Christopher Mofield is a multitalented artist who creates Hip-Hop music under his musical persona DA CULPRIT.
The Rapper, Producer, and Film Director work tirelessly to create something new for his audience; and with his new single “36 Bars” – he does.
DA CULPRIT’s recent release feels like the soundtrack to a lifelong flex. Picture something like a 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo bouncing to the sound of a heat-filled Hip-Hop banger. The single “36 Bars” opens with a recording of a mind-numbing smoke session, which introduces the risqué tone that is maintained for the rest of the track. The conversation is interrupted by a substantial, bass-heavy beat.
DA CULPRIT thoughtfully engineered his beat to highlight the intensity of its bass as it switches dynamically between subtle and powerful bumps.
“36 Bars’” blown out 808 trap beat is seamlessly layered underneath an electronically engineered flute. The melody of the flute is repetitive and catchy as it adds a comforting consistency to the backtrack of “36 Bars.”
One of the most alluring qualities of DA CULPRIT is his unique rapping sound. He has a throaty, deep voice that is comparable to that of Hip-Hop legend The Notorious B.I.G., which gives him an aura of tenacity and power.
DA CULPRIT showcases his intrinsic ear for Hip-Hop through his ability to flawlessly combine electronic production with his vocals.
You’re influenced by a variety of successful artists including Jay Z, Timbaland, Swizz Beatz, The 45 King, and Hype Williams. Can you tell us what you’ve learned from these artists, and how they inspire your music style?
Being influenced by Jay Z inspired me to start my own label, so I created my brand that started from a 10 block radius, releasing mixtapes, documentaries, a clothing line expanding globally, putting on other artists, building a studio, perfecting my craft, and giving back to the community.
Being a Producer and working with other Producers and Engineers such as Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, and The 45 Kings stood out to me. Swizz worked with the Ruff Ryders, I always respected them business-wise. Timbaland inspired me, from the tracks he produced for Aaliyah, Jay Z, and Justin Timberlake. When I write a song or create a melody, I visualize the beat as an idea. It’s open to all genres. I create music. The 45 kings created the Anne track from the shard Knock life.
From Hip Hop, Gospel, R&B, Street Documentaries. DVDs such as Hood Tv, We On Fire & Hood Politics Documentary, Hype Williams inspired me to do music videos. From studying and watching the Music Videos Hype did for Nas, Puff, Busta Rhymes, Biggie, it was a movie, and Belly it was definitely a game-changer at the time. After becoming an Actor and landing a background cast in the movie National Treasure, I started to take my craft seriously by writing scripts and working more on the creative side.
What was your inspiration when you were creating the song “36 Bars?”
My inspiration for "36 Bars" was intended to be an album cut for the 'Closer To My Dream 4' project. While recording the song, I envisioned doing the record straight through with no hook. When I started laying the song down, it surpassed my expectations the impact and magnitude of the record have had. I pay homage to the pioneer while showing my growth and range, all while embracing the new generation and solidifying my position as a Rapper/producer. Release the music video GTA theme has been embraced and receiving heavy rotation, and AirPlay since it’s release.
What does the title “36 Bars” represent? Can you tell us more about the lyrics and the message hidden within them?
3"6 Bars" represents excellence. The message in the song is to read between the lines. You don’t have to do what everyone else is doing to be successful or accepted. We all have our own journey and style. "36 Bars" is a lifestyle. It’s an upgrade lyrically with the cadence wordplay, and surpasses all expectations and proves that DA CULPRIT is on the level of Hip Hop Influencers.
As an artist, you have experienced many ups and downs throughout your career. Are there any experiences that have stood out to you that you would like to mention? What did you learn from them?
Throughout the ups and downs, it’s been a learning experience... like shopping my demo with Def Jam. Having a hot record on the street and in the club at the time - “Relax and Chill," traveling back and forth from Philadelphia to New York, it humbled me when I didn’t get signed. I took the time to perfect my craft and as I grew, I became more seasoned. I appreciate every opportunity and experience that has made me who I am today.
What has been keeping you inspired in 2020?
Today, I'm inspired by music. Touching the fans and listeners, working with the DJ's and venues, performing live gigs (pre-COVID).
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