My City: Scheme’s Heart Beats With the Blood of Chicago

Over the last decade Chicago has emerged as hip-hop's most creatively dope city and, as we recently saw on his "Same Rebel, New Cause" mixtape, Scheme is determined to carry on Chicago's lyrical legacy while adding his own unique flavor. In this edition of our My City series, Scheme talks about the rise of his home city, explains Chicago's "sound" (or lack thereof) and says he can be found wherever good music's being played.

RefinedHype: Over the last few years Chicago's become one of the most prominent cities in hip-hop. Why do you think that is?

Scheme: The diversity in the music. I like to think that we take chances and create some great stuff. We finally understand the power we have as a scene, and the unity amongst the artists has increased a great deal. The artists that have made it from here are left field compared to the rest of the industry. The Kanye’s and the Lupe’s have created their own lane, which made a lot of people here in Chicago open their eyes to the talent that’s here at home. All of these things combined, have brought Chicago to the forefront of the music scene.

RefinedHype: If I didn't know you were from the Chi, how could I tell just by listening to your music?

Scheme: Hmmm, that’s a tough one. In my opinion, I don’t think Chicago has a “sound.” We have so many different styles here, which I think goes for my music as well. I honestly think that the only way you would know I’m from Chicago, is by the streets I mention in the music or certain words I may use.

RefinedHype: Where do you go to get inspired?

Scheme: Anywhere I can listen to music. Music is really my biggest source of inspiration as far as writing goes. Listening to what others create gets my mind working. I would also have to say, my car. Driving seems to be a great way to get ideas for me. I like going through beats and coming up with concepts. Sometimes full songs come out in a drive through my city.

RefinedHype: If I'm rolling through Chicago where can I find you?

Scheme:Anywhere and everywhere. I reside on the Northside, but grew up on the Westside as well. You can find me at Gramaphone checking some new music, at Jimmy’s eating a hot dog, and at Reggie’s catching a Hip Hop show haha; there’s a lot of dope spots in Chicago.

RefinedHype: Last words?

Scheme:Be sure to download the new "Same Rebel, New Cause" mixtape at and check out the blog at www.schememusic.wordpress.com for any and all updates. The LP will be in the works, so look for that later this year. Keep supporting the music, I truly appreciate everyone who has downloaded or bought any of my projects. This is just the beginning. Thank you.