Harrison Village projects became the backdrop in what seemingly would have been called a nightmare for most but suprisingly for SmokedOut created the man that he is today. The low income housing that keeps so many of our black youth down actually inspired SmokedOut to try and escape the treaterous grips of society. However, SmokedOut also known as Ray Red wouldn't make it out without going through intitations that would forever change his character. Smoke was his mothers only son and his father didn't come around until he got older Smoke adds "better late than never." Moved to East Hills a dangerous project located on Pittsburgh's east side he soon got invovlved with a street posse called E.H.P (Executioners). The groups slogan was you mess with one you mess with us all and they wore all black. The late 80's an early 90's brought waves of influence from the opposite coast as California gang life quickly spread throughout our nation; and Pittsburgh was no exception to the rule. Crime rates began to inflate and it was then SmokedOut was initiated into the E.H. Gangsta Blood Gang/Set. "I'm not proud of it but back then I lived in a time when it was kill or be killed shoot or be shot and we never thought about tomorrow we lived for the day." "I missed a chance at a football scholarship because of my participation in gangs," says Ray Red. However, despite gang violence and surviving the harsh realities of public housing SmokedOut is able to speak on his expierences almost 10 years later. "God is good and I'm truly blessed to make it out of the hood now I want to use music to give back to those same areas that established the man I am today" says SmokedOut.

EXCERPT:

I feel like I been through it all/ that's why I ball/ 'til I fall/ I miss u krawl/ I can't wait until u leave da wall/

Song Title:We Gon Make It CD:The Resume (Produced by Mannie Beats)

SmokedOut was always interested in music at a very young age but never really took intiative to become engulfed in the whole music scene. He played the background at first watching and supporting his cousin Black Tone's movement. "I used to always play local tapes in my car some I didnt really like but I still gave them some play," speaks SmokedOut. Smoke seemingly stumbled into an already growing hip-hop movement when Black Tone got arrested and one of their rivals began perputuating that he had made the saying "100 percent." "Hip-hop has always thrived on it's ability for people to express feelings on any topic," says SmokedOut. In the midst of what seemed like all out war he got encouragement from his friend Shaun J. who told him to do his own album and more importantly actively protest his views on the "100 Percent" statement being stolen. This scorpio was never soft spoken or easily intimidated so defending hisself and his families honor was not out of character in the least bit.

EXCERPT:

All I can do is pray and take it one day at a time/ Ay Smoke do me a faovr please stay on ya grind/ You know these haters out here dont wanna see you shine/

Song Title: Get It Poppin Cd: The Resume (Produced by Mannie Beats)

Nowadays, Smoke deals with youth groups, hosts one of few weekly hip-hop events in Pittsburgh, and is an active CEO as well as founder of his self titled label called "SmokedOut Records." Hardwork, persistence, and patience have been the keys to establishing the refined image of SmokedOut. Being involved with music has probably in more ways than one saved SmokedOut's life. Smoke's charisma, lyrics, stage prescene, and work ethic would make him a great find by any label. SmokedOut Records plans on releasing various projects throughout the year so make sure you keep ya eyes open for those.

IN SMOKEDOUT's OWN WORDS:

IM HEAR 4 A REASON DUB in DUB out!!! 1-LUV 2 DA West Coast, East Coast, Mid West, Dirty South, West Bank "Harvey Darkside" Greffer St. "Rongray we gone m8k it homie!!! And shots out to BET, MTV, and Hollyhood; yall gone see me in a minute. Believe dat...It's in GODS Plan homie!!! To all my Pittsburgh G'z, Bloods, Crips, Hoodz, O.G.'z, Convicts, lets stop dis bull ish and get dis Industry Millions ya feel me. Been dere done dat, it's time for bigger and better thangs! Whad up to all da ladies in da Burgh and Worldwide. Keep doing you!