PRINCE CHARLEZ TAKES CENTER STAGE

Compton, Calif.'s Prince Charlez hails from a region famously teeming with the most impactful artists in black music, and has already crafted a sterling name for himself in the music biz as a phenomenal writer, the main force behind hits like "Needed Me" by Rihanna, "More" from Usher and "Ring Off" by momma-to-be Beyoncé, to name a few.

Now the soulful star is stepping out, having recently signed with Republic and released a mixtape called Black & Gold which he assembled with producer Drumma Boy (Gucci Mane, 2 Chainz, Wiz Khalifa), designed to showcase his own unique blend of trap-infused R&B, a sound that shines brightly through the premiere single, "Bitty."

Charlez recently sat for an extended interview with urban tastemaker site Okayplayer, discussing his influences, writing his first song and the great advice he got from legend Mary J. Blige. Check out the "Bitty" video below.