Hot 97 “Ebro in the Morning” and “Improper Etiquette” host Laura Stylez in part one of her interview with Snobette, kicked off the conversation by discussing her Los Angeles versus New York identity, explaining her early desire to have a career in music and also to work for Hot 97. Stylez mentioned Nautica de la Cruz and Angie Martinez as radio hosts who first inspired her and spoke of her early days in New York and the excitement generated by the battle between rap artists Nas and Jay Z.
While not personally into the concept of top five lists, she listed Chance the Rapper, Anderson Paak, Isaiah Rashad, Kendrick Lamar, Schoolboy Q and Bodega Bamz as artists she’s currently spending a lot of time listening to.
Discussing musicians who have come through the station, Stylez discussed the decline in artist development and how it puts artist who visit her station at a disadvantage. “I wish there was more artist development. I’ve had artists come in here and they’re so clueless about what they’re getting into. They’re not coached and briefed on anything” lamented Stylez.
On whether or not the music industry is shady, Stylez explained it’s a competitive business and has continued to shrink so people are more cut throat than ever, but she noted that having a diverse skill set is key. She explained, “If you want to be a functioning piece of this puzzle, you need to perfect your craft. I’m an on-air personality but can also edit and produce.” Said Stylez in conclusion, “Every business is shady.”
