Dublin-based hip-hop record label Outstraight Records have released their inaugural seven-track EP, Being Outstraight. We asked the label the BIG questions . . .
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Tell us three things about yourself?
Aaron Connery, Director: Outstraight Records was established in 2015 - so we're nearing our 10-year anniversary now, which is exciting in and of itself!
Outstraight was founded by Lewis Kenny, and its original inception was as an arts collective, primarily focused on spoken word performances and associated artforms.
Outstraight is not just a record label, but also a publishing house and multi-disciplinary events group. Our mission statement is to elevate artists of multiple & diverging genres, while doing so in a way that is authentic, collaborative and based on artistic merit.
How would you describe your music?
Aaron: For those who are new to Outstraight Records, we are a collective of 10 artists, encompassing and representing the diverse spectrum that is hip-hop music in 2024.
If you're looking for deep, introspective storytelling, then Graham is one of the finest artists in Ireland. If you’re looking for authentic, raw and organic hip-hop music…then both Beano and Don Kobz are literally steeped in the genre’s inspiration, while Panda Drey and Conkan are a dynamic duo with a unique and energetic take on hip-hop - ensuring they keep you entertained on any of their musical releases.
Rounding out the roster is spoken word artist Lewis Kenny, and our vocalist GG Carma …all combining for a powerful demonstration of storytelling intricacies, raucous odes to late night adventures and classic hip-hop soundscapes.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Aaron: Musical inspirations are wide ranging amongst the collective. While we are predominately a hip-hop label - our interests and inspirations are reflective of multiple inspirations, including jazz, punk, world sounds and spoken word…alongside frequent forays into electronic music with drum and bass, disco and dub. For specific inspirations we certainly have to give a shout out to High Focus Records (UK) Griselda (US) and multiple other labels and numerous collectives also.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Aaron: One of the first hip-hop shows a number of us attended would have been the Wu-Tang Clan show in Tripod, Dublin in 2011. A powerhouse performance throughout - combining this level of showmanship with such a high energy was an experience that would not be forgotten, especially with nearly the entire Wu-Tang in full effect. This show stands out in the memory as it wasn’t just a gig, but an entire performance amongst a full roster of MCs who could stand solo, which stood out as a highlight and potentially laid the groundwork for many aspiring musicians in Dublin that night!
What was the first record you ever bought?
Beano, MC: I’m going back a while now but the first record was G-Unit’s Beg for Mercy - a pinnacle of early 2000s hip-hop! I believe I bought it around the time of its release and it just blew me away from both a sonic and showmanship POV. I always remember playing it in the car when I was driving around with my father, and this was certainly a spark that ignited the interest in hip-hop for me since then.
What’s your favourite song right now?
Graham, MC: I’ll jump in for this one! My favourite track at the moment is Momma by Terry Presume. A scattered and brief exploration of a mother/son relationship, definitely worth adding to the rotation!
Favourite lyric of all time?
Graham, MC: Love is wanting more for someone than they want for themselves" - J. Cole, Knock The Hustle.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Don Kobz, MC: This is a tricky one! But if I was thinking off the top I would say Aquemini by Outkast always stands out. This song is the true embodiment of hip-hop for me, from the musical perfection of the production to the intricate lyricism from the two MCs. Andre 3000’s last verse really jumps out and would always be the first song I’d show someone who isn’t well acquainted with the genre.
Where can people find your music/more information?
Aaron: We’ve just released our first label EP Being Outstraight, which you can find via all good streaming services, and via Bandcamp and Soundcloud. For more information on the label, you can find us via Instagram and our own, dedicated website.
Alan Corr
