Chingy: I’m starting my record company… I’m doing that now, I’m in the position of getting that done. 
Slot-A-Lot Records.  And just helping other artists -
you know my homeboys, the Git It Boyz, my little sista Ziggy…  I got a couple things we’re working on.  That’s my label right now - that’s probably the biggest dream that I wanted to accomplish. I’m still thinking about a clothing line.  You know, that’s a different ball game, so I’m gonna take that slow until I find the right people.  I still got that in mind, but I’m gonna take that slow.

Who has given you the most inspiration?

Chingy: I grew up in a household with my mama and daddy listening to The Temptations… so Temptations, The Isley Brothers, Run DMC, LL Cool J, Rakim, Eric B, NWA, Ice Cube, DJ Quick… people like that are a couple of my inspirations.

What do you with your down time?

Chingy: Being in the studio, creating more music.  Me and the Git It Boyz, just creating more music.  I’m working on my 3rd album now.

Do you have anyone under your wings that you’re teaching about the industry from a money aspect and the musician aspect?

Chingy: You know, I got little cousins that want to jump in there, so I keep them around me, let them see how stuff goes, let them know that they gotta, you know, be legit, and get a lawyer and make sure your legal is right.

Who is the next artist you plan on doing a collaboration with?

Chingy: I’m gonna be on the Lil’ Wayne new album, still working on that, still working on that.  Cause I ain’t really did nothing with a lot of people… We been talking about it, so eventually we gonna get that done, but definitely Lil’ Wayne album.

What tracks from your new album Powerballin' will be released as singles?

Chingy: Next single would be “Make That Thing Talk For Me”.  It’s just about, like… Say you see a nice-looking woman walking, she has a nice behind, and it’s pretty jiggly (laughs) and it shakes (laughs) and it looks like it’s talking to you when she’s walking.  So make that thing talk for me. (Ed. Note: "Balla Baby" has already been released and is getting airplay nationwide.)

What quote do you have for all the fans that will read this interview?

Chingy: Just keep negative out of your life.  Always keep it positive.  If you got any goals, any big dreams you’re trying to accomplish, work hard at them and you shall accomplish them.  And always look out for your boy Chingy and support your boy Chingy, ya dig, cause I’m-a hold it down for you.  You know, that’s it.  (grins).  And get my album too!  Powerballin’

Chingy's new album Powerballin' is scheduled for release on November 16, 2004 on Capital Records and is available at your favorite record store or online outlet. Expect an announcement soon on a Chingy Tour.

Interview by Darren Thomas - Coyright © 2004 Florida Entertainment Scene - All Rights Reserved.