NYC Emcee Pearl Gates Interview

In this interview we chop it up with Pearl Gates. In 2014 he released his first mixtape “A Star In A Broken Sky”, he also appeared alongside eMC (Masta Ace, Wordsworth and Stricklin) on “Fly Thoughts,” the first single from 2015’s “The Tonight Show”. His most stand out project was the EP “Diamond Mind” followed by “Live From The First” via Netherlands label Below System Records. Gates drops the anticipated follow up LP to the single “Live On Air” titled “Champion Sounds” along side fellow lyricists Wordsworth May 24th.

Peace Pearl Gates where’s home?

Peace! Washington Heights in uptown New York City is where I rest my head, born and raised.

How long you been emceeing??

I been rhyming since I was 12 years old. Before I knew structure I wrote in paragraphs. Fell in love with the art form early.

Favorite dj or producer??

Favorite DJ, I’d go with Mister Cee. Favorite producer has to be RZA, but there are so many great ones out there who inspire me.

Anything outstanding happen to you within the last month or so we should know about?

Added the finishing touches to “Champion Sounds” my collab album with Wordsworth produced entirely by Quincy Tones. Man this album is special, from the features (Kool G Rap, Talib Kweli, Masta Ace) to just the sounds and journey of it… Really can’t wait to share it with the world.

Tell us about “Live On Air” how has the feed back been?

People digging’ that record man! Its been gaining traction, huge shout to Rasheed Chappell gettin on that joint and bodying it. So far so good, video dropping soon for it as well.

How would you describe yourself in three words?

As far as the music is concerned I would say; singer, rapper, producer. I’m the trifecta. I also song write for artists in different genres and engineer so I’m heavily involved with the creative process.

Any shows or tours coming up?

In the process of working out a European tour this summer, also some west coast dates in the fall. If I’m in your city don’t miss it!

Favorite drank?

Blue Label, smooth plus quality.

Favorite non music thing related thing to do?

Basketball is my thing, also enjoy reading books and researching. Learning and growing every day.

Shout outs or last words?

Shout out to my dawg Syll who’s also featured on “Champion Sounds,” we got an album called “Play This 2” dropping later this year. Keep on the lookout for that. Make sure you go get “Champion Sounds” the album on May 24th! its an experience worthy of your ears.