Ryan Funk

Monday, May 11, 2009
Emerging Hip Hop Star CATSKILL [2009 Exclusive Interview]

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With the world in a slump and the economy taking a nose dive the music scene seems to be in a ruble of saturated artists and in this a confident emerging Hip Hop artist that goes by the name of (CATSKILL) emerges as hip hops "Heir To The Throne" his distinctive lyrical form and Cannibalistic word transition pegs him as an artists with a venomous appetite for hard hitting beats blood thirsty verses and a destiny to be number one. Catskill has already been named the (Unsigned Hype) getting massive attention from Clinton Sparks, major recording labels and already commanding a strong fan base. I had the opportunity to get in a few questions in this small interview I call "THE CATS ROAR"
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[THE INTERVIEW]
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Robot = To Start This Interview off Where Does The Name CATSKILL Originate From?

CatSkill = Yo this is dope to be talking to you Atari cool kids, well when I was a young dude I used to go by the name Ryan the lion It used it to be like my rapper name and one day I was just freestyling with some dudes and I spit a line that would become this answer. I said I’m Ryan the lion, don’t ya know cats kill? And I was like shit!! That’s me rite there. So I transformed from Ryan the lion to Catskill. I was also abducted by aliens to save mankind in 2012 but we will speak on that as it gets closer. Lol!!

Robot = How Hard Was It Finding A hip Hop Scene In Manitoba?

Catskill = Well we have a pretty good hip hop scene out here in Winnipeg. Big ups to the 204!!
We don’t have a huge scene but we have like cult followings of college kids and hip hop heads that support our movement, but it was a lot harder to get the attention I feel I need for a world take over if you know what I mean? In 2004 we had just got a hip hop radio station that was huge for me and for a lot of hungry Winnipeg rappers to get some spins and shine here. I think if Robert Dinero was in flin flon Manitoba with his skills instead of like tribeca new york we wouldn't know about taxi driver. so its like you can make a name for yourself in a small town or city but if you want to make a huge leap you have to be Susan Boyle and wait till you get the opportunity!

Robot = Do You Think You As An Artist Would Have Been Different If You Originated From A Bigger City In Canada Like Vans City Or Toronto?

Catskill = Oh for sure it would have helped me as an artist and entertainer. There would be a lot more venues that would enable me to be heard plus in I big city you have all the stars the professional sports teams you got your MTV’s and much music so yeah you have a greater chance of being discovered.
So All Over Some Of the Popular Sites We Hear Clinton Sparks Rep Your Name, How Did The Clinton Sparks Connection Happen?

Clinton apparently discovered my song ‘’sugar town’’ and ‘’die’’ online somewhere maybe it was one of my email blasts or I could have commented on someone’s myspace page, but last February I got a message from Mr. Sparks saying hey cat I love your joint ‘’sugar town’’ and I would like you to send me some tracks. So me being a dude from Winnipeg happy as a school girl talking to the biggest dj in the world I sent him my joints and he told me he would like to work on a project or something to get my name out.
He did it for free and he put his stamp of approval on Catskill a lot of rapper get in touch with the dj offer them a couple hunj and it’s a wrap. Clinton Sparks knows how insane I can kill a track so it was just meant to be.

Robot = What Do You Feel As An Artist You Bring To The Table That Will Set You Apart From the Rest?

Catskill = I bring the evolution of hip hop as a whole to the speakers. Let me start by saying I don’t sound like anything you have heard before but I sound like something that is soo fresh and completely new that I will change the way fans perceive greatness. My goal to tell you the truth is to outsell Eminem and Lil Wayne, I’m a fan of trendsetters that make me excited to hear that new shit! I’m exactly what you wouldn’t expect a little white kid to sound like. When I sit at this table to ‘’bring’’ my gift, I’m giving the fans of music a lane that has never been driven before. You know rappers need to stay in there lanes rite? Well I’m a drunk driver and I enter every lane with the peoples permission. I’m dope as fuck!!

Robot = In Recent Videos You’ve Dropped You Have Disclosed That You are The “Heir To The Throne” How Does One Live Up To Such A Strong Statement?

Catskill = Well how does anybody live up to their statements? Its just words. I could say my album is the bee’s knees’ lol and people would say that’s a bold statement!! Lol. Well I’m Catskill. Catskill comes from Ryan the lion. The lion is the king of the jungle ie the music bizz. There fore I am next in line to sit on my throne.. perception is reality my reality is my perception I believe I am here to give you the royal treatment.

