Can we rock? What’s up doc? Today we have the speedy rhymester, Chip-Fu, from the 90’s Hip-Hop group, The Fu-Schnickens. Chip’s verses were always the highlights of the group’s songs as he brought speed with an intricate style of wordplay. Our own Todd “DG” Davis caught up with Chip-Fu to be a part of our on-going WCS HipHop50 series where we pose select questions to rap veterans to get their own perspective on the historic occasion. Read on for this new feature.
First things first, this year (August 11th) marked the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop — What exactly does that mean to and for you?
50th year of Hip Hop means a lot to us emcees / groups that have been a part of this culture that media / naysayers thought wouldn’t be around for so long…I’m also Glad by the grace of God that I’m alive to see it, and be a part of the celebrations.
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?
No, I didn’t imagine traveling the world off of something I sat up late at night writing to have the impact that it had, and still feeding my family off of it today. Truly amazing.
What are some of your fondest, most stand-out moments / memories from your lengthy tenure in this thing called Hip Hop?
There are so many moments…I remember touring with the Beastie Boys! That tour taught me a lot about family and sticking together like a close knit family. When not performing, we would all hang out and share stories.
…Another one was going to Japan with A Tribe Called Quest, I remember getting off of the plane and people wanting to touch my skin; that was crazy! They would walk up and try to touch me, and that was a big no no for the Brooklyn boy.
That said, what are your future plans and / or goals throughout the remainder of 2023, going right into ‘24?
The plan is to put out the ROYAL BLOOD album; right now, we are clearing the samples and preparing. I can’t wait for people to hear it. Also, doing a lot of community work with my company MAATH [Music Appreciate Art Time and Healing], we have been giving mentoring and tutoring workshops in the schools helping our kids learn about self esteem and the importance of confidence.
Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?
I want people to walk away filled…it just seems like these albums are very empty because we are in a singles driven market and some of the public don’t really care about full projects.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?
Yes, there is some music I truly like and some I don’t; just wish there would be a balance. I must say this time the women in Hip Hop are not playing and it is nice to see that movement growing.
What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
The key to longevity is being able to communicate and relate. I’ll always be a part of the culture in years to come whether it be music, videos or documentaries.
Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?
On the other side [Blaq Ink MG], we will be focused on the videos, and documentaries about the culture, etcetera. Steph Coger and I have a lot of ideas we are sifting through and preparing.
What’s an average day like for you?
Wake up, pray for the gift of life…then I hit the Gym with my trainer, All while running my companies by phone…some days it’s studio sessions, some
Days it’s classroom sessions or boardroom sessions…but my days are always long…I’m glad my team is tight…and I’m Glad my wife and family keep me balanced. I’m truly blessed to have who I have in my life, it keeps me grounded.
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…
Fans? I call dem Fam…short for Family. If I ever meet up with any, I just kick it with them. I’ve never been a stand off person, I’m down to earth and as humble as they come.
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
Favorite part is being able to reach people…least favorite is not being recognized for it, but I’ve gotten to the point where I understand it’s about the people not the accolades.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Create your own footsteps; my steps worked for me…plan first before making any movements and believe in yourself.
What’s up with Moc Fu & Poc Fu [Fu-Schnickens]?
Poc and Moc are cool! I speak to Poc more ‘cause he and I are closer. But at the end of the day, those are my boys, period! And, we made history together.
Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
I see myself going to movie premieres for my companies, movies and Docs. Along
With scoring films and teaching a college course or two.
And, any “parting” words for our readers?
For the readers…always stay focused on being a better version of yourself. Growth is uncomfortable for some, but look at it as a learning experience and a blessing.
