Set Black

Interview with Up and Coming Artist: Black Suede

Tuesday, April 21, 2009 GLOK Interview: BLACK SUEDE - Best Of Every World: The Under Side Of The Music

Current mood: inspired Category: Music BLACK SUEDE - Best Of Every World: The Under Side Of The Music

By: GLOK a.k.a Frank Black

Some people live for the music, some people live through the music.. This next blazin unsigned sensation GLOK & Mafioso brings to you is known to do it all.. Doing it major for SC. Black Suede a.k.a 6 Stakks in the hood has the gift of making/writing music for all genres. With the co-sign from super known names such as Jermaine Dupri and Clive Davis this free agent is not only the Realist R&B artist.... PERIOD, but he is destined for success in the industry with or without approval.. This is what an unbridled passion to succeed sounds like.. NOW LISTEN!!!

GLOK: Expanding beyond the normal (and shining light on the slept on state).. Time to do it South Cak -a-lac style once again.. Got the homie Black Suede in the studio with me.. How you feeling today fam?

BLACK SUEDE: I’m Chillin’… Chillin’… doing’ good.

GLOK: Who is Black Suede, and how would you describe what you do?

BLACK SUEDE: Black Suede is a way of life.. A brand (if you will). What some artists fail to understand while coming up in the game is that your name is just as much of a product as you are. Therefore, you should treat it as such.. You know.. I'm here to make good music and a difference in the lives of others and the world around us.

GLOK: You have a very timeless sound and style.. A mixture of smooth R&B, Pop, Hip-Hop, (and many other Top-40 genres)... When did you realize that real musicians don't limit themselves?.. and is it possible for you to pick a favorite genre of music?

BLACK SUEDE: Well I want to start by saying’ that there’s no such thing as “White music” and “Black music”.. It’s all the same to me. I primarily focus on R&B, but at the same time, I am a Music producer, so, in order to be successful, I have to be able to make beats for many types of artists from all genres. In the process, I think, I’ve become one of the most marketable musicians out there. And As you would probably assume, I have no true favorite genre.. Good music is Good music.. Right now, I mainly listen to Hip-Hop and R&B.

GLOK: How did you get your name?

BLACK SUEDE: The name Black Suede was something that I came up with. Being that I am laid back and smooth.. Just like Suede..lol. Black because I’m a dark-skinned dude.. In case you can’t tell..lol. But I’ve always embraced that.. and That’s why all the shawties kick it with me on Saturdays (lol).. As far as my Hood name…(6 stakks).. lol.. Well, my homies used to always tease me on the fact that I drove a Pontiac 6000 LE…, so they just started calling’ me 6 stakks (and yea I still have that car to this date).

GLOK: Can you remember back to when you first discovered Hip-Hop?

BLACK SUEDE: I used to listen to a lot of Hip-Hop growing up, but I didn’t really know what it was until I got a little older. When I heard Pac, Biggie, and Jay I knew that this genre was here to stay.

GLOK: I always give artists the chance to reflect on what they have been through (the good, the bad, and the ugly) to get where they are today.. Let's touch on Suede's journey for a moment.. What was life like for you growing up in Rock Hill (shout out to Cran Neely) & Columbia , South Carolina ?

BLACK SUEDE: You know growing up in Columbia was pretty rough. My moms was a single mother, but she made sure that me and my brothas and sistas had what we needed. We didn’t have much, but I can honestly say that I’ve come from “Nothin’ to Somethin’” (Shots out to Loso).. I’m not ashamed of where I’ve come from, and the hardships that I’ve had to overcome.. That’ll just mean that my autobiographical movie will be that much more interesting (lol).

GLOK: So this Hustler's Mentality that you've applied to moving your music and that you say you will "always have".. Does that come from you being in the game (on the block gettin it in or whatever)?.. or is this just how you roll when it comes to achieving what you want?

BLACK SUEDE: A little of both. Those who hear me talk and interact wouldn’t know that I used to spend countless hours out there on the streets…They would have to ask me about it.. You know, when it comes down to it, I’m proud of where I’ve been, because without that background.. I wouldn’t have my thoroughness and Hustler’s instinct.. So yeah, I’m all of the above.

GLOK: What are your views on the South Carolina Hip-Hop/Music scene at the moment?

BLACK SUEDE: Right now, I think that some individuals in South Carolina are too focused on the local level.. I mean.. We have some talent down here, but a lot of them don’t get discovered because they either, lack motivation or the know-how.. I, on the other hand, have made it my business to learn my business. That is.. I’ve read countless books and listened to many entertainment lawyers in order to get a grasp of how the industry really works.. It’s not enough anymore to only have a good creative side.. You have to also understand where your money’s going’.. ya know?!?

GLOK: Who would you say are your musical influences, and why?

