This past month I was able to set up an interview with Mike Ozzie, we talked about the album, his experience and other juicy stuff. Here it is:
1) So your new album, American Romanov, recently dropped. Tell us about it?
-Its an experimental album generally to see what I could accomplish musically, since I haven’t ever done anything like this before. I tried to capture a specific style and personality, and apply it to every song so that the album had a mood. Generally my style is that of a swagged out urban white boy.
2) Did anyone help out with producing, writing or recording?
-There were several beats produced by friends or personal favorite artists of mine. I also featured a few rappers such as AKRONYM and Ominous on some songs. The majority of recording, mixing, writing, and producing was done by me.
3) From start to finish, how long did the whole process take?
-Well, there was never a period of time where I was working on the mixtape non-stop, but the whole process took about half a year. This could have been accomplished in a smaller amount of time, but as a high school student, I have endless other responsibilities.
4) How long have you been rapping and wanting to record this album?
-I have been interesting in writing lyrics since 8th Grade, but I had the idea for a mixtape at the end of my Freshman year.
5) Do you have any musical background or family members in music that might have had some effect on your decision to rap?
-My father is a sound designer and a musical artist, and I inherited his passion for music. Of course, the stigma that comes with rapping makes me hesitate before releasing songs with controversial content, but artistic expression is more important than that.
6) What or who were you inspired by in making this album? Inside or outside of music.
-The idea for this mixtape was not inspired by anyone in particular. Mostly I wanted to develop my talent and see what I could come up with.
7) Who are your favorite artists that you might share with others?
-My all-time favorite artist would have to be Pink Floyd. They were the first masters of studio recording and production. As for other hip-hop artists, I really love MF DOOM, as well as Wu Tang of course, along with some great new artists like Black Hippy.
8) How was the support from your family or peers like in the process of the album?
-I tried to keep my family as far away from the project as possible, but my father was a great help and gave me constructive criticism and supported me throughout.
9) What were some reactions when it initially came out?
-I actually got a lot of positive feedback. I think people were drawn to the style because I tried hard to capture a style that my audience could relate to.
11) What are some of your favorite songs from the album and why?
-My favorites are The Chill Session, Inner City Kid, and Enlightened Despot. Check em out. I like these in particular because I feel I captured my life and my views on the world around me in them.
12) You also happen to attend bronx science, what are some extracurriculars or special permission classes you partake in? What about outside of school?
-Varisty Soccer and Track, as well as AP European history. I also attend a few clubs here and there. Outside of school, I play guitar, make beats (and rap music obviously). From time to time, I will try my hand at creative writing.
13) And how have these affected your recording time?
-Not too badly. I am a very busy person, but it’s not too hard to find a few hours here and there to lay down some bars or craft a beat. I make music surprisingly fast, so I don’t usually take forever to make presentable songs.
14) If someone you know wants to start rapping, singing or even making their own album, what would you say to them to help them out?
-Go for it, but have realistic expectations and goals.
15) Alright mike, thanks for the interview.
Anytime man, thanks a lot.
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