Each time you turn the dial and stop on WGCI/107.5 FM, chances are you’ll hear “That’s Mackin.” What you may not realize is you’re bumping to the sounds of a 12-year-old self-professed “Freestyle Phenom” known as Shortie Mac.
Rapping
since age 7, Shortie Mac says perseverance is key, along with having a good
support base and motivating parents. He also credited comedian and radio
personality at ‘GCI, Leon Rogers, for showcasing his talents on the air.
The
pre-teen recently visited the University of Chicago-Carter G. Woodson Charter
School to talk to students about the entertainment industry and education.
“Let me
start off by saying I’m an ‘A’ and ‘B’ student. Education comes first,” said the
Chicago-born up-and-coming rapper who travels often out of town to perform and
has shared the stage with many including Ludacris, Soulja Boy and fellow
Chicago native Twista.
When
asked how he balances school, friends and his music, the answer was simple.
“I go to
school and to the studio. That’s pretty much what I do. I write all the time. I
work 24/7. If I’m going to the studio, I make sure I do my homework in class.
When I come from the studio, I study,” he told the students.
Shortie
Mac then turned the tables and asked the students how they’ve dealt with
negativity from friends. A few said they stopped being friends with those who
were mean to them.
How does he deal with negativity?
“You just
have to ignore it. I can’t respond to it,” he said.
Copyright
2011 Chicago Defender
