I can't speak on behalf of all the MCs out there, but as I'm sure those that know me will agree, I'm still the 'lippy one at school'. It's all about the sharp wit and speed of thinking (he says humbly). I remember having a few death threats from big lads at other schools, but when it came to a point where it was time to fight, I cracked a few jokes and walked away with a new mate... I'm better fighting with a mic in my hand than a clenched fist!

How do you know when to back off and let the track breathe, and when to jump on?

As a 'live', or host, MC you go with the crowd and the music, it sounds clichéd, but this is what works. Having said this every MC is different. I'm working on a few tracks in the studio at the moment and the style/approach is different in itself. I can read a crowd, hype the moment and lift people 'up'... if an MC destroys a track by too much shoutin, rhymes that sounds like one long baby noise, and, worst of all talks over the vocal already on the track, it can ruin the vibe... and trust me you aint getting fans, friends or DJs who will perform with you when you do that.

That night nearly killed me, the same went for the Ne-Yo night; it was hot, humid and you could hear my voice getting a growl on as it slowly waved goodbye with all the MCing. I played with Schooly and Dany Neville on those nights. Both of the boys ripped it up and spat it back at the crowd, they could do nothing but party.

What was your first MC experience, and was it like stand-up comedy, where you have to grow into the role (ie did you bomb hard?)

The first time I got on a mic was during the 'UK Garage days'. This will make many smile I'm sure, but as a Southampton boy growing up alongside Artful Dodger, Craig David, Dennis G, Wideboys, etc. it was a natural progression and my first gig was in a club called C's Bar in a complex called 'leisureworld' in Southampton. It was truly an armpit of the world, packed with an array of genetically similar clubbers with bad attitudes. It was a humble start, but soon we had a group called 'Madhatters' and toured the country with 'Pure Garage' - great fun whilst it lasted, but the UK Garage bubble burst and I kinda waved goodbye to the whole thing, thinking I'd just leave it behind forever... But since I hit Dubai and Mach 4 and Kit Kheedo signed me up, there has been no lookin back.

You like to keep it local in your rhymes - got anything for Infusion?

The pocket sized club book that's widely respected, the nightlife leaders for the funky collective; publicly they educated, mentally they intergrated, Olly Wood keep it live and keep the crowd elevated. Infusion hittin hard, and keepin it raw; killin all other mags like they was Scream 4. So sit down son, and pull up a page, the little mags priced for your minimum wage.

The last time we got on a mic, we sounded like a neutered 5 year old girl - what's the secret to sounding manly and gruff on the mic?

The fact you know what a neutered 5-year old girl sounds like worries me greatly. The fact you feel I sound manly and gruff makes me happy. So with equilibrium a trend... Let's just say every MC has a different tone, some drum and bass MCs are deep and dark, and I might have the odd shisha before performing alongside them so as not to sound pre-pubescent. But others have a high pitch; it's a matter of style - I like to be fluid and make sure my words are clear so my lyrics aren't missed... What's the point in doing it if the crowd can't 'feel' what you're saying?

Like an absolute monster. Drum and bass is my arena and no-one can beat me here. I'm bored of the fast talkin "I can't hear what you're sayin" style. I am going to rip this gig up into little pieces, get some b**** to selotape it back together again, then when she gives it back again... I'm gonna rip it up in her face. Nah seriously, this is one you have to be at.

You've got a very distinct, and original style - does that help or hinder you? And which other MCs would you like to do battle with in Dubai, and who do you think would win?

Distinct style and sound is what makes you an 'artist' nowadays. Now I'm not at artist level by any means yet, but this is why I've started the studio work. It never hurts to see how it sounds/feels. I worked for years at EMI Records, so I understand the industry, and have my contacts to make it happen if it works out. That distinctive sound is the reason Mr Mr calls me at 4am and asks me to 'rap him up' for bed.

As for battling... Well... I'd beat All of The Recipe, All of UGP, Deen, Desert Heat, MC Money Plus, MC Prit...

Hahahahahaha... Nah seriously, the good thing about here is everyone has a different style and skill set. Everything that comes out of UGP is heavy right now, I particularly urge everyone to watch out for Robin (this guy is gonna be big). The Recipe has always and will always be pushing new boundaries and making sick beats and rhymes. Desert Heat have a local flavour and attitude I admire greatly, so massive props to them for this too. There are feuds in the region no doubt, but we are back to your question about school! I'm not a fighter, I'm sure I get plenty of haters and back stabbing, but I equally get a lot of support for what I'm trying to do and the effort I put it; I'm not arrogant, I just love the music and the party. All I have to say on the battle point is I'd beat the hell out of that MC Theo fella whoever he is... Fool.

Nicky Blackmarket plays at Chi on Friday July 15, 10pm-3am, Dhs100. Warm up from Emtee and MC Olly Wood.