NYT speaks with Muro aka King of Diggin’
(c)Rhythmediamusic
Muro is considered one of the key pioneers in Japanese Hip Hop. Originally part of the infamous Krush Posse formed in 1987 which consisted of Muro, DJ Krush and DJ Go. Muro and DJ Krush released solo projects resulting in Muro establishing himself further in Japan and DJ Krush in achieving international success. Muro, Twigy, Masao, P.H. and DJ Go eventually formed Microphone Pager which is another substantial unit that influenced modern Japanese rap. He is still very active in the industry as he helped bring up groups such as Nitro Microphone Underground. Muro has an impressive discography including collaborations with Freddie Foxxx, D.I.T.C., Pete Rock and Pharoahe Monch to name a few. We can go on and on about Muro’s accomplishments and importance but we’ll leave that up to you to dig up. There’s not enough diggin’ going on these days!
Interview with Muro after the jump!
(c)Rhythmediamusic
How was your recent trip to NYC?
The trip was great. This trip helped me rediscover what “the real way of DJing” is again.
Why do you come to NYC? What kind of effect does it have on you? How can you connect New York to Tokyo?
Simply because New York is my favorite city. I am known in Tokyo as the “New York fanatic who can’t speak English”. The first time I visited New York was when I was invited to a music ceremony during the summer of 1993. I have been going to New York ever since. I often visit for recording and/or buying (records).
There are many different kinds of people and races giving the city a special energy. At any given time, Jazz and Hip Hop always fits with New York and it’s environment. They go hand in hand with the city. I believe if the music scene in NYC becomes lively again, music scenes in Japan and everywhere else in the world will follow.
I am planning to bring Tokyo and New York closer by DJing more frequently in NYC. So I would like everyone to check out my activities.
What plans do you have for 2009? Any new releases or projects you want to notify your fans with?
I have projects from the Blue Note label and Trojan label in the works. I am also working on an instrumental music project. For apparel I am working on projects with companies such as Avirex, Timberland, and New Era.
This year I am touring as a DJ with Roy Ayers when he comes to Japan. I am constantly trying to work with artists outside of Japan to expand.
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