, the infancy the underground, and into the profliferation of the genre into pop culture's consciousness and beyond, he's maintained a dedication to the craft and has persevered. No matter the label or how off-beat the sound, music fans have continued to discover Keith Thornton throughout the decades. Whether old or young or those that didn't even know they were listening to Hip Hop, they have been captivated by the man of many aliases, one with immense creative energy and extraordinary genius.     Unlike most rappers who've taken on aliases derived from famous criminals, drug lords, dictators, and notorious gangsters in an attempt to raise their status and achieve fame through perceived association, Keith has effectively transformed into an alternating gallery of alter egos of odd, bizarre, out-of-this-world personas. His approach has gone well beyond the use of aliases, instead, for the prospective projects,  he's morphed into each of these well-defined and life-like characters.     What well-known performer in his right mind would change his identity to that of an obscure entity? This goes against any logical approach to branding, which dictates the importance of maintaining consistency. However, he's never appeared too concerned with giving anyone what they've expected. At the core, he's been a pure artist and entertainer. After the initial breakup of the '80s conceived Ultramagnetic MCs, Keith was involved with a string of projects with no major label affiliations, limited promotional efforts, and unlike the majority of rap releases from well-known artists, no slew of superstar guest appearances; yet, he was able to capture the imaginations of both true Hip Hop fans and at the time, those who wouldn't know DMC from DMX.     What helped differentiate him from the masses of rappers was simply being different. From his rhyme delivery to his topics and themes, even his physical presentation was distinct. Some artists are so unique that they stand out in almost every environment. Keith fits the bill, whether taking the stage wearing a cape and donning a rubber wig, or throwing lunch bags packed with fruit juice and snacks to the audience, even those that expect the unexpected are generally taken by surprise by this underground icon. However, don't mistake the zany antics for mere shock value or gimmicky ploys, he's multidimensional. Keith has been mimicked by many and he's influenced even more in various genres. His voice has been sampled by electronica bands, he's toured with Platinum-selling rock bands, and his music has been used in major motion pictures. In many ways, he's provided a road map for rap artists to break free of the stereotypical and cover new ground.   Keith's abstract lyrics have lead listeners from the corridors of other galaxies through fantasies of  Hollywood life, and back to the hardcore streets of the genre's birth, the Bronx. Each project is like a welcome mat to Keith's world, a place where the plastic gets melted, the blunted get sobered, extraterrestrials are embraced, and wack emcees get served every time. Don't believe me, just take a listen to one of the most well-known artists in the genre. In his hit song "Monster" featuring Rihanna, Eminem referenced the legend of Kool Keith. Find your favorite rappers and ask who influenced them, then get those rappers' inspirations. Chances are, Keith is on those lists.  -Israel "IZ-REAL" Vasquetelle

Comedian, actor, and filmmaker, Rudy Ray Moore is a legend. This podcast is a 1996 interview that I had the pleasure of conducting with the legend himself. Despite his film persona, Moore was immensely conscientious and gracious. I've always cherished the opportunity I had to chat with him both on the air and off, and during a later meeting while he was promoting reissues of all his classic films for the home video market. Beyond his immense charm, I was greatly inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit that led him to beat all the odds. -Israel "IZ-REAL" Vasquetelle   In the 1970s, the trailblazing entertainer paved a one-of-a-kind path to reach the masses by self-releasing his own comedy albums. Years ahead of his time, the iconic performer went on to further break down decades-long barriers, this time in Hollywood, by producing and starring in his own films that took the urban scene by storm. On the big screen, his larger than life character, Dolemite, tackled injustice, and racism with unbelievable feats of action and humor.   Moore's persistence in delivering his brand of comedy to fans on stage, vinyl, and motion pictures is nothing short of inspirational. Decades before Spike Lee, Master P, and Tyler Perry, Moore's foray into both the record business and film industry as an entrepreneurial artist was groundbreaking. Initially, marketing and distributing his film throughout the country by making guest appearances on urban radio during the day to promote showings in theaters at night,  he continued that success by releasing a slew of movies that went on to infiltrate pop culture. In the '90s, after being sampled on countless records, he became a Hip Hop icon in his own right. During the 90s, his films went on to be referenced and used on other major motion pictures, including the Reginald Hudlin directed "Great White Hype" film starring Sam Jackson, Jamie Foxx and Jeff Goldblum, which further bolstered his legacy.  Although the groundbreaking performer and auteur passed away in 2008, his impact continues to be celebrated. More recently, with a new Netflix film “Dolemite is My Name" starring Eddie Murphy as Moore. The movie enjoyed a short-run theatrical release as a promotional launch on the streaming platform and is currently garnering rave reviews.    

