Nearly a decade removed since her last studio collection, Legend, pioneering Hip Hop icon MC Lyte, née Lana Moorer, returns with her ninth studio release, 1 of 1. Born in Queens, raised in East Flatbush Brooklyn, all these years later, she hasn’t missed a step. Our MC Lyte interview peels the layers back on the talented artist and Hip-Hop pioneer.
The multi-hyphenate native New Yorker is solely responsible for a plethora of hit singles; “I Cram to Understand U (Sam)” [with DJ K-Rock], “Paper Thin,” “Lyte as a Rock,” “Cha Cha Cha,” “Cappuccino,” “Poor Georgie,” “Ruffneck,” the Xscape assisted “Keep On, Keepin’ On” and “Cold Rock a Party,” featuring Missy Elliott [Bad Boy Remix], to name some. She also holds the distinction of being the very first female rapper to release a full album in ‘88, in addition to another first: having been nominated for a 1993 Grammy Award.
1 of 1 sports an all-star roster including Stevie Wonder, Queen Latifah, Cheryl “Salt” James, Muni Long, Common, Ghostface Killah, Raheem DeVaughn, Mary Mary, Big Daddy Kane and Q-Tip, with stellar production courtesy of Warryn Campbell, Nottz Da Ruler, Easy Moe Bee, DJ Scratch, King Of Chill and Koncept.
MC Lyte On:
Lead Single, “Woman” — “WOMAN” was inspired by the music. Kane and Raheem were at the studio with Warryn and I when Warryn began to play the music. Raheem immediately went into the booth and sang what he created. We were vibing, but as soon as we heard him sing the word “woman,” we knew we had something on task. Kane and I understood the mission, and went in the booth and recorded our verses. Salt and I have always wanted to work together, and so I sent the song to her and she came to the studio and blessed us.
1 of 1 — 1 of 1 simply means one of a kind, which we all are. Meaning not to be compared because the DNA is different for every one of us. It means I’m bringing the best of my authentic self to the work.
1 of 1 vs. Other Lyte Releases — I am saved, so it’s completely different. A higher level of consciousness was definitely present. It explores my truths and connection with God. I’m giving advice to others after going through so much during my career that I hope is helpful.
Present Day Sound — Grown, conscious, aware, responsible.
Label deal with My Block Inc. / Sunni Gyrl Inc. — Right now, this is a joint venture between Warryn’s company, My Block Inc., and my company, Sunni Gyrl, Inc. I’m not sure about who else we will release under the imprint, but we’re open to all things inspirational and unique to anything else out there.
Musical Hiatus — I’ve been focused on other career moves in an effort to move the needle on some of my other goals. Acting, directing and running a management and production firm in Los Angeles.
Rhyme Book — Honestly, I’m drawing inspiration from the music. It’s always important that I be in alignment with where the music is headed. I’m all about understanding what story the music is telling, and then I have to make the decision as to whether the music is aligned with my thoughts and goals as a storyteller. I’m attracted to music that’s looking to tell the story I’d like to tell, or that I don’t mind being a part of.
Musical Message — That it’s okay to enjoy Hip-Hop when you’re in agreement with the content. Hip-Hop is still a viable place to come to for inspiration, care and love. Release your distance from the genre. Get close and find what satiates you.
Dream Collab — Michael Jackson, his compassion.
Venue Wish List — The Sphere. It’s huge, and the production possibilities are incredible.
Career Highlight / Moment — Hmm…I don’t know if I’ve hit it.
Current State of Hip-Hop — I love the flexibility. We make popular what we’d like to see more of. We have that power and we need to use it. I love that whoever, whenever can release whatever, they’d like to whenever.
Longevity — My team. My purpose is tied to something bigger than any one thing and bigger than me.
TV / Film / Voiceover Work — Yes, I’m playing a detective on BET+ on a show called Angel. Also, set for another one-hour drama that I can (share) details much later.
Average Day — Up pretty early with a team meeting, and as the day progresses we add more team members. Meetings and pitches and maybe production if we’re on set with something. It really depends. If I’m traveling, it changes everything.
Most Favorite Part of Showbiz — Creating and sharing the works.
Least Favorite Part of the Business – Deadlines and pressure. I like to work without a timeline.
Career Advice — I would say read every book that explains the business, and be light years ahead of everyone that started when I did, because we had no literature to explore. Build your crew that understands you and your mission.
5-10 Year Plan — A flourishing firm. Happy in spirit and in love. Putting lots of good people to work.
(Offshoot Collective) Almost September — We weren’t prepared as individuals to participate in a group. Trust is a huge factor when coming together to work on a project. We lacked trust.
Final Thoughts — It’s all good. Things are changing by the day. We’ll have more to talk about in 2 seconds! Lol.
…Thank you for the years of support, and keep believing in me. Love!
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