Introducing Memphis rapper Yo Gotti

How did you come up with the name Yo Gotti…does it all come from the John Gotti thing?
Yo Gotti-When I was young in the neighborhood I used to hang with these guys who were like 21 and they always called me "Yo."

How long have you been rapping and putting out mix tapes and music?
Yo Gotti-I put out a couple of independent albums before I started doing mix tapes. I've been making music since I was around 15 years old.

What can you tell me about your new album that comes out May 23rd?
Yo Gotti-Back To The Basics. I have the Birdman and Lil' Wayne on there. I got Jazze Pha on there. I got All Star, one of my artists who is through Cash Money on there. I got production by Scott Storch, Street Tone, I got Young Buck on there too.

Correct me if I am wrong, but I had read on your website that one of your songs was featured on the Hustle & Flow soundtrack?
Yo Gotti-Yeah "Full Time." It was in the movie. They played it when they got to fighting in the club.

What is the rap scene like in Memphis?
Yo Gotti-I mean after Hustle & Flow it's broader, its more open. I think a bit more people are paying attention to us. But for me and the rest of the underground it's pretty much the same.

Who are some rappers who have influenced you over the years?
Yo Gotti-8-Ball and MJG and a lot of local cats.

I know you are a rapper now but did you ever have any other career aspirations or did you always want to be a rapper?
Yo Gotti-I rap because I have the talent. When I was younger I was running in these streets hustling. I didn't think I would make it out the hood. Once it started kicking off and really getting serious I took steps to try to make it happen.

What are your goals in the entertainment industry?
Yo Gotti-My goals are to come out and do the best that I can. Making sure that I can get my artists the same opportunities that I get. I have a production deal with Cash Money/Universal. My first artist All-Star will be coming out soon and my group Block Burner and we just signed Lil Kat she used to be with Three Six Mafia. She sang on the "Chicken Head" song. So really focusing on me and my artists.

For additional details please visit http://www.myspace.com/yogotti or http://www.yogottimusic.com/