Robot = ‘Heir To The Throne” Is Your Album Name How Long Have You Been Working On It And What Can The Listeners Expect From It?

Catskill = I have worked on my album for like 3 years so its definitely my baby, I wanted to rush out my product in 2007 but I was like nah I’m going to wait to make some industry contacts get there opinions as to how to approach this. So I plotted the albums journey through attention to details. The listeners can expect the greatest hip hop album ever created by giving you joints that will shake you up to the core!!
My flow is magic given to me by the aliens of planet nibiru, meaning my flow is 10 times more appealing than what you are used to hearing. I want to spoil you like when you listen to ‘’heir to the throne’’ its Christmas morning opening up your Atari cool kid!! While you eat bacon.
You must love it!!

Robot = LOL!

How Did “Sugar Town” Come About? What I Mean is How Did the Idea For A Song About A Handicapped Girl Getting ready For the Olympics Come About?

Catskill = I was smoking this ill weed that got me in a hilarious mood. When I get high I watch comedies and family guy or I just freestyle and say taboo stuff for the laughs.
The beat was making me laugh by itself with do do do do do do do. It totally had a short bus sound to it you know?
So I was like I went to the store to get some sugar, milk bread and a cheap hooker/
A girl was snapping her finger a looker. Not a girl with rhythm but a girl with a booger/
Whoa stop slow down baby.. the way you flick snot it drives me crazy/
I did those 3 lines there and knew I was going to make a hot sexy song for the ladies!! Lol.. I listen to beats then I get concepts of what the layout will be. So I went in on this joint ‘’sugar town’’ in 45 minutes one of the easiest joints I wrote. My weed my beat and my personality said make this track retarded.

Robot = How Did You Come To Work With Bizzare From D12 That Must Have Been Crazy Working Together?

Catskill = Basically I called his manager and sent him ‘’fe fi fo fum’’ with my vocals laid down with the chorus and told him to do what he does best. I only put 2 collabs on my album the other collab is moka only. Bizarre did a great job and I am blessed..it really is a banger that needs to be heard!!
I haven’t met him yet i want to meet Eminem and the whole d12. just because I say I want to outsell Eminem doesn’t mean I want to push people away. Hip hop is a competition every rapper that spits wants to spit better than the next man.

Robot = Are Their Any Hip Hop Artists You’re Feeling At The Moment?

Catskill = Oh definitely I like drake I like Catskill I like…. well there isn’t that many artist that I really listen to nowadays that are fresh but I like drake another Canadian that I want to work with soon.

Robot = And Who Are Some Hip Hop Artists That Have Inspired You?

Catskill = The whole wu-tang clan. Eminem B.I.G. M.O.P redman souls of mischief jay-z nas

Robot = Have You Gotten A Chance To Listen To Asher Roths Album, Only Reason Why I Ask Is Because The Way The Industry Is Built Many White Rappers Have A Hard Time Getting Out Of That Standard Of Being Compared To Beastie Boys, Eminem, Paul Wall, Brother Ali (And If Not How Will You Set Yourself Apart From This Standard?)

Catskill = I’m not too worried about the comparisons because if you listen my music there is no comparison I sound like maybe axl rose with the dopest writing techniques used in hip hop. I write like Stephen king consistently and I honestly sound like I invented hip hop or something. I sound like nothing that has ever been heard before so I will be the first white dude that will go far beyond those comparisons. I’m sure if you asked Eminem about my style he would say we are totally different entities.

Robot = Are There Any Canadian Rappers At The Moment That You’re Feeling? I know Swollen Members, Bishop, Kardi Have Been Doing Their Thing.

Catskill = Yeah I just talked to mad child of swollen members a couple weeks ago we should be doing some music soon. I like drake like said before I like Mr Kardinal. I cant wait to work with that dude.

Robot = So I Guess Now Is The Time When You’re Shopping Around Your Music Is There Any Label In Mind That You Feel Might Represent You As An Artist More Then Any? And Have You Been Offered Any Deals Yet?

Catskill = I have a couple labels in mind rite now, I’m not gong to say who I am leaning towards because we still need to generate a huge buzz to start the real bidding. I will be where the fat cats are chilling. Yes I have been offered several deals but I will say fuck a 360 deal.
I’m currently talking to investors that are willing to make me like a Rocafella situation. I own the catalogue and I make the decisions. I’ll letya know when its all official.

Robot = Thanks For Stopping By What Would You Like My Readers To Know About What’s To Come From CATSKILL In The Future??

