Sean Price Speaks with Associated Content

In 1971, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber introduced the highly controversial rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar, based on the album of same title. The production centered around the last weeks of Jesus' life, beginning with Jesus and his followers arriving in Jerusalem and ending with the Crucifixion. A large part of the plot focused on the character of Judas who is not satisfied with Jesus' lack of planning, and his claims of divinity. Controversial in its lyrics, images and subject matter, "Superstar" took the theater and later cinematic world by storm.

Fast forward to 2007, A new musical resurrection is underway with the introduction of Jesus Price Superstar, courtesy of Duck Down Records. In this underground crucifixion, "Jesus" is Ruck who ascended to fame with Heltah Skeltah and Boot Camp Clik. Now, 10 years after his group's debut of Nocturnal and subsequent follow-up Magnum Force, Ruck returns as Sean Price.

No doubt, some will look at his religious references, street vernacular and album cover as something from an anti-christ but those that have been a part of his "congregation," will hail the "preacher" and celebrate his return to "Church."

Sean Price is here to assure believers and convert skeptics showing that his commanding delivery, powerful voice and clever verses are here to stay. After all, his solo debut Monkey Barz earned Source Magazine's Indie LP of the year, Urb Magazine's Hot 100, Village Voice's yearly "Pazz and Jop" poll and various other acclaim.

I caught up with Sean Price recently to talk about his motivations, vision and why the Underground is buzzing about his return. Incidentally, during our interview he was at home with the wife and kids watching BET. He says he's been with his wife (who he refers to as MA for eight years). They have two boys, Elijah and Terry and a little girl Sapphire. He was clear that his kids don't "sweat" his whole rap persona because they see him and he keeps it real for them. He even revealed that his son likes rapper Papoose better then he likes his own dad. With that comment, we shared a heartfelt laugh and began the interview.