If you're looking for a lyricist, then you're looking for a Problem. As one of the most sought after lyricists on the West Coast, Problem is certainly making a name for himself. His hit single, "I'm Toe Up" has been riveting the streets with its combination of bassy melody, catchy hook, and relative lyrics. He's proven to be a talented songwriter, who has written songs for and worked with big names such as Snoop Dogg, DJ Quik, and Lil Wayne. Joining the label, Universal Republic, he is now preparing his debut album, which will include his single, "I'm Toe Up." Urban Network's Melvin Shephard, IV recently sat down with Problem to discuss to his rise in the Hip-Hop game.

MS: When did you first become interested, and how did it all begin for Problem?
Problem: I kinda just fell into it. I used to just play with it.
 
MS: Growing up, who were some of your strongest musical influences?
Problem: My influences are definitely any artist that came from under the N.W.A tree. I'm a big Jay-Z fan, 50 Cent, the way he puts songs together and his business mind really gets me going. I like a lot of different artist for different reasons.

MS: When did you decide that you wanted to pursue music professionally?
Problem: Once I figured there wasn't anybody out that much better than me. I would think, ‘not why me…but why not me.'

MS: What particular string of events led to your signing with Universal Records?
Problem: My single "I'm Toe Up" was getting airplay on Power106 so they got wind of it and found me and the rest is history.
 
MS: How would you describe and/or define the style of music that you create and perform?
Problem: Good music, period. I don't like putting what I do into a box and saying "it's this or it's that". I try to do good music.
 
MS: Have you titled your forthcoming debut yet? If so, what; and why?
Problem: It's called P.O.P. (Position Of Power). To me I'm finally in the position to be heard and that's big to me.

MS: When you sit down to write your rhymes, where do you get your inspirations from?
Problem: My daughters and not wanting to ever be broke again! If that don't inspire you, I don't know what will.

MS: Let's discuss longevity. In this business of music, what do you feel has been, and will continue to be the key to your success in this grueling industry?
Problem: I want to be the best ever. I want people 10 years from now to say ‘that guy came in and took the game over!'

MS: Do you have any other aspirations, maybe even outside of music altogether? 
Problem: Acting, filmmaking, clothing, etc, I want it all man. I want to have my own detergent out this business, ya dig!

MS: On a more serious note, would it be fair to say that you are happy with the current state of Hip-Hop music?
Problem: I think it's good. It's making people come up with more innovative ways to promote and sell their music. Anybody who works hard can make a way in this business. "I'm wit' it."   

MS: Since everyone either knows you already, or will become familiar with you, for and through your music, what would you want these same people to know about Problem that they won't get from listening to your music?
Problem: You will know everything about Problem by listening to his music. I'm going to leave my life on them beats. I want folks to know ME. I want to be felt by all the people that listen to me. I want them to cry if something happens to me or an associate of mine. You will get some aspect of me every time you hear me speak.

MS: What would these same people find you doing in your spare time away from the music?
Problem: Smokin' my face off! (laughs) Naw, I'll just chill with my kids, or my homeboys; playing basketball, either physically or cyber. I'll whoop any one in 2k8.
 
MS: As for the immediate future, what's next for you? Warm up single, "I'm Toe Up" has been blowing up for you. Has your official debut single and video been selected yet? Album, scheduled for release when?
Problem: Good lookin' boss...thanks to all my folks who stuck with me and the record that changed my life! I gotta cold follow up called "Motor Bike" that's gonna shut s*** down when it drop! My release date will be in the 1st quarter.

MS: For someone who hasn't experienced you perform live, what would you tell them can be expected?
Problem: To get toe' the f*** up!!!! I'm gonna have you loaded f***in with me. Thanks for taking your time out with me today.

MS: Thanks for taking your time out with me today do you have anything else to say?
Problem: Yep...the truth is this...you can't go through life without havin' a PROBLEM!