For those who are new to your music, will you describe your background, elaborating on the transition of youth to adulthood?
We have a saying, “If you know better, you’ll do better”.  With that being said, my mom and dad struggled but they always tried to provide for me.  Even though they were doing what they were doing they tried to keep me out of that lane they were so familiar with.  It was only a matter of time that I would jump off the porch and see it for myself.  With my sister getting shot and killed at only 6 years old, protecting me was all they wanted to do.  They gave me the game as well, and matter of fact they still do.  I just imply what I've learned over the years - from the streets to the books, to my day to day interactions with others and my music.

How has residing in Austin, TX influenced you, your music, and your popularity?
Living in Austin has its pro's and con's.  Being the capital of Texas and the “Live Music Capital of the World’, the outlets for rap, hip hop, and r&b are very small, but I've gained fame, support, and a great following in the city.  Austin is so diverse that we don't have our own sound and we can't be classified. Texas has become a huge influence of my music.  The pride and culture from the south is all over my lyrics.
 
What genres are you listening to these days, and who are among your favorite musicians?
I'm all over the place with my music right now, but I love "movements” -  cities or groups putting out bangers.  I'm also a big fan of a great lyricist.

What are you working on now?
Right now, I'm putting together my debut album called “The Struggle, the Strength, the Success”.  I’m also working on different mixtapes with several dj's, and my label - Nina Ross Records - will be releasing various projects as well.  Making good music and networking are my main objectives at this point.

Tell us about the record label you currently call home.
As I was saying my label is Nina Ross Records, or as we put it “NR4L”.  I'm a co-owner of the label along with K Paul.  We've been operating for a few years and have a couple of artists.  We're about to take every opportunity we can and make the most of it.

Who are some of the artists you have collaborated or performed with?
Most recently we did collaborations with Hezeleo, King Kyle Lee, Gritboys, and I've shared the stage with artist such as Slim Thug, Paul Wall, Trae the Truth, and legions like Hawk, Pimp C, and Bun B.
 
What your thoughts on hip hop right now?
My thoughts on hip hop are mixed.  I feel the game always asked for change and more reality, but it seems all of that gets pushed to the side and the mainstream gets flooded with a bunch of bologna.  I can't do anything else but do me.  I've soaked up a bunch of knowledge, now it's my time to give the people what they've been needing, wanting, and waiting for because there is a middle from the underground to the mainstream; you just have to discover it.

What do you do on your free time?
Sleep!!!  There's no free time in life; family and work.  If I'm having fun, family is involved or I'm making money.  From basketball to dominoes and chess, I'm all in!!  Oh wait, I can’t forget the Madden!!!
 
Who do you have in your deck right now?
Right now I'm listening to Pimp C's “Still Pimpin’” album.

What is your social media/booking info?
You can follow me on Twitter @Pimpin_Pen.  FB me, “Fred Pimpinpen Freeman” and check out videos, songs, and blogs at www.reverbnation.com/pimpinpen.

Any last words?
Shout out to On tha Real Magazine for all the support through the years, it's very much appreciated.  Be on the look out for NR4L, we have no time for games and no time for lames.  I will always keep it real and just remember being real doesn't cost u a dime it's FREE 99… and I'm out !!!

Words by Karl Orts