Get to Know: Casey Veggies

For most people, being in the 9th grade was truly a time where you really had no worries. I mean, all you really had to focus on was school and having fun. That's the life. But, can you imagine going back to your freshman year of high school and having most people revere you as 'the future of hip-hop'? For 14-year-old Los Angeles native, Casey Veggies, that's the reality he lives in on a daily basis. I got the opportunity to ask the phenom a few questions, and the response I got really showed me that this kid has the goods. And for those of you who think you're a "veteran" in this rap game, you could probably learn a thing or two.


1.First of all, tell the people your name and what you do.

Hello world, I am Casey V, Casey Veggies, CV, and all of the above. A “rapper”, “entertainer", music maker, paper chaser, writer, and so on.

2.Give us a little background info on the name ‘Casey Veggies.’ Where’d it come from? Why’d you choose it to be your rap name?

Shoutout to Peas and Carrots to where it came from. My homie Anwar came with the 'Carrots', Joshton came with the 'Peas', and Casey came with the 'Veggies'. It’s just a lifestyle. Also to the fact that veggies are good for you, let alone my music is good for you.

3.How old were you when you first got into this rap game?

Started writing at 12, wasn’t in the game whatsoever, lol...knowing that I would sooner or later get to the recording point and get the games started.

4.What makes you different than most guys your age?

Good question. It’s just me all around. I’m not trying to grow too fast, but I would say it’s just how I carry myself, and my mindset. Wanting to be ‘better’.




5.In your eyes, who are the greats out there today?

Kanye, Nas, Hov, Lupe, Outkast, UGK. I fucks with the Game, Clipse, so on and so on...no one can ever think of [them] all. But then I also listen to a lot of unsigned hype...H.O.P.E., Dom. Kennedy, Pac Div, Drake, Jsean, Diz Gibran, etc...they know who they are, lol.

6.What is the best album or mixtape that you’ve heard in the past year?

Drake-Comeback Season… Clipse- We got it for Cheap Vol.3... H.O.P.E.- Fresh Hell… Casey Veggies-Customized Greatly...Kanye West-Graduation…Lupe Fiasco’s-The Cool. I brought back The Game's Documentary and Hov- American Gangster.

7.What is your favorite track that you’ve done so far and why?

I’m going to have to say two. ‘The Dope Dealer,’ produced by Uncle Dave, because of the whole storyline. You have to somewhat pay attention to get it. The beat is ridden like a horse jockey. I also like ‘I still love it’ just because of the fact that it’s a real/true ass song...and everyone appreciates real.

8.Who or what influences your sound and style?

From what I hear it’s Kanye West. Not purposely...but why not? I’m trying to find my own self, and sound like me only. But I get influenced by good music in general. Next Question.

9. You say that people feel as though Kanye influences a lot of your work, and since we all know just how arrogant Mr. West can be at times, is it safe to assume that you have a bit of that cocky swagg to you as well?

Good Question. I wouldn't say I'm cocky...maybe a tiny bit arrogant. I'm just a shaded type dude...you can say I'm cool.


10.You’re so young, and many say you have a long way to go…how do you feel about that?

The fact that I’m young gives me the upper edge. The fact that I write all my shit and do my thing gives me the upper edge. And I’m grinding and I do have a long way to go. I won't stop. I shouldn’t have to.

11.Have you ran into any doubters of your skills yet? And if so, how was that experience for you?

Truth is, no one has doubted my flow...it’s respected and I thank you guys! I have gotten criticized to where I can’t construct a full song, but all that being said, this is what I do. When it comes to ‘rap’ I can do it.




12.How do you feel about the state hip-hop is in right now?

Well I believe there's rap, then there's hip-hop. The fact that a lot of rappers believe that their music is "hip-hop" destroys everything. If every artist would stay true to their position, everything would be everything. And for me, I would say I'm a mix of both, but slightly an edge on the "hip-hop" side. You dig?

13.If you could collaborate with any person in the entire world, who would it be and why?

Kanye West. The fact that he makes a song hot and he works hard to perfect a song no matter what. His production is dope, and if I work with Kanye West, the song would be magnificent!


14.Ok, just for fun, say you were going to shoot a music video tomorrow, who would you cast as your leading lady and why?

Melissa Ford. It would spice things up a bit.

15.Honestly…do you think you’re better than Souljah Boy?

Souljah Boy is hot. He’s not a better rapper than me, most def. He’s not a better rapper than a lot of rappers, signed and un-signed. But he’s shining right now. I’m coming...way more legit.

16. What inspires you to keep grinding everyday?

My Dream and Myself. Period.

17. Earlier, you mentioned 'Still Love It' as one of your favorites, and coincidentally, it also happens to be one of my favorites that you've put out there. In the song, you say "I cooked the food, but it was their dish"...what'd you mean by that?

Basically saying, I do all the work, they get all the credit. Not pointed towards anyone, but just a true statement.

18. Any special shout outs?

Fuck. Hardest question yet. EVERYONE. Peas and Carrots. Anwar C., Josh P., the priceless family, Odd Future, Tyler the fucking creator, F2D ent., We Major Ent., Oh boi ent.,Rogue Status! Diamond fam! All the rappers trying to accomplish the impossible...producers also. The B.B. Rose Scenario for this interview. MySpace music for giving me the opportunity to start buzzin' in these streets. LITERALLY EVERYONE...even if you don't like me. It's that simple.


Casey Veggies will be releasing the mixtape sequel Customized Greatly Vol. 2, which will be available for free download. To hear more of CV, you can check out his MySpace Music page and/or the Peas & Carrots blog.