Mega Ran & Bag of Tricks Cat, two talented rappers from different backgrounds with different styles, are finding success together. Mega Ran, AKA Raheem Jarbo, is a middle school teacher by day, and an exceptionally talented rapper by night. Known for his love of video games, Mega Ran is a nod to classic video game character Mega Man, he has taken a step away from the video game themes of his previous LPs as he joins forces with rising Phoenix, AZ based rapper, Felix the Cat, AKA Bag of Tricks Cat. Their first collaborative LP, Emerald Knights 2, landed on five different Billboard charts the week of release, including the number one spot on the Heatseekers Mountain chart, and a spot on the coveted Independent Artists chart.
How did you get started in music, and how did that lead you to where you are today?
MR – I wrote rap songs with my friends for as long as I can remember, and through the years, my friends kind of stopped, and I kept going. People told me they thought I had potential, so I kept on while working as a teacher, I worked late nights on my craft… and it’s definitely brought me to where I am today.
BOTC – I was heavily influenced by my grandma, Ann Bennett, growing up. She was a singer on the east coast during the big band era. She was the breadwinner in the family and did it all with music! Her claim to fame was singing the “Felix The Cat” theme song in 1959 (hence my stage name). I started writing raps when I was 11 or 12 years old. I’ve been doing live shows since I was 16. Just stuck with it because it’s all I know!
What’s the story behind this album, how did it come together?
MR – Felix and I have done so much work together over the years, and I respected his hustle, and it only made sense to do it again. We toured the UK with the first release and hit the southwest for the second.
BOTC– Mega has been a great mentor to me over the years and I felt like both of us had progressed so much since we first collaborated and toured together. When I opened up my studio summer of 2017 we started vibing and bouncing ideas.
How did you plan for this record’s release? Did it meet or exceed expectations?
MR – I said once, I only drop records when I have something to say. These are crazy times, so I knew that I needed to speak on these records. I always have high expectations for projects so this one is no different.
BOTC – We worked hard and planned in advance. I believe we started in August of 2017. I’m very happy with the project and it exceeded my expectations which were already high!
How did you get started with IHM, and how did they help you with release planning/building momentum?
MR– I met Bram at IHM years ago, and he helped me by showing me that the work that goes into creating the album is just the beginning. You have to put as much effort into the planning to have great results.
BOTC – I was referred by Mega Ran. It’s a great platform that helps artists make the most out of their releases.
Who inspires you?
MR – Anyone who works hard, pushes the boundary of the culture and what we can do.
BOTC – My grandma, Mega and basically everybody that has stayed in my corner over the years.
What are you listening to right now? What’s the coolest thing our readers should be listening to right now?
MR – Well you all need to be listening to EMERALD KNIGHTS! I also just found a dope band by the name of Zenizen, they’re sick.
BOTC– Emerald Knights…. DUH! But I am also listening to the new Kanye West album. I’m excited for Young Buck’s new album too.
Where can fans see you live?
MR – all over! tour dates are at megaran.com/shows
BOTC– Mainly in the southwest and northwest of the US!
Lastly, what’s next for you?
BOTC – I’m working on my label mate, Justus’s album, which is set for a fall release. But expect a solo album soon! And maybe even Emerald Knights 3! MR – More music, videos and moves. Emerald Knights a Go!
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