Nominated by the people and taking on the responsibility of an entire city, he rises to the occasion! TSA is “The Candidate”. True Sun Ali aka TSA has confidence equal to a pack of lions in a wolves den, so sure of his talent he proudly calls himself, “The Voice Of Brooklyn”.

Moved by the great music that has come from his city of Brooklyn he strives to show the world that he can continue to carry the torch. TSA has been recognized by his peers as the “Essence Of Hip-Hop” proudly excepting the title he talks with Yo! Raps about how he prepared himself for his career in rap, the love for his borough and his thoughts about this year’s election.    

Explain the meaning behind your name, True Sun Ali aka TSA.

It’s basically just that, the truth (“True”) shines (“Sun” because I shine like one) the greatest (“Ali” meaning greater).

You call yourself “The Voice Pf Brooklyn”, in what ways have you earned that title?

I rep Brooklyn in everything that I do, in my walk, my talk and my music. Not to say that no other artist from Brooklyn does these things, but I take pride in carrying my borough on my back and have been doing so since the beginning of my career. Check my music; even you would say this guy is Brooklyn for real.  

What is the connection between the release of your mixtape, The Candidate, and this year’s election?

Simply that! I’m the people’s champ and I'm campaigning to the world through my music that I’m the next in charge; proving to bring the new wave of music and that real hip hop that the world has been waiting for.

Why is it imperative that people get out and vote on November 6th?

First of all, it’s very important that we get the youth out to register and then make the best decision in voting for our President. I see no reason in making a change right now so Obama it is for me.

How does your latest project, The Candidate, surpass your previous work?

It shows my growth in the music and my thoughts. I would say The Candidate: Business & Politricks is my best work to date.

You’ve had the privilege of working with noted producers such as Lord Digga, Vinny Idol, and 5th Seal. What did you absorb from that opportunity?

Being a part of greatness! Being able to create a comfortable working environment with my brothers was great. Truth be told, I've known Lord Digga for years and Vinny is like my big brother. Fifth Seal and I share the same business manager so that’s like a win/win situation.

Party People is a feel good dance track; tell us about the dance that everyone’s going in the video. What’s the name of the dance?

Yes, it definitely is a nice groove to get you moving. The dance? I guess we can call it "The Freeze" [laughs]. It’s a dance that "Mr. Freeze" from the Original Rocksteady Crew came up with. I got the Couture Dolls in the video doing all kinds of new dances out now, including the "All In".

The video for Party People brought individuals of all ages and races together, who do you hope to reach through your music?

Everyone! I plan on being a household name. I wanna reach people of all ages; even have your moms and grandmoms screaming #TSA [laughs].

New York's journey in Hip-Hop has given the world some of the most astonishing rap artist and music, how do you add to that legacy?

By continuing to create the real Hip-Hop, that good music you can feel. New York has always had the ability to rock the crowd and keep a party live and I plan on keeping that spirit alive.

Who from New York has encouraged your movement in this industry and in what ways?

No one has encouraged my movement because my good spirit and gifts come from within, but I'm always inspired by great talent. Shout out to all the artist that’s doing their thing in New York and all over.

What does winning the Essence Of Hip-Hop award at the 2012 Underground Music Awards symbolize for your career?

It symbolizes everything! I am the essence of Hip-Hop.

You’re no stranger to battle rap. Tell us how the cypher prepared you for the studio atmosphere?

I’m no battle rapper. I’m just able to step into the cypher because that’s Hip-Hop. But I've always been comfortable in the studio, never had a problem there [laughs].

What are the positives and negatives of being an Independent artist?

I guess you can say the positives are being able to call the shots and make moves the way you and your company see fit. You’re in total control of your career, but that’s where the negatives come in. The negative is you have to be fully responsible for your financial situations. Like when a major gives you a budget to do everything you have do, you have to be that.

What are you aiming for with your music, what do you hope to accomplishment?

I'm aiming to be the best. To bring you nothing but the best music you can appreciate and rock to. Creating classics like the emcees before me, in my borough and my city.

And last where can your fans find you online?

They can always find me on my website at www.truesunali.com. Also they can become a fan of Facebook at www.facebook.com/officialtsa. And if you on YouTube, subscribe to my channel at www.youtube.com/truesunali1.

- By Alysha “AP” Price