“Daddy’s Home” MotorKam AKA BlackDaddy Talks New Album & His Definition of G-Funk Hip Hop
Despite the fact that “BlackDaddy” has gone on a pilgrimage off in the mountains to discover his inner self, MotorKam invited me to his studio session in downtown Detroit to discuss his upcoming album and future endeavors. If anyone is confused on the difference between BlackDaddy and MotorKam, the musician says “ The simplest way I can explain the two is Eminem, Slim Shady. MotorKam, BlackDaddy.” MotorKam has found a way to mix his love of Electro and Techno music with inspiration from Detroit, Hip Hop & 90’s R&B.
As I arrived at the studio for the interview I had to reflect on the first time I saw MotorKam and what made me reach out. It was a year prior at EL Club during the Goapele concert. I attended this concert with hopes of getting new content for the blog and of course run into some fresh hot artist. Amongst the openers there was MotorKam, clearly in BlackDaddy form. He was on stage sweating in a metallic button up that wasn’t quite buttoned up and lyrics of sex and lust left his lips. He was rapping but in a very sensational harmony on top of a very Techno beat. I was confused and Enticed and wanted more. It was time to reach out and research because I had never heard something so original before.
When the doors to the studio swung open there stood MotorKam. All 6 feet and 5 inches of him with a hoodie and jogging pants on. Definitely not the way I remembered him. I was even more intrigued to learn about the birth of his sound and what he was working on now. He lead me to a cozy studio room where he has been working on his new album for months. “The name of the New Album is New Black City.” He started. But before we talk about the new album, lets back up a bit.
MotorKam is no newbie to the music game. Having officially started making music in 2012, after being inspired by his little brother and the rap mixtape scene, originally “Motorcity Kam” was born. Back then his music was often compared to Wiz Kahlifa, which the artist mentioned would somewhat frustrate him. This frustration motivated him to find his true sound and make it nothing short of one in a million. One of his strategies of rebranding himself was to change the type of music he listened to. “I stopped listening to new music. I stopped listening to know it and started listening to be aware.” While brainstorming on how he wanted his staple to be he turned to early inspiration, which included G-Funk Hip Hop like Snoop Dogg’s classic “Doggy Style”. After 2 projects The “City”was dropped from his name and MotorKam emerged.
Photo By @Saul_Shoots
The alias BlackDaddy is an ’Extreme’ creative combination of different artist and music he loves and grew up listening to. He states the sound for BlackDaddy is influenced by the appreciation he has for artist like Prince, Morris Day and the Time & 90’s R&B mixed with a touch of early techno melodies, which is inspired by artist such as , Cybotron. “I found a cool way to break that barrier of just being a rapper. Everything is about creating something new out of old stuff.” He told LynzeeMychael.com. After proof that BlackDaddy was a fan favorite, he spent most of 2016 developing new and edgy vibrations. In February of 2017 his first project as the alter ego, “BlackDaddy: Greatest Hits” was released. Signature tracks BlackDaddy and SexyTown proved that this multi-dimensional artist’s take on Funk-Techno was his new area of expertise.
5 months after the release of “Black Daddy: Greatest Hits”, he gifted his fans with a 5 track EP titled “BlackDaddy’s Birthday Suite”. The EP leading Track “Coney Rap” produced by Landman DxN, reminded us that this talented musician can do more than give an sexy & seductive show or capture us with harmonies of electro hip hop, he can carry a beat with bars and lyrics you often put on repeat.
Photo By David Chaben
Even with all of the different harmonies and creative ingenious sounds MotorKam experiments with, he makes sure the key ingredient to his sound is ‘Detroit’. With his new project, “New Black City” which drops 4/20/18, he’s giving BlackDaddy a break (although he is featured on a track), and letting his raw emotions shine. With subjects from frustration of being an artist, relationships and thoughts on gentrification in Detroit, this album is a true snapshot of his musical growth.
“I want people to respect my musicianship.” MotorKam replied when asked what he ultimately wants from his listeners. He is no stranger to hard work. While constantly dropping new music he also works two jobs and hits the studio almost every day.
His new single “BossieFlossie” encompasses swag and confident expressions about achievements (Being a boss and not afraid to floss that shit). I had an opportunity to get a preview of the 7 track album and I can attest that its nothing I’ve ever heard. Still staying true to his unique sound “New Black City” was perfectly curated. “A lot of stuff I talk about on this album…My frustrations are my frustrations, but its not just unique to me.”
MotorKam takes interest on topics of city planning and gentrification. He speaks heavily on giving back to the community, sticking together and increasing revenue. “BBNLT” is a track on the album were he dives deep into his opinions on those points to a serene beat with a powerful bass, produced by Marshall Law.
The new album is for anyone who has ever failed, doubted themselves, grinded, worked hard and overcome everyday struggles. This album is relatable and has such a good chance of longevity. The fact that the sound is so different and groovy matched by dope rhymes makes it timeless and almost impossible to age. The incredible thing about this artist’s story is the fact that MotorKam is still learning and developing his sound and already has so much to contribute to the music scene, not only in Detroit, but all over the world.
Instagram: @MotorxKam
Facebook: @MotorKam313
Soundcloud: MotorKam
SUPPORT MOTORKAM. NEW BLACK CITY OUT APRIL 20, 2018.
Listen to the Lead Single "BossieFlossie" Below
