BrokeMC has been an innovator of the Indie NYC rap scene for ten years. Releasing three solo albums, collaborating on three albums with the famous MINDSpray Crew, and countless other cameos and contributions, he is a prolific creative force and active supporter of the NYC music community. As he prepares to release the ‘Brokenphono’ record with U.K producer Billy Phono. We are excited to share some of his insight, process, and directions with you.

Can you explain the new record, is there a concept behind it?
I had done this collab track with Billy Phono a couple years back on his “Task and Duties” ep.  It went over really well, and we had sort of been bouncing things back and forth.  I love his production.  it’s sort of lo-fi glitchy hip hop with undertones of soul.  Whenever I write, I try to find a theme to match the tone of the music, and his beats tend to make me introspective and moody, but I was also doing a lot of the writing when that huge oil spill happened in the Gulf of Mexico, so you’ll definitely feel some of my frustration with the state of Hell on Earth on this one.

What is your process when making records?
I feel like each record is a new art project.  It’s a painting, and everything from the colors to the focal points, to the frame, and where it hangs come into play.  I try to experiment with style so I don’t get boring to others or myself, and I really look at a record as the chance to create a world that someone can live in for awhile.  Phono sent me some beats, and based on the ones he sent me that I responded to, he made some more.  I think we both wanted to come with our freshest on this one. Hopefully that comes thru.

What / who visually inspires you, and does that inspiration lend itself to your music?
I really love the whole upper playground crew. I’ve followed Sam Flores since the late 1990s, and since then I’ve found Jeremy Fish, Doze green, blaine fontana.  And of course, the NYC streets keep my eyes tingling. From YMI to 203, there’s always some fresh color in my life.

What do you hope to achieve through your work?
Every time someone hits me up and lets me know that they’re feeling a track, I know I’m doing what I should be doing. I don’t need much more. I mean, money is nice, but we’re all struggling right now. Right now I get to collaborate with some of the dopest heads in the world.  For someone who really loves hip hop, that’s all you could ask for.

Top 5 music playlist.
TV on the Radio – Dear Science, Neutral Milk Hotel – In the aeroplane, TUNE-YARDS – whokill, The Books – Lost and Safe, Iron and Wine – Kiss each other clean

Where can we learn more
www.brokemc.com
www.soundcloud.com/billyphono
www.deathrowtull.com

Listen to the first single ‘Feelin’ Nothing” from Brokenphono

If your in NYC there will be a release party Sunday Nov 27th at The Mercury Lounge
check the invite, go out and enjoy your night!

Thanks BrokeMC!