ILLUS

Interview with ILLUS (english version)

1. First of all, for those who don’t know you very well, could you tell us more about you?

Are you telling me there are actually people that don’t know who I am? Haha, just kidding.

Where do I begin?

My name is ILLUS, which is short for illustrator or when I’m fronting like an egotistical emcee it can also mean I am the “illest” emcee. But I’m not really an egotistical emcee. I just love making music people can connect with and feel.

I’m actually a professional artist and I illustrate everything from comic books and novels to album art, editorials, t-shirts, logos…whatever people will pay me for. Recently I illustrated the official PUBLIC ENEMY comic book series and co-wrote it with Chuck D. You can check my websites for my work and see what I do. http://www.theispot.com/awallenta or www.adamwallenta.com

I’ve been recording music for a long time in the underground scene and I have worked with and toured with artists like Public Enemy, R.A. the Rugged Man, Dilated Peoples, Blackalicious, Freddie Foxxx and more. I just released a new album called FEEL GOOD MUSIC that was produced entirely by J.J. Brown.

I won’t front like I am hardcore- basically I am a really nice guy who loves Hip-Hop, music, art and good food.

2. Our website is called rap engagement consciousness REC, would you define yourself as an engaged or conscious rapper?

My songs can be both engaging and conscious as well as purely entertaining. I’m not sure I would want to be labeled as strictly a conscious rapper but I am conscious of the world around me and I try and focus on making songs people can relate to and connect with in a positive way. The important thing for me is that the song captures a moment in time, and that people can either relate to it because they lived a similar experience or can feel my energy and spirit and connect with it on that level.

3. You have sold over than 250,000 records since 1991 with no airplay or record label deal, is independence the solution regarding the record industry nowadays?

I released my first tape, (yes, tape), in 1991, haha. It was horrible but I did it all myself, paid for the studio time, pressed up the tapes and distributed it all on my own, with my own money that I saved from working at the local grocery store, comic store and nursery. So I’ve been independent from the very get go. Back then I would have been open to a major label, and I was pursued a few times, but it never worked out. I’m not the type of person to wait for others so I have always made music regardless and have done whatever it took to get it out there.

I can’t say that independence is for everyone but it works for me. I am not against working with others as long as progress isn’t impeded. I don’t sit still and I have to always being moving in a forward direction, creating and producing. I would like to work with like-minded individuals who can focus their energies on the business aspect of the music so I could focus more on the creative side, but until that happens I will continue to be independent.

4. Your new album « Feel Good Music » came out in 2010, can you present it to us?

FEEL GOOD MUSIC is an album that captures a period in my life between 2008-2009, when I was feeling incredibly inspired and positive about the world despite all of the harsh realities that exist. I fell in love and married my wife, reconnected with family that I hadn’t spoken to in years, began living healthier and producing more positive music and of course here in the U.S. we had the presidential elections and Obama won. It was an amazing time and the music I recorded with J.J. Brown really captured that positive energy.

5. « Feel Good Music » is a dedication to the greatest Hip Hop pioneers, in what way to they inspire you?

When I first started listening to Hip Hop and Rap, I was just this little scrawny nobody. The music was positive but aggressive and the energy was inspiring, even when they were telling stories of oppression and struggle. There was so much diversity and originality, each artist was like a comic book super hero to me, with their own powers, secret identities, strengths and weaknesses. I felt like anything was possible and the music was the soundtrack to my youth and really inspired me to be a better person, to work hard, and to be proud of who I am as an individual. And that is very important.

6. How did you meet Chuck D from Public Enemy and how did it feel touring with him?

I met Chuck D online through the Public Enemy website forum called the Enemy Board. He had already connected with some of the other people on the board in person and had started his online record label Slam Jamz, and one of the artists, C-Doc, invited me to get down with them. C-Doc introduced Chuck and I at an album release at Tower Records in NYC and shortly after I was invited to be down with their crew, The Impossebulls, and go on tour with Public Enemy. While I was on tour with them I got to connect with Chuck on a personal level and discuss our love for comic books and it was then that we started building our ideas to bring P.E. to life in comic books.


CHUCK D and ILLUS
It was a great experience working with Chuck and touring with the whole crew. Dilated Peoples and Blackalicious were also on that tour and it was amazing watching these three very different groups perform and it really helped me to step up my game and taught me a lot about rocking the crowd.

