Easily one of the early nineties’ most slept-on Hip Hop albums, Pudgee The Phat Bastard’s Give ‘Em The Finger [Giant Records] sported high profile appearances from Kool G Rap, MC Lyte and Snaggapuss, with production courtesy of a pre-Poke Trackmasters, then known as Red Hot Lover Tone.
After exiting Giant, Pudgee then secured a recording contract with Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis’ Perspective Records, but things came to an abrupt standstill even before what was to be his sophomore set, King Of New York, could ever be released.
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?
50 years of Hip Hop means completion to me. It’s a goal, and a landmark. This 50-year celebration means that if someone can dedicate themselves to something, they can succeed. And that no matter what people say, no matter what happens, its value will be recognized; dedication, commitment, and perseverance.
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 could not have foreseen the heights that Hip Hop has reached, and the way it has impacted every aspect of life . The very fibers of it has changed the world. It is mind-blowing to learn that our passion has created community, culture and purpose, for everyone to experience.
What are some of your fondest, most stand-out moments / memories during your lengthy tenure in this thing called Hip Hop?
Barry White saying my name on my second album, and giving my parents tickets to the front row of his concert. One of their fondest memories. Also, being recognized in foreign territories by millions of listeners, and having fans in Asia do dances to my song “Checkin’ Out the Ave.,” even in 2024.
That said, what are your future plans and / or goals throughout the remainder of 2024 and beyond?
I’ve just written and published my first book ‘How to Become Mentally Unbreakable,’ which is available on Amazon. It is under my government name: Tracey A. Horton. I am writing several other books, and I have several films premiering in the next two years.
Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?
I want people to be inspired, I want people to be entertained. I want people to be provoked, I want people to be changed from some of my songs.
If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
TWO: Loose Ends and Mikey D.
If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?
The one where everyone celebrates Hip Hop to the fullest people; know my limits, and I know the value of what we do.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?
I am happy with the musicality in Hip Hop. I’m happy (when they’re) exploring their different styles. I am not happy with how the industry has eaten itself alive, and taking tools and turn them into weapons to harm themselves and their career paths.
What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
My ownership of my success, my self-awareness and my ability to be resilient are the things that (have) contributed to my longevity. Mostly the fact that I continue to learn.
Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?
Yes, to help others build mental fortitude.
What’s an average day like for you?
Working out, decompressing, learning, and creating something new to give to the world…and at the same time, discovering new facets of my character.
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…
I email, I text, I respond to social media and I sometimes even help students complete school assignments that reference Hip Hop.
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
I think everything has a purpose, and we can complain, but a lot of times…and things we complain about it…the things that are making us better versions of ourselves…so I say as a whole, I respect the journey.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Go find your own path, walk it, remember the steps that made your trip and don’t repeat them.
Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
I hate this question!! I’m in the moment. I live in the moment. I respect the moment. I follow God’s plan. My steps are led, and I am building. I can’t guarantee anything for tomorrow.
Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?
My new single “Bad Energy,” featuring Davion Forever. Which is under the name PTPB, the acronym for Pudgee Tha Phat Bastard. Always reiterate the fact that I will never stop making great music, no matter what anyone says, and discovering new parts of myself. And the major fact that we haven’t discussed, is that Hip Hop itself is a character builder and gives identity. Hip Hop gives purpose. It’s actually an institution, just like any other form of academia.
Any “parting” words for our readers?
Challenge yourself, listen to others around you, incorporate with works, throw-away what doesn’t, and fortify all your weaknesses; challenges will come in. Don’t let them steer you away from your dream. When the devil sees you’re balanced and steady, he will try to break your rhythm.
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