Today we have another special HipHop50 feature from our resident rock star Todd “DG” Davis. KK from the Compton group 2nd II None – a legendary duo who helped set off the West Coast movement in the 90’s with their mega-hit, “If You Want It”. Read below for this new WCS HipHop50 feature.
First things first, this year (August 11th) marked the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop — What exactly does that mean to and for you?
The 50th of Hip-Hop, to me is a great moment for the culture coming out of 3 of the 5 New York City boroughs [Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn]. Congrats to New York city and state!
…It was and still is a Blessing to be a part of the early phase of West Coast Rap’s history for the past 32 going on 33 years. I appreciate Hip Hop’s platform, through New York’s Profile Records for allowing KK and 2ND II NONE the group to get that East Coast experience in late 1990.
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?
Growing up in Compton, CA, I really can’t speak on imagining how far Hip Hop would go or not. That’s a totally New York cities and state thing.
What are some of your fondest, most stand-out moments / memories from your lengthy tenure in this thing called Hip Hop?
Being able to see many come and go and still be here, VERY THANKFUL! It’s so many moments within 33 years…just the late ‘80’s era to ’93, awesome moments for West Coast Rap.
That said, what are your future plans and / or goals throughout the remainder of 2023, going right into ‘24?
Going forward through ’23 to ’24, pretty much focused on releasing solo and 2ND II NONE songs / videos to show we’re still here with good music, but now they’ll be able to see us more as well.
Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?
From my music, I want folks to just feel good to the music 1st; if you like it, then check the different real life experiences laced over the music. It’s some life learning messages in my / our “Feel Good Music.”
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?
No. The state of Hip Hop today is out of context of what Hip Hop is / was.
What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
I feel the key has been being humble, regardless of the lack of extra fame and fortune.
Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?
Of course. I’ve always been around construction work and installing ceramic / marble tile with my pops growing up. I like to put things together, maybe build some things.
What’s an average day like for you?
Average day for KK…being thankful after waking up, then seeing what the day brings; if no appointments for business. Stretchin’, water, hot tea or coffee and hopefully shoot a little hoop.
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…
I try my best to connect with the fans in this new era of communicating through social media with my / our fans. During live events, I usually walk around the crowd and say hi, take pics and sing with the fans.
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
My fave is getting that genuine love from the fans that appreciate our FLAVOR. My least, the lack of WEST COAST Respect through this NY Hip Hop avenue.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Do your research on Music history, Music laws and everything legally associated involving Music. Don’t forget how to be HUMAN.
What’s up with Gangsta D [2nd II None]?
Gangsta D, he’s alright. Working on his solo project, as well as finishing the NEW 2ND II NONE project coming.
Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
5 to 10 years from now, chillin’ at the house, managing the bills and properties…comfortably around my kids and grandkids, with some Earth, Wind & Fire coming through the speakers.
Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?
And, any “parting” words for our readers?
Go check out my 1st solo music project DediKKated, produced by 1 of my 3 sons, BOOMERDIDIT. Also, the NEW single [“’Til I’m Gone”] – BOOMERDIDIT Feat. 2ND II NONE out now.
…Let me know what you think. @BlaKKazzKK
@Boomerdiditproductions.
For more info: www.2ndiinone.com