7. You are also a great illustrator, for example you have recently brought out a graphic novel about Public Enemy, could you tell us more about this part of your life?

Thank you for the compliment. I really appreciate that. I am just as much an illustrator as I am an emcee. It is not only how I earn my living but it is a way of life for me. My art is who I am, it is part of my soul and everything I do, whether it is illustrating a comic or a book cover or writing a song is about communicating an idea and connecting with an audience. I love telling stories with both pictures and words and love that I can combine the two. My art school training has also shaped who I am in regards to my work ethic and discipline as well as my independence and self-reliance.


Adam Wallenta aka ILLUS
8. How do you manage to split your time between music and illustration?

I don’t sleep. Haha. It’s all about discipline, focus and time management. There are weeks where the music gets more attention than the artwork and vice versa, but in the end it is all just a form of expression for what is going on in my life. The important thing is being able to prioritize and meet deadlines. Sometimes these deadlines are for projects I get paid by others to do and sometimes they are my own deadlines I make to stay productive. And other times I may be in the middle of something that absolutely has to get done and I will get inspired to do something else and in that case I break all the rules and follow the inspiration to wherever it takes me.

9. You designed the cover of « Feel Good Music », how did you come up with the idea?

It’s a pretty basic idea. I wanted to illustrate a person (who happens to be me) listening to their headphones, lost in the music, and feeling good. I included the portraits to illustrate some of the artists that inspire me and have had a positive influence on me from childhood to adulthood. I kept the color scheme this very basic yellow to represent the golden-era of Hip-Hop where most of these artists originate.


ILLUS - Feel Good Music - 2010
10. I heard you do a bit of gardening, does it make you « feel good »?

It honestly does. I love being outdoors and working the land. I only have a small piece of property but I have turned most of it into a garden. I like the idea that I can grow my own food and I don’t have to rely on others, I guess it is part of my independent nature. I am currently growing corn, green beans, squash, zucchini, asparagus, all kinds of lettuce, spinach and various peppers, onions, broccoli, as well as numerous berries. It’s an amazing feeling seeing them all sprout and grow right before your eyes. It’s hard work but extremely rewarding.

11. France is the world’s second largest hip hop market just after the United States of America, have you got something to say to your fans in France? Any visit planned for the moment?

I’ve never been to France, unfortunately, but I hope someday soon I will have the opportunity. I have wanted to attend the Angouleme Cartoon and Comic Festival for years. To any fans that I have in France I want to sincerely say thank you from the bottom of my heart. It is truly amazing to me to think that people in other countries appreciate my music, I really can’t thank you enough for all of your support. And if there are any promoters reading this, please feel free to contact me, I would love to come perform and tour your country. There is so much amazing art, culture and history there I hope when I get to visit that I can make a real trip out of it and have time to appreciate all of it. Again- to all of the French Hip Hop fans who listen to my music or may connect with my music, art or comics thanks to this article, thank you. I hope that they will reach out and say hello through my website. I love meeting people all over the world.

12. Finally what are your 5 favorite tracks of all time?

That is a tough one. I guess I will name 5 favorite Hip Hop tracks, or at least give you 5 that I really love. There are too many for me to really narrow it down to all time favorites.

Public Enemy: Welcome to the Terrordome
Pete Rock and CL Smooth: TROY
Big Daddy Kane: Wrath of Kane
RUN DMC: Beats to the Rhyme
Tribe Called Quest: The Scenario
- REC Magazine

ILLUS is an ill emcee. He is a rapper and also a talented professional illustrator when he isn’t pushing out verses in the studio. (He recently co-wrote and illustrated the official PUBLIC ENEMY comic book series with Chuck D. He also works with Freddie Foxxx, J-Live, R.A. the Rugged Man and many others.) He has just released a new album called Feel Good Music. The album was produced by J.J. Brown (also produced Louis Logic, Gym Class Heroes, Apathy, Celph Titled and more).
ILLUS makes positive music that has a good vibe to it. His music is feel good hip hop and his album has been critically acclaimed by many in the music business. Legendary MC and rhyme technician Chuck D called “One of the best albums of 2010? on his radio show- And You Don’t Stop. The second video is now out called BEAUTIFUL DAY which was filmed on location in Hawaii. If you are going to make a video called a beautiful day, might as well do it in Hawaii. Check out the new video …but get a feel for his style by listening to “Feel Good Music” which best describes what this MC wants to create in terms of a hip hop lane for himself. Good music with lyrics showing rhyme skill never goes out of style. - CollegeDJ.Net

Where are you from?

