Originally from Houston,Texas, but this Leimert Park Playa named Raven Sorvino is an independent artist that has been residing on various online music blogs. Her versatility has given her the freedom to rap about her life, relationships, and her favorite vice, Merlot. 2012 was a year that was filled her putting out new music and making major moves in an industry that has shunned rappers with two x chromosomes. In this interview, Ms. Vino shares her opinion on her influences/peers, style, and skills on stage and off.
When did you start taking Hip-Hop as a serious profession?
RS: When I dropped Inspired two years ago.
What are the biggest influences that you want fans and critics to hear in your music?
I want people to hear the Texas in me and the Leimert Park culture.
Which movies, TV shows, and albums would people be shocked to know that you are a fan of? I admit I was a little surprised when I heard you name check Lil’ Boosie on “Gold Chainz”.
First off, Free Boosie. I’m a fan of Sopranos and Gossip Girl as far as T.V. I listen to John Coltrane and Portishead a lot too.
What were you listening to the most this year?
Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, m.A.A.d city, A$AP Rocky’s LiveLoveA$AP, & Dom Kennedy’s Yellow Album.
You released Paper Girl on iTunes and Playa Del Ray for free download this year, were there different reactions from fans? Was there more attention on one project than the other?
Yes I got a bigger response off of Playa Del Rey, probably because I gave it away for free. I have no regrets on selling Paper Girl though. What I’ve been noticing are people are going back to that album which is great
There have been recent discussions about New York radio (Particularly Hot 97) not supporting local artists; do you think Power 106 and other West Coast radio stations support regional artists?
I don’t really listen to the radio but when I have listened I’ve heard Problem, Bad Lucc, and Dom Kennedy on there. Back in the day we used to have shows dedicated to regional artist and more indie rap music. It would be dope if that would come back.
Are older formats such as radio and TV, still a goal that you want to reach?
Hell yeah. At the end of the day its just as big as the net.
When did you realize that the Internet was a viable resource to use for promotion?
When I dropped Inspired and people were reaching out to me on Twitter and Facebook nonstop. It really hit me when I went to SXSW and I was getting stopped by fans and taking pictures. That is when I knew it was real.
Do you read the blog comments on posts about you?
No. I used to when I first started but not anymore. What I focus on now are on the people that hit me via Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook and respond to them.
What was your first live performance and what was the experience like?
When I was 5 I did Michael Jackson at a talent show and I won. It felt amazing I knew that it was something I wanted to do. My parents didn’t even know I was in the talent show; I entered into it myself.
When you are doing shows in cities you have never performed before, how do you attempt to win the crowd over?
I just come with a lot of energy every time. I have an attitude that I’m here to give them a good show. I show them I came there to entertain them. It also helps I’m a really good rapper too
2012 was the year of molly and gold chains, which trends do you not want to see in 2013?
Fake Twitter followers and fake YouTube hits!
What are your favorite brands?
Ralph Lauren, Chanel, Versace, Balmain, and Alexander Wang. As far as streetwear SSUR, Black Scale, & G4L.
How would you describe your fashion sense?
Hood Rich, Trill Bitch & Ignorant Balling.
When do you believe is the right time for males and females to wear Ralph Lauren Polo and Jordan’s and when is the right time for the slacks and dresses to come out?
The time is always right for anyone to wear Lo and J’z (*laughs*). It really depends on who you are as a person. The energy of the day depicts what your going to wear and how your going to wear it.
Is Scarlett Johansson still your crush?
No she’s not anymore, she was at one point. Kerry Washington is that chick right now.
Will you continue to be independent with Language Artz Records or are you considering major labels?
If the situation is right I will consider it. Language Artz will be included in the deal some way; that’s family.
What are your plans and goals for 2013?
To headline my own tour and have presence on T.V. I feel very strongly about this next year with my new project coming out.
Raven Sorvino’s Twitter: @RavenSorvino
Raven Sorvino’s Website: ravensorvino.com