Black Sheep Interview: SXSW 2010

Black Sheep dropped one of the best hip hops albums of the early 1990's, 'A Wolf In Sheeps Clothing' featuring the smash singles 'The Flavor of The Month' and 'The Choice Is Yours.'

However, within a few years the group faded from view focusing on solo projects until re-forming in the early 2000's. Since then the group released one album, 2006's '8WM/Novakane' before original member Mista Lawnge left for a second time.

Spinner recently chatted with Black Sheep MC Andre "Dres" Titus about Cerebral Ballzy, the dangers of bad sound and the privilege of performing at SXSW.

Describe your sound in your own words

Indescribably soulful-- a sprinkle of wit and a dash of humor, pinch realism and a cup of love.

How did your band form?

Both of my parents were in bands. I was fortunate to be around their rehearsals and their extensive music collections. I was in glee club, marching band and I think all of these things just made me open to doing it.

What are your musical influences?

Stevie Wonder as a lyricist and to the poser of words. Donnie Hathaway for structure. Marvin Gaye for showing me the possibilities of arrangements.

How did you come up with your band name?

It was really due to our Native Tongues affiliation. We were just different in appearance than them, and all of hip-hop, really.

What's your biggest vice?

It's that I spread myself pretty thin. It is always with good intentions though.

What's in your festival survival kit?

Basically, need good company, water and a joint.

What do you think about playing SXSW?

Elated about it. I think it is a privilege and honor to rock with such a variety of cats. To me it represents the cutting edge and I am glad to be able to perform for people who like live music.

What's your musical guilty pleasure?

Cerebral Ballzy.

Beatles or Stones?

Beatles.

What's the craziest thing you've seen or experienced while on tour?

Wow. There are so many. Guess the soundman getting stabbed for bad sound on an Ice Cube tour in Minneapolis.


Billy Maupin is a contributor from Seed.com. Learn how you can contribute here.