The legendary Kool Keith, a pioneering figure in the world of Hip-Hop, has been setting stages ablaze on the second leg of his Black Elvis 2 Tour. Recently, in Austin, we had the incredible opportunity to catch up with the man himself, alongside the talented Marc Live, after their electrifying performance. It was a night to remember, as the Austin leg of the tour featured a lineup that included Marc Live, DJ Halo, J Stylez, and MC Homeless. But what truly stood out were the insights Kool Keith shared about his motivation, his journey in the world of music, and the remarkable story behind Marc Live securing the trademark for the “50th Anniversary Of Hip-Hop.”
A Musical Odyssey
Kool Keith is a living legend in Hip-Hop. He’s been a vital part of the culture for decades, leaving an indelible mark with his unique style and unparalleled lyrical prowess. What motivates this Hip-Hop icon to keep creating music and performing for his fans, you ask? The answer is simple: his unwavering passion for the art. “Just making music, and staying on the road. Just seeing the world and going to different restaurants,” Kool Keith shared.
One fascinating aspect of our conversation with Kool Keith and Marc Live was their long-standing friendship. These two artists go way back, sharing a history that extends well before their “Black Elvis 2” Tour. When asked about how they met, Kool Keith reminisced, “Oh well my father was a dancer with Marc’s pops. So I knew Marc when he was younger as a kid. We used to go to his house parties and birthday parties.” Marc Live remembers it this way, “I wanted to rap and my brother was like, you know Keith has the hottest record in the City right now. Ultramagnetic is the dopest shit out. The I started fanning out, Keith, can I come to the studio?” Their camaraderie was evident on stage, as their chemistry translated into an unforgettable performance that night.
Kool Keith’s roots in the world of music trace back to a different genre altogether. Surprisingly, he didn’t grow up listening to rap music. “I used to go to J&R Music to buy Funk records,” he shared. His collection included iconic artists like Cameo, Ohio Players, and Con Funk Shun. This diverse musical background undoubtedly influenced his unique approach to Hip-Hop, making him a trailblazer in the genre.
Marc Live’s contributions to Hip-Hop go beyond his talents as an artist. He also made headlines by securing the trademark for “The 50th Anniversary Of Hip-Hop.” This remarkable achievement is a testament to his dedication to preserving the culture. When we asked Marc Live about it, he said, “We own the trademark for “The 50th Anniversary Of Hip-Hop.” My partner said, Marc you know “The 50th Anniversary Of Hip-Hop” trademark is open. We can get it. I said, how much do you think it will cost us Get it now and maybe in five years it will be worth something.”
During our conversation, Marc Live also revealed some of his hidden talents, showcasing his multifaceted personality. Aside from music, “I wrote a reality show for Ice-T and Coco, Ice Loves Coco for E. I have an independent label called Legends Recordings.” It’s clear that Marc Live is not just a one-dimensional artist but a creative force to be reckoned with.
As we wrapped up our conversation with Kool Keith and Marc Live, it was evident that their love for Hip-Hop runs deep, and their commitment to pushing boundaries and preserving the culture remains unwavering. The Black Elvis 2 Tour is not just a concert; it’s a journey through Hip-Hop history, led by two pioneers who continue to inspire both fans and fellow artists. It’s a testament to the timeless power of Hip-Hop and the enduring legacy of these incredible artists. Whether you’ve been a fan since day one or are just discovering their music, Kool Keith and Marc Live’s contributions to the genre are a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Don’t miss the chance to witness the magic of their Black Elvis 2 Tour – it’s an experience you won’t forget.
