Kato Interviewed by Kevin Nottingham

Kevin Nottingham has got a new interview with Atlanta based producer/MC Kato. It’s another quick one but if you ever wondered how Kato ended up in ATL, what’s in his secret music equipment locker, or what collaborations are on deck then this is the read for you.

Here’s a little glimpse for you:

Why the name Kato?

Growing up, I was heavily influenced by Bruce Lee. He was the coolest man I’d ever seen so I stole his name from the role he portrayed in the 60’s ‘Green Hornet’ TV series, Kato. I still have a giant poster of him hanging in my studio and bedroom.

You can check out the rest over at KN or after the break!

Chris “Kato” Ju is one of the more versatile producers coming up in hip hop today. In addition to his production work, he also showcases his skills on the mic as evident on his T.I.M.E. mixtape. 2010 looks to be a big year for Kato with the release of volume 2 of T.IM.E. along with production for everyone from Señor Kaos to Dumfoundead. We got the chance to speak with Kato about his ability to cater to various styles of emcees, how he arrived in Atlanta and his upcoming projects.  Here’s your chance to learn more about the talented producer named Kato.

Introduce Yourself:

My name is Chris ‘Kato’ Ju, 23 years young and I’m a Korean-American producer/artist.

Why the name Kato?

Growing up, I was heavily influenced by Bruce Lee. He was the coolest man I’d ever seen so I stole his name from the role he portrayed in the 60’s ‘Green Hornet’ TV series, Kato. I still have a giant poster of him hanging in my studio and bedroom.

Where You Reppin:

South Korea to ATL!

Who are your musical inspirations?

Everyone and anyone making quality music, new or old. Production-wise, I’m particularly influenced by Dr. Dre, DJ Toomp, DJ Premier and J Dilla.

What’s your equipment setup?

I’m a real simple dude. I make my beats on Reason and an Axiom 25, record in Cubase, and mix down with some nice monitors and Sennheiser HD 280 headphones. Works wonders for me!

How did you end up in Atlanta?

I have no idea. It really all happened pretty quickly and purely by chance. I’m originally from Virginia, but I was attending college in Philadelphia at Drexel University at the time and my family just decided to up and leave VA and move to ATL for business. One thing led to another and I ended up transferring to Georgia State University where I’m currently finishing up my very delayed college education… damn it.

Past projects readers should know about:

My production mixtape series: T.I.M.E. (This Is My Everything). Vol. 1 out now, Vol. 2 almost finished. Google it!

Current projects you are working on:

T.I.M.E. Vol. 2; Just finished my homie Mike Petrone’s debut album; new music coming with The Canz, The Beat Gods, Naira, Señor Kaos, Jams Dean, Dumbfoundead, Shin-B, and many more talented folks.

You’ve worked with a wide range of emcees from Dumbfounded to Mojo Swagger. Is it difficult catering to artists with such different styles?

It’s exciting for me. It keeps things fresh to be working with such a variety of different artists. It can be challenging to step out of your comfort zone, but it pays off to be a well-rounded producer.

If you had to pick one song that defines your career up to this point, what would it be?

Clipse’s “Grindin.” I’m on that hustle right now. Kato ain’t doing nothing illegal, but I’m on top of my music game.

If you were stranded on a desert island & could only have one album to listen to, what album would it be?

Illadelph Halflife by The Roots. I don’t even need to be on a desert island for that one. Either that or some easy sing-along songs that will cheer me up on a deserted island, like Boyz II Men greatest hits, lol.

Any shout outs or last words?

I want to thank everyone that’s held it down for me in my personal life. Also want to thank supporters of my music, both fans and artists alike. Ya’ll know who you are and I promise not to let you down. And thanks KevinNottingham.com, I’m always a fan first!