Earth. I think…Haha. I’m originally from Connecticut.

When did you first fall in love with Hip-Hop?

The moment I saw it and heard it. I was probably 5-6 when I started really becoming aware of what was going on around me. I was actually exposed to grafitti and break dancing before I was exposed to any one particular rap artist. I didn’t know who the rappers were, I just knew I liked the way the breaks and beats sounded combined with the dance movements and the two-dimensional visuals on the walls in and around my neighborhood. When I finally listened and heard The Message by Melly Mel and Grandmaster Flash, I was hooked. The more I listened to the words the more captivated I became. I started listening to The Treacherous Three and hand me down tapes with the Cold Crush Brothers on them and soon after started my own little record collection, scooping up everything that came out from Kurtis Blow to the Fat Boys, Run DMC and more.

Who are your influences?

Everyone. I’m influenced by everything I see in the world around me. I’m a huge fan of music and art and I can go on and on about my love for others but I know we don’t have the time for that. A short quick answer- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Ghandi, Krs One, Chuck D, Kool Moe Dee, Run Dmc, Brother Ali, Slug, Norman Rockwell, Jack Kirby, Stan Lee, Al Williamson, John Romita Jr., Harvey Kurtzman, Richard Pryor, Bugs Bunny, Carlos Pacheco, Frank Frazetta, John Walsh…and so many others. Like I said I can go on and on.

When did you discover you had a talent for rapping?

I’ve been writing stories and poetry since I was very little. Eventually my love for writing and my love for HipHop led me to combine the two and try my hand at writing rhymes of my own, mimicking my favorite artists like Kool Moe Dee, Run DMC and KRS. I’d say I was around the age of 12-13 when I started composing actual songs and feeling confident enough to rock them in front of others. Many years ago. Haha.

Does being white affect how people perceive you as an MC?

I am sure it affects some people but I am not really aware of it because I do not allow myself to focus on that. That would be a better question for the fans or “haters” I guess. I roll with artists like Public Enemy, and they don’t have any problem with me being white as far as I know, and that is all that matters to me. Lol. I’d like to think people judge me based on my skills and what I bring to the table and not on my skin color.

Do you think that reverse discrimination still exists in Hip-Hop?

There will always be people who dislike you for one reason or another. Whether it’s color, gender, religion, regional drama or language. But HIPHOP is international and universal now so there is an audience for everyone. I’ve gotten love from all kinds of people across the spectrum so I don’t pay attention to anyone that may not like me for whatever reason.

How did you get involved with Public Enemy and come up with a comic book idea?

I was a huge P.E. fan growing up and I always felt like they were real life super heroes and the perfect band to be turned into comic book characters. I worked at Marvel for a brief period and they had a music division and had been working on a P.E. comic themselves. The music department eventually collapsed and the project was scrapped. But I always thought if I had my chance I could do it right.

Years later I met Chuck through his website and he licensed some of my songs for his record label Slam Jamz Records. I was working with a crew called the Impossebulls and we went on tour with Chuck and P.E., opening for them, Blackalicious and Dilated Peoples. Chuck and I got to talking more, he knew I was an independent comic book publisher and illustrator, and I told him about my ideas and he loved them and we went to work. With the help of Professor Griff and S1W James Bomb we put the series together and made it happen.

Who are you listening to right now?

At this very moment I am listening to my man Bumpy Knuckles spin a dope mix on his internet video show-Krupt Mob Radio- http://www.ustream.tv/channel/krupt-mob-radio Bumpy is an incredible deejay and is rocking a diverse collection of HipHop and R&B.

As for records I am rocking…I still have the last Q Tip record- The Renaissance, in rotation, I love that record. I’m a big fan of up-and-coming artist GodAWFUL. He has a new album called Beats & Rhymes in The Key of AWFUL Vol. 1 and it’s really dope. Check him at- http://godawful.bandcamp.com/. I’m loving the new Rakaa album. I love HipHop and I am a huge music fan so I listen to a lot of artists from the classics to new artists. Krs One, De La Soul, Brother Ali, Gift of Gab, Eternia, Louis Logic, Masta Ace and EMC, Ludacris, Blu, Atmosphere, Toki Wright, Grouch, Beatmonstas, Mos Def…just a few of the people in rotation.