On this episode of Insomniac Magazine's "Sounds From The Underground" podcast, Hip Hop vet Mr. P Chill shares in-depth insight into booking shows and tours as an independent artist. The Sacramento, CA emcee and producer has been creating his own brand of classic era Hip Hop for over 20 years. He's toured the United States many times over and typically stays on the road performing for nearly ten months out of the year. Currently on his 14th album, over the years, Chill has recorded with golden era artists in the genre, including Spyder D, Percee P, The Great Peso of the Fearless Four, and others. Additionally, his music has been played on the radio nationally, including on Chuck D's "Songs That Mean Something" radio show. As Chill was about to embark on his "Spaces and Places" tour, he took time to provide some deep knowledge from his many years of securing shows as an independent Hip Hop artist with podcast host Israel Vasquetelle. He also shares his picks for quality Hip Hop classics to dig into.

The Griselda camp has built a significant brand for their movement and key members over the past few years. Regular visitors to InsomniacMagazine.com have been seeing the name dominating our top ten lists beginning at the start of 2015. Since those days, label head Westside Gunn, Conway the Machine and Benny The Butcher have become mainstays throughout the Hip Hop mediascape. Milestones included the label inking a deal with Eminem’s Shady Records and, more recently, solidifying a management deal with Jay Z’s RocNation. On this episode of Insomniac Magazine's "Sounds from the Underground" podcast, IZ-REAL sits poolside on a warm Florida evening with Benny The Butcher to discuss Hip Hop, branding and the Buffalo emcee's steady rise in the music industry. With the flow of a light breeze and clanking of Benny's truck jewelry swaying as he speaks, The Butcher shares his perspective into the Griselda wave and his ever-expanding footprint within the Hip Hop universe.

In this in-depth interview with Insomniac Magazine's Israel Vasquetelle, Schoolly D discusses his storied career, an upcoming album, and insight into a lifetime of uncompromised creativity that shows no sign of slowing down. There's no shortage of reasons why Schoolly D is a trailblazer. Off the top, he is indeed the undisputed creator of gangster rap. He is a rapper's rapper; influencing iconic rappers who've gone on to influence generations of rappers. He was an entrepreneur before it was cool for rappers to be businessmen. During the '80s, he was embraced by fans abroad and began to tour globally and perform with giants of punk such as The Clash. His music has been sampled a multitude of times in many genres. In the early '90s, he was recruited by acclaimed director Abel Ferrara to provide music for his films, including cult classics "King of New York" starring Christopher Walken and Laurence Fishburne and "Bad Lieutenant" starring Harvey Keitel. He also composed for Ferrara's "The Blackout" featuring Hollywood legend Dennis Hopper. For three decades, his music has continued to be licensed for film, including 2018's "White Boy Rick." He created the intro track for the hit cartoon series, Alpha Teen Hunger Force, which boasts an astonishing eleven seasons on the air. As a graphic artist, he created a one-of-a-kind visual brand with his distinctive line-art depictions of himself. As a musical force, he built a legacy that is unrivaled. He remains an irreverent and enigmatic figure, years after his genre-defining timeless and minimalistic masterpieces "Gucci-Time," "P.S.K." and "Saturday Night." 

On this episode of the podcast, we challenge Hip Hop artists to elevate their craft in a variety of ways, including drawing inspiration from some of the genre's pioneers.

Insomniac Magazine's Israel Vasquetelle interviews Ruffhouse Records co-founder, Chris Schwartz. The record exec shares stories from his time working some of Hip Hop’s most iconic artists. Schwartz played a significant role in the careers of Kriss Kross, Cypress Hill, Wyclef, Pras, and the amazing Lauryn Hill. His company released records by Kool Keith, Benie Sigel, DMX, John Forte, The Goats, Tim Dog, and countless others. Ruffhouse created huge success with globally acclaimed albums such as "The Score” by The Fugees and "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” among others. In all, his company is responsible for the sale of over 120 millions records globally. His roots in the genre stem back to the 1980's when he managed Hip Hop phenom Schoolly D. Schwartz discusses the release of his new must read book "Ruffhouse: From the Streets of Philly to the Top of the '90s Hip Hop Charts." Sit back and get ready to take a deep dive into the Hip Hop history on this discussion with music industry executive Chris Schwartz. 

