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Fresh off touring overseas and riding the waves of his latest EP, Love, Always, F.Stokes took time out of his never-ending grind to talk with TheSource.com about life, love, and the pursuit of all things music. Peep the convo after the jump and see why the indie emcee is making strides towards broader audiences. - The Source

Poet and indie hip-hop artist F. Stokes (pronounced “F Dot Stokes”) was born in Chicago and grew up in Madison, Wisconsin before moving to Brooklyn to pursue music at age 19.

The emerging emcee cites Patti Smith and Kanye West, among other musicians, as influences on his raps, which sample electronic and '70s-styled soul melodies. On his catchy 2011 single “My Simple,” F. Stokes showcases his pop sensibilities while extolling the virtues of small town living.

Download his ode to the Wisconsin hometown above and watch the video for "My Simple" below.

F. Stokes performs at the Bowery Ballroom Thursday night. - WNYC

In this world of heavy beats and catchy hooks, it is becoming harder and harder to find emcee’s that focus on lyrical skill and ability. Thankfully, Hip Hop has given us F. Stokes. When first speaking to the Doomtree affiliate, one would first realize that in addition to stellar rhyming, the Midwestern packs a plethora of charisma. With musical influence ranging from Kanye West too Patti Smith, this artist fits nicely into the genre-bending trends as of late. - Hip Hop DX

Listeners hear a genuine MC/poet with something to say about a wide variety of topics. F.Stokes has managed to craft a beautiful EP, giving us reason to anticipate what he may have coming in the future.

- okayplayer

Madison, Wisconsin, native F.Stokes has dropped off his new video "My Simple," which we're proud to give you the first look at. Although F.Stokes now calls NYC home, the track is an ode to his Midwest roots and will be featured on his forthcoming EP, "Love, Always," which is due out next month. The "Love, Always Tour" kicks off tonight in Pennslyvania and will route through the Midwest before Stokes heads back to the East Coast supporting Doomtree in February. Check out the video, audio, and tour dates after the jump and be on the lookout for more F.Stokes in the coming months. - Bro Bible

F. Stokes, a one-time intern for 50 Cent, is now promoting his “Love, Always” EP. The music is distinctive, no doubt culled from the rapper's nomadic background -- he's lived in Chicago, Wisconsin and New York City -- and his eclectic array of influences (Kanye West, 2 Chainz, Patti Smith).

In May, F. Stokes will be opening for MC Hammer, Erykah Badu and Rev Run for a string of performances, putting his lessons learned to work for him in front of thousands of fans. - Red Bull - The Rap Up