Will you be working with other artists in upcoming projects?

Definitely. Since Feel Good Music was virtually guest free I am really looking forward to collaborating with friends and peers to create something different. I love true creative collaborations where artists build and vibe off of each other, so I am hoping to get into the studio with some friends and make some great music. I usually don’t like to reveal who or what until it happens because sometimes things fall through though. I can reveal that I’m currently working on a song with my man, Freddie Foxxx, aka Bumpy Knuckles and it’s going to be a monster.

Will you be working with J.J. Brown again?

I have three new songs I am working on with J.J. I would love to do a follow up to Feel Good Music but he’s an incredibly busy person and we’ll just have to see how it goes. The new songs sound amazing though- J.J. is such a great producer and he really challenges me to bring my best when we work together.

Future projects?

I am working on several new graphic novels that I hope to announce soon. I am also working on a few new album collaborations with various producers. I have a TV show I am developing. Throw in some random freelance projects for other artists and companies and I am staying pretty busy. Definitely stay tuned to my blob at www.adamwallenta.com for weekly updates.

When is the best time of the day for working on comics?

It depends on my creative cycle. I usually like to get right to work first thing in the morning when the sun is just coming up, but there are also times when I’m most creative late at night when everyone else has fallen asleep. Some days are 24/7 creativity and then there are those days when I need to get outside of the studio and be out doors soaking in some sunshine.

You can order Illus’ new limited edition digi-pack cd album Feel Good Music at his website http://www.americanmule.com/shop. It comes autographed with a FREE bonus cd and FREE shipping worldwide. You can also order it ITUNES at http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/feel-good-music/id349574650 as well as AMAZON and all other digital distribution sites.

http://www.adamwallenta.com - Thread Da Needle

Born in Bridgeport, CT, raised in Stratford, educated throughout NYC, and now residing in New Haven, Illus is known for a variety of artistic endeavors. A veteran when it comes the pen and the pad in more ways than just one, in addition to penning his lyrics, Illus is also an accomplished comic book artist, and has led panel discussions on the topic at CMJ, NYU, and various Comic-Cons. His latest album, Feel Good Music, is a collaboration with producer J.J. Brown, and it’s already drawing rave reviews from the likes of Chuck D, who Illus notes “said it was one of the best albums of the year on his radio show.” He adds “hearing him say that was pretty amazing.” This week I caught up with Illus to find out more about his dual loves, in what ways they crossover, and the song he felt he had to make.

Adam Bernard: How did you get the name Illus? Is there an especially interesting story behind it?
Illus: The name Illus is short for illustrator. You can also flip it to mean I am the illest on the mic, which, when I was younger, I was determined to be. I would battle anyone and everyone and eventually I gained a rep for being “the crazy kid” and a bit “sick in the head,” or “ill,” so to speak. My ego isn’t so large anymore, or maybe I just grew up, but I’m still confident in my talents and skills. Illus is more than just an emcee name, it’s a way of life, how I eat and survive, and who I am.

Adam Bernard: What got you started in both hip-hop and art?
Illus: I’ve been an artist and storyteller all my life. I still have drawings from when I was five years old. I guess I was just born with a need to create. Luckily, I had parents and family that encouraged me to draw and write, so I kept doing it, practicing and experimenting and learning from everything around me, which included hip-hop, graffiti, and, of course, comic books. What really captivated my about hip-hop was that it was a real culture. It wasn’t just rap, it was art and graffiti, dancing, language, and tradition. When I was a kid it was also rebellious and anti-establishment, and what kid isn’t attracted to that? It was an art form that spoke out against the ills of society as well as uplifted those who it touched, empowering us with a sense of responsibility as well as pride. I found my voice through hip-hop. I connected with it both visually and rhythmically and was able to use it as an art form to express myself. Once you get a taste of that power to connect with others across the globe it’s very addictive and becomes a part of you.

Adam Bernard: Even though the art you do isn’t graffiti, do you feel there’s any crossover between your music and your art?
Illus: While I don’t practice illegal graffiti anymore, I used to as a kid/young adult. My problem was I had this unwavering desire to avoid jail at all costs. I had absolutely no interest in ever being incarcerated for any reason other than my survival. So the entrepreneur in me usually found a way to do murals and commissioned pieces legally. I guess I wasn’t hardcore enough, but the graphic element and style of graffiti was a huge influence on me as an illustrator and painter. There is definitely a crossover between my music and art. Whether it’s illustrating the official Public Enemy comic book series for Chuck D, or an album cover, or the influence of hip-hop and graffiti in my fine art and paintings, my music and art go hand in hand. I also tend to think visually, so when I put my words together in my music I do so in a very graphic way to illustrate what I am feeling or the story I am telling.

