A formidable hip-hop package --
Fiti Futuristic
by Ryan Williams
Fiti Futuristic combines humor, spirituality, and mic skill into a formidable hip-hop package.
Next Show: Fri, Mar 18 @ The Patio with Seven Degrees From Center, Devil To Pay, and Loretta, hosted by Rupert Boneham
Listen: Can't Get Enough (mp3)
Fiti Futuristic’s rap career has long roots – his first battle rap win came when he was still in junior high school. “These popular 8th graders got on and did their thing, and then it was my turn. Kids were booing before I said a word. But I did my thing and won (surprisingly). From then on I was like, ‘This is what I want to do forever.’” This mix of talent, humbleness, and dedication is part of why Fiti maintains a steady following of loyal fans who enjoy what he calls his brand of “hip-hop/life music. I rap about life...having a good time, how I deal with problems, what I want to achieve, etc.”
Fiti Futuristic (born Zach Tannehill) writes on subjects he knows, including his Christianity. While he does include many churches in his touring, Fiti says everybody gets the same show, no matter if he’s opening for KRS-One or the youth minister. “I do the same set no matter where I'm at. I just wouldn't feel right if I didn't.” He’s delivered his songs in venues ranging from smaller churches to Earthlink Live in Atlanta, which he calls “sort of a mix between the Murat and Verizon.” Despite the time he’s spent on the road, Fiti plans on taking a break this year. “I'd like to focus my energy on staying here and building more of a name for my self in my home city. Touring's not all it's cracked up to be if you don't have sponsors.”
That plan does present a challenge to Fiti, though. “It’s the same circle of venues, bands, promoters, and such. If just one venue isn't feeling you, you've cut down your gigs drastically. But to a degree, we are spoiled because we have such a great scene here...There are some locations that only have one venue so I'll shut up.”
Fiti recorded his full-length album “Watch What Happens” in early 2004 with Kulture Entertainment (his debut album “All In A Day’s Work” was released on Grapetree Records, which has since gone out of business). Fiti says he’s happier with this release. “It's the first release that I'm proud of. It was a great experience to basically produce, record, mix, and master my own record. No one cutting me short on time, no one telling how to say something, no deadlines...It was a magical time in my life.” He’s hoping to recapture some of that magic with his new recording. “I'm in the process of working on an EP for a new internet-based record label. We will release the new songs and then press up CDs. I'm excited for everyone to hear my new stuff.”
So what would Fiti say to someone starting out the same way he did, back in junior high? “For real, I'd say pursue it. Study your influences. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Don't be afraid of criticisms. Dive in with both feet.” Quick to balance this wisdom with the sense of humor that pervades his rhymes, though, he adds “Just because you don't like it, doesn't mean it sucks.....Unless it's Nelly, then it sucks.”
Your next chance to catch Fiti Futuristic live comes March 18 th at the Patio, where he joins Seven Degrees From Center, Devil To Pay, and Loretta as part of a benefit for Band Together.
