As the (former) front-man of pioneering Los Angeles, CA, based Hip Hop crew South Central Cartel, Havoc Da MouthPiece, is one of the tried-and-truest innovators of West Coast “gangsta” rap. The Chicago born Calvin, a.k.a. DA GAIMCHNG3R, largely known for Cartel hits like “U Gotta Deal Wit Dis (Gangsta Luv),” “Ya Getz Clowned,” “Pops Was a Rolla,” “Servin’ Em Heat,” the Mr. 3-2 [RIP] & Big Mike assisted “Gang Stories,” “It’s an S.C.C Thang” and “All Day Everyday,” is currently gearing up for the release of his musical curtain call, The Last Of My Kind: Tha Final Journey, dedicated to the memory of his sister, Tijwana.
First things first, August 11th 2023 marked the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop — What exactly does that mean to and for you?
It means Hip Hop is a part of music history.
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?
Yes, as a kid I fell in love with Hip Hop when I heard “Rapper’s Delight” song by The Sugarhill Gang (in) 1979.
What are some of your fondest, most stand-out moments / memories during your lengthy tenure in this thing called Hip Hop?
When I got in music in the late ’80’s, and loved N.W.A, Geto Boys, Too $hort and Eric B. & Rakim, to name a few.
That said, what are your future plans and / or goals for the 2025 season?
To make my final album as an artist [“DA GAIMCHNG3R”], THE LAST OF MY KIND: THA FINAL JOURNEY.
Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?
THAT IT’S BRINGING BACK REAL HIP HOP.
If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
I HAVE already (worked with) 2Pac, Ice-T, Bo$$, Spice 1, Treach, Jayo Felony (and) Big Mike.
If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?
Rolling Loud.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?
Somewhat; it has its good and bad parts as all music through time has had.
What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
Outworking everyone.
Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?
Yes, my film company.
What’s an average day like for you? And, please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…
All day everyday I work on greatness, and respond to my fans.
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
Taking after my father [the late Robert “Squirrel” Lester] who is in the music (Rhythm & Blues) Hall of Fame with a star on the (Hollywood) Walk of Fame (with The Chi-Lites).
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
To never give up.
Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
Retired, being a grandfather.
Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?
No.
Any “parting” words for our readers?
Thanks for loving Hip Hop and music.
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