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I want the readers to support real unique music and don’t pay for the garbage.
I plan on being the face of hip hop so the listeners are going to have some fucking amazing hip hop to tell there grandkids about! Go to www.myspace.com/catskillmc
Also my shit doesn’t stink .
Peace to the AtariCoolkids!! - ATARICOOLKIDS.COM

Press Reviews

unsigned hype interview in dubcnn.com [- Hide]
dubcnn.com/jonathan hay

interview CATSKILL (July 2008) | Interview By: Jonathan Hay

Catskill is an up and coming cat in the business that’s looking to settle into a major deal -- and a new home on the West Coast -- so naturally, we saw it fitting to bring this exclusive interview to Dubcnn. He doesn't exactly mince words, making this interview something fierce, entertaining and narcissistic.

As his name suggests, this Canadian cat is packing a dangerous skill that has the industry whispering the name of this self-described heir to the throne. Put him on exhibit with his swagger and style and you have three weapons of mass destruction bombarding the scene hardcore and causing a bidding war within the industry comparable to the size of World War II, everyone vying to offer this stray cat a home.

Although the public does not yet know him, it seems many people I talk to within the industry have the name Catskill on their tongue -- and it's no wonder; with a string of offers and bids to choose from, everyone's wondering where he will end up.

So, familiarize yourself with the name Catskill, let's make him feel at home with a nice warm welcome of Cali hospitality.

Also, you've got to download and check out this exclusive Dubcnn song titled, "News (The Dubcnn song) with Paul Katsnelson, and be on the lookout for his single, "Cats Kill", featuring Bizarre from D12.


As ever, you can read this exclusive interview below and we urge you to leave feedback on our forums or email them to haywire@dubcnn.com.

..........................................................................................
Interview was done in July 2008

Questions Asked By: Jonathan Hay

..........................................................................................
Related Media:
Catskill - News (The Dubcnn Song)
..........................................................................................


West Coast Bound: The Journey Begins
Unsigned Hype: The Exclusive Catskill Interview
By Jonathan Hay
www.myspace.com/jonathanhay
..........................................................................................


Dubcnn: What separates Catskill from everybody else is in hip-hop?

I am the ghost in the machine; I turn any beat into a magic carpet ride. I am consistent. My worst joint is better than a lot of rappers best joints. I’m bringing change to hip-hop like Barack is to politics. It’s time for change and I approve this message.


Dubcnn: Why did you choose the name Catskill?

Well, my real name is Ryan Funk. As a kid my friends called me Ryan the lion, it stuck and as a teenager I was battling some dude and I said like, ˜I'm the lion ¦don’t ya know cats kill?' That was the nature of the beast right there, so I just took it. You know, cats kill, cat skill, cats ill. Plus, that’s where Mike Tyson was from. It made sense.


Dubcnn: What is your frame of mind right now?

My mind is enjoying this moment at this time. I believe you have to be in the moment. A wise rat once said, ˜yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, enjoy this moment for it is a gift and ¦that’s why it’s the present!

I'm focused on giving the world some style they have never heard of before. I'm hungry right now; I'm also at peace because I know you cant go against destiny.


Dubcnn: You are in Winnipeg right now?¦

Yeah, I am, but I’ve been talking to some different people, got some things in the works and I’ve decided to relocate to Los Angeles.


Dubcnn: Tell us about the Canadian hip-hop scene?

It’s very closed in to me; there are about three or four rappers from Canada that I like, other than that, its a barren wasteland of wack rappers. So, I'm here to put a dent in the Canadian hip-hop scene. (Laughing) Me and Mr. Kardinal Offishall are gonna make a lot of noise. I’m glad I’m headed out West


Dubcnn: What is the craziest thing you would do to get a record deal? Like, how far would you go to be signed¦? How bad do you want it, homie?

I would put an amputee in a figure-four leg-lock and tell him or her to call me ˜uncle Catskill, then I’d give the amputee a new leg from the signing bonus -- you see, I’m really a very giving person. I would go as far as listening to a Soulja Boy album -- and I mean for like multiple minutes, I mean like seven or eight minutes! I'm siding with Ice-T. (Laughing)

Dubcnn: How do you think you will adjust to success?

You know I have been without money for so long that this is going to be how its supposed to happen. I’m not worried. I made my reality, now its time to lay in my king-size bed with models letting me do coke off their titties. I mean, I am very humble to be in this situation.


Dubcnn: The more well known you become, the more people will compare you with Eminem. How will you handle this and what would you say to someone making this comparison?

