Position: Writer About: Haling from East Vancouver, BC, Birdapres (pronounced BIRD-UH-PREY) has long been one of Vancouver’s best kept secrets. A brilliant lyricist and rhymer, he is a rapper’s rapper, equally adept at freestyle and the written verse. Growing up between Vancouver and Victoria, Birdapres (real name Dane Goulet) evolved from a trouble-making youth to a full time hip-hop fan and participant. From collecting rap 12″s and cassettes in the late 80’s to pressing his first 12″ (with RKV) in 1995, Bird has had an unwavering commitment to the art form that is hip-hop and music in general. He has studied its history and is a walking encyclopedia of recorded music. He can find a funky break in virtually any pile of dollar records. His record collection has something from every era and every genre, and he has made his living as a record dealer at various times in the ebay era. Birdapres has worked with many notable artists over the years: Moka Only, DJ Moves, Len, Styles of Beyond. But he has also appeared on countless underground releases in and around Vancouver over the years, because the scene respects him and he is always down to work with someone new. This attitude eventually paired him with mcenroe of Peanuts & Corn Records, and led to the formation of mcenroe & Birdapres and the release of Nothing Is Cool. This recording was one of the most popular and best selling releases for Peanuts & Corn, garnering rave reviews and selling very well in Canada. The Nothing Is Cool tour visited 17 cities across Canada, and Birdapres finally saw the size of his fanbase first hand. Links: Peanuts & Corn Living Underwater
