photo by steed media service

Recording Artist, Sho Nuff Records

It's only a matter of time. With some cats, it's just obvious that, sooner or later, the world's going to notice their talent. Bay Area native Willie Joe is one of those cats. He's spent a significant amount of time in Atlanta, and pulled himself up from his proverbial bootstraps to become one of the best MCs in the city.

"Well basically, with more hard work [there was] more progress," says Willie Joe of his climb. "I was the hottest free agent in the street, now I'm the new signee of Sho Nuff Records."

Joe's climb wasn't easy. He understands the value of hard work - especially in an hip-hop hotbed like Atlanta. "Everybody and [their] momma [raps], you tell somebody you're a rapper or a singer, [and] they're going to look at you like 'oh, you too,' " he says truthfully. "There [are] a lot of fly-by-nights, [and] a lot of people make it by accident. [But] if you've got that work ethic and that grind, and you show that you're here to stay, [then] you can have longevity."

Joe is ready for his close-up. "We're dropping two mixtapes, one for the Bay, one for [Atlanta.]" shares Joe. "We dropping [the album] February 2008, it's called The Come Up."

Despite his rising fame, Joe is clear about what motivates him. "The people," he explains. "To go to showcases and [have] people come up to me and say I inspired them - that makes me feel better than pulling chicks or popping bottles." It's a safe bet that the ladies and champagne aren't bad, either. - todd williams

For more information, visit www.myspace.com/williejoe.

Share this article with a friend