For all that don't know, Studio43 teamed up with us to put out XO's debut mixtape. Most recently, we sat down with XO so he could give us some insight on both the packaging of the tape and a few choice songs. XO: Every Track I did on the album was spur of the moment. I went in and wrote every song on the spot, then laid it down.
Crabs In A Barrel - That was Kenny's Idea, he called me and told me the idea and he also wanted to use the sample from American Gangster. So he told AB and I went in a couple days later and laid it down.
Go Hard - You know the history behind that, Pro'Verb and Lyriciss did they thing on it. I wanted to put a version out with my verse so the remix came out before the original [Laughs].
For Real Niggaz Only - Allison Carney joined me on this one I had this idea for the chorus and I told her how I wanted her to sing it. It wouldn't have been the same without her voice though.
Idle Hands - That was Kenny's Idea as well for the sample and the idea behind the sample. So I just came behind the sample and crushed that joint and I put my homie Gordo Brega on it.
Forever - That was a song I wrote on the spot. AB was in the studio and I came in right when he was working on the beat...it just inspired me!....
Time Out - Again this was another song I wrote on the spot. I can't help but write what I'm living and going through. That's just how I was feeling at the time, and the energy from the chemistry that me and AB have as artists just made the song hot. I still had fun with it though.
illRoots.com: So who did the artwork?
XO: Kenny Burns recommended an artist, when I saw it I knew it was perfect. I'm not too familiar with who did it though, his name is in the credits (www.okpants.com)
illRoots.com: Who designed your logo? and what do you want people to see from the logo?
XO: The logo was designed by my homie Steve a.k.a. DJ Mastamind, he is one of the best artist from the area. I used that logo with all my projects because I want to convey my truth and expressing myself honestly is the only way I can make good music in my eyes.
illRoots.com: Explain the significance that packaging plays to the success of a project?
XO: Packaging is your presentation for a good first impression, its important for every artist to have.
illRoots.com: When this drops why should we download it?
XO: This album will set the tone for the minds on the outside looking into the "DMV" they will know what to expect. All of the stereotypes about artists here will once again be proven wrong. We are the all-stars. I'm just playing my role and that letting people know its our time! Its time for us to be acknowledged!
