In continuance of our HipHop50 interview specials in celebration of Hip-Hop turning 50 this year (and month), super producer Focus… checks in to have a discussion with our own Todd Davis. Focus… has co-produced with Dr. Dre and produced hits of his own in this industry. Peep the new interview below!
First things first, this year (August 11th) marked the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop — What exactly does that mean to and for you?
– It means that a creative expression that was discredited by so many, publicly, beat the odds over and over again. I love being part of an ‘underdog’ narrative like that…
To quote the late, great The Notorious B.I.G., “You never thought that Hip Hop would take it this far!” — Was this something that you ever could’ve imagined?
– I knew it would be around for a long time, but the global impact is what is mind blowing to me…
What are some of your fondest, most stand-out moments / memories from your lengthy tenure in this thing called Hip Hop?
– Every memory during my time with Dr. Dre and Aftermath, I can’t single out any one, or two memories. I have had the honor of connecting with legends like Busta Rhymes, Marsha Ambrosius, 50 Cent, Eminem and plenty more. My affiliation with Dre really opened doors for me in the industry…
That said, what are your future plans and / or goals throughout the remainder of 2023, going right into ‘24?
– My biggest move is working with my brothers Dem Jointz and Mr. Porter on our project. We are called Read The PDF. Some are coining us a producer-super group…
Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?
– I always shoot for connectivity through feel and emotions. Sure, it’s great to turn up and have a good time but I refuse to negate substance for the sake of having / creating a “hit” song. I want my audience to feel something; anything, when they hear my music…
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?
– I am happy we are still making waves in the industry, and I am happy that we have an outlet to truly express ourselves as creatively as we choose…
What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
– Honestly, I give that all to GOD. All of this is a blessing and if people keep listening, I will keep creating…
Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?
– I am looking to get into the music supervision for TV and film, scoring films and things like that. Also, I have been working with a friend of mine, Cory Mason, on entertainment endeavors in Las Vegas…
What’s an average day like for you?
– It’s average. One pant leg at a time! LOL…
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…
– I try to answer direct messages as much as I can. Emails get to be a bit much once the influx begins but once I get a chance to really read them all, I will send replies…
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
– I love making music. I hate the industry side of it all. This is the only work that you put in 20 hour days without pay until your songs are placed. The incentive has to be from within…
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
– Don’t! Create your own footsteps, and don’t be afraid of the journey. It’ll be a rough one but if you stay consistant and strong, it’ll all be worth it…
Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
– I don’t know. Since tomorrow isn’t promised, I focus on each day and give that my best…
Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?
– No. You asked a gang of questions…Lol!
Any “parting” words for our readers?
– Look out for READ THE PDF…
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@focus3dots