BLACK SUEDE: Definitely I’d have to say Akon and T-Pain right now.. They’ve done so much for the industry in the little time that they’ve been here.. I think they’re musical geniuses.. For them to be able to combine R&B and Hip-Hop the way they do definitely excites me about my craft.. So when I make my music.. I compare it to theirs to see if it would hit in the market.

GLOK: You’re in college now (Business and Finance Major) correct?.. Do you promote higher learning (unlike most artists these days)?

BLACK SUEDE: I obviously think that a College education is recommended, but not required.. I mean, there are countless artists who have been very successful without a degree.. I’m in College because after my years as an artist, I still want to be wealthy, therefore I feel that College is right for me.

GLOK: Do you still ghostwrite for other artists?

BLACK SUEDE: Occasionally, I do.. (but) I wouldn’t be a ghostwriter if I told you who I’ve written for.. lol.. but real talk, I’m a serious songwriter.. I pride myself on being able to put words together so well.

GLOK: What do you love most about South Carolina ?

BLACK SUEDE: Let me see (hmmm).. We don’t have any professional teams, and our College teams suck.. lol.. We don’t have much excitement going’ on out here.. I will say that it’s good to see all of the historical monuments and artifacts from the war and stuff.. Overall, Yeah South Carolina is really laid back (it fits my personality).

GLOK: With the major label system going down quicker than a Vegas hooker a lot of people believe this is a great time for indie artists.. What do you think?

BLACK SUEDE: (lol).. I think so, however, I’m almost certain that the majors have something up their sleeves to continue operating in the music industry.. Example, they’re using the 360 deal to get a portion of their artist’s earnings outside of the music industry.. Eventually, bye and bye, the music industry (as we know it) WILL become obsolete.. But the MUSIC will still continue.

GLOK: You have been selling your own music/product out of your trunk since 2007.. How many units or CD's have you personally moved as an unsigned artist?

BLACK SUEDE: Aww man.. That’s a good one.. ummm.. I don’t have an exact number, but I’d say around a couple thousand CD’s (give or take a few hundred).. I must say at $10 a pop, that ain’t doing’ too bad ya feel me.

GLOK: The major label system will NEVER be the same and produce those major dollars and deals because the indie artists got tired of begging for a deal and getting rejected.. Indie artists are smarter now, and technology has provided the tools to create your OWN label, buzz, $, etc.

BLACK SUEDE: The Hip-Hop/music industry, as a whole, is moving away from the record sales, and into an iTunes era.. Fortunately though, there are avenues for indie artists to make a decent living without the major label backing.. Many artists are signing on with KOCH Records, which allows them to retain most of their album revenues. (They split 50/50).. The bottom line is that If you truly want success…you’ll stop at nothing to obtain it (str8 up).

GLOK: What's your favorite Gangster Movie?

BLACK SUEDE: Aww man.. If I don’t say SCARFACE (what kind of G would I be?).. lol.. A modern day movie that I'm diggin’ is AMERICAN GANGSTER.. I’ve seen it like a hundred times, and I can recite all of Frank’s lines (verbatim).. So yea that’s another favorite.

GLOK: Obama will need the spirits of MLK, Kennedy, FDR and Lincoln, as well as a patient public to fulfill his vision of CHANGE.. Do you think people fully understand that if we don't "unite as one" Obama's win will somewhat be fruitless?

BLACK SUEDE: I don’t think that we truly understand that concept.. Obama winning the Presidency shows how far we’ve come as a nation, but we still have a lot of growing to do.. Discrimination still looms in the cities and a lot of things have been said, which lets me know that everyone isn’t on the same page.. If we all don’t set aside our differences and unite, we can't truly progress as a nation.

GLOK Fight Cards: Who do you think would win in a 5 round UFC match between Pimpin Curly (a.k.a 50 Cent) and Officer Ross (a.k.a Rick Ross)?.. Lil Ike (a.k.a Chris Brown) -vs- Trey Songz?

BLACK SUEDE: Ha ha ha, aww man.. In the UFC, I’ma have to give it to 50.. But I’m willing to bet money that Ross gone have the Chopper waiting for 50 before he leaves the arena (lol).. As for Chris Brown and Trey Seezy?!?.. I think I'ma give it to Trey.. He seems like he got that hood in him.

GLOK: It always excites me to see new faces/voices get the approval from well known industry names.. You have been commended and acknowledged by music industry heavyweights such as: Keith Sweat, Clive Davis (J Records), Jermaine Dupri (So So Def), just to name a few.. What has been your greatest accomplishment so far?.. and have these industry all-stars presented you with any good deals or offers yet?

