An MC since 1996, Eksman has been the big success story in the world of DnB MCs over the last few years. He's won a bundle of awards since winning 'Best Newcomer MC' at both the Knowledge Mag and Accelerated Culture awards in 2003, with the voting public rating him highly as one of the most exciting mic controllers around. He combines an energetic, quickfire style with captivating lyrics and a big stage presence - yet manages to avoid coming across as arrogant. We spoke with him ahead of his performance at Son Of Dance on March 15th, the 100% DnB event from the people behind Moondance....

So the question we have to ask: when did you first try your hand at rhyming? What made you try?

I wrote my first lyric around 1994 when I was only 14. I have always been into rhyming plus my 3 of my brothers were DJs so an MC was needed and that was me.

What kind of stuff did you listen to while you were growing up? And where did you first go raving?

I listened to a lot of Ragga/Raggae and hip-hop as a child. In 1988 my elder brothers started to listen to acid house music, which I got into when I was only 8 years old. I watched it progress into hardcore, jungle, and then drum ‘n’ bass.

The first place I went raving was Ritzy’s under 18s in Streatham. When I was about 12. The first Jungle rave I went to was at Laser Drome in Peckham. This was in 1993/4.

Who have been your biggest influences as an MC? Was it always people in the drum ‘n’ bass world or have hip-hop and reggae vocalists been a source of inspiration too?

The Jamaican accent and the ragga flow did inspire me when writing that style of lyric. However when I was writing fast-paced lyrics (what I am more known for) Stevie Hyper D, Fearless and MC Shabba were all favourite MCs of mine from an early age.

MC etiquette – does everyone have it? Do less professional MCs annoy you with their attitudes sometimes?

No, not all MCs have it. There are some who conduct themselves in a non-professional way. Weather it be towards the ravers or promoters. It’s those MCs who you see for a year or two then disappear into thin air. I think some MCs get carried away with the attention they receive, which changes their character. It doesn’t annoy me really as I stay focused on what I am doing and me. It’s their loss really.

What are your views on “MC convention” style events? Do you think it’s right that MCs should take centre stage over DJs sometimes?

Yes, I think they are good. Some do not like to admit it but there are lots of people who go to raves to see the MCs more then the DJs. I think the music is big and diverse enough to hold events like this. Personally I’m not into having more then 2 MCs on a mic at one time as it gets to much.

MCs originally were there to host. Things have advanced and changed now. Some raves need an MC and for them to take control, as that’s what the punters want.

However it depends on where you are and which rave you are at. I believe a good MC is one who can read the crowd and adapt to the vibe and surroundings.

How often do you see an MC who you’ve never heard of who is genuinely talented? Is quality control an issue at smaller events do you think?

To be honest it is very rare. Yes, quality control is a problem. A lot of small events have their mates MCing, which is not always the best solution.

You’re performing alongside a huge line-up at Son Of Dance at SeOne on the 15th March in London. What are your fondest memories of this venue and its previous incarnation, The Drome?

I love the venue, it’s big always vibes and when it’s full the energy is amazing. So many good memories. Three that stand out are, Stevie Hyper D’s tribute rave and Moondance NYE ‘06 and ‘07. All were wicked!

The big shows must be amazing – but are there times when you prefer more intimate affairs?

Yes, I love small venues as much as big ones. If the soundsystem is right small venues carry an intense vibe, and the amount of noise helps to create a great atmosphere. Also smaller events are in little towns and the ravers really appreciate you coming to their towns and show lots of love.

Do you have a favourite DJ to work alongside? Someone who’s style suits yours down to a tee? Or is it more a case of getting something different out of playing with different people?

I enjoy working with Friction, Zinc and have enjoyed Ed Rush and Optical sets.
However I like to work with different DJs as they bring a different vibe and selection and it makes me change my style which is refreshing as if I’m only doing jump-up sets it can become monotonous. A reason I like working with Friction is he plays a variety of styles throughout a set, which gives me the opportunity to show some diversity.

And finally, what are your plans for 2008? World domination?

I’m calling 2008 the year of positivity. I have just finished a 12” with Friction so that will be my next dance floor release. I am starting a record label with my good friend MC Shortston called NME (No More Egos), which will be full vocal releases.

I will also be making some music videos to follow up ‘Na Blood”’ Which was the first video I’ve done. Also going to hold an event of my own at some point. And lastly, keep focused and writing lyrics and entertaining the people who support me.

Interview by Ben Gomori // ben@evolution99.co.uk

CHECK OUT FULL DETAILS OF SON OF DANCE RIGHT HERE...