Long time Hip Hip radio hosts, editors and tastemakers, Israel "Iz-Real" Vasquetelle and Kevin Keith recommend not so known Hip Hop tracks from past decades to help broaden your knowledge base on the genre's rich history. 

On this episode of the “Sounds from the Underground” podcast, we hear from a handful of artists and producers from around the globe who share their Hip Hop inspirations and provide insight into some of their marketing efforts. Israel Vasquetelle and Kevin Keith discuss takeaways on branding and creativity from each of these Hip Hop talents. Featured artisans include: FalconCrest, Ecto-84, Mic Bles, Onaje Jordan, and Russell Flow (P.O.A.). 

There's plenty of insight to be gleaned by upcoming artists from Hip Hop's rich history. On this episode, Israel Vasquetelle and Kevin Keith share some examples of impactful artists and lessons that can be learned from their fine tuned brands. Despite all of the changes in the music industry, there are still many gems to be unearthed from the culture's earlier years. Aspiring emcees, DJs and producers should take the time to not only hone in on their craft, but also dig into world of those who've stood the test of time and in some cases helped shape the legacy of the genre. 

On this episode of Insomniac Magazine's "Sounds from the Underground" podcast, Israel Vasquetelle speaks with producer, filmmaker and artist David "C-Doc" Snyder on an array of relevant Hip Hop music industry topics. As president of the Chuck D founded Spit Slam Label Group, C-Doc discusses the enterprise's rich history, including its initial roots stemming from the 20+ year old legacy of Slam Jamz Records. The talented creative and Hip Hop practitioner provides insight into his foray in Hip Hop, working with Chuck D on a variety of projects, media development and the backstory on his crew The Impossebulls. This episode provides a wealth of information from an incredible industry insider and an ahead of its time label built to empower authentic Hip Hop creators. Hit play and dig into the interview. 

On this episode, emcee, educator and luminary Jahi shares his story in Hip Hop. The talented artist provides insight into his creative accomplishments with PE 2.0 and his impactful work with the African American Male Achievement program, which empowers youth in public schools of Oakland. Jahi also provides a distinct perspective into collaborating with the incredible Chuck D and working with the SpitSlam Label Group.  Take time to absorb this impressive Hip Hop artist's powerful story which is filled with inspiration and lessons to uplift the community and beyond. 

Hip Hop producer PF Cuttin' delves into 20+ years of experience in the music industry. This includes first signing with major label Mercury Records as 1/2 of the group Blahzay Blahzay to doing his own thing as an independent producer and international DJ. He shares insight into working with the amazing late great Hip Hop icon Sean Price and his recent work with the lyrical giant O.C. Take a trip to East New York to gain a wealth of Hip Hop knowledge on this episode of Insomniac Magazine's podcast "Sounds from the Underground." 

Hip Hop veteran El Da Sensei discusses his near 30 year span in the music industry. He shares insight on his foray into the industry with the groundbreaking group Artifacts during the early '90s, and a career that has kept him making music while keeping true to the Hip Hop culture for nearly three decades. He speaks with Israel Vasquetelle about working with a variety of record labels, collaborating and touring throughout the world. There's a wealth of knowledge imparted in this episode of Insomniac Magazine's "Sounds from the Underground" podcast. 

Nine has one of the most distinctive voices and deliveries in Hip Hop. In this interview with Insomniac Magazine, the veteran emcee shares insight from his incredible three decade long journey in the music industry. 

Hip Hop staple emcee Sadat X and member of the legendary Brand Nubian shares insight with Israel Vasquetelle about longevity in the music industry and other distinctive perspectives from his impressive career. 

On this episode, Knowledge the Pirate shares his incredible journey in the Hip Hop music industry which stems back to the early '90s working with Teddy Riley, Will Smith, and being signed to Interscope, yet not releasing an album until 2018. 

In this classic KRS One interview with Insomniac Magazine, the iconic emcee shares tons of jewels pertaining to Hip Hop culture and the music industry. This discussion is steeped in history and a distinct perspective from one of the culture's most celebrated artists. 

In this discussion, Israel Vasquetelle speaks with multi-award winning battle champ and DC Hip Hop mainstay Flex Matthews. This episode features insight on everything from securing shows, touring, playing festivals, collecting vinyl records, and tips for artists to make a living in the music industry. This veteran emcee has performed and toured with some of the genre’s most prominent players, including Lupe Fiasco, Slick Rick, Matisyahu, Pitbull, Wu-Tang, Pete Rock, Talib Kweli, and The Roots. He's opened for, at the time senator, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. Take time to absorb another in depth dive into the podcast that takes you to the instersection of the Hip Hop culture and the music industry. 

