Dane the Beautiful Monster has roots both “Up North” and “Down the Shore” and has been contributing to both scenes for years. From albums and videos to live shows and an online presence focusing on both the “music” and “business” of the “Music Business” DBM is a force to be reckoned with.
NJ Next’s Angelo Gingerelli recently got a chance to catch up with Dane and discuss his history, his upcoming projects and Jersey’s Hip-Hop scene…
Where in Jersey are you from? Where do you live now? What’s the Hip-Hop scene like there? Born in Long Branch, NJ. Residing in Newark, NJ. The Hip-Hop scene in Babylon (Newark) is as bustling and illustrious as any in the world. We have so many amazing acts and the best fans of local acts that I have ever seen. I am grateful to be known as a Newark artist.
When did you become a Hip-Hop fan? When do you become an artist? In the early nineties, my fanhood peaked. Been an artist since as long as I knew words.
How would you describe your sound? It’s ever-evolving, but if I had to label it, I wouldn’t label it.
What advice do you have for young artists? Study business, learn to forge multiple streams of income so you can self-finance your dream and not need the horrible loan known as a record deal.
What’s next for DBM? I am a new artist so it’s live performances and new recordings every day. Plus promo. I’m all in. Politics as usual (Lord Hova Voice).
Rapid Fire Questions:
Top 5 MC’s of all time:
1. Tupac
2. Jay-Z
3. Kanye West
4. Drake
5. Nas/BlackThought/Rakim/Redman(I couldn’t)
Top 4 Places to perform in NJ:
1. The Stone Pony in Asbury Park
2. Coffee Cave in Newark
3. Any Live Park Set
4. House Party Set/BBQ Season preferably in an urban setting.
Three producers you would like to produce your next project:
1. Miguel
2. Ski Beatz
3. Metro Boomin’
Two albums currently in your heavy rotation:
1. Belly – Mumble Rap
2. Nipsey Hustle – Victory Lap
One reason everybody should checkout out DBM: I am the most charismatic writer/lyricist to bring you a sauce drenched delivery on top of rhymes that make a point. I’m refreshing!
Also worth checking out…
Shoreshot – “Devine Feel”
Ocean County’s Shoreshot kicks off the summer with a motivational new track and a dope video set in Seaside Heights during the off-season. The song absolutely works by itself, but the images of the artist rhyming on the desolate boardwalk add a nice touch to the overall vibe.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dtnNVrTs9E
Bobby Briz ft. Kidz from the Burbz – “Life Force”
Staten Island’s Bobby Briz connects with Jersey’s own Kidz from the Burbs for a visual directed by Kidz member Styles of Devine. The song was actually released on last year’s “Brizantium” project, but the video features all three MC’s performing in Asbury Park and sets the tone for the summer. Look for more collaborations between Bobby and The Kidz soon under the title “OBX – Outer Bridge Connection.”
The Litehouse Shop (1483 Main St. Rahaway NJ 07065)
Lighthouse Musiq has been the home of many “NJ Next” artists like Ren Thomas and Solo for Dolo, the label recently opened a retail space that specializes in indie music, artist merchandise and local art. While Litehouse has provided a great online platform for Jersey MC’s for years, this brick-and-mortar location will serve as a physical hub for all of their activity. Check it out next time you are up north and support one of coolest movements in the state.
IG:@ thelitehouseshop
