24: Introduce yourself to everyone that doesn’t already know who you are.

Kepstar: I go by the name KEPSTAR and I’m just a young man from Maspeth, NY trying to make it to the top of this monster they call the music industry.

24: Before we get into your music, can you describe your history about how you got into it and what inspired you?

Kepstar: I got into writing music very young, I was probably 11 or 12 when I started writing. Eminem really inspired me at first but once I started writing I was just inspired by life and whatever was going on around me. Still till this day I use my environment and people around me to create my story.

24: What was the Hip-Hop scene like for you growing up where your from?

Kepstar: When I was younger, rapping wasn’t a trendy thing to do; it wasn’t a fad. It was either you did it or you didn’t, you know? There were a few local artists’ that made names for themselves but not much happened I guess. One in particular was Otis Clapp, he really put me under his wing and guided me in my earlier years even now I still consider him a brother of mine but he’s doing his thing and I’m doing mine.

24: What makes you Unique as a artist and different from other rappers out now?

Kepstar: I’m just myself and hope people accept it. Everybody is different and everybody has his or her own story so I just stick to that. Nobody lives my life but me and luckily I’m able to tell a story that people are interested in hearing. I just try and make a connection.

24: Tell us about what you are working on?

Kepstar: Well I released my mixtape titled “Shades of Gray” almost a year ago, hosted by Clinton Sparks and it has a few features worth checking out. As of right now, I’m in the studio working on my next project with Grand Staff and it’s sounding better than anything I have ever done. You can really hear the progression with this project, but that’s all I can give away.

24: What producers have you worked with and who would you like to work with in the future?

Kepstar: Well like I said I’m working with Grand Staff on this next project, they are incredible. They also have a really good catalog and worked with a lot of people themselves. I’ve worked with J. Cardim and I’m still close with Mighty Fuzz Young who I’ve known for awhile. I would really like to work with Swizz, Just Blaze, 40, Ryan Leslie and a few others but off the top of my head those are a few.

24: Are you happy with the feedback you have been getting from people on material you have released?

Kepstar: Most of the feedback has been amazing, it really has been crazy. I recently just started getting some haters and I hate the whole “embracing haters” concept but it honestly does feel good to have ’em. Keeps me working hard.

24: In today’s free download age, what do you need to do to make your self a household name?

Kepstar: Hard work. This download age has hurt the record sales but it has also helped the independent, unsigned artist like myself. I just have to keep working hard and set myself apart from whoever is already a household name. I think I’m on the right path and I have the right people around me.

24: How do you feel about the current state of the Hip-Hop scene?

Kepstar: I think it’s in great shape to be honest with you. A lot of really good artists have come out in the past two or three years and made names for themselves.

24: Outside of the music what else are you currently working on?

Kepstar: Just music, always music and will be music for the foreseeable future.

24: Where do you see yourself going in 2012 and how do you plan to separate yourself from the other artist out today to get the recognition you feel you deserve?

Kepstar: I see me finishing off this year strong. This summer will dictate how I carry out the rest of the year and begin the New Year. As far as separating myself, like I said I’m going to continue to be myself and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to win, that’s what will separate me from the rest.

24: How can fans go about contacting you?

Kepstar: They can contact me on twitter @KEPSTAR!

24: Thank you for providing 24HourHipHop.com with this exclusive interview, do you have any last words for your present and future fans?

Kepstar: Anytime, it was my pleasure. I just want to let the fans know that I AM working on new music I plan to release soon, stay on the look for that and new fans better be ready to start #RedCupSippin’ !

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