"What's in a name? O-Solo has all the elements of emcee superstars before him: a striking voice, charisma and wit, effortless wordplay and flow, and songs that hit from Miami to Manhattan. When it comes to his sound and style, however, the Jersey rapper seeks no companion or comparison, no equal or precedent. In an industry where acts leap on the beaten path and exit just as quickly, that's a good thing." - Gregory Johnson, writer (The Source, Spin, King, Complex, Oneworld, Vibe)

Fanvasion Magazine: For those who haven't heard of you can you tell us a bit about yourself?
O-Solo: I’m O-Solo…the Last Level of Rap (aka Kid chorus). I’m 23 years old from Irvington, New Jersey (Newark). Just prepare yourself for the Last Level.

Why did you pick the stage name O-Solo?
When my brother was in jail and my cousin was away, I went around and battle people on the streets. I used to battle 9 people at a time…I came out the winner in all those battles and my best-friend, Houlihan gave me that name after he saw me come out of the battles solo, by myself…O-Solo.

When did you first realize you wanted to pursue rapping as a career?
I become interested in music ever since I was 7 years old, singing in church. I was the lead singer in Jesus is Coming Baptist Church on Springfield Avenue in Newark. I had a really high pitched voice back then but as my voice deepened, I began to rap.  I had an opportunity to attend a seminar for rappers and met Scarface. He offered me a record deal but I was signed at the time. I appeared on BET’s 106 & Park Freestyle Friday and was four times champion.

You recently opened up for Julez Santana, what was that experience like for you?
It was nice performing with Julez Santana. The Cheetah night club is a very nice
spot. I did my thang and represented.

Is there any song of yours that really holds an importance to you?
“Why would a Brother Talk” and “Alright Now Big Baby”. All my songs are inspired
by my life and experiences.

Who are some artist that you would like to collaborate with in the future?
ay-Z, Jesse Powell and Eminem.

Who would you say is the biggest influence in your life and why?
My mom and my aunt had the biggest influence on my life. My aunt brought my family back together after we were all placed in different foster and orphanage homes. I know where my brothers and sisters are today and I can’t thank my aunt enough for that.

Do you have any plans for an album in the future?
Yes, I’m working on it now. So far I have worked with The Track Boyz they are the guys who produced "Air Force Ones" for Nelly, I also have worked with Spike & Jamal they produced Monica, #1 hit "So Gone". Also Eddie F, and Fantom who did "Magic Stick" for Lil' Kim and 50 cent.  So many talented producers. Right now I am in negotiations with Def Jam.

Where do you see yourself with your career in the next 5 years?
In five years, I hope to move further in my music career. I would love to make my own beats someday. I am learning the board as we speak.

What message would you like to send out through your music?
Love, peace and happiness.


FOR MORE ON O-SOLO CHECK OUT:
· Official Site

photos: o-solo.com

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