Adam Bernard: How well do you think hip-hop and comic books get along?
Illus: Growing up, hip-hoppers were like superheroes to me. They were strong and powerful, they had a positive message and fought against the evils of society, and they even had secret identities and code names. DMC said that he was inspired to become the Devastating Mic Controller because of his love for comic books. Chuck D also stated that the formation of Public Enemy was heavily influenced by his love for comics. Heroes like Spiderman and the X-Men were actually outlaws, hunted by the police and feared by the mainstream. They were underground heroes who did battle against evil forces despite the fact that society didn’t appreciate or respect them. So the two art forms really go hand in hand for me and I love both passionately.

Adam Bernard: You recently released an album titled Feel Good Music that was produced entirely by J.J. Brown. How did you two link up?
Illus: I was a big fan of J.J.’s work with Louis Logic and I heard he was working on some new material so I got his contact info and shot him an email to see if he needed any artwork for the album. We ended up building and I found out he was a fan of comics and a lot of the same 80’s pop culture shows and movies. He heard I was going to be at a CMJ panel at NYU talking about hip-hop and comic books and said he was interested in going, so I hooked him up with a pass and surprised him with an original drawing as a thank you for all of his inspiration. We stayed in touch and he actually asked me to do the illustrations and design work for his solo project. While I was working on that we started to vibe together on some songs and it eventually turned into an album.

Adam Bernard: Tell everyone a little bit about the album.
Illus: The album is the result of overcoming many struggles and hardships and finding peace and happiness and learning to appreciate the small things as well as taking all of my life’s past lessons and applying them to each song. I believe it is an album that everyone can relate to on some level. It’s a positive album that celebrates life, love, friends, family and the ability to find the inner-strength to overcome any challenge or doubt and succeed. It’s a hardcore album you can listen to with a smile rather than a frown, and I don’t mean to toot my own horn, but it really is a feel good experience from beginning to end.

Adam Bernard: The last track on the album is one that certainly hits hard. Why did you want to put so much of your life into that song?
Illus: Ahhh, “Super Secret Identity” was incredibly difficult to write but incredibly important. It really does pretty much embody who I am. I wanted to write that song as a release. I needed to write it for myself more than anything. I wanted this album to take me to a new level and I wanted it to be something I was proud of. In order for me to do that I had to be completely comfortable with who I am as an artist and person. This was basically my way of saying this is who I am, take it or leave it.

Adam Bernard: Finally, what about your career are you most proud of?
Illus: Overall I am very proud that I have persevered over the years and continued to pursue this dream and have maintained my passion and integrity. It is very important to me that I continue to learn, grow, and evolve, and the fact that I have survived all of the ups and downs of a professional artist and musician feels like a real blessing. Most people never get a chance to pursue any of their dreams, and few get to see any success, I’ve been lucky to do both.

Related Links

Blog: adamwallenta.com
Bandcamp: illus.bandcamp.com
Feel Good Music CD (Limited): americanmule.com/shop
Comic Books: americanmule.com
YouTube: youtube.com/user/ILLUSMedia
Music Press Kit: illusmedia.com
Labels: Artists Of The Week - Adam Bernard

HHS: How did the two of you link up for Feel Good Music?

J.J. Brown: I met Illus at a CMJ function a few years back. He invited me to come here him speak on a hip-hop comics panel. He was a great supporter of my work with louis logic so he brought some art he made of us and I was really honored so we just kept in touch after that.

Illus: Like J.J. said, after that initial connection, we stayed in touch and we kept building. He eventually asked me to create the artwork for his solo album (Connect the Dots) and I was honored to do so. Around the same time we started working on Feel Good Music and we just clicked.

HHS: The record has an uplifting, positive vibe through-out. Was that a conscious decision when you started working together on the album?

