INTERVIEW: Watch An Exclusive Interview with D1n.ONLY

Back in December, I shared a track from Orlando hip hop artist D1n.ONLY called "Somebody Talk To 'Em" from his new mixtape Coming To An Ear Near U. I was struck by the production as well as the message -- not to mention his skill on the mic. Curious, I checked out the rest of the mixtape, which was just as strong. I had a lot of respect for D1's honesty, determination, and passion for his craft, which translated to a raw but sharp flow. Florida rapper Mouce stepped up and offered to produce an exclusive video interview with D1, so I sent over some questions to talk about everything from his influences to what's next.

WATCH: D1n.ONLY - "Somebody Talk To 'Em"

Continuing on with my 2011 hip hop obsession -- specifically in regards to production -- I want to share with you a video for "Somebody Talk To 'Em," a track off of Orlando-based rapper D1n.ONLY's latest mixtape Coming To An Ear Near U. It's a compelling story instilled with a ton of soul -- literally, with samples of some soul/R&B. Instead of an over accentuated sense of bravado or glorifying violence, D1n.ONLY raps honestly, passionately about staying true to yourself and rising above the overarching influence of the streets. Unless I'm missing something, it really seems to be an affirmation that being cool is all about being you, not trying to run in line with what someone else thinks is cool and right.

Catch the video, hear some more tracks, and download the mixtape below.