BLACK SUEDE: I’ve been recognized by numerous individuals (in and outside the music industry), but I have to say that my greatest accomplishments so far have to be random people walking up to me and asking, “I know you.. You’re Black Suede!".. That means more to me than anything else. I’ve gotten a lot of looks from a number of labels (majors and Indies ), but I haven’t seen the right package yet. I’m not looking for a huge advance, I just want an opportunity for longevity in the long run.

GLOK: You have produced for some high level artists also.. Can you do a little name dropping for us?

BLACK SUEDE: Well I’ve produced for Nova Soprano’s mix tape.. He’s represented by G-Unit West (you know.. Spider Loc and the boys).. Another off the top of my head Is Urban Heat/Universal. They have an up and coming teenage pop artist that they needed songs for, so you know I was all in. These are just a couple, but I produced so many beats for so many people (signed and unsigned) that I literally lose track of them.. I guess pretty soon, I’ll need a discography huh (lol)?

GLOK: Black Suede aka 6 Stakks aka The Legitimate Superstar (nuff said).. For those that don't already know check him out at www.myspace.com/6stacksblacksuede to have a private listening session and purchase some GOOD MUSIC.. Keep making major moves brother and Thanks for the cigar.

BLACK SUEDE: You already know.. Thanks for having me.

About the Author

Black Suede

Was it a hate crime that black teens set a white teen on fire?

Would it be if white teens set a black teen on fire and then started laughing?
can you believe this horrific crime?

Whites would not do that. If they did they would be raciest. Because blacks did it. They are poor misguided souls without fathers. It is the white peoples fault they did this. Always remember that. Because whites have depressed them for so long. If not for whites, this would have not happened. Unfortunately, this is the mindset in the black community. My heart goes out to the family that lost their child. Obama wasted no time calling Cambridge police, RACIEST AND STUPID when arresting his friend. However whe innocent white children are burned to death on the street, he is nowhere to be found.

CoD: Black Ops - Quiet On The Set Achievement Guide (Call of the Dead)

Hamilton Beach 33967 Set 'n Forget 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker $59.99 Enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals even with a busy schedule thanks to this easy-to-use programmable 6-quart slow cooker. Simply add ingredients to the unit's oval-shaped stoneware pot, insert the pot into the electric base, and select one of three automatic-cooking options--program, manual, or probe--using the flat-panel push-button control panel with digital display. Especially convenient when awa...

Thermos Stainless King SK1005MB4 16-Ounce Leak-Proof Travel Mug, Midnight Blue $14.98 Thermos SK1005MB4 Thermos SK1005MB4 Thermos...

Victorinox 40520 Fibrox 8-Inch Chef's Knife $16.99 40520 Features: -Chef's knife. -Fibrox collection. -Fibrox non slip handle. -High carbon fine grain stainless steel blade. -Taper ground blade for perfect chopping. Specifications: -Made in Switzerland. -Victorinox provides Lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. -Blade: 8'' . -Overall dimensions: 2.25'' H x 15.25'' W x 0.75'' D....

Twinings English Breakfast Tea, 25-Count K-Cups For Keurig Brewers (Pack of 2) $29.99 Since 1706, Twinings of London has been masterfully blending teas to create a special moment with each cup of English Breakfast tea you brew. Now, they've brought all your favorite signature blends into a line of Keurig K-cups, for quick and easy single cup brewing with your Keurig beverage brewing center. Twinings English Breakfast Tea was originally blended to complement the traditional, hearty ...

AmeriColor 2 Pack Gourmet Food Writer Set, Black Marker $4.25 Americolor Gourmet Writer Food Marker Pens -Black 2 Pack. Will write on any firm food surface in true and vibrant colors. Pen set packaged in a sturdy zipper pouch for convenient storage. U.S. Certified Food Color....

Ateco 1112 12-Color Food Coloring Kit $11.97 Cake decorators will love this alternative to coloring drops and pastes. This gel is formulated with the necessary die concentration levels needed to achieve the most vibrant and brilliant colors available. Gel colors have a viscosity that offers the convenience of a pourable product, while making it easy to duplicate shades. Happily, gel color will not breakdown buttercream or non dairy icings as...

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo $5.75 By Stieg Larsson - Vintage Books (2009) - Paperback - An international publishing sensation, Stieg Larsson's Girl with the Dragon Tattoo combines murder mystery, family saga, love story, and financial intrigue into one satisfyingly complex and entertainingly atmospheric novel.Harriet Vanger, scion of one of Sweden's wealthiest families, disappeared over forty years ago. All these years later, her...

Shayla Black ...

Anna Black ...

TCM Greatest Classic Films Collection: Holiday (Christmas in Connecticut / A Christmas Carol 1938 / The Shop Around the Corner / It Happened on 5th Avenue) $8.00 TCM GREATEST FILMS:HOLIDAY - DVD Movie...

