100 BARS MAGAZINE 010 JUN/JULY 2014 | Page 68

our neighborhood and and pay back the culture by uplifting it. You can’t want people to support you and you’re not willing to support the people. Tyeem Thomas: Do you think that the reluctance of some owners — who may feel that they’re above the culture — will stagnate the advancement of the culture? Can the culture overcome megalomaniac behavior? Clark Ceasar: Everybody has different intentions and a different vision, so it’s hard to say, because its seems like favoritism and politics is overshadowing talent as of late. Tyeem Thomas: I always believed that talent couldn’t be held back over politics for too long. How do you feel? Clark Ceasar: Talent can be discouraged and once you lose the motivation, you lose the love. Tyeem Thomas: How do feel about performers signing exclusive contracts? Clark Ceasar: As an owner, I deal with each individual rapper, so I know that individual’s goal. I support whatever the artist’s decision is. As a fan, I don’t like it, because it causes the rapper restrictions from going to other leagues and performing there. Certain states won’t ever get to see that rapper in there town. Tyeem Thomas: The ladies in battle rap — do you have any 68 favorites and why do you feel some fans downplay the abilities of the female artists? Clark Ceasar: We’re actually having an all-females event; the ladies work harder for respect and they deserve it. These females today are on a level to compete with the men. In a male-dominated culture, they stand out. BK Fynest is a star, Fendi has the potential to be one of the top females in battles rap. Another female to look out for is Flame; she’s from Connecticut. With only one battle, she’s definitely someone to look out for. My favorite female rapper, hands down, is Jaz the Rapper. She’s shown time in and time out that talent comes in all shapes and forms. Tyeem Thomas: I agree. I believe that if you have a command of the English language and some outside-of-the-box creativity, you can become effective in this sport — with practice. Clark Ceasar: They end up being the best. Tyeem Thomas: Build a battle rapper if you could; take pieces from certain performers and stick them all into one person. Who would you take from? Clark Ceasar: I would take B Magic’s punches, Chilla Jones’ schemes, with Charlie Clips’ setups and a Bill Collector performance and beat the world. (Ceasar laughs) I liked that question. Tyeem Thomas: That’s a combination I’d place a bet on every time. You’re trying to rig the game. Clark Ceasar: Everytime I would of killed you if I said, “with Hitman Holla’s dances moves.” Tyeem Thomas: For anyone wanting to get on the BMC stage, how would they go about it? Clark Ceasar: Find me on Facebook or Twitter @ ceasarstreetz, on instagram @ ceasarstreetz and my contact number, 347-220-7570. Leave a message or text. I respond as soon as possible. Tyeem Thomas: As a Brooklynite, I appreciate what you’re doing for the community. It was a pleasure doing this interview. Any final plugs you want to get out? Clark Ceasar: I appreciate what you’re doing for the culture. I just want to thank anyone that ever had anything to do with the Brooklyn Mic Club; from artist, to staff, to fans — we all played a role in the success of the Brooklyn Mic Club, and for that, I thank you. Shoutout to al