Lavon Collins, better known by his artist moniker L.C., is a Bronx born and bred rapper garnering attention for his sexy buzz single, “Don’t Trip” featuring a comeback by vocalist Donell Jones (“Where I Wanna Be,” “U Know What’s Up”). The video for the track—which reached number 23 on the Billboard Hot Singles Sales charts and number four on the Billboard R&B and Hip-Hop Sales charts—was also just released.

Currently finishing up his album The Next Big Thing, L.C.—who cites MC greats like Rakim, Kool G Rap, KRS-One, Tupac and Nas as his main influences—recently took some time to chat with us about his music, lifestyle, fashion tastes and more.

Introduce yourself to the DrJays.com audience.
“My name is L.C, the acronym to my birth given name, Lavon Collins. I currently have a single with R&B sensation Donell Jones which is being distributed by Street Scholar Music Group/Bungalo Records/Universal Music Group Distribution. It’s called ‘Don’t Trip’ and I just released the official music video for it, so look out for that.”

You’re currently working on your debut album, The Next Big Thing. How’s that coming along?
“It’s going great. I’m constantly recording new music.  I’m in the studio now with DJ Jazzy Joyce of Hot 97 (she’s my DJ). Her production skills, which most people don’t even know she has in her repertoire, are phenomenal. So I’m currently in the studio with her just making sure that I have a great album. Working with Jazzy Joyce gives me an advantage because she’s a radio DJ and knows the ingredients to a great record. We have some great songs between the two of us.”

Donell Jones is quite a big name to jump on a debut track like “Don’t Trip” with an unsigned artist. How did the collaboration come about?
“A mutual acquaintance introduced Donell to my manager, Don Taylor. The two of them hit it off immediately.  Once Donell and I spoke it was a no brainer that we do something together. Donell Jones is a great producer and he’s a well respected R&B artist. He was very accommodating throughout the whole collaborative process, down to making himself available to do the “Don’t Trip” video with me.  Shout out to Donell and congrats on the success of his new album.”

Your bio says you turned to music at an early age to “stay off the streets.” Did music keep you out of trouble completely?
“Yes. Music saved my life because it keeps me busy and has totally kept me from getting into trouble.”

You’ve been quoted as saying, “The drinking, degrading of women; that lifestyle isn’t all of hip-hop.” What kind of lifestyle do you feel your music portrays?
“My music portrays reality. I base much of my music from life’s experiences, whether the inspiration comes from personal experiences or from those of others. I also enjoy doing my ‘shorty tracks’ (songs that appeal to the ladies).”

You’ve modeled for AKOO Clothing (one of DrJays.com’s online exclusive brands) in the past. How would you describe your personal fashion style and what are some of your favorite brands?
“Yes, shout out to AKOO. I modeled the AKOO line on BET’s 2008 Rip The Runway. My style of dress is urban with a mixture of casual. I wear AKOO, various designers from La Scala Clothing (125th Street in Harlem), Sean Jean, Polo, Rocawear and from my personal clothing designer, Tramaine Angevine Collection.”

Where can people keep up with you online?
“You can find me at: www.lctheone.com, www.twitter.com/lcthe1 and www.facebook.com/lavoncollins.”

Watch “Don’t Trip” by L.C. The One featuring Donell Jones:

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