LA + Pinky: The Best of Both Worlds
By: Shah A. (@ThaShah)
Our anticipation was at an all time high, while GSHH waited for the incoming call from LA & Pinky. The producer and rapper duo gave us a brief look into their world and forthcoming project, Boardwalk Empire. Though our feelings may seem bias, it's always a pleasant surprise to listen to a project where an artist and producer team up exclusively as a dynamic duo to release an LP. Call it divine intervention, coincidence, or just plain luck on how LA & Pinky linked up to deliver the new project. As the night came to an end the two artists told us their story and how their latest work is sure to make a mark in the underground game and beyond.
When and how did you get involved in producing and beat making?
LA: When I was 17 my boy came home and got an MPC 2000 XL, I played around on the device made a beat and said "This what Imma' do.”
No doubt. So what's your inspiration when composing a beat? Do you sample?
LA: I started off with all samples, but I got tired of it. I wanted to quit, then my homie Twizz showed me Reason. Original beats are the best thing, everything is yours you don't have to share.
Word. So with that being said, what are your tools for success in the studio?
LA: I use Reason 5 and Pro Tools. I’ve been thinking about Logic, but I like to use actual musicians for better sound.
That's a really unique way to produce. Producers today can either fall into the depths of being one dimensional, or have the ability to touch upon various forms of music; what genre do you produce for?
LA: (Sighs) Man, I never know what I'm going to make until it's made. I just go in! But I love hip-hop more than anything.
Okay, what are some common sounds that you incorporate in your beats? And, how much time do you spend in the stu?
LA: I use strings, piano, and synths. I just use whatever, I don't know what to use I just use it. All together when I'm in the studio I'm there for like four or five hours.
You seem to have a really strong work ethic, has any of that granted you any recognition or possible deals?
LA: Sound Quality studios in Red Bank, New Jersey recording with a bangin' producer and engineer named Sy, and I'm under a multi-platinum producer.
Cool. So what are some earlier projects you've worked on, and what's the word on this new release we keep hearing about?
LA: Well I did Food For Thought Part 1 back in like ‘04 or ‘05; it was a mixtape for New Jersey artists. I was working on Food For Thought Part II, but I said fuck it to work on the album with Pinky. Boardwalk Empire is the new project that features Pinky. The album title plays off of the idea of being from the shore. We're thinking outside of the box, we've been working on it since mid-November, but don't have a release date.
No doubt. We can't wait to hear Boardwalk Empire, how did you and Pinky link up?
LA: Pinky is a rap artist that heard my beats and that's when I told him about my situation in NYC.
Sounds good. So in the end when all of the work is done, what is LA's overall goal when it comes to the music game?
LA: I want to take kids and show them how to make music. As long as I can say LA from Asbury Park, New Jersey made it in the game is enough for me.
What up bruh?
Pinky: Peace!
So let's get into it, how long have you been rapping?
Pinky: I've been rapping since elementary school, but high school is when I took it serious once I got a buzz. Around 7 or 8 years ago is when I started pushing for a deal.
No doubt. There are numerous categories rappers can fall into today, which one defines Pinky, if any?
Pinky: Well I try to be as versatile as possible. I use catchy lines, appeal to the ladies, the hood and clubs. I put my own little twist on it and switch up flows.
Okay, so how did the name Pinky come about?
Pinky: It began with battling, the name originated from joking around with my friends then I spit it in a line.
So what type of content can Pinky fans expect to hear?
Pinky: Life’s highs and lows. I'm analytical and the youngest of seven so I've experienced different aspects of life. I tell my story, even if they've seen what I seen; they can't convey it like me.
I feel you, so with that being the case what are some obstacles you've dealt with as an artist?
Well... I dealt with two independent labels and things didn't work the way they were suppose to. But shout out to G&G and Mash Music records.
True, so what's Pinky's goal?
Pinky: I'm just motivated by this new project.
It appears that LA & Pinky have found an undeniable formula for success with their latest endeavor. The blend of the smooth and catchy bars of Pink doused over the unique and soulful sounds of LA's production will have everyone taking a stroll down Boardwalk Empire.