Illus: Yes. I knew from the first beat that J.J. sent me, that he was the producer who could help me pull this off. If you listen to a lot of my older stuff, it is more political, angry and even immature at times. Feel Good Music is not only a positive progression for me musically but also personally. I had wanted to record a record like this for a long time but I didn’t want to produce it myself, I wanted it to be a collaboration, but I never connected with the right producer who was willing to put in the work. Just before I met J.J. I had been going through some real hard times and things were really grim, and then all of a sudden we connected and he hit me off with Beautiful Day. I struggled for awhile to write the lyrics and hook, and all of a sudden I met this beautiful woman, fell in love, and got married, started getting more work, all while we were having this shift in politics with Obama being elected, and just this incredible positive vibe in the air and the album finally came to life.

J.J. Brown: Illus chose the type of beats that would match the positive vision he had. My grooves span a lot of different moods so I think he did a good job of picking the ones that worked best for him. After we got into a nice work flow I was also able to put some tailor made stuff together for him.

HHS: Illus, you’ve been rhyming for years now. I’d like to know who some of your influences were coming up and who influences you now.

Illus: I am influenced by a lot of different people for a lot of different reasons. If you look at the cover art for Feel Good Music you’ll get a pretty good idea of some of my HipHop favorites, mostly guys (and ladies) from what is considered the “golden-era”. Artists like Run-DMC, Public Enemy, KRS-One, De La Soul, Kool Moe Dee, Tribe Called Quest, Special Ed, Chubb Rock, LL Cool J, Fresh Prince….I know I missed a lot as well but you get the idea. It’s hard for to lock down just one but I was a huge BDP and P.E. fan back in the day, and still am. The great thing about these artists is, most of them are still making amazing music today that influences me. I’m always checking for new De La Soul, P.E. KRS, Q-Tip, LL…but I also really love artists like Blackalicious, Pigeon John, Atmosphere, Brother Ali, Freddie Foxxx, J-Live, Nas, Everlast…and there is a whole crop of new talented emcees and producers that inspire to step my game up, like GodAWFUL, Logic, Reef the Last Cauze and more. I’m really influenced by all music, a lot of old blues, jazz, rock, and soul artists like John Lee Hooker, Sonny Boy Williamson, James Brown, Marvin Gaye, Bill Withers, the Beatles, War, the Animals, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, the list goes on. No matter what musical genre, I’m really inspired by passionate lyrics and soulful, hard-hitting music. Music that has heart, that I can relate to, or can open my mind to new ideas.

HHS: J.J., as a producer, you’ve had the chance to work with many people including Celph Titled, Poison Pen and Louis Logic among others. What was the recording process like when you got in the studio with Illus?

J.J. Brown: He always comes well rehearsed and ready to work. Every artist I work with has their own way of easing into the real guts of a session, but Illus seems to be in that head space from the moment I open the door. He also takes direction well which a win win in any type of creative situation where there’s really no room for frustration.

HHS: Illus, you’ve had Feel Good Music out for a few months now as a download only album via iTunes, Amazon.com, etc. Now the album has just been released as a physical cd. Was that in the plans from the beginning?

Illus: No. Actually I thought I would stick with a straight digital release. However I kept getting requests for a physical cd from the hardcore collector’s so I decided to put together a limited edition for them. These days I imagine most physical cds are “limited” compared to what used to be pressed up but I wanted to give the fans who support me and love what I do, something.

HHS: It seems like many artists kind of go through the motions and call it hip hop, while the two of you really seem to have a passion for it, and it comes through in the music you create…

J.J. Brown: It’s not even really about “hip-hop” for me anymore. It really hasn’t been since the “Sin-A-Matic” days. What I do is make great music and give all the artists I work with a platform to be as risky and creative as they dare to be for their listeners. If it comes out as hip-hop because that’s where my heart is at, and that’s the medium where I learned most my production techniques, then that’s cool. But I don’t bother to put a label on my work anymore because what the hell is the definition of “rock” or “rap” anymore anyway?

Illus: Thank you. I agree with J.J., everyone has their own opinion of what HipHop is or what “real” HipHop is. I’ve given up trying to live or create by anyone’s definition. I work really hard to make good songs. I love the HipHop culture I grew up with but it is also very different from what kids are growing up with today. So I just draw from my own experiences and live the culture and art as it relates to my life. I think the reason our music feels authentic is because we are just being true to ourselves as individuals and don’t try and cater to any one specific audience. We love Hip-Hop and music and just strive to be great song writers.

HHS: Illus, along with being an emcee for many years, you also are a real deal artist and illustrator. Can you speak a little on the Public Enemy comic book series and how that all came about?