Insomniac Magazine chats with west coast powerhouse Hip Hop artist Supreme Cerebral. We discuss his progression in Hip Hop, selling music in a digital era and his work with impressive up and coming and established talent.

On this episode, Insomniac Magazine editors Kevin Keith and Israel Vasquetelle discuss what current up and coming artists can learn from Hip Hop history to apply to their strategies in branding and other aspects of their careers. 

AnkhleJohn talks about making strides in the music industry as an indie Hip Hop artist. The talented emcee and creative shares insight into his current path that's brought him to create a strong buzz in the underground Hip Hop scene.

On this episode of Sounds from the Underground, Israel Vasquetelle speaks with Hip Hop vet Blueprint. The talented emcee, author, filmmaker and entrepreneur shares insight into his nearly 20 year span within the music industry. He also discusses his new album, "Two-Headed Monster."

Dane Uno discusses his start in the Chicago Hip Hop scene and how inspiration from seeing one of the greatest emcees perform in the park as a kid led him to pursue his dreams in the music industry. Dane exudes passion for the culture and his craft. Listen to this talented artist's story.

On this episode of Sounds From The Underground, the Hip Hop Lifestyle and Marketing Podcast presented by Insomniac Magazine, Israel Vasquetelle speaks with David "D'Stroy" Melendez of the world famous Hip Hop group The Arsonists. This talented artist, radio host, actor and writer shares his story of how Hip Hop opened a world of opportunities. This authentic lyricist went from making Hip Hop in Brooklyn during the 90s to touring globally, working as a host for major brands in sports and television, modeling, and more. 

On this episode, Hip Hop activist, freestyle champ, entrepreneur and co-founder of the hugely successful Grind Time battle league shares his insight and experience in the Hip Hop music and media industries during a talk with Israel Vasquetelle. Not only is Madd Illz a top tier lyricist, battle emcee and recording artist, but he also had the distinction of speaking at the United Nations on the importance of Hip Hop culture. Thanks for listening to Insomniac Magazine's "Sounds from the Underground" podcast. 

Platinum powerhouse producer Xtreme and lyrical titan Rosati (of #TheWinners collective) share their journeys within the music industry. These talented Hip Hop creators discuss their new project, musical inspirations, and Xtreme talks about getting a big break through a chance meeting with Jay Z on the streets of Chicago. Don’t sleep on this episode of the new podcast from Insomniac Magazine, “Sounds from the Underground."

Ida Divine has proven to be a superior branding practitioner in all of her artistic endeavors. Her carefully crafted sound and look exude confidence with an authentic vintage flair. This, along with immense marketing savvy, makes her a model example of what it takes to effectively maneuver as an entrepreneurial artist. Ida seemlessly blends classic soul, Hip Hop, and Afro-Caribbean sounds into her culturally rich style of music. During this discussion with Insomniac Magazine's Israel Vasquetelle, this distinctive talent shares insight into her art, inspirations, and approach to branding and making moves within the new era of the music industry.

Ice Cube needs no introduction, he’s conquered music, film, and television. In this throwback interview recorded a few years before the film "Straight Outta Compton," was released Ice Cube spoke with Israel Vasquetelle for Insomniac Magazine about his transformation from gangsta rapper to film star and entertainment mogul. He also sheds insight into his journey within this turbulent music industry. As well, he gives advice and shares a valuable lesson learned from his own experiences in the entertainment business. Ice Cube also discusses the plight of the recorded music industry, and the importance of putting a value on music. He also discusses his [at the time] newly launched TV show based on his movie franchise. This candid discussion is intriguing, inspirational and provides a distinct perspective into this talented entertainment icon’s immense success. 

In this episode of Sounds from the Underground, Insomniac Magazine founder Israel Vasquetelle digs deep with Hip Hop icon Kool Keith. This enigmatic Hip Hop veteran is truly a rapper's rapper. In this discussion, Keith shares thoughts on his legacy in the Hip Hop music industry and his perspective on its progression. 

On the first episode of "Sounds from the Underground" the Hip Hop lifestyle and marketing podcast from Insomniac Magazine, host Israel Vasquetelle talks with prolific Toronto emcee Daniel Son. This interview delves into the up and coming artist's inspirations, as well as his global approach to music production and marketing in the incredibly competitive Hip Hop industry. The humble underground rising star and Insomniac Magazine mainstay is quick to share credit for his success with those who’ve influenced him and collaborators, many of whom are spread throughout multiple countries.