Sadat X and El Da Sensei Speak on Hip Hop's Power & Collab Album «XL»
Today we've got an extra special interview for you. This time with 2 Golden Era legends, Sadat X and El Da Sensei! We recently got the chance to link up with the two for an Hype Off Life interview, where we chopped it up about their new collab album 'Sadat X & El Da Sensei Present «XL»' and some other good ol' Hip Hop sh*t.While they need no introduction, here's a brief introduction for those who might not know! El Da Sensei first stepped on the Hip Hop scene as 1/2 of the Artifacts, with 'Between a Rock & a Hard Place' being their 1994 debut. From there on he released a solo project in 2002, 'Relax, Relate, Release,' featuring Sadat X, Organized Konfusion, J-Live and more. As a member of Brand Nubian, Sadat X was one of the key MCs whose messages were inspired by the Five Percent Nation. He would also go on to release solo projects, like 'Wild Cowboys,' 'Never Left' and 'Experience & Education.'Peep the Hype Off Life exclusive below to catch up, as Sadat X and El Da Sensei speak on adapting to changes in the industry, '«XL»,' Hip Hop's power and the proudest moment of their careers.
A lot has changed in Hip Hop recently, with technology leading the way. How have these past few years been treating you guys?
X: Its been good, technology has helped with promotion a lot and has made things a little easier than how we had to do back in the day.El: With all the technology we have today and social media to promote and spread the word is the best tool we can have to sell ourselves. Big advantage compared to the past! Self promotion!!!
How have you been able to adapt?
X: Its been good, technology has helped with promotion a lot and has made things a little easier than how we had to do back in the day.El: We have adapted by staying current with certain producers who give us that sound we need relevant dudes and up and coming new producers. I also think keeping up with competition being a fan first and being a listener keeps you fresh and updated and being creative with the bars.
What is your opinion on music streaming and social media?
X: Its good and its bad - I don't get caught up in it too much. I use it to promote and further myself.
"I stayed in my own lane that worked for me."- Sadat X
Who have you been tuning into these days?
X: I've been listening to Travis Scott, Conway and Westside Gunn and always my old school family.El: I listen to a lot of my peers: Monche, Roc Marci, Skyzoo, Bumpy Knuckles pretty much whenever new shit comes of cats I listen to. Still rock out to DJ Kaos' Art of Diggin series as well. I don't do too much of the new stuff.
Are there any upcoming artists you think we should keep on our radar?
X: There are so many that I can't keep up or know who everyone is so I don't know right now. 
You guys have been with Hip Hop during it’s many stages. Which moment in Hip Hop history is your favorite?
X: When we (Brand Nubian) were 1st able to perform at The Apollo Theater in Harlem, NY.El: I would have to say when we got signed. It was official and so were we. Like we got into an exclusive club and now we in it. Thats the biggest thing for me.
How has it been growing with your audience over the years?
X: Its an experience that has been great and been in the music business, esp Hip Hop this long.
As far as fanbases go, are you more concerned with going wider by attracting new fans or deeper, strengthening relationships with the ones you have already?
X: I don't make music for specific categories or age groups, there is no telling who I am going to reach.El: I love the fact that the fans grow along with you. I love the fans cuz with out that its a wrap, they make us. So with all the new music we doing its good to see the youth take it in cuz they are important for me and X. We must adapt to the times. The fans notice when you change. Thats what keeps them coming back. That and good music. 
Your new album, Sadat X & El Da Sensei Present «XL» is the truth! How did the collab come about?
X: We've known each other for years and always said we work together and 1 day we were recording for a feature and my manager suggested we do an album together and the rest is history.El: I would sat the album was made through years of friendship and respect of our styles and taste in music. Our mutual friend thought hey why not... so we did. Not knowing what we would create, but damn we didn't know this would be so dope. I was giddy every song, every time I heard X voice come out the booth. I'm grateful.
"Everybody has there way of listening to music today and some are still traditional so you have to cater to all outlets physically and digitally."- El Da Sensei
What type of sounds and content will listeners experience by pressing play?
X: I can't put in anyone's head what they take/hear from it but they will def hear our journey.El: Once you press play be prepared for hard beats and drums. Thick basslines and horns... loooootttta scratchin. Lol. We pretty much made our music, made a 90's album for 2018!!! With all the ingredients. 
Out of the 22 tracks, which one is your favorite?
X: "Power Moves"El: Damn theres a few lol id have to say I'm proud of "3 Rounds to Spar" and "Sign In." We don't have many guests and to have Bumpy and AG on this album is incredible for me.
"We pretty much made our music, made a 90's album for 2018!!!"- El Da Sensei
XL is available on vinyl, cassette tape and digitally through streaming platforms. What backed the decision to touch all bases by offering physical copies too?
X: Because its still a lot of people that like the physical.El: Everybody has there way of listening to music today and some are still traditional so you have to cater to all outlets physically and digitally!
What are some of the differences you’ve noticed when it comes to pushing new music now as compared to back in the day?
X: Its good if you can sound like everyone else and breakthrough - you might have a chanceEl: Sh*t today you're in control of all things. You can control the release and promote much better today than in the past. Streaming helps too. Big time. 2 big words "The Internet" thats what changed this whole sh*t up. 
So far, what is the proudest moment in your career?
X: When my family was able to come see us (Brand Nubian) perform at The Apollo.El: My proudest moment to date is hearing the excitement of my son while he was diggin for the first time and he found two of my records... He called me poppin sh*t cuz he didn't think he'd find anything. He was proud to go to the counter to tell them I was his pop. That made me happy that he finally realized what dad does is real.
What do you credit for your longevity?
X: To not sounding like everyone else and not listening to everyone else - I stayed in my own lane that worked for me.El: I would have to say a very good and deep catalog. Dope songs and working with producers the streets know!!!
When did you guys realize Hip Hop’s power?
X: When they started distinguishing who was/is the "best"El: I realized Hip Hop's power when people follow you off words and the intent of what our words are and what they mean to people. When you speak those words Hip Hop is powerful.
Follow: @sadatx & @senseifromnj
