Comprised of Maurice ‘Mix Master Ice’ Bailey, Doctor Ice, as well as the late, great(s) Kangol Kid [August 10, 1966 – December 18, 2021] and Educated Rapper [July 4, 1963 – June 3, 2017], pioneering Brooklyn, New York City based UTFO [Untouchable Force Organization] are worldly known for their timeless classic “Roxanne, Roxanne,” which, of course, spawned the now infamous “Roxanne Wars,” however they were and still are much more than just that as UTFO has left an indelible, not to mention unmatchable, mark on Hip Hop music.
First things first, last year (August 11th to be exact) marked the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop — What exactly does that mean to and for you?
* It’s still amazing that 50 years ago a basic street vibe has turned into a major conglomerate and global musical force!
To quote the late, great The Notorious B.I.G., “You never thought that Hip Hop would take it this far!” — Was this something that you ever could’ve imagined?
* Definitely not in the beginning stages, but once Hip Hop Artists started getting recording deals, it became a powerful economical culture.
What are some of your fondest, most stand-out moments / memories during your lengthy tenure in this thing called Hip Hop?
* I’ve always loved the way we could take an idea for a song into the studio and feel creatively free, while implementing Hip Hop elements, to create the final product.
That said, what are your future plans and / or goals throughout the remainder of 2024 and beyond?
* I still enjoy touring and DJing at different events. I also love motivational speaking and studying the art of acting roles.
Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?
* Good vibes and creativity.
If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
* The late, great James Brown, because he is my favorite artist of all time.
If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?
* A big outside concert arena in Africa, because I would love to rock the MotherLand!
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?
* I’m happy that Hip Hop still provides a platform for youth to express their creativity! But, I’m also not happy because of the lack of balance in the Hip Hop songs that go mainstream!
What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
* The passion to create a vibe that’s new and the first of its kind.
Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?
* Yes, acting and motivational speaking.
What’s an average day like for you?
* Busy with prayer, checking on my family, learning healthy food choices, working out at the gym, making money by entertaining and paying bills.
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…
* I love my fans and typically give them the energy of a positive vibe!
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
* Favorite part is…I love what I do, so it doesn’t feel like work! Least favorite is watching technology slowly replace creatively!
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
* Study the culture of Hip Hop and always pay homage to the Pioneers and Legends that paved the way!
Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
* Continuing to connect a strong relationship with The Most High!
Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?
* You did an excellent job.
Any “parting” words for our readers?
* Thanks for reaching out and I appreciate all the support, love & respect!
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