Rapper's fans welcome this newest CD

Hundreds of people wrapped around the FYE store at Noland Road and U.S. 40 Tuesday for the release of Tech N9ne’s new album, “Killer,” and an autograph session with N9ne and Krizz Kaliko.

Tech N9ne, a nationally known rapper who calls Blue Springs home, is supported by some dedicated fans, including one who bought five copies of the CD Tuesday.

“Tech N9ne is the best rapper lyrically, and he’s got amazing beats,” Ron Cutler of Independence said. “That’s why I bought five because he deserves it. I’m trying to get him on the Billboard charts. He deserves to be number one.”

Korey Lloyd, who worked public relations during the autograph session, said N9ne liked to connect to his fans.

“We chose FYE because Independence is located in between Blue Springs and Kansas City,” Lloyd said. “Also, FYE is a big supporter.”

Lloyd said the location of the store allowed fans of the rapper from all over Eastern Jackson County to get to meet him. Many of the people waiting in line had already met N9ne.

“I’ve already met him before,” Cutler said. “He’s a cool guy. He’s not untouchable. He’s like an everyday guy. He’s from here. He says where he’s from (in his songs) because he wants to put Missouri on the map.”

Another Jackson County resident, Patrick Williams of Kansas City, said he had met the rapper twice before.

“Tech N9ne is the best rapper from Kansas City,” Williams said. “He’s putting Kansas City on the map. That’s why I bought two CDs. He’s always put out great hits. ... He’s a real down to earth dude. He let’s you know (you can talk to him).”

Williams said he was confident the 32-track, two-disc album would succeed.

“It’s going to be number one,” Williams said. “You can mark my words on that.”