DMV MC: Deuce Caliber {Interview}

 Introducing the freshest face in the DMV rap game: Edem Kwame, better known as Deuce Caliber, “D-Cal” for short. This 20 year old rapper hails from Baltimore, Maryland by way of Ghana.

 Throughout his growth as an artist, D-Cal was also a Dj on WMUC 88.1fm; a college radio station at the University of Maryland College Park. As D-Cal grew as an artist, so did his fan base and popularity. This prompted the release of multiple mixtapes including 151 Brolic, High Octane and Round One: The Definition. In 2008 his buzz gained the attention of Mobb Deep, which prompted him to create and launch DoubleUp Music Group, Black Star Militia.

 D-Cal continues to expand his ever-growing demographic and with his latest release T.K.O. hosted by WPGC’s Own DJ Reddz, he’s sure to capture the ears of new fans. Keep your eyes and ears tuned in to this young sensation, for he is sure to become the next big star in music. Below is exclusive interview with Groundsounds.com

Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?

In 5-10 years I should be the owner of my label. Dabbling in business most definitely, using exposure from music to brand other ventures

What would you name your label/brand?

The Brand is DoubleUp. The label is (tentatively) Black Star Militia

How are you promoting your music?

I do it all on my own right now. I partnered with a local radio DJ, DJ Reddz to push my brand.

Do you write your verses yourself? Do you ever collaborate with other artists?

I write all of my material as well as other’s material as well. I also write for singers. Rarely, I typically collaborate with the artists under the label I’m trying to build.

Have you always wanted to rap?

I’ve been rapping since the 6th grade. I was offered a chance to sign a deal around 2008 and my parents said no.They wanted me to go to college first.

How would you define your music? (or what genre would it be in?)

My music is all about the “come up” and working hard to get what you want regardless of outside influences. That’s all I know how to do as a person so that is what I convey in my music. 

Who is your target audience?

I target the teenage/young adult that doesn’t conform to society to the “T”, but conforms enough to get what is necessary out of life.

How long does it take you to write a “good” track (what’s your definition of good)?

20 minutes. I just finished writing/recording a song about 5 minutes ago (before this interview) I’ve never been to a studio in my life. I spent years learning how to master vocals and built a signature sound. I’ve recorded several songs in my car, basement… I even recorded a song while on the job (Don’t tell my boss though.)

What’s the next step after you get a good idea for a song?

After I get a good idea, I immediately find a place to record it. My brain seems to think faster than I type so I don’t write all of the lyrics… I kind of jot down notes and my brain knows what I meant.

Inspiration? (artists, people, colors, etc)

Inspiration. My mother. I see many of the qualities I wish I had in her. My father. He’s the man. Period. Artists? I grew up listening to euro rock… Roxette, Phil Collins, Boy George, George Michaels, REO Speedwagon, Elton John are all favorites. As far as Hip-Hop artists, Big L, 50 Cent, DMX.

Random fact bout yourself and/or your music style:

I was born in Ghana and that probably plays the biggest role in my sound. I grew up listening to music in other languages. I speak Ewe (Ewe is one of the languages we speak in Ghana. People in Togo also speak Ewe.)

Favorite song you’ve recorded? Favorite song period?

Favorite song I’ve recorded… “We Like That” off a 2011 mixtape. Right now, my favorite song is Ziggy Marley “Beach In Hawaii”.

Twitter: DoubleUpCal

Photos by: Eva Woolridge evie-eve.tumblr.com