We Make It Rain With Food Stamps

At 18, Jae Griff has his whole life before him. You wouldn't know it from looking at his accomplishments thus far, though -- his determination has led him to crank out two original beats a day for the last year and a half and establish himself as an in-demand producer on the local hip hop market, and his vocals have graced two mixtapes this year alone. His debut album, "Training Day," showcased an artistic range stretching from hot club anthems to thoughtful, reflective lyrics. The title track, however, was perhaps the most appropriate metaphor for his current position, delivering sincere musings about coming of age in the hip hop world. Freestyling in the presence of Method Man at 17 years old -- and garnering Tical's respect, no less -- gave Griff the final boost of inspiration necessary for "Manifest Destiny," his upcoming follow-up LP. With his training complete and his future's roadmap laid out before him, all Griff needs now is time. And, as you recall, he has plenty of that.