Siggatunez
By: Dream Chimney
The following interview was conducted in July 2023
DJ, Producer and Live Performer Siggatunez is based in the buzzing city of Berlin, and he is about to drop his ‘Live Cutz’ EP on new label Gooey Traxx. With a deep n down history in hip hop, we asked him to highlight five albums that have had an impact on his musical world.
First and foremost, it is a daunting task for me to narrow down my selection to just five albums that have profoundly impacted me. However, I would like to highlight the following albums, among others, as significant influencers in my musical journey. I would like to preface my choices with a few remarks: when I first delved into the realm of US-Hip-Hop music, I embarked on this musical exploration alongside my younger brother. Despite our limited grasp of the English language, we were captivated by the mesmerizing beats and vocal delivery of the MCs. As we matured, our comprehension deepened, and we endeavoured to fathom the underlying emotions conveyed by the artists during that era in the United States. We dedicated ourselves to extensive research, immersing ourselves in various social issues, only to realize that, from our individual life perspectives, we could never fully grasp or empathize with the challenging circumstances endured by these artists. In essence, I believe that Hip Hop serves as an avenue for expressing these intricacies, perpetually entwined with the content and contextual backdrop of its time. The genre often presents explicit themes that, from my current standpoint, warrant contemplation across a myriad of dimensions. Nevertheless, it continues to resonate with me on a profound level.
Wu-Tang Clan: -Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)”
I believe everything has been adequately discussed regarding this piece. Personally, I appreciate the rawness and edginess present in both the rap style and production of the beats. I am an avid admirer of nearly all the members of the Wu-Tang Clan, with a particular fondness for the RZA, the GZA, Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, and Method Man. Each member possesses a distinct rap style that, when combined with the RZA's recognizable productions (as he has contributed to the majority of Wu-Tang tracks), forms a captivating contrast to the commercially successful Hip Hop albums of that era. Among the tracks, "Can It Be All So Simple" stands out as my personal favourite. The utilization of the sample from Klaatu's "Anus Of Uranus" is artfully executed, with minimal additional drums and no bassline or kick added to the loop. Furthermore, the incorporation of Gladys Knight's captivating voice from "The Way We Were" adds a beautiful touch. However, it is the lyrical prowess displayed by Ghostface Killah and Raekwon that truly elevates the track, evoking an enduring emotional response within me each time I listen to it.
Jeru The Damaja: “Wrath Of The Math”
I accidentally came across the track titled "Black Cowboys" while visiting a friend's place, and I was captivated by its exceptionally impactful introduction. This particular composition exemplifies the flawless amalgamation of a minimalist DJ Premier Boom Bap production and the distinctively pronounced delivery of Jeru The Damaja. Through this track, I was introduced to Jeru's music, prompting me to explore his entire body of work. During my adolescence, around the age of fifteen, he attained a heroic status within my circle of peers due to the evocative title of his debut album, "The Sun Rises In The East" (which I discovered subsequent to "Wrath Of The Math"), and his incorporation of personal references to his origins (East New York, East Coast, East US). Coincidentally, our upbringing in the eastern region of Germany established a certain resonance with his music and overall disposition. In the past, I had the pleasure of attending several of his performances, he even graced the stage at our modest local Youth Centre many years ago. It is truly remarkable that he now resides in my neighbourhood in Berlin, and I occasionally encounter him in the community—a source of great delight for me.
Gang Starr: “Moment Of Truth”
This particular reference holds significant emotional value to me. I discovered Gang Starr long before encountering their album, and while it is challenging to definitively label it as their best work, "Moment Of Truth" holds the utmost personal significance. Gang Starr, a collaborative effort between DJ Premier, renowned for his extensive production work with esteemed artists such as Nas, Jeru The Damaja, Rakim, KRS One, among others, and Guru, an artist revered for his remarkable lyrical prowess, evoked a distinct and indelible soundscape that epitomized the revered East Coast/Boom Bap style. Regrettably, Guru's untimely demise in 2010 further amplifies the sentimental value of this album. "Moment Of Truth," the eponymous track, transports me back to a formative period of my life, where I grappled with the weighty realities of existence, including love, the fear of loss, longing, and the weight of responsibility. It might sound trite but it honestly helped me through some hard times. Just listen to it and you will understand what I mean. “What I'm Here 4” also gets me every time I hear it. R.I.P. Guru!
Showbiz & A.G.: “Full Scale”
Upon my initial encounter with the "Full Scale EP," I was astounded by the profound ability of music to convey an immersive atmosphere and evoke intense emotions (a sensation akin to my experience with Mobb Deep's "Shook Ones, Part II"). Instantaneously, I found myself enveloped in a vivid mental depiction of traversing what I envisioned to be the vibrant streets of the Bronx, Brooklyn, or Queens. This release has been an exceptionally captivating and raw auditory experience, unparalleled in its depth and intensity. The overall production possesses a remarkable simplicity, stripped down to its essential elements, yet exuding an undeniable force. One aspect that left an indelible impression on me is the fact that Showbiz and A.G. single-handedly spearheaded the entire creative process, masterfully crafting both the beats and rhymes. The lo-fi, self-produced approach has thoroughly captivated my senses, and I find myself continuously entranced by the candid lyricism and forthright delivery. Just by listening to the title track you will instantly understand what I mean.
Masta Ace: “Hot Long Summer”
The complete album presents a compelling narrative that unfolds seamlessly from beginning to end, making it a truly captivating listening experience. I particularly admire Ace's straightforward yet profoundly impactful rap style, infused with masterful storytelling. Upon the release of "Hot Long Summer," I found myself on the cusp of a significant life transition, preparing to depart from my hometown and embark on an independent journey in the United Kingdom, specifically Wales. Many tracks on this album provided, and continue to provide, a wellspring of empowerment and fortitude. Ace's messages resonate deeply with me, fostering a profound sense of connection. Moreover, the impeccable production of the beats amplifies the album's overall musicality, rendering it a timeless masterpiece that I find myself repeatedly immersed in. Among the standout tracks, "Good Ol Love" holds utmost significance to me, as it never fails to captivate my senses and transport me to an introspective realm.
