StraightDrop Interviews -Tello

straightdrophiphop.com is introducing our new interview series with one of the Midwest's hottest battlers. We recently had a chance to catch up with Bar Brawl Battle League battler Tello to discuss a variety of interesting topics. Check out what the Chi-town native had to say about everything from his favorite leagues to who his first "big-name" call out would be.

SDHH: What's up? Tell the world just a little bit about Tello.

Tello: Tello is a nigga who grew up in Chicago. I moved to Springfield in 2014 after my og died.

I always rapped when I was growing up,but was also good in basketball. I moved a lot never was really stable so I try to live my life with balance and stability. I'm a very humble guy, at least I try to be, but I stay hungry in everythinig I do....

SDHH: Speaking of Tello where did the name originate?

Tello: Tello is short for Donotello, my real name.

SDHH: How long have you been battling?

Tello: 1 year.

SDHH: Before become a battle rapper were you a rapper?

Tello: Music is my 1st love. I just fell in love with the battle rap culture.

SDHH: What are some of your favorite bigger leagues (URL, KOTD, Don't Flop, UW etc.)?

Tello: Url, Gorrila Warfare, Black Ice Cartel. SDHH: Name your top 5 battle rappers today.

Tello: Murda Mook, Charlie Clips, Hollow da Don, Tsu Surf, Hitman Holla.

SDHH: If you could pick one top/mid tier battler to call out who would it be and why?

Tello: I would say T top. He talks that shit I like to hear. I'm from the struggle so I relate to him a lot, but he would die ugly.

SDHH: After watching a couple of your battles it's easy to tell that you take a "real-talk" approach to your rounds. Is that something you intend to do or is it just how you rap?

Tello: It's just how I rap. I try to bring substance when I rap. I talk about what I've experienced and been through, but I'm working on being well-rounded.

SDHH: Another one of your strengths is incorporating tricky wordplay throughout your verses. Is that something you work on?

Tello: I feel wordplay is a natural talent, but I do work on it when I freestyle or spar.

SDHH: Where do you see yourself in the battle rap world in say 5 years?

Tello: In 5 years I'm definitely going to be a house-hold name in the entire country and easily top-tier in the Midwest.

SDHH: Any Shout-outs or last words for the fans?

Tello: I appreciate all the love and support in my first year. I'm going to continue to work and give the fans a show.S/O my bros Q and Shellz, my bro Boosie, BRO SKRILLAH, Fatboi S/O F.A.M.I.L.Y. Free Boss Maseiano!

Check out Tello's first ever battle which took place on Bar Brawl Battle League.