Submitted by Sandy Graham
Although the real break-through for Gangstagrass happened on July 8, 2010, Gangstagrass producer Rench and rapper T.O.N.E.Z were nominated for an Emmy in the category of Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music for "Long Hard Times to Come”, they initially formed in 2006 and have been evolving and changing ever since. The band's song "Long Hard Times to Come", was selected to be the opening theme song of the acclaimed television show Justified on FX in early 2010.
There is no distinct category or genre to put this band into; how do you define hip-hop/rap meets bluegrass. Truly a trailblazer, I had the opportunity to catch up with Rench, the producer as well as vocalist/guitarist in Gangstagrass at his home in New York.
“I was actually born in Oklahoma, and my Dad had a heavy influence on my early love of country and country/rock music. I grew up on Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Gram Parsons and so many more of those great singers. The swampy, bluegrass feel came from years of having that kind of music around me.”
The rappers and bluegrass players involved in performances have changed over time, coordinated by Rench in his role as producer and main contributor. Quite a huge list of artists who have come in and out of the Gangstagrass circle. How does that work with you coordinating it?