Five-piece Wrought Iron Patio Set $499.99 This patio set is constructed of durable wrought ironFurniture features classic lattice and scrollwork detailingAn elegant black powdercoated finish completes this patio dining set

Wilma 6-piece Black Dining Set with Ladder Back Chairs $539.99 Wilma 6pcs Black Dining Set - Ladder Chair Back

Wilma 6-piece Black Dining Set with Mission Back Chairs $528.99 Dine in comfort and style with this unique six-piece Wilma dining set. This table features a lovely aukuman finish and the chairs and bench have a black finish with stylish peat colored upholstery.

Wesley 5-piece Black Dining Set $209.99 Relax and dine in chic comfort with this stylish five-piece Wesley Dining Set. A solid rubberwood construction and vinyl upholstery adds durability and longevity to this stylish dining set.

Wilma 5-piece Round Black Dining Set with Window Back Chairs $447.99 Dine in comfort and style with this unique five-piece Wilma dining set. This round table features a lovely aukuman finish and the chairs have a black finish with stylish peat colored upholstery.

Wilma 7-piece Black Dining Set with Slat Back Chairs $567.99 Dine in comfort and style with this unique seven-piece Wilma dining set. This table features a lovely aukuman finish and the chairs have a black finish with stylish peat colored microfiber upholstery.

Newport 5-piece Black Dining Set $388.99 Enhance your home decor with this elegant Newport dining setTransitional-styled bistro set comes with a table and four coordinating chairsFashionable furniture is constructed from solid hardwood

Mackenzie 5-piece Casual Country Antique Black Dining Set $668.99 The design of this dining set from Mackenzie captures the essence of a casual country home showcasing an antique black and warm cherry finish. A distressed treatment on the furniture combines new designs with a vintage look.

Wilma 6-piece Black Dining Set $541.99 Dine in comfort and style with this unique six-piece Wilma dining set. This table features a lovely aukuman finish and the chairs and bench have a black finish with stylish peat colored upholstery.

City Scene Branches Black Duvet Set $59.99 Update your home decor with this lovely branch duvet setBedding is perfect for accessorizing the top of your bedSet comes with one duvet cover and two pillow shams (one in twin)Bedding ensemble is suitable for all ages

MSR GRIP LEVER SET BLACK $28.95 MSR GRIP LEVER SET BLACK

HJC Black Cheek Pad Set $13.99 HJC Black Cheek Pad Set

Front Bump Set $22.99 Black Set

Black Cat Set $6.99 Black Cat Set You'll be the cat's meow! Black fur-like material. Complete with cat ear bendable headpiece, bow tie, and pin on tail.

Mostra Nuova Black Set $29 Download the Mostra Nuova Black Set font for Mac or Windows in OpenType, TrueType or PostScript format.

Proxima Nova Black Set $44 Download the Proxima Nova Black Set font for Mac or Windows in OpenType, TrueType or PostScript format.

Kandal Medium/Black Set $74 Download the Kandal Medium/Black Set font for Mac or Windows in OpenType, TrueType or PostScript format.

RTF Albertan Black Set $50 Download the RTF Albertan Black Set font for Mac or Windows in OpenType, TrueType or PostScript format.

RTF Credo Black Set $50 Download the RTF Credo Black Set font for Mac or Windows in OpenType, TrueType or PostScript format.

Ela Demiserif Black Set $80 Download the Ela Demiserif Black Set font for Mac or Windows in OpenType, TrueType or PostScript format.

Ela Sans Black Set $80 Download the Ela Sans Black Set font for Mac or Windows in OpenType, TrueType or PostScript format.

Camy Black Set $21 Download the Camy Black Set font for Mac or Windows in OpenType, TrueType or PostScript format.

Livery Stable Black Set $29 Download the Livery Stable Black Set font for Mac or Windows in OpenType, TrueType or PostScript format.

Front Swaybar Bushing Set Black $17.99 Front Swaybar Bushing Set, Black 1987-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ

Black Bezel Set Earrings $85 These nifty little black bezel set earrings will add great dimension to your look. The black marquis bezel set stone hangs from a small but vivid gold brushed metal disc. They're a smart look that work well with just about anything. Lever back closure for pierced ears.

Body Mount Set $76.29 Body Mount Set; Black;

CZ jewelry set is adorned with black stones $52 CZ jewelry set is adorned with black stones

Silver jewelry set with red and black stones $46 Silver jewelry set with red and black stones

Love Braided Bracelet Set in Black $110 Blend two looks with this love braided bracelet set in black. The bracelet set is mixed with a braided band and complemented with an 18k gold plated finish. The set comes with five black braided bracelets that will warm your heart.

Black Titanium Bezel Set Cubic Zirconia Earrings $19.95 Black Titanium Bezel Set Cubic Zirconia Earrings.