Words by Dj Alive

The Oxford dictionary's definition of General is: 1. Not limited to one class, field, etc.; 2. Having extended command, superiority, or chief rank. 3. An officer of the highest ranks. Straight out of Scarsville the General lives up to all those titles. Born and raised in Scarborough the General is no stranger to the term hard knock life. He's led quiet the intriguing life considering the trials and tribulations that follow him. HipHopCanada had the chance to chat with the versatile emcee about life, rap, and being Born Hungry.

He's rhymed for 16 years with no end in sight. A solo MC for about 9, General has developed a strong following in the greater Toronto area, Ottawa, Windsor, Rochester/Buffalo, and New York. All along maintaining a strong hold on his education. He graduated from the University of Windsor with an Honors degree in Criminology, which is where Born Hungry Enterprises was conceived. He is not only an artist on Born Hungry, but he is also the president, founder, and C.E.O. of the enterprise. "Born Hungry started in Windsor while I was in school" states the General. "It dawned on me while attending class and always being hungry because I had no time eat". " But that's how it's always been for me, I've always been hungry. It's a mentality; kinda like a way of life."

General's way of life has always involved lyrics. When asked about his position in the game General is swift to state the truth. "I really gotta stress that I'm NOT a rapper but, a lyricist." On his latest EP "DO4SELF" you will notice General is dedicated to hip-hop and the culture. "I take much pride in the title of my EP, cause it means much. I want heads to see that I'm a very versatile cat in all aspects of the word." Do4self is just that… versatile and diverse. "Tha topics on my EP stress that a lot. I speak about all angles in life, tha ying and yang of things. Basically I put my thoughts in rhyme, what's on my mind at tha time I'll put it in rhyme." General definitely puts his thoughts in rhyme when it comes to recipes. He is very familiar with the sharp angles and fine lines within the concepts of what makes records and what makes records for profits. He certainly had the proper recipe last year when his hit single "Luv me or leave me" received regular rotation on FLOW 93.5FM.

The songs featured on the EP provide something for every listener. The first single "Don't tell" is a radio ready track detailing the intimate relationship between a man and a woman. Misty Blue provides additional vocals lending a soulful sound. The second single "Look around" is universal in nature touching on many aspects of life in the 21st century. And the third track "W.A.R." is a street certified rap track with raw lyrics layered over gritty production. Keep your ear to the ground cause this track will make noise on college/community radio across the globe. Some of the production credit goes to Phase one, Strogz, T-Boogie, Murcelez, and DRK. Also be sure to check out the witty track "Favorite Girls" showcased on the "Basketball City Compilation".

In closing General is confident of his position and longevity in the music industry. "Hip-hop is just gonna keep going…because it's only gonna get bigger. Strong marketing is what's gonna maintain your longevity in this game. I rap because I have to and cats know what I'm tryin' to do! I welcome all competiton cause that's what pushes me to create." And continue to create is just what the General orders!