Well, I can understand people saying that I am kinda like Em cause of the whole think-outside-the-box strategy -- and my life is like the Jerry Springer show as well -- but [Eminem] is a legend and I take it as an honor. So, if they say I sound like Slim Shady or I remind them of him -- I want to make millions scream my name, I want millions of fans to know my hardships so they realize anything is possible, I want to make you laugh, I want to make you cry.


Dubcnn: Tell us about the song you recorded with Bizarre of D12?

Well, that joint I did has a real ˜West Coast feel to it, so to be interviewed on DubCnn thats real! Yeah, I wanted to make a joint that would make you feel what I'm about; I wanted to get Bizarre on that joint because I needed that ˜Bizarre sound I got my man Paul Katsnelson to mix and master it. It has a style that is almost unheard of “ swag’’ -- with real uniqueness all over that beat. ˜Fe fi fo fum, Cats kill fo fun'; I wanted to sound like a giant on the chorus. It turned out to be epic!


Dubcnn: What is your relationship with Clinton Sparks?

I have just been talking to him for a couple months and, you know, just chopping it up, seeing how we could possibly do some James Bond type shit. I’ll let ya know when Catskill does the Akon / Kardinal joint. He is a real dude, I have all the respect in the world to all the DJ's that spin my shit...Clinton Sparks is the first DJ -- like a big DJ -- to request my music. He liked ''Sugar Town'' and ''Die'', so we should put out something in the near future.


Dubcnn: Do you already have a name in mind for your major release debut album?

Yes I do -- Heir To The Throne. I named it that because I plan on taking that spot.


Dubcnn: So what can we expect from the Heir to the Throne album?

You can expect a classic. Quality music, unique flows, unique production, unheard of storytelling ability. Expect to learn all of Catskills lyrics ˜cause you will be addicted -- I want to stir your soul a bit. You’ll hear ˜Die; I wrote that in forty-five minutes; its a Stephen King-like story involving my daughters mother. I was going though some emotions when I wrote that. You can expect to be shot with adrenaline when you peep Kill 'Em. Expect to hear a new kind of style, expect metaphors like a dime in the right light is a minus six/ therefore I met a four, makeup does tricks/ so do dogs, fifty percent of them are bitch.

Dubcnn: On your song Sugar Town you seem to be talking about a handicapped woman. Many people will find that offensive. What is your take on that?

What? How dare you! (Laughing) What’s offensive about me going to the store for milk and sugar then seeing a mentally retarded girl on the corner who needs some attention [and] I fall in love with her and end up doing the sensible thing by training her for the Olympics. I guess there will always be haters. Millie’s mine! I just smoked a lot that night [and] when I heard the beat I went in for something taboo -- I'm a write it because I can do that, If people think I am a bad person look at yourself in the mirror. have you ever loved a handicapped girl? I thought so. (Laughing) Sometimes I get retarded with the pen.


Dubcnn: What would you say to the people who complain that hip-hop is too violent or sexist content is damaging to children?

I would tell them to listen to my song Daddy Loves You on repeat. Then I would say, Don’t let the babies play with poison, I could be hazardous for you health!


Dubcnn: What about the songs that are perceived as misogynous?

I love woman -- I just hate bitches. I’m a cat, I’m not supposed to be around dogs.
Listen to my music -- that makes you respect me. Skip what touches your judgment bone!


Dubcnn: Your producer, Paul Katsnelson, is brilliant, to say the least. How did that connection come about?

I was working with a lot of low caliber production from two [specific] producers...I wont mention names. I had to get my files from them and make them hotter. I met Paul Katsnelson and he told me he could convert them to Pro Tools, he did.. I wanted to see how he would record my type of music. Before he worked with me, he just did like dance music or techno-country, not hip hop. He mixed a song I did Good To Go and since then I knew he was unique. He redid all my beats and remixed everything; we have been making hot joints for like a year now.


I want to go beneath the surface and into your conscious mind let’s do deep, so people can get a deeper understanding of your persona.


Dubcnn: You are a ninth grade drop-out but you have highly complex, witty and intelligent lyrics. You are obviously very smart. So where did your knowledge come from?

I spent a lot of my childhood by myself, I was never intrigued by school, nothing grabbed my attention, I wasn’t interested. I followed my instincts to find a calling [and] I know how to feel the human emotion and put it into words. I like to know the facts, not the bull shit they feed you I studied life.


Dubcnn: What about drugs do you use, or have you ever struggled with addiction?

I smoke my weed. It gives me a timeout. I dabbled in other drugs. I am kind of weak when it comes to addiction but I am human. I like the snow in California, wink, wink.


