First there was Eminem, Slum Village, D12 and Royce Da 5’9 representing Detroit. Then came Black Milk, Guilty Simpson, Elzhi, Obie Trice, Trick Trick, Phat Kat and One Be Lo. Now there’s Finale, and his new album A Pipedream And A Promise, quite possibly the hottest sound to come out of Detroit since, well, Eminem.

Right now I’m working on… Promoting my current album A Pipe Dream And A Promise, mixing the full-length album I did with House Shoes and solo album number two.

I introduced myself to hip hop by… Learning every single word to Too Short’s Short But Funky. Then I started actually doing music on a serious level when someone gave me a copy of OC’s album Jewelz.

I got to where I am by… Paying dues and I’m still making payments.

Getting Dilla, Black Milk, M-Phases and Kev Brown was… Definitely an honour. It’s a small world and good to know that I have friends/family in the hip hop community.

People who run in my social circle are most likely to… Succeed. It’s only the beginning folks.

People like me because… Well you’d have to ask them but I hope people dig the fact that I’m only focused on the music. I stay clear of drama and gossip… just handle biz on stage and in the booth and you’ll be good.

A wise man once told me… I am the captain of my ship – I determine whether I sink or sail.

I’m all about the… Music. There’s always a new pattern or pocket to catch in the beat that no one else has found yet.

The first thing I do in the morning is… Work out.

The last thing I do at night is… Shut down Pro Tools.

I love it when people… Actually listen to me instead of hype/album credits.

I hate it when people… Assume; instead of just ask whatever questions on their mind.

If you ever see me walking down the street… Say what up and tell me what you honestly think of the music.

I’m a fan of… Skills. If you got ‘em I’ll listen. I don’t care what style or genre you claim. I grew up on it all from UGK to DITC)

Future pipedreams and promises… Keep growing as an artist. I want my audience to follow me through every stage and try not to disappoint.

A Pipedream And A Promise is out now on Grindin’