Anticipation
"As far back as I can remember Hip Hop has been a part of my life." That quote belongs to Viro the Virus, an emcee who calls himself the lyricists' lyricist. If you don't understand, then listen up. Viro started writing rhymes in grade school. "I used to say you'll catch my rhymes like a virus." After saying that constantly people started to call him Virus, which was shortened to Viro. After witnessing acts such as Eric B. & Rakim, Brand Nubians, Public Enemy and BDP, Viro recognized his passion for Hip Hop. Born and raised in New Jersey, Viro excelled in high school athletics such as basketball and football. After graduating, he pursued a degree in Broadcast Journalism from the Connecticut School of Broadcasting. When asked why he isn't using that education he replies, "I'm concentrating on music." The oldest of 3, Viro maintains a close relationship with his mother, who accepts & supports his musical quest. Because of his mother, writing is in his blood. Viro goes all over the city to promote his material and soak up the atmosphere of the underground scene. If you're lucky, you'll get to witness him at open mics such as Level Thursdays. Recently he's been performing at the hotspot Aqualounge. His past performance venues have included the intimate Five Spot, spacious TLA, and chill Silk City. His talents don't end at lyrics. Add screenplays and poetry to that list. Viro schools me on an important lesson, "People don't realize rap is a combination of poetry and rhythm." When I first met Viro, I perceived him as a quiet individual. He doesn't gloat about his skills, or create an image that he can't uphold. Viro's official debut was in August 2002 entitled Future Trauma, which was produced by underground duo EDK Muzik. Next album on deck for Viro is Ars Nova, in which he pairs up with DJ Caliph. "I'm doing what I love and slowly, surely, I'll get there."

Elevation
Viro admits his path could have been fatal, "I was young and dumb." He has learned to channel his anger in another direction. A conversion to Islam in 2000 catapulted his attitude change. He came to have a better understanding of life. Though not currently active in Islam, Viro hold a personal connection with God that has brought him to this point. Besides the influence of Peter Tosh, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Marley and Parliament, the inspiration for his lyrics come from the daily events of life. He won't make a song to follow a trend; he waits for the verse to come to him. He rhymes about what he knows. Viro doesn't want to have Bentleys and chains, "It's not about that. It's about writing, recording, and performing." As far as the cloud that lurks over Hip Hop, Viro expresses his sentiments, "There is a lack of creativity. Emphasis is on the catch phrases instead of the artform." The belief that image is more important than skills also fuels his fire. Instead of letting that negativity consume him, Viro applies it to himself in a positive way. "I just want to be able to make music and survive."

Satisfaction
Viro appreciates and respects the Greater Philadelphia underground culture, and insists that Jersey and Philly have a budding scene with quality music. Viro is well aware of the competition but appreciates anyone that stays true to the art and their talent. "Keep it real to yourself. If you spit from the heart, then I feel you." This Greater Philadelphia Hip Hop Alliance member Viro takes Hip Hop seriously and has nothing but love for the culture. He is the epitome of a lyricist. Viro's music is intellectual and stimulating. He's not trying to fit a trend or satisfy a public craving. "I'm never going to give up. I'll be writing until I die." Future Trauma is available at Cue Records and www.hiphopinfinity.com. Let me leave you with a little known fact: To date, there's never been a cure for a virus. It always stays with you. Just when you think it's gone, it reappears. This one is no different. Think on that.

Deesha Dyer
November, 2002