Exclusive Entrevista: Taboo Gets Real About "The E.N.D"

The futuristic invasion of "Boom Boom Pow" knocked us out before we even had a chance to dodge...

Fans and haters alike questioned whether The Black Eyes Peas would return after nearly a four year break, but their latest album "The E.N.D" proves that they are just getting started. An acronym for "The Energy Never Dies," their upcoming LP is blasting into a technical revolution that surpasses the mainstream vibe. Take it from us, Taboo is the first one to clarify that the group's music has matured along with each member's resume. Besides launching new philanthropic projects, the Mexican rapper has also embraced married life and fatherhood.

Pop the hood and find out what he exclusively told us about the upcoming album, his fave kicks and more!

Why did you guys decide to title the album, "The E.N.D"?

When people hear the title they automatically question it. They are like 'what is the end'? It's the end to a lot of things. First, it's the end to the rumors and misconceptions that The Black Eyed Peas are over with. Second, it's the end to the conventional ways of selling records. Third, it's the end of an old era of doing politics. With Obama as President we are experiencing a different feel in America. That's that. Fergie likes to call it the evolution of The Black Eyed Peas as well.

How are you guys preparing for the digital era? How does this album reflect that change?

Well, the fact is that each song on the album has several different remixes per song. That keeps the appetite of the fan fed. You go online and are like 'I am bored of this song already.' Then what is the next thing? We always like to keep everyone up to speed. Same as a DJ would do when he is spinning. Right now we have five different remixes alone for "Boom Boom Pow."

Speaking of change, what made you cut your hair?

I needed to get rid of a lot of negativity. I also wanted a different look for the new album. There were just a lot of things that made me want to change it up. I cut like four inches off. When I got home my wife was like, 'wow you look so different but I really like it.' It's a big change for me.

Switching back to the music, what do you say to critics who think that The Black Eyed Peas' sound has become more mainstream throughout the years?

My response is - If we are able to perform in Mexico, Vietnam, The Philippines, and all around the world then I could care less. At the end of the day I make music for the world. I don't care about people that just sit and criticize because they can't just do it themselves. We are just going to keep it moving.

Are you a fan of the Latin hip-hop movement and reggaeton?

You know, I am a fan of it all. I am really into Calle 13. I listen to all Spanish music really. I am into Cafe Tacuba, Juanes, Julieta Venegas, Akwid, Frankie J. They are fresh.

Tell us about your non-profit campaign for STEM UP?

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. It targets the youth of East Los Angeles to make them aware about how these subjects play a huge role in music and entertainment. As the chairman, it is all about getting other celebrities to help represent their voice in making change for our youth.

How has growing up on the West Coast influenced your style?

I grew up in a Mexican and Asian community. Style wasn't really relevant believe it or not. There were a lot of gangsters and so they all made it a point to look a like. You know the white beaters and the shaved heads. So, me coming with colorful shirts, baggy pants, and long hair made me an outcast. People would say things, but you know that was just my style. I always thrived on [being different.]

We hear you love kicks. How big is your sneaker collection?

That is how my love for sneakers started. Just by wanting to be different. Now I have a whole room just for my sneaker collection. I always wanted a sneaker collection growing up. I remember when I was a kid my mom told me I couldn't have these Jordans I wanted and I got so mad that I said 'one of these days I am going to have all of the sneakers in the world.' My room for them feels like a boutique man.

Not a bad obsession to get tied into. Do you have a crazy sneaker collection you want to shout-out? Do it now and get all of the latest Black Eyed Peas info at dipdive.com. Mark your calendars because "The E.N.D" drops on June 9th.

Photos via Getty Images

Tags Black Eyed Peas, Calle 13, Exclusive, Free Music, Juanes, Julieta Venegas, Latin Music, Latinos, Musica Latina, Taboo, The End