Gencade

The Questionnaire' with Gencade:

Versatile emcee Gencade reflects New York City's eclectic style and range of sounds. He can be at once gritty and hard-hitting, as well as thought-provoking and inspirational. Excelling both in the studio and as a freestyler, he expresses his skill on a variety of canvases that showcase his lyrical instincts and undeniable talent. One listen to Gencade and it is clear that he is not your ordinary rapper. Learn more about the dynamic artist in "The Questionnaire," and check out the explicit single "First 2 Bomb" in the video above.

Where did you grow up and where do you currently live?

I was born and raised in Spanish Harlem New York City and I'm still residing here.

How did you get your stage name?

It's an acronym, it means Genuinely, Creatively, Achieving, Dreams, Everyday.

What was your first gig?

The first time I performed in front of an audience was in 1996. I was 16; it was a block party in my projects.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

I have a lot of musical influences... some of the biggest are Tupac, Jay-Z, Big-L, Jadakiss, Mase, Big Pun and Eminem.

What has been your biggest professional challenge?

Finding a manager and putting together the right team.

What do you like about the current state of hip hop music?

It still influences other cultures and it's as powerful as ever. HIP HOP spread all over the world.

What are you not feeling regarding the current state of hip hop music?

I'd still like to see more unity in New York like Atlanta and the South in general. They all look out for each other.

What do you love about New York?

New York is like a companion that you love but gets on your nerves sometimes. I love my city: the food, the diversity, the nightlife... we got something for everyone. Oh, and it's the birth place of hip hop!

What are you currently working on? - axs