June 10th, 2009 
James Shotwell Super producer Kwame recently answered a few questions our intern [UTG Brandon] had for him:
What upcoming projects are on the horizon for you to finish out the rest of 2009?
It is still the mid way point of the year but what I have worked on /working on so far in 09 are 2 songs on Estelle’s new Album in addition to Keyshia Cole’s 4th album. Most of the rapper “Skillz” next album and my indie artist Beyond Belief’s album and I’m currently working on tracks for Kristinia Debarge on Def Jam
What artist(s) have been the most exciting to work with so far in 2009?
The most exciting artist to work with in 09 by far is Estelle.. I’m a HUGE fan! I’m lucky to work with artists that I’m a fan of because I consider myself a fan 1st then a producer!
What was your first piece of equipment you purchased to start your career off with?
The 1st piece of equipment I ever purchased was a Korg M1 keyboard a Akai MPC 60 and a Roland 4 track recorder!
Who did you look up to as a producer for inspiration in your music?
The Producers that inspired me were Hurby Luv Bug, Rick Ruben, Prince, Stevie Wonder James Brown & Malcolm Mclaren.
Who are your top five favorite producers of all time?
Wow this is tough…My top 5 favorite producers of ALL time are
1 Prince
2 Rick Ruben
3 Timbaland
4 Neptunes
5 sir George Martin
6 Quincy (my cliché but true answer)
Who was the first big named artist that you ever had get on one of your productions?
The 1st Big name artist I had the honor of working on was Mary J
What’s the best advice you can give to a new producer trying to emerge in the industry?
I biggest advice is Understand and never get discouraged when a artist or label asks “Can u give me a hit single like______” also to learn a genres of music and diversify your sound.
What do you feel was your most accomplished collaboration you have done in the past?
And with what artist was it?
I think my most accomplished colab to date was with Christina Agulierra on the record “Understand” she’s the best!
What do you have to say to the people who still look at you as a rapper from your past instead of the “super producer” you are now?
When folks still look at me as a “old skool rapper” I just play along and say..”well now I Manage the Burger King in Times Square…holla at me sometimes”
What are your favorite songs in your catalog as a producer and as a rapper?
My favorite song as a rapper would have to be a toss up between “Pushthepanicbutton”
Off of the Boy genius album
And “Winna” off of the incognito album
My favorite song as a producer would be “turn the lights off” by Tweet and Missy Elliott
You started many fashion trends in hip-hop when you were rapping, what do you think about the fashion trends now?
I love most fashion trends especially when it allows you to express yourself. I’m very fashion forward so I’m all ways looking for what’s new.
What was your feelings or thoughts about the diss Biggie laid on you on the track Unbelievable? And was it difficult to shake?
My thoughts on the “Line” on unbelievable are simple..it wasn’t a Diss it was JUST a great line in a great song that closed minded people ran with. And I’m thankful for that line because it helped me climb to the top of my game and prove that I’m not “Played out like them Fin polka Dots”
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