100 BARS MAGAZINE 007 Mar/Apr 2014 | Page 73

Vader: Alright, let’s get into it; state your name and where you’re from. Prez Mafia: Prez Mafia. Bronx, NY. Vader: Where does the name “Prez Mafia” come from? Prez Mafia: When I started rapping, I always named myself “Prez”. I don’t know why, but one day I watched a JFK documentary — I think that n***a is cold. He had ties with the mob as well, and he was one of the youngest, most known presidents. I’m young, I’m smart, but I too have a dark side. Hence the name. Vader: Very interesting. So tell us how you got into battle rap. Prez Mafia: Well for those who don’t know, I’m heavy in the Bronx. I’ve been around many known individuals; to where I’ve seen so many styles that it came natural to me, once I took it seriously. A battle rapper by the name of Push Pax — from my home team, Body Bag Gang — battled Show Off on Bluudy Nuckles’ Spittaz League, which is where I started. Shoutout to Pax. I went with Pax, and July Streets was on the card. His opponent was a no-show. I told Pax, “I want in.” He told Bluudy, and by mistake — but on purpose — I was a battle rapper on the spot. Vader: So that was your first battle? Prez Mafia: Yes. “July Streets vs. Prez Mafia”. Vader: That shows that you’re pretty good with moving on the spot. You battled Big Jinya impromptu as well; how different is your performance when you battle on the spot versus when you prepare for your opponent? Prez Mafia: Very different. I have a presence in each performance, but when I prepare it’s more complex and direct which makes my angles and punches way sharper. Vader: Word. Your presence and performance is very strong in all of your battles. I love how you use a lot of imagery in your rounds; like when you said, “bars over your head, like no more seats on the train” versus Bandana Boogie. What’s your preparation like for a battle? Prez Mafia: When I’m in my zone it’s very strict and wellformatted. I have a lazy way and an OK-Prez-quit-bullsh**ting way, but I am very different in the sequence and perspective of things. When it comes to writing, I have a formula that prez mafia rising star I can’t say now, but soon I will give out a hint or two. Vader: We see that you rep Innuendo — Prez Mafia: Shoutout to Innuendo. Vader: The Innuendo squad is looking very nice and Bonnie Godiva just put out a great battle with Shooney Da Rapper. Prez Mafia: I love Bon Bon. That’s my sister for real. Vader: There