Dubcnn: Do you ever feel like the walls are closing in?

I have felt that way. My daughter was taken from me and lives with her mom. I have been spending all my cash on recording and promo and you get sucked into a world of not knowing. But now I accept the not knowing, it makes everything worth living.


Dubcnn: Have you ever battled with thoughts of suicide?

Sure, when I spent two thousand dollars to fly to New Jersey for an industry showcase. It was presented by DJ Envy; I performed ''Kill 'em''. I gave such a dope performance and I didn’t get chosen -- I thought it was fixed, for real. I believe in my skill so much that if you disagree [that] I'm different I know your lying. So I was in my hotel room kind of at the end of my rope. You see, I had been trying to get attention for a year and I was drinking heavy and just kind of out of it, but then I flew back home and got even more hungry, picked myself up from wasting to grand.


Dubcnn: Would you consider yourself a manic-depressive?

No, I'm a person that knows how life works -- I make my reality, my reality doesn’t make me.


Dubcnn: Are you religious?

You could say I believe in God and I believe in Him a hundred.


Dubcnn: Is there a song you have written or recorded that was particularly hard to do because of the memories or emotions it touches on?

Yeah, I wrote Daddy Loves You for my girls second birthday; her mom and I split and I was seeing less of her. It was tearing me up but I wanted her to know that nothing will keep us apart. I really had tears flowing from that song ¦but it was also the easiest joint I ever spit.


Dubcnn: Anything else Dubcnn and the world should know about Catskill?

Yes, there is: get ready to be surprised! I am just getting warmed up! See ya out West!
Hit me up on MySpace at, http://www.myspace.com/catskillmc




























CATSKILL (July 2008) | Interview By: Jonathan Hay

Catskill is an up and coming cat in the business that�s looking to settle into a major deal -- and a new home on the West Coast -- so naturally, we saw it fitting to bring this exclusive interview to Dubcnn. He doesn't exactly mince words, making this interview something fierce, entertaining and narcissistic.

As his name suggests, this Canadian cat is packing a dangerous skill that has the industry whispering the name of this self-described heir to the throne. Put him on exhibit with his swagger and style and you have three weapons of mass destruction bombarding the scene hardcore and causing a bidding war within the industry comparable to the size of World War II, everyone vying to offer this stray cat a home.

Although the public does not yet know him, it seems many people I talk to within the industry have the name Catskill on their tongue -- and it's no wonder; with a string of offers and bids to choose from, everyone's wondering where he will end up.

So, familiarize yourself with the name Catskill, let's make him feel at home with a nice warm welcome of Cali hospitality.

Also, you've got to download and check out this exclusive Dubcnn song titled, "News (The Dubcnn song)� with Paul Katsnelson, and be on the lookout for his single, "Cats Kill", featuring Bizarre from D12.


As ever, you can read this exclusive interview below and we urge you to leave feedback on our forums or email them to haywire@dubcnn.com.

..........................................................................................
Interview was done in July 2008

Questions Asked By: Jonathan Hay

..........................................................................................
Related Media:
Catskill - News (The Dubcnn Song)
..........................................................................................


West Coast Bound: The Journey Begins�
Unsigned Hype: The Exclusive Catskill Interview
By Jonathan Hay
www.myspace.com/jonathanhay
..........................................................................................


Dubcnn: What separates Catskill from everybody else is in hip-hop?

I am the ghost in the machine; I turn any beat into a magic carpet ride. I am consistent. My worst joint is better than a lot of rappers best joints. I�m bringing change to hip-hop like Barack is to politics. It�s time for change and I approve this message.


Dubcnn: Why did you choose the name Catskill?

Well, my real name is Ryan Funk. As a kid my friends called me �Ryan the lion�, it stuck and as a teenager I was battling some dude and I said like, �I'm the lion�don�t ya know cats kill?' That was the nature of the beast right there, so I just took it. You know, cat�s kill, cat skill, cat�s ill. Plus, that�s where Mike Tyson was from. It made sense.


Dubcnn: What is your frame of mind right now?

My mind is enjoying this moment at this time. I believe you have to be in the moment. A wise rat once said, �yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, enjoy this moment for it is a gift�that�s why it�s the present!�

I'm focused on giving the world some style they have never heard of before. I'm hungry right now; I'm also at peace because I know you can�t go against destiny.


Dubcnn: You are in Winnipeg right now�

Yeah, I am, but I�ve been talking to some different people, got some things in the works and I�ve decided to relocate to Los Angeles.