Illus: I’ve been a P.E. fan since day one and I always saw them as this larger than life group. They have always had comic book influenced lyrics and I could always loved that since I am a big comic book geek. Years ago I worked at Marvel Comics and they had a music division and had tried to put together a P.E. book but the division folded and nothing came of it. Sometime later I connected with Chuck through his Slam Jamz label where he released several singles of mine. I eventually went on tour with the Impossebulls and P.E. as well as Dilated Peoples and Blackalicious. On tour, Chuck and I got to talking about comics and he knew of my background as an indie publisher, and he told me I should make it happen. So I put together a presentation and he loved it.

HHS: J.J., you had your Connect The Dots album which dropped last year. What are you currently at work on?

J.J. Brown: My partner Danny and I just mixed the Celph & Buckwild album which is really gonna make a lot of heads happy, and I’ve been working on beats for Kelly Rowland, Musiq Soulchild and a host of others, both on the underground and everywhere else. I’ve also be getting into movie and television scoring, as well as teaching Pro Tools to upcoming producers and engineers. I made a full album worth of real quirky stuff that I want to use for the right artist… I got a few cats in mind but nothing I want to really talk about yet. I work hard on my craft every day and the rest usually works itself out. Check out my blog www.jjbrownsstory.com for all the latest.

HHS: What’s next for Illus?

Illus: I’m already hard at work on a new album. I just finished a song that J.J. produced that features my man, Paul Dateh and I’ve got another with Freddie Foxxx we are working on. The album is in the very early stages but I am having an incredible time working on it. In the meantime I will be touring to promote Feel Good Music and continuing to improve my craft. I’m also working on some new album art for other artists and in the process of putting together two new comic book projects, one with DMC (from Run-DMC!) and the other with Kool Moe Dee. I’m always working on new illustration projects and if you do a search on Amazon for Adam Wallenta you can usually see what I am up to. You can also check my blog www.adamwallenta.com and www.americanmule.com for new projects. You can order your copy of Feel Good Music at http://www.undergroundhiphop.com/store/ or www.americanmule.com/shop or digitally on ITUNES and Amazon worldwide. Thanks for the support! Peace! - HIPHOPSITE.com

Illus Gets In The Paint
Written by Fiona Bloom

Wednesday, May 26th, 2010 at 11:27 am
Views: 966

Adam ‘Illus Wallenta is an artist, writer, musician and all around creative guy. I met him at a J.J Brown album release party at SOB’s.

He’s a sick illustrator. You can find his work at American Mule Entertainment which is his company.

He’s also published the official Public Enemy comic book and soundtrack. It’s a bi-monthly comic book series S1W, James Bomb, Adam “Illus” Wallenta and Chuck D.

I saw his art featured in several videos- went to his site- loved the work and thought it would be mad cool to do something special for IHipHop so here it is. Enjoy! - IHipHop.com

Adam Wallenta (aka ILLUS) - Artist, Illustrator, Writer, Musician and Creative Genius.
His debut album was produced by J.J.Brown. He's illustrated and done the packaging for just about every cool indie Hip Hop artist on the scene. He illustrated the Public Enemy Comic Book Series. His hot video single 'Feel Good Music' out now.
See and read more at: http://www.adamwallenta.com - Fiona Bloom- EFFICACY

feeling good, February 10, 2010
By K. Lee - See all my reviews

This review is from: Feel Good Music (Audio CD)
What a refreshing set of songs: positive, forward-thinking and, well...feel good kind of music. Infectious lyrics and beats make this album a must have. Illus has been doing this a long time, but yet is still unknown to much of the public. This is unfortunate given his talent. Be the one to introduce his art to your friends--be in the know!

I'm so glad that this album is now available as a hard copy. I have the mp3s and love the songs. But not everyone likes the idea of just having the digital form.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
Report this | Permalink
Comment



Life's a happy little accident!, January 14, 2010
By K. Lee - See all my reviews

This review is from: Feel Good Music (MP3 Download)
You can't help but love all of the songs on this EP. If you want to smile take a listen and you'll quickly see what I mean--you *will* feel good. The album is aptly named.

My favorites are easy: Beautiful Day, Happy Little Accident and Feel Good Music. Listen to the album, you'll probably feel the same. There are some nice nuggets at the beginnings and ends of some of the songs--I think DMC (yes, of Run DMC fame) has a few words to say right before "Super Secret Identity." There's even a little bit of ukulele in there. The album is fun and unique. It's not negative, overplayed or fake. Illus has talent.

