Q&A | Talking Shop with Emcee, Producer and Filmmaker, Theory Hazit 

Portland-based emcee, music producer, and filmmaker Theory Hazit isn't afraid to wear many different hats as long as the vibe's right. Since 2007, he's been creating from the heart and sharing those creations with loyal fans and newcomers each year.

We recently connected with the multi-talented artist to learn about his latest collaborative album with veteran indie rapper Krum, his nomadic lifestyle, preferred production tech and more. Keep reading for the goods on Theory Hazit.

The GOODS: The name Theory Hazit? We think it’s really dope. 

TH: "Thank you! Every superhero has a secret identity and code name."

TG: Are you originally from Portland? How has the city's culture shaped your approach to music?

TH: "No, I’m not from Portland. I’m pretty nomadic. I’ve lived everywhere. No matter the city, the surrounding reminds me to continue being me and creating what I feel."

TG: Your sound is unique and definitely gives off a 90's into the 2000’s underground vibe. What influenced you to moving in that direction?

TH: "I just do what I like to hear. There’s a sound that I miss hearing. That particular vibe shouldn’t be restricted to a time period."

TG: Who are your top 5 artists and/or producers?

TH: "My top 5 artists are always changing but here are my top five producers: Hi-Tek, Nottz, Dr. Dre, DJ Premier, and J Dilla."

TG: Talk about the newly-released album with Krum. How did you two link? And it seems like the chemistry and energy is there, what was the process like for you both in studio?

TH: "Krum and I met in 2005-06'ish at a show. I’ve been a fan of his for years. I guess that’s where the chemistry and energy naturally comes from. We have worked on several songs together since 2008 and it’s always been an online collaboration where we exchange files via email and text. There was no actual work completed in the studio where we were both present. However, we created video content together and filmed a series of live one-take visuals for each song and that was great. Working with Krum is easy. We are very similar, from our diets to real life issues. We’re fans of one another, our children are born on the same day and year, I could go on but I’m not."

TG: In earlier projects, we hear you spitting bars as well as producing. We are seeing more producer/emcee hybrids. How important is it for producers to have a voice? Do you think in earlier times, a producer was somewhat put in a box to only make beats?

TH: "Rocking to the beat of your own drum is a real thing. No one can talk with the instruments like the composer. If the composer/producer has a voice, other than speaking with his/her hands, I say go for it. Be dope though. Be great at it. In earlier times, producers in groups may have felt limited. Later, you’d see them solo or thriving while producing other acts outside of their group(s)."

TG: Who would you want to collaborate with?

TH: "Over the years, this answer has changed. As of now, I only want to collaborate with people I know and gel with."

TG: As music technology in ever evolving, what do you think this means for producers? From the MPC to midi and other software, what do you currently use to make music?

TH: "It’s looking like the producer is the artist. The artist is the producer. With technology crackin' off the way that it is, it’s easy to self-produce and it will only get easier. The software is more user-friendly. I love using Ableton Live. I also use MPCs and Roland’s 404, and whatever else I have time to use."

To learn more about Theory Hazit, visit his website: theoryhazit.com

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