Many Singaporeans are clueless about West Coast culture and the underground. How did you guys start out?
Well there are many facets to West Coast underground. If you’re asking about how we started in that scene we would have to credit The Good Life (TGL) and Rat Race for our growth. The majority of the group met at TGL which was an open mic night at a herbal vitamin business. Many great MCs were birthed from TGL. Stones Throw Records has done a good job closing in on truthful underground hip-hop artists as well.
How difficult was it starting out back in 1993? Who were some of your musical influences?
Very difficult—we were selling our music to a variety of labels with no luck. Before the Internet, it was imperative to have superb timing. We caught that timing when a small labeled called Blunt TVT records signed us in an indie deal. We later released The Jurassic 5 EP which catapulted the group onto a larger underground audience and that resulted in our signing to Interscope records.
From your first single “Unified Rebelution” and the breakup to the 2013 reunification and now the global tour. You’ve been through a lot as a group. What keeps you guys grounded?
Being mindful that we have more to learn, experience and prove to the world—that would be my answer. I’m sure every member would have something different to say. For me, I always feel like the music rug is going to be pulled from under my feet so I have to stay rooted in my craft as a true DJ /Producer.
How has the seven years in between the break up and reunion served you guys?
The years served us very well. It was much needed. At the time we thought we needed to break up but it turns out we just needed a long break. We’re able to enjoy our solo efforts and the group that shaped our careers simultaneously.
At the group’s peak in the early to mid-2000s, how crazy was it?
Not as crazy as it is now (laughs). Our reunion is living proof that people want what they can’t have. The mid-2000’s was very exciting because we were creating music from our hearts with the audience acceptance and no radio play. We proved to our label and the industry that you don’t need a hit record to have a cult following. We’d tour for three to four months at a time until we felt like a difference was being made.
If there is one thing that Jurassic 5 should have done differently, what would it be?
For me, nothing. We’re meant to experience what we went through—lived and learned.
What’s the focus for the group, moving forward in 2014? Are you guys looking at doing collaborations with other artists anytime?
There’s a new song and video coming out soon that was previously unreleased. There are also talks of a DVD behind the scenes video that might come out. We’re taking studio, collaborations and shows one step at a time. We’re being selective in the process this time around.
What can Singaporeans fans expect from Jurassic 5 in March?
To show up and boogie with us. Come with an open mind and heart and enjoy the show.
In the larger scheme of things, what’s the meaning of life?
Loving, utilizing your talents, pushing yourself, helping when you can and treating yourself like a king.
Wise words for upcoming MCs in the scene?
Pick beats that suit your rhyme flow not what’s popular. Follow your heart and remember that timing is everything.
How do you unwind after a long day?
I meditate and follow it with playing with my pit bull, King.
Jurassic 5 performs at Zouk on Mar 11, 8pm. Tickets at $85 from eventclique.
