Naming someone as “most influential” has got to have people rolling their eyes if for no other reason than the fact that it just sounds pretentious. In truth, I almost didn’t even do this category, but when I thought about why I wanted to do this post in the first place, I had to.

This post is to honor Larry Mizell Jr. He was born in the hip-hop community, raised in it, lives is, breathes it, and will most definitely live out his years in it. Larry hasn’t taken his roots or background for granted; rather, he is an ambassador for hip-hop on a local and national level. He has been the voice of hip-hop at The Stranger since 2004, he helps run 206Proof, and he is in various hip-hop groups such as They Live! and Cancer Rising. Recently, he has taken over the radio show “Street Sounds” on KEXP; you can hear him every Sunday starting at 6pm.

Larry Mizell Jr. is kindred to me because he is all about the local scene. He could be using his voice to seek his own glory, but rather, he is looking for the hidden gems wherever he can find them and spurring the community forward. He always has his ear to the street, and he is always paying attention. You’ll see him at numerous local events either hosting or just showing up to support. Keep your eye on this one in 2010, I hear he is going to have some good stuff to share with us.

Below is a phone interview (my first… desperate times…) with Larry Mizell Jr.  Listen in to see which of Larry’s outlets are his favorite, the worst thing he’s admitting to saying in print on 2009, his top 5 list for the year, and what he’s looking forward to in 2010.

An interview with Larry Mizell Jr.