TzariZM - O.T.H.E.R (Album) + 10 Questions

TzariZM has just dropped his brilliant new album O.T.H.E.R, a fitting acronym that’s stands for Over Time He Earns Respect and it sees the Orlando beatsmith spitting rhymes for the first time on wax in a decade over his own raw and stirring beats with additional production by Nottz, Little Vic and his brother IMAKEMADBEATS.

He makes his rapping comeback in style over the tracks on O.T.H.E.R.S including the single Knowhatimeitis, in which the video features appearances from Tzar’s crew including MidaZ The BEAST, Okito, Aahmean, DJ Dolo and Tem.

TzariZM has also produced for Planet Asia, Wordsworth, Apathy Celph Titled, Homeboy Sandman and 9th Prince and had made a name for himself as an all rounder when it comes to Hip Hop.

TzariZM sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions where we get an insight into TzariZM and his music.

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

My love for music was inevitable in my opinion. My pops, coming from the south, was into all types of music from funk, R&B, disco to gospel music and spirituals hymns. He also sung in the church choir and collected vinyl records. My mother is Guyanese and was into all of that plus reggae and soca. Our home was never without music playing. As a youngster, I grew to appreciate a little of it all, and Hiphop became my heart around the age of 11. Rap music was (and still is) a majestic form of music that was quite fresh and young to experience. I knew I had to be a part of it somehow.

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

Coming up, I was heavily influenced by Nas, KRS One, Wu-Tang Clan, Redman and A Tribe Called Quest. Once I became inspired to make beats, I was inspired by Hiphop producers from the 90’s such as DJ Premier, RZA, DJ Muggs, Pete Rock, DJ Scratch, and Large Professor (to name a few). In the future, I would love to work with Black Thought, Conway, Royce Da 5’9, and any original Wu-Tang member.

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

I will be dropping a few projects this year. First, I have an album dropping in May called O.T.H.E.R. which stands for Over Time He Earns Respect. It will be released on all digital steaming platforms and supported by a few video singles. Physical CDs and vinyl will be released in the near future. I will also release a production album featuring and showcasing tracks with some of my dope artist friends mostly from the Orlando area. Lastly, another instrumental album is on the way as well.

4. How would you describe your sound?

The TZ sound is hardcore rhythmic energy reminiscent of the 90’s boom-bap era brought forward with a futuristic touch. The drums will slap, the bass will thump, the melodies will mesh well with all of the above. As a rapper, TZARIZM is a matured lyricist that can spit with the best of them, but doesn’t care to.

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

I am most proud of myself getting this new music out. I feel this album (O.T.H.E.R.) is my greatest work to date. As a producer, my proudest moment goes to fully producing and releasing an album with my brother Planet Asia (called Via Satellite) in 2014. Honourable mention goes to rocking the same stages with Busta Rhymes, Raekwon, Sean Price, and many other idols of mine.

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

In this current time, you are free to release music however way you want. I would tell them don’t be afraid to do what you want to do musically. Be free of any forceful creative direction from outside sources. Lastly, don’t hold back the music. Put it out and inspire. Someone is in need of your music and is always listening.

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

There are many talented artists around my way in Orlando that deserve shine. Starting off with my bro MidaZ The BEAST, who is killing the rap game right now. IMAKEMADBEATS, Okito, Temper 3000, DJ Dolo76 are all amazing artists/producers worth checking out.

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

- Madvillain (MF Doom & Madlib) - Madvillainy (still!)

- Nas - King’s Disease III

- Black Thought & Danger Mouse - Cheat Codes

- Knxwledge - Hud Dreams

- MidaZ The BEAST - The Devil’s Playground

- Mach-Hommy- Pray For Haiti

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

First, I spend time with my wife and kids. I am a course instructor at a university throughout the year. I love teaching. Also, I play video games for fun and relief, with some of my favourites to play being Legend of Zelda, Destiny 2, God of War, Metroid, to name a few. I love basketball and constantly have hoop dreams that I made it to the NBA, which has faded a lot since I got older.

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

If only three things? My AKAI MPC Live is essential to my studio workflow and is always the core piece in my production. My Roland SP-404 mk2 is also a must…just because. Lastly, I need a working subscription to Pro Tools on deck. I can’t live without these in my creative life.

Connect with TzariZM here.

Words: Gavin Brown