Dubcnn: Tell us about the Canadian hip-hop scene?

It�s very closed in to me; there are about three or four rappers from Canada that I like, other than that, it�s a barren wasteland of wack rappers. So, I'm here to put a dent in the Canadian hip-hop scene. (Laughing) Me and Mr. Kardinal Offishall are gonna make a lot of noise. I�m glad I�m headed out West�


Dubcnn: What is the craziest thing you would do to get a record deal? Like, how far would you go to be signed�? How bad do you want it, homie?

I would put an amputee in a figure-four leg-lock and tell him or her to call me �uncle Catskill, then I�d give the amputee a new leg from the signing bonus -- you see, I�m really a very giving person. I would go as far as listening to a Soulja Boy album -- and I mean for like multiple minutes, I mean like seven or eight minutes! I'm siding with Ice-T. (Laughing)

Dubcnn: How do you think you will adjust to success?

You know I have been without money for so long that this is going to be how it�s supposed to happen. I�m not worried. I made my reality, now it�s time to lay in my king-size bed with models letting me do coke off their titties. I mean, I am very humble to be in this situation.


Dubcnn: The more well known you become, the more people will compare you with Eminem. How will you handle this and what would you say to someone making this comparison?

Well, I can understand people saying that I am kinda like Em �cause of the whole think-outside-the-box strategy -- and my life is like the Jerry Springer show as well -- but [Eminem] is a legend and I take it as an honor. So, if they say I sound like Slim Shady or I remind them of him -- I want to make millions scream my name, I want millions of fans to know my hardships so they realize anything is possible, I want to make you laugh, I want to make you cry.


Dubcnn: Tell us about the song you recorded with Bizarre of D12?

Well, that joint I did has a real �West Coast� feel to it, so to be interviewed on DubCnn � that�s real! Yeah, I wanted to make a joint that would make you feel what I'm about; I wanted to get Bizarre on that joint because I needed that �Bizarre sound�! I got my man Paul Katsnelson to mix and master it. It has a style that is almost unheard of � swag -- with real uniqueness all over that beat. �Fe fi fo fum, Cat�s kill fo fun'; I wanted to sound like a giant on the chorus. It turned out to be epic!


Dubcnn: What is your relationship with Clinton Sparks?

I have just been talking to him for a couple months and, you know, just choppin� it up, seeing how we could possibly do some James Bond type shit. I�ll let ya know when Catskill does the Akon/Kardinal joint. He is a real dude, I have all the respect in the world to all the DJ's that spin my shit...Clinton Sparks is the first DJ -- like a �big� DJ -- to request my music. He liked ''Sugar Town'' and ''Die'', so we should put out something in the near future.


Dubcnn: Do you already have a name in mind for your major release debut album?

Yes I do -- Heir To The Throne. I named it that because I plan on taking that spot.


Dubcnn: So what can we expect from the Heir to the Throne album?

You can expect a classic. Quality music, unique flows, unique production, unheard of storytelling ability. Expect to learn all of Catskills lyrics �cause you will be addicted -- I want to stir your soul a bit. You�ll hear ��Die��; I wrote that in forty-five minutes; it�s a Stephen King-like story involving my daughter�s mother. I was going though some emotions when I wrote that. You can expect to be shot with adrenaline when you peep �Kill 'Em�. Expect to hear a new kind of style, expect metaphors like �a dime in the right light is a minus six/ therefore I met a four, makeup does tricks/ so do dogs, fifty percent of them are bitch.�

Dubcnn: On your song �Sugar Town�, you seem to be talking about a handicapped woman. Many people will find that offensive. What is your take on that?

What? How dare you! (Laughing) What�s offensive about me going to the store for milk and sugar then seeing a mentally retarded girl on the corner who needs some attention [and] I fall in love with her and end up doing the sensible thing by training her for the Olympics. I guess there will always be haters. Millie�s mine! I just smoked a lot that night [and] when I heard the beat I went in for something taboo -- I'm a write it because I can do that, If people think I am a bad person look at yourself in the mirror�have you ever loved a handicapped girl? I thought so. (Laughing) Sometimes I get retarded with the pen.


Dubcnn: What would you say to the people who complain that hip-hop is too violent or sexist content is damaging to children?

I would tell them to listen to my song �Daddy Loves You� on repeat. Then I would say, �Don�t let the babies play with poison, I could be hazardous for you health!�


Dubcnn: What about the songs that are perceived as misogynous?

