Remedy: Hip Hop Is Forever #HH50

As the first non-black (and Jewish) artist to be affiliated with the Wu-Tang Clan, Staten Island, New York emcee-producer Remedy, née Ross, first made his mark in Hip Hop with the scathing track, “Never Again,” taken from the 1998 compilation LP, Wu-Tang Killa Bees: The Swarm Vol. 1.

Back in 2016, Ross engaged in a heated Twitter exchange with fellow rapper Talib Kweli regarding Israel.

First things first, last year (August 11th 2023 to be exact) marked the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop — What exactly does that mean to and for you?

It means everything. Hip Hop is forever! To have lived through the birth and evolution of Hip Hop has been a gift.

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?

Actually, yes. Even when my parents would discourage me, and say Hip Hop was a fad, I always knew. I think Hip Hop will eventually have sub genres within itself; Country rap, Pop rap, Trance rap, Trap rap, etcetera. It already does, it’s just not recognized as such.

What are some of your fondest, most stand-out moments / memories during your lengthy tenure in this thing called Hip Hop?

Well, I lived in the peak of the golden era. Such classic records came out. And, so many pure albums. As far as first hand, I was blessed to witness many classic moments like early summer jams, and Wu-Tang and Biggie at the Beacon was an amazing night. So many great Wu shows. Hip Hop 50th at Yankee Stadium was an amazing experience. Incredible line-up of legends. Living in this thing called Hip Hop has truly changed my life.

That said, what are your future plans and / or goals throughout the remainder of 2024 and beyond?

Well, 2025 should be a busy year. I’ve got an album called Holy of Holies that I’ve been working on for 15+ years. It features RZA, Matisyahu, Killah Priest, Ghostface and others. Then I’ve got Remedy Meets WuTang Part II, featuring the Clan and Killa Bees. Also, I’m doing some music with Matisyahu that is really sounding incredible. A lot of great things cooking.

Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?

The truth! I come from an era where content and substance were everything. I still stand by that in all the music I do. There is, and will always be a message.

If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?

WOW, interesting. Thinking about it, I’ve been so blessed to work with the best rap group of all time, and also the hometown heroes, from Staten Island, the almighty Wu-Tang Clan! This is my heart and soul. I’ve also recently made some music with the legend Matisyahu. We have a few amazing collaborations. I’m truly living out my dreams. Having said that, here’s a few: Ozzy, Rakim, Biggie, Tupac, Iron Maiden.

If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?

Well, I have to say Madison Square Garden. The most iconic arena in the world. I’ve witnessed many concerts and sporting events there, but never performed there. Would be a great feeling. Maybe the Rose Bowl in California or Wembley in London. They both hold about 90K people. Imagine that adrenaline rush.

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?

Not really. How can anyone be happy with Hip Hop right now? The substance has been removed for materialism and nonsense. Hip Hop used to be the voice of the oppressed, but no more. There are a few standout artists like J Cole and Kendrick, but for the most part a bunch of commercial singles and content used for exploitation. There’s not many current Hip Hop artists that will be considered legends. I do still consider Hip Hop, the realest form of expression.

What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?

For me, I beat to my own drum. I try to take my time and make timeless classic music. I’m in it for the love and the legacy, that’s the key for me. I’m anti-industry, and have always been independent. I may have suffered with commercial exposure, but I’ve always maintained my dignity and integrity.

Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?

Actually, I do several things besides making music. I own a real estate management company, a coffee company with Ghostface Killah – Killah Koffee – a few websites, and several other investments. I’m also an advocate for the Jewish people, and will continue to be. I’d like to make some audiobooks, and continue to educate.

What’s an average day like for you?

Honestly, everyday is different. I own and operate several businesses, while mixing a music career into it. I’m in the studio sometimes for days, then I’m in the office, the coffee shop, traveling, meetings, family, etcetera.

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…

The fans are everything, and I know interaction is important. I feel like if you know my music and you listen to it, you’re already interacting with me. I’d like to get more active on social media with people as well. I try to respond to reasonable questions and comments.

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?

I guess making the music for the love, and putting it out for the people is really satisfying. The love you receive, and knowing it’s adding on to the legacy. I’m just grateful to still be doing it. The least part is probably the music business itself, and how it operates. I’m pro-artist, and stand for artists’ rights.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Well, my situation is rather unique. I would say stay focused, do what you love, listen, and don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Never be scared to challenge yourself. Believe, and keep the faith.

Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?

I see myself still trucking, doing the same things, G-d willing! Enjoying family and friends, and good music. I appreciate the little things in life, and understand our time’s limited.

Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?

Not really, some good questions, I appreciate that.

Any “parting” words for our readers?

Peace, love, and blessings to all. Love is Love and “Never Again.”