If you've never heard of Illus, it's too bad, because he's been around a long time. Don't miss out on this or anything else to come. He's here. He's real. And he's positive. There's no BS with his well-thought out lyrics and infectious beats (courtesy of JJ Brown). I'm certainly "Ready" for whatever Illus comes up with next.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
Report this | Permalink
Comment



1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Illus fills what's missing in today's hip-hop void, January 13, 2010
By Ghostship (Middletown, CT United States) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Feel Good Music (MP3 Download)
Are you tired of the same over-used beats, overly pro-tooled vocals, wannabe thug lyrics, "Kids that think their words rhyme because of the suffix?" Well, so is Illus.

His new album Feel Good Music fills the space that's been missing in hip-hop for too long. REAL positive lyrics, fun, head-nodding beats, and smooth lyrical flows. How can you not be in a good mood while listening to this? The whole album is solid but some stand out tracks include the bouncy Beautiful Day (listen to it in the morning w. your coffee and get ready to take over the world!), Happy Little Accident, and Feel Good Music.

If the same old music is what you're looking for, so be it. But if you long for an album to uplift your spirits and make you really feel GOOD while noddin' your head, get Feel Good Music. "Are you ready?"

-How could I forget, Illus also did the cover art for this album. So rad! "I only hustle art so I haven't made a million."
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
Report this | Permalink
Comment



1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Finally! Some "Feel Good Music!", January 9, 2010
By Johnny "Juice" Rosado "Public Enemy/X... (Strong Island, NY) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Feel Good Music (MP3 Download)


Illus is not new to the Hip-Hop landscape but has put out quite a few underground offerings that were unfortunately overlooked in favor of the standard commercial fare pushing the same negative images into our collective minds.

Enter "Feel Good Music." Produced by J.J. Brown and expertly navigated by Illus, I feel this may be his breakthrough work.

Kicking off the EP beautifully is "Ready." The track is hard yet still has that bounce to it that makes you want to move. Illus rhymes flow with an intensity that is also enthusiastic and contagious.

"Beautiful Days" brings a nostalgic feel that is hard to shake as he brings you back to an early 1990's zone that makes you feel like if you were wearing Cross Colors and an 8-Ball Jacket!

Continuing that vibe is "Old Friends." This is one of my favorites. He actually sounds a little like LL Cool J on this song and that isn't a bad thing.

"Have Fun, Will Travel" and "Happy Little Accident" both sound like they came right of Hip-Hop's Golden Era.

"Super Secret Identity" sees Illus using his background as a comic book illustrator to great effect. Great imagery and fantastic story telling round out this EP.

As I mentioned, I believe this to be Illus' breakthrough work and I wish to hear more from him in the future.

Johnny "Juice" Rosado
Emmy-Nominated Composer
Producer/Turntablist/
Engineer/Musician
Public Enemy/X-Vandals


Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
Report this | Permalink
Comment



An example of golden-era hip-hop for today..., January 8, 2010
By mGee (O.O.B., Maine) - See all my reviews
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Feel Good Music (MP3 Download)
I grew up during the 80s and no matter how much I wanted to keep up with the changes that hip-hop has undergone, IMO the US mainstream branch of it has failed to engage me and many others of my generation. There's not a thing wrong with change, but there's something wrong with music being made for the wrong reasons. Nowadaze true heads need to do some digging to find the real thing. When you do find it, it's like a deep breath of fresh air after you've been breathing nasty, stagnant air for what seems forever. Illus' "Feel Good Music" is that desired FRESH AIR. Positive... feel good... genuine hip-hop!
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
Report this | Permalink
Comment



ILLUS...!, January 8, 2010
By Baird M. Warnick "Flatline" (Seattle, WA) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Feel Good Music (MP3 Download)
Illus' "Feel Good Music" is just that. A must-cop for listeners who appreciate real deal, genuine hip hop. With dope beats provided by J.J. Brown, Illus rips the mic on the positive tip. Talk about a breath of fresh air.

Favorite tracks are Beautiful Day, Have Fun Will Travel, and Feel Good Music. But make no mistake, solid from start to finish. And props on that album cover - captures the spirit of Feel Good Music perfectly.

"For peace, for love, to be free, for justice...are you ready?" - Various Amazon Reviews

Click link for various ITunes Reviews and Ratings - Various ITunes Reviews