PiFF aka Pennywise Jr and PiFF Penny has recently released the Sativa EP with F-Plus Beats and it shows the NC emcee in fine form with a collection of music that shows off his skills as a rapper and is in turns introspective, heartfelt and hard hitting, with the title of the EP saluting one of the rappers loves. This is boom-bap rap that veers from funky to dusted and street with razor sharp lyricism a constant throughout.

We caught up with PiFF and he gave us his answers to the infamous Wordplay 10 Questions.

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

Growing up between Baltimore and D.C, I had a lot exposure to some dope emcees like Manstar, Tim Trees, Bossman, Annex Click, Cloud-9, Stone Valley, Wale, Bones and so many others. Listening to Mobb Deep gave me the confidence to grow and start putting my freestyles on beats!

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

I would say Prodigy (of Mobb Deep) was my biggest influencer. Boot Camp Click ,Red Man and Meth, Big L and Stack Bundles,  all these emcees help me understand the hip hop culture even more. It would be a blessing to work with Redman, Benny, Conway, Fabolous, and Game.

3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?

So, on August 29th I dropped part one to a three-part series called “Sativa”. Produced by F-plus beats. We give the fans/smokers and EP that sets the tone for whatever flavour you’re blowing on! Next up is “Indica”. There is no release date to this project as of yet. Mastering is taking place now! You can find most of my projects on Bandcamp (Piff Pennywise Jr).

4. How would you describe your sound?

I have a different sound depending on the mood and track. I don’t think I sound like anyone particular! I’ve had people say I sound like Prodigy, Nas, Pusha T and a few others!

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

Being able to collect and own my physicals is probably one of my happiest moments. I’m a collector so the feeling of having your own merch, mannn.  Another happy moment was when I got paid to do my first feature!

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Sure, make the music you like. Try to be as original as possible. Build a team that can help you grow. Don’t be afraid to spend money on studio time and promotion. It works! Stay true to your craft and support what you like! I’m living proof. I wish you the best and love yourself first!

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

Absolutely, I wont name everyone but here are a few that I’ve been checking out lately. Passport Scoob, OC from NC, Black Soprano Family, Drumwork Music Group, P.U.R.E, Stove Cooks, The Real CEO & Crotona P.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

Game (Drillmatic), Grafh (Stop Calling Art Content), OC from NC (Black Phillip Tape), Musalini (The Don & Eye) P-Row X G Fam Black (Down Time) Westside Gunn (Peace “Fly” God) & Osbe Chill (Soul Rap 2).

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

I like to hang out with mu wife and daughter and our two dogs when I’m not making music. My wife is my best friend so we are always together. My daughter loves playing board games. We get it in frequently!

10. Name three things you can't live without when in the studio?

Word! just 3! Cool. Water, some good weed and a pen and paper! Boy, that was hard!

https://m.soundcloud.com/mr-piff-978242134

Interview: Gavin Brown