We got in touch with Mac Lethal after reviewing his album, Men Are From Mars, Pornstars Are From Earth, on the French side of our Website, and just before the beginning of Scribble Jam 2002. He finally came back as the winner. This was a good opportunity for us asking him how Scribble Jam 2001 (where he finished second) had changed his life, what he expected from his recent victory and what he was currently working on.
Happy with what happened at Scribble Jam 2002?
Absolutely. I’m very happy with how it turned out. It only rejuvenated the buzz I’ve been feeding for at least another year. I’m very happy... besides the fact I got kicked in the face by a thugged out gang of elephants.
Has Scribble Jam 2001 really propelled you career?
It has definitely been a big boost. It helped get the name out and juiced up the buzz of me. I really played the hell out of getting 2nd place in it. Winning Scribble 2002 I’m hoping will only do more magic for me. I’m getting ready to really buckle down and bust my ass!
Now let’s introduce you to the French audience. Are you really born on Mars and who’s your favorite porn star?
I was actually born in Kansas City but have visited Mars many times. I don’t like the food there but it’s tolerable... the wine is great, especially since its served by 6 headed women... Nah. My favorite pornstar is currently a Japanese/ American hybrid named Jassie. My overall favorite would have to be Tera Patrick. She’s incredible. I also dig Chasey Lain, Brianna Banks, Jenna Jameson and Nikki Nova.
Why this name for your album?
So it doesn’t get mixed in with all the other boring ass names that don’t stand out. Anyone can do an album with a bland ass name i.e. THE VOCABULARY ALBUM but how does that make shit special.
Your official biography that has been sent to us does not mention Johnny23 as far as I remember. Why ? When will a new Johnny23 release come out?
Johnny 23 is our (Mac Lethal, LoDeck, RC) long term project that we are working on right now. It’s just really hard for us since we live in different states and cities.. but we will be able to get all of our feet on solid ground and come to some conclusions soon. I’m getting our website launched very shortly and we are gonna start really pushing our stuff then. We are all just grinding for finances as of now... But J23 is still my home as of now. Until then peep www.lodeck.com and www.hiphopinfinity.com for Mac Lethal material.
How did you meet Blockhead?
Through LoDeck and Despot. I loved his previous stuff he did for Aesop so I just hit him and asked him to lace me. He made me sell him 3 Chinese girls and a pair of Air Maxs and he stuck me with 2 heaters.
Is there another famous or half-famous producer you’d like to work with?
Actually... I’m working with Mr Dibbs already so that’s 1 checked off my list. But as far as people I haven’t met or worked with yet... probably DJ Cam. Not even kissing ass to yall but I fuckin love his work. DJ Cam or DJ Shadow...that’s prolly it. Maybe RJD2 or A.N.T. from Atmosphere.
How did you hook up with hiphopinfinity?
Emailed them.. hahaha simple as that.
It’s now time for Hip-Hop Section’s fantastic, crazy, unbelievable and not original at all standard questions : what’s on your playlist right now?
HAHAHA! I feel it man.. Hmm.. No particular order ok?
1. Fleetwood Mac - Greatest Hits (when im drunk)
2. DJ Shadow - Private Press (when im taking a nap)
3. Copywrite - High Exhaulted (when im with my crew)
4. Scarface - The Fix (when im with my man Approach)
5. Atmosphere - God Loves Ugly (when im running errands)
6. LoDeck - Bash It (when im showing off)
7. Sade - Love Deluxe (when im fucking girls)
8. Noah 23 - Quicksand (when im driving)
9. Cee Lo - And His Perfect Imperfections (when im dancing)
10. Sage Francis - Personal Journals (when im crying)
When are you coming in France?
When enough people want to see me and someone brings me out. Hopefully that’s in 20 minutes but I’m guessing over the next year ill be able to start moving shit out that way on a semi serious note.
Most of French people do not understand English lyrics. What’s your opinion about that as an emcee?
I dig shit in other languages. Its cool you know? As long as the delivery and beats sound dope who really cares? I think if someone likes something then great. I definitely dig stuff that has a good sound to it but I cant understand it. Understanding what is being said is just the icing on the cake. I think its even fun to try to imagine what they are talking about.. it makes it fun to listen to. Please have any French artists email me MacLethal23@aol.com so we can exchange music. I think if you enjoy what you hear then no one can tell you shit. So if anyone ever dissed people for not understanding them? Fuck em!
What do you know of French hip-hop (or music in general, or anything that matters)?
I could lie. But all I can say is Solaar and DJ Cam. That’s why im saying... anyone who wants to build as an artist or anyone who wants to meet me or listen to my stuff as just a fan. Definitely hit me with an email. I love meeting new people and networking.
Big up to France's scene. Lets network and make shit happen. Thanks a lot for the interview man.. much appreciated!
Pick up Mac Lethal - Men Are From Mars, Pornstars Are From Earth LP soon! Produced by Mac Lethal, Blockhead (Aesop ROCK fame) and Surgeon General.