Hip-hop heads know his name from production gigs on records by such heavy-hitters as Beanie Sigel, Mos Def and Scarface. But these days New York-based 88-Keys is concentrating on his own material (at least when he’s not remixing Tegan and Sara—hit up his blog for the stellar results). The rapper’s brainy 2008 debut, The Death of Adam, was executive produced by 88’s pal Kanye West, who also contributed guest verses. Hey, if he’s good enough for Kanye he is good enough for anyone who would listen to Attack Attack.

With an introduction to a beat machine and hanging around individuals like Q-Tip, Mos Def and Kanye West, artist and beat maker 88-Keys has evolved into a triple threat who has only scratched the surface of his potential in every facet of his artistry.

Hearty Magazine sat down with 88-Keys in his home for an intimate talk about his life. They also got a look at his in-house studio.

88-Keys relaxes in his Ralph Lauren wardrobe and hits us up with his answers to our questions in the week’s Hot Seat.

If you are a die hard fan of LOST (the hit television series on ABC) then you’re going to want to check out 88-Keys’ new song called “Baggage Claim” (produced by multi-platinum producer Needlz) IMMEDIATELY!

(Click On The Photo To Hear “Baggage Claim” Produced By Needlz)

*Note – Photo Is Above In Case You’re… LOST

For the entire week, starting September 7, 2009, 88-Keys has been made the official House Band for the MTVu Network. Nice!

(Click Above To Peep The MTVu Steez.)

88-Keys is given the honorary title of “Artist of The Month” for Progress Magazine’s debut issue. Interview by Terrence Lomax. Photography by Ray Leroy. Polo Steamed by Gillian Wach.

(To Read Interview Please Click On Cover Photo Above)

(Click On Banner Above To Get To The Goods)

Rapper and producer 88-Keys was Born to Rock the microphone and his vintage Akai MPC 3000 drum machine. Find out what songs inspire him on his Celebrity Playlist, brought to you by Gap.

To hear more from 88-Keys please visit his Imeem profile which can be found on the LINKS section of this website. T’anks.