Cory Gunz: Auto Focus

Although he had a major label deal before he was old enough to vote, Cory Gunz bever thought of himself as a youngster in the game. A prolific wordsmith, the Bronx-born rapper proved early on that he could go toe-to-toe with the best lyricists out there, and has worked hard to develop his songwriting skills to offer the hip-hop masses a well-rounded sound.

Now 24-years-old, Gunz has had more opportunities set before him in five years than most artists see in a lifetime. As the son of peter Gunz-one half of the legendary duo Lord Tariq and Peter Gunz-and protege of NBA star/rapper Shaquille O’Neal, it was almost destined that Cory would be continuing a legacy. These days, he’s also got the pressure of Lil Wayne’s Young Money crew, as well as, developing his own Militia Music label.

In the Spring of 2011, Cory and Peter Gunz appeared on the MTV series, “Son Of A Gun,” which introduced millions of potential new fabs to the young rappers story. From the professional rivalry between his longtime lawyer and manager, Ed Woods, and current manager Nick Cannon, to the personal nattle of gaining true independence as a young man, Cory put all his cards on the table in the series. The question is, will this type of exposure pay off for a future hip-hop star in 2011?

Despite all his exposure to the public, young Cory Gunz maintains a cool exterior and thoughtful poise. In this Urban Ink exclusive interview we try to unveil some of the storied behind his many tattoos. However, aside from a noble acknowledgement for Rob G. Of Tiger Tattoos, who passed away in January 2009, it’s apparent that Cory is holding on to much of his good storytelling for some upcoming songs.

Urban Ink: What was the very first tattoo you ever got, how old were you, and what did it mean to you?

Cory Gunz: The first tattoo I got was ‘Son Of A Gun,’ on my right arm, I was 15. Ron G. (God bless the dead) out of Tiger Tattoos in Orland,Florida, did it. My uncle, Shaquille O’Neal, took me to get it.

Has there been any ink on you, so far, that you’ve regretted or wanted to change?

Not one tattoo, there’s something important behind each piece of ink.

Please tell us a little about the work on your arms. Any interesting stories?

Everything means something. My arms done by my people in Cleveland at Focus-Johnny and Jimmy. They’re twins and they’ve done both my arms. (Cory also mentions the twins in one of his rhymes, which is featured on the season finale of “Son Of A Gun”).

What is the significance of the lady tattoo on your side? That was done by Caesar at Black Ink in Harlem, right?

Yes, Caesar did the girl on my side. A few close friends and family have gotten versions on their sides as well-it’s really just everyone’s interpretation of what the fantasy woman is. Every one’s girl is ideal to them.

Are there any key tats you have that relate directly to your songs, or personal creativity?

Everything ties into another piece, and there’s a story behind each one. Just like musoic, there can be separate tracks but everything ties back into the album- there’s always a complete work, even with individual pieces.

How do you feel your “Son Of A Gun” reality show worked out for this stage of your career? Any benefits? Any regrets?

No regrets, it was a phenomenal experience. I was skeptical as to the way I’d be received as an artist; I didn’t want to be seen as going too commercial or mainstream. It framed my grind and gave people an interpretation of me and what I’m trying to do.

What is next for you on the music front?

The Son Of A Gun EP is coming soon, and an unplugged album coming a little further down the line.

What do you want people to know most about you as an artist and a man at this stage of your life?

I feel like people have been given a good look into my back-story. I just want them to know I’m aware of my gift and my blessings, and the plan is tov work and prove that peoples belief in me is well worth it. I’m here to stay.

YOUNG HASH

Cory Gunz may be positioning himself to be the next big thing in hip-hop, but he’s also thinking about more than just himself for years to come. Gunz often mentions his team Militia Music, and his long-time friend, Young Hash, is currently at the forefront of the movement. As Hash explains, “loyalty and unity” are the keys to success for the Bronx based crew.

With 16 tattoos and counting, Hash is focused on filling on every blank space he can. “I’m getting tatted forever!” He laughs. His personal favorite piece, thus far, is a Malcolm X image that was done by Caesar of Black Ink. Appropriate since their shop is smack dab ob the historic Malcolm X Boulevard in Harlem. “I’m not a Muslim,” explains Hash, “but I believe in the message he was trying to send.”

Hash attests he doesn’t enter into any decisions for his ink while under the influence. “I think hard on my tats. I feel like a lot of people are doing silly things, and I refuse to be a part of that,” he explains.

It’s pretty common these days for men to don the face of their favorite ladies- or even a fantasy girl, like Cory Gunz explained to us about the image on his side-but Hash has his own idea of unique beauty. If I could tattoo the face of any woman, other than a family member, I think it’d be Marilyn Monroe. Her sex appeal was 100 percent!”

As Hash’s music career picks up speed, the good-natured rapper keeps his goal for success close to home. There is a lot going on in the area where I’m from, and I just want to give them my eyes for now!”

Source: Urban Ink