INTERVIEW: Lil Raskull talks about his new "Quotes from a G.O.A.T." book

On April 1, Houston’s Delbert “Lil Raskull” Harris released his new book Quotes from a G.O.A.T. - (Greatest of All Time) Volume 1.

I recently caught up with the veteran Christian rapper (whose We Are Legend album was one of my favorites of last year) via e-mail to discuss the tome’s content (the subtitle says: "Daily thoughts and Facebook posts), his use of the G.O.A.T. name, and his post-University of Houston plans.

Sketch: First off, why should I buy this book when I can just be your “friend” on Facebook and get my daily dose for free?

Ras: Personally, I'm a fan of print but of course I won't hold everyone to my preference. I think to have all the quotes together and accessible makes them easier to read. Also, there was a book like this called Acts of Faith that ultimately led me to salvation, so I believe Quotes from a G.O.A.T. can have that same capability.

Sketch: You titled the book Quotes from a G.O.A.T. - (Greatest of All Time) Volume 1. Isn’t that a little egotistical, especially for a Christian rapper?

Ras: Yes, but I'm one of those who complains about Christian hip hop artists not paying enough respect to the forerunners. I'm still active, so my fight isn't just for personal reasons.

Whatever the case, this lifetime has taught me something and that is people will say about you what you first tell yourself - good or bad. So yes, I am one of the greatest of all time, be it ego, truth, or both.

Sketch: You’re a Christian rap veteran. Why write a book like this and instead of one about the history of the movement or your own involvement in it?

Ras: I believe the book will reach people outside of my genre of music. In fact, in the preface I address readers who may not be fans of hip hop. I can't stand it myself sometimes. All in all, I think the book is easy read, entertaining, and educational in some aspects - pretty decent for my first rodeo.

Sketch: You’re about to graduate from the University of Houston with a political science degree. What’s next for Lil Raskull/Ras/Delbert R. Harris?

Ras: Eventually I will tackle law school, but I’ve got to get couple of the kids out of the house before I focus that intensely on studies. My son is fast tracking to an athletic scholarship and career, plus he eats a lot, so I've got to get him shipped off first. Until then, I'll be announcing more music and business ventures soon.



Sketch: Who would win a religious rap wisdom Tweet-off? You and the Facebook app on your Android or Rev Run on his Blackberry in the bathtub?

Ras: That's a good one. Of course, Rev Run would win because I would feel bad punching my father. (Laughs)

No really, he's seen a side of life I haven't quite experienced so I believe his wisdom runs a little deeper than mine. Also, all my Tweets and posts aren't exactly spiritual. But if you can arrange a Tweet-off I'll accept the challenge.

To purchase your copy of Quotes from a G.O.A.T. Volume 1 send money orders for $6.99 to:

Delbert R. Harris
4022 Bennington St.
Houston, Texas 77016

Or email Delbert.Harris[at]gmail[dot]com and describe your interest and payment arrangement.

Lil Raskull Goes Back to School

When the Big Red Marching Band of Houston’s MacArthur High School takes the field for halftime of this Friday night’s homecoming football game they will be joined by two special alumni. The first will be Marcie Chapa – a professional drummer who frequently tours with Beyonce and Delbert Harris aka Lil Raskull – a veteran Christian rapper.

Although Harris’ small stature and babyface features would allow him to pass for a member of the senior class (hence the “Lil” in his stage name), it’s actually been 20 years since he roamed MacArthur’s locker-lined hallways. Chapa graduated five years after him and is a 15 year alumna.

The duo will perform with the school’s marching band for an interpretation of Beyonce’s “Crazy in Love” hit song as well as an all original duet written by MHS music director Jose Diaz.

Harris said he was invited to perform by Diaz who was MacArthur’s music director when he attended the school. He’s also worked with Diaz’s side band, Caliente, a few times in the past.

“I’m definitely honored by the request,” Harris said. “It’s probably the closest thing a Christian artist like myself will get to performing at the Super Bowl.”

Although Ras, as he is also known, has not performed in a setting like this before, he said he was inspired by the mix of hip hop and marching band music when he saw the movie Drumline.

“I’m definitely excited about getting my Petey Pablo on,” he said, referencing the mainstream rapper who made a memorable cameo in that 2002 film.

Harris said he was far from a straight-A student when he attended MacArthur High but had many friends who were and also participated in varsity sports.

After graduation Harris briefly attended the University of Houston – Downtown. He said back then he wasn’t disciplined enough to appreciate the delayed gratification rewards of a degree and eventually dropped out of college to pursue his burgeoning rap career.

But today, he’s actually returned to the UHD campus and is one year away from graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science.

When asked what he would say if he could provide one bit of advice to the 1990 version of himself, the answer was almost instantaneous.

“Definitely take that athletic trainer college scholarship you were offered but turned down because you wanted to ‘hang out.’ Paying for this stuff on your own dime is no fun at all,” Harris only half-way joked.

The MacArthur Generals will take on the Jefferson Davis Panthers this Friday, September 17 at H-W.W. Thorne Stadium at 7pm.