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Versatile
Not everyone involved in the hip-hop culture began as
an immediate part of its music. Prime example is this
week's interviewee, dev79 (it's pronounced seven *space*
nine). Many members of them underground circuit classify
dev79 as a part of the abstract hip-hop movement. But,
he doesn't take classifications too seriously. "All
music has sub sections, breaking down the different
genre's gets complicated." In his early teens,
dev79 began playing guitar, which served as the catalyst
for engrossing himself in music. Around the age of 18,
dev79 took his passion to a level of producing. Out
of that trial & error period, he did a few demos
and released 2 CD's. It was also around this time, that
he joined a band, which he stayed a part of for 5 years.
After they split ways in 1999, he adopted his name of
dev79 and began working on solo efforts. As he grew
up on the scene, he realized he wanted to take music
more seriously, and started DJing about in 2000. His
beats became edgier, and he started to gear them towards
the hip-hop culture. dev79 has worked with various artists.
Most recently, he's collaborated with emcee Kmass, as
well as Saint B & The Slug Crumbs. He is also working
on the production of TG-The Analog Master's upcoming
project. His artistic talent doesn't end with music.
He holds a degree in film, and does freelance graphic
design on the side. dev79 just wants to open the boundaries
of music while making enough money to live. "I
want my career to be based on my ideals and honesty."
That's not too much to ask, is it?
Fine Line
As I write this, I'm trying hard not to touch much
on the stereotype that many in the underground community
give artists such as dev79. "I'm too electronic
for the hip-hop scene, and too hip-hop for the electronic
scene." It seems he is in a no-win situation with
the masses. But, I think he gave up truly caring a long
time ago! He appreciates and is interested in the interpretation
people have of his music. Regardless, he sticks by his
feelings about a track. "I'm fairly confident in
liking what I like." One thing dev79 has in common
with all underground heads is the strong desire to not
be like or follow commercial artists. "I don't
try to be different, it's just hard to do mainstream
music." His art will not be compromised for a quick
dollar. When listening to work by dev79, you are hit
with instrumental beats that may take some time to get
used to if you don't know about fusing hip-hop and electronic
music. It's a lot of energy molded together to create
a universal sound. You don't have to take my word for
it. Give it a listen. It doesn't bite.
Destination
The bottom line is dev79 wants to push envelopes and
expose people to the art of his music. There is a whole
world of electronic/hip-hop music out there waiting
to be discovered by those that are open-minded. In the
future, he hopes to get more records distributed, as
well as perfect his craft. In April, he will release
a 12 inch on zenapole records. Starting March 26 (and
every 4th Wednesday of the month), dev79 will be bringing
you the live experience of his art to Silk City. dev79
and his crew do what feels good and right to them. If
the public chooses to accept that, then it's cool. If
not, then it's still cool. He's trying to reach out
to everyone with his music. It's all about venturing
out to left field.
Contact dev79, email him at :dev79@phreaker.com
Sites: www.dev79.com,
www.seclusiasis.com
February 2003
Phillyhiphop.com
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