I love woman -- I just hate bitches. I�m a cat, I�m not supposed to be around dogs.
Listen to my music -- that makes you respect me. Skip what touches your judgment bone!


Dubcnn: Your producer, Paul Katsnelson, is brilliant, to say the least. How did that connection come about?

I was working with a lot of low caliber production from two [specific] producers...I won�t mention names. I had to get my files from them and make them hotter. I met Paul Katsnelson and he told me he could convert them to Pro Tools�he did. I wanted to see how he would record my type of music. Before he worked with me, he just did like dance music or techno-country, not hip hop. He mixed a song I did �Good To Go� and since then I knew he was unique. He redid all my beats and remixed everything; we have been making hot joints for like a year now.


I want to go beneath the surface and into your conscious mind� let�s do deep, so people can get a deeper understanding of your persona.


Dubcnn: You are a ninth grade drop-out but you have highly complex, witty and intelligent lyrics. You are obviously very smart. So where did your knowledge come from?

I spent a lot of my childhood by myself, I was never intrigued by school, nothing grabbed my attention, I wasn�t interested. I followed my instincts to find a calling [and] I know how to feel the human emotion and put it into words. I like to know the facts, not the bull shit they feed you�I studied life.


Dubcnn: What about drugs�do you use, or have you ever struggled with addiction?

I smoke my weed. It gives me a timeout. I dabbled in other drugs. I am kind of weak when it comes to addiction�but I am human. I like the snow in California, wink, wink.


Dubcnn: Do you ever feel like the walls are closing in?

I have felt that way. My daughter was taken from me and lives with her mom. I have been spending all my cash on recording and promo and you get sucked into a world of not knowing. But now I accept the not knowing, it makes everything worth living.


Dubcnn: Have you ever battled with thoughts of suicide?

Sure, when I spent two thousand dollars to fly to New Jersey for an industry showcase. It was presented by DJ Envy; I performed ''Kill 'Em''. I gave such a dope performance and I didn�t get chosen -- I thought it was fixed, for real. I believe in my skill so much that if you disagree [that] I'm different I know your lying. So I was in my hotel room kinda at the end of my rope. You see, I had been trying to get attention for a year and I was drinking heavy and just kinda out of it, but then I flew back home and got even more hungry, picked myself up from wasting to grand.


Dubcnn: Would you consider yourself a manic-depressive?

No, I'm a person that knows how life works -- I make my reality, my reality doesn�t make me.


Dubcnn: Are you religious?

You could say I believe in God and I believe in Him a hundred.


Dubcnn: Is there a song you have written or recorded that was particularly hard to do because of the memories or emotions it touches on?

Yeah, I wrote �Daddy Loves You� for my girl�s second birthday; her mom and I split and I was seeing less of her. It was tearing me up but I wanted her to know that nothing will keep us apart. I really had tears flowing from that song�but it was also the easiest joint I ever spit.


Dubcnn: Anything else Dubcnn and the world should know about Catskill?

Yes, there is: get ready to be surprised! I am just getting warmed up! See ya out West!
Hit me up on MySpace at, http://www.myspace.com/catskillmc








- dubcnn.com/jonathan hay

Catskill



catskill

Catskill is an artist I featured sometime back in early 2008. He is originally from Canada. And when I featured him I got alot of controversy from my regular viewers of my section. He is an artist that you either "Love or Hate" him. There is no way around it. He has an interesting rhyme style and is witty yet vulgar. It's hard to quantify exactly what he does. But it's different and it is getting him noticed.

He is now working with the world famous DJ, Clinton Sparks. So another artist that I featured is progressing to bigger and better things. Congratulations to Catskill keep being you.

Check out his track Kill em.

Catskill- Kill em

- james of ctpmag.com

Catskill - Heir To The Throne
Posted: Monday - April 5, 2010 | Comments (1)

Catskill Lyrically vivid with topics of pop culture, ex-girlfriends and dark comedy, Catskill hails from the land above, Canada, and is making moves in the US of A. Already striking notice from DJ Clinton Sparks, there might perhaps be something unique from this comedic talented rapper. With his debut, Heir To The Throne, available now, Yo! Raps took some time to interview Catskill to see what ponders in the mind of this Next 2 Blow artist.

Topics of music evolving, connection to Stephen King and the ego of Kanye West are addressed. After interviewing Catskill, I feel that his career will be long standing and that his creativity will get him notice. His out-of-the box commentary, aggressive production and positive outlook on the future is what will allow him to prevail in an industry and will lead him far from what he considers the misfortune of the industry, boredom.



How's the rap scene in Canada compared to the USA? What are the biggest differences?



I think the Canadian scene is starting to evolve into a worldwide feel. We breathe the hip hop culture like the Americans or the Chinese. Everybody has their own special relationship with music so to pin a few things down. We don't have as many venues and America has more outlets.



You consider yourself a hybrid of Axel Rose and Eminem. Does this mean you're an aggressive comedic rapper?



I have a deep yet angelic voice the Gods of music created. I think there are a few voices in music that stand out like no other. Unique, different tones that make you say play that back. I said Eminem because I have a flow that is mind altering, reminiscent of Mr. Shady. I'm a super rapper named Catskill. My style is comedic, futuristic, dark, pop, Top 40, pure energy and evolution baby.



Where did your rap moniker Catskill evolve from?



As a kid I was Ryan The Lion. A little shit from the beginning. I said it off the top during a freestyle one day. "I'm Ryan The Lion don't ya know cats kill?" I knew right there, I was Catskill.



Who are your musical influences any why?



I grew up listening to Wu-Tang because they were so damn cool. I swear you could not tell me that Wu weren't awesome. I loved Ghostface's laser beam voice and I loved Method Man's energy. I had rhythm in its purest form as kid. My speakers would cry at night if I didn't play Only Built for Cuban Linx. Bob Marley was a huge influence for me. Bob Dylan taught me to be me.



How did you get your start in rapping?



I dropped out of school in the 9th grade and smoked weed all day by myself. I liked getting high and was freestyling for hours on end without a care in the world. I would do this every day for six years. My girlfriend at the time left and took my daughter. In 2005, I started recording songs. In 2006, I was getting confident with my style and sound.



What were some of the adversities you went through in order to get to where you are today?



I was left alone as a child from four up to eight in a house with no locks and lots of mice. My mom's boyfriend at the time told me, "Don't worry, the TV will babysit you." My teachers kept passing me onto the next grade, even though I was never there. I was set up for failure so I decided to fuck with the matrix a bit. I'm the red headed stepchild that nobody wanted. My daughter is wanted so I rap like my life depends on it.



You have a feature with Clinton Sparks on your track Sugar Town. How did you and Clinton meet up?



In February 2008, I got a message from Clinton on MySpace saying he liked my song Sugar Town and Die. I was doing back flips. It's an honor to be recognized by a DJ of his caliber. Clinton hosted my album/mixtape titled Heir To The Throne so people in the music industry would pay attention to Catskill. I'm very lucky to have his co-sign.



What other artists/producers have you worked with in the past and with whom do you want to collaborate with in the future?



I worked with Bizarre from D-12, Moka and Grand Puba. I want to work with Lady Gaga, Ludacris, Stevie Nicks and Stevie Wonder. I would like to do a track with Eminem and Lil Wayne. On production, I would like to work with the greatest producers in the world. If you are that producer send me beats to catskillmc@gmail.com



Clinton Sparks said that you are hip hop's version of Stephen King. Why did he come up with such a statement?



I guess you would have to ask him that question. On the song Die, I tap into a Stephen King like storytelling vibe. The song is about my daughter's mother so I really went in.



Let's talk about your controversial track Kanye that caught some attention.



I wrote Kanye about a week after the Taylor Swift incident and recorded it with intention of going after his ego. I love him as an artist, he reminds me of me. I wanted to create a song that would be buzz worthy. Millions of new rappers are trying everyday to be noticed. I needed a song that would make you notice me.



On your MySpace, you claim there are misfortunes in Hip-Hop. Explain...



I like a lot of music and I could ignore a lot of music. The misfortunate is the boring ones.



How's your fans stateside compared to Canada?



My single Good To Go is playing in the southern states. I get a lot of respect from DJs worldwide so I got amazing fans everywhere. Canadian fans and the US fans are very similar. They like to be entertained.



After you released your debut project Heir To The Throne, you are currently working on your sophomore release Little King. What can we expect?



The album Heir To The Throne hosted by Clinton Sparks is available on iTunes now, so make sure you pick it up! Little King is in its infancy right now but you can expect magic. I'm going to shock the world with my production and features on Little King. My music is meant for people, who like being entertained, and when it's all said and done music is entertainment and I'm making sure the fans are entertained. There is this song I'm working on now that is going to go down in history as one of the greatest musical opuses of all time.



Where can fans find you online?



Fans can check me out at www.myspace.com/catskillmc or www.youtube.com/catskillmc.



- By Jeremy Carmona - yoraps.com