History of the Bay

Yhung T.O. is a founding member of the multi-platinum rap group SOB X RBE. Growing up in Vallejo, he started making beats at age 6 years old and developed a unique, melodic style of rapping. After meeting DaBoii, Slimmy B, and Lul G, the three started making songs together that would quickly become viral hits. Their group skyrocketed to national stardom, performing at huge festivals and tours. But just as they were achieving success, drama in the streets spilled into their group. For the first time, Yhung T.O. tells the complete story of what happened with his group and opens up about the struggles he's overcome. -- Sponsored by Stem Social https://stemsocial.io https://instagram.com/stem.social Also sponsored by Lost Soul Courier Collective - call or text (415) 275-1922 for free Narcan delivery in San Francisco https://lostsoulcouriercollective.org For more info contact @traceyh415 -- For promo opportunities on the podcast, e-mail: historyofthebaypodcast@gmail.com -- Produced by DEO @deo415, videography by @mvp_kingced --- History of the Bay Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3ZUM4rCv6xfNbvB4r8TVWU?si=9218659b5f4b43aa Online Store: https://dregsone.myshopify.com Follow Dregs One: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1UNuCcJlRb8ImMc5haZHXF?si=poJT0BYUS-qCfpEzAX7mlA Instagram: https://instagram.com/dregs_one TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@dregs_one Twitter: https://twitter.com/dregs_one Facebook: https://facebook.com/dregsone415

Sunspot Jonz fka BFAP is one half of Mystik Journeymen and a founding member of Living Legends. Growing up in East Oakland, he fell in love with music early but didn't identify with gangsta rap trends. This led Sunspot to find like-minded artists in the underground hip-hop scene, like his partner Luckyiam fka PSC, who joined Mystik Journeymen. Frustrated with the mainstream music industry, they pressed their own tapes and CDs, created their own magazine, and threw their own shows, including the Broke Ass Summer Jam. After traveling the world independently, the Journeymen became founders of the Living Legends crew along with Grouch, Murs, Eligh, Arata, Scarub, Bicasso, and Aesop. Since then, the Legends have sold millions of units and continue independently touring around the world. -- Sponsored by Stem Social https://stemsocial.io IG: https://instagram.com/stem.social -- For promo opportunities on the podcast, e-mail: historyofthebaypodcast@gmail.com -- Produced by DEO @deo415, videography by @mvp_kingced --- History of the Bay Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3ZUM4rCv6xfNbvB4r8TVWU?si=9218659b5f4b43aa Online Store: https://dregsone.myshopify.com Follow Dregs One: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1UNuCcJlRb8ImMc5haZHXF?si=poJT0BYUS-qCfpEzAX7mlA Instagram: https://instagram.com/dregs_one TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@dregs_one Twitter: https://twitter.com/dregs_one Facebook: https://facebook.com/dregsone415

J. Stalin is a legendary rapper from West Oakland and the founder of Livewire Records. He grew up loving hip hop and saw it as a way for him to escape the street life. After working in the studio with DJ Daryl, Richie Rich, and the Jacka, Stalin decided to put himself on through his own company. 4rAx is one half of the Mekanix, a producer duo from Oakland. Starting off as a DJ for Digital Underground, he worked with various Oakland artists before meeting J. Stalin. Since producing Stalin's earlier hits, the Mekanix have since gone on to produce albums and songs for some of the Bay's most legendary artists.

Cozmo is a rapper/producer who grew up in San Francisco and Marin. He got his start working with local artists like 51.50, Killa Tay, San Quinn and Messy Marv. After producing on some of Quinn's biggest albums, Cozmo landed a placement with the legendary Scarface. This led to making beats for countless artists like Dipset, The Game, Trina, Devin the Dude, and Nipsey Hussle. Cozmo earned a gold record with Wiz Khalifa's "King of Everything" and produced a platinum song for Berner, who he's worked with over the course of Berner's entire career. Cozmo also released his solo albums "Coz Pacino" in 2003 and the more recent "If Tomorrow Never Comes" in 2023. -- Sponsored by Stem Social https://stemsocial.io IG: https://instagram.com/stem.social -- For promo opportunities on the podcast, e-mail: historyofthebaypodcast@gmail.com -- Produced by DEO @deo415, videography by @mvp_kingced --- History of the Bay Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3ZUM4rCv6xfNbvB4r8TVWU?si=9218659b5f4b43aa Online Store: https://dregsone.myshopify.com Follow Dregs One: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1UNuCcJlRb8ImMc5haZHXF?si=poJT0BYUS-qCfpEzAX7mlA Instagram: https://instagram.com/dregs_one TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@dregs_one Twitter: https://twitter.com/dregs_one Facebook: https://facebook.com/dregsone415

*** To see all the graphics described in this podcast, watch the video version on Spotify or YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZErUFFA8SR0 ***

In his first on-camera interview, Shemp of Photo Doctor Graphics reviews prints and posters from his portfolio of legendary album cover designs. Starting off as a rapper-producer in the Funky Fresh Sex Crew, he began designing covers for his friends using scanners and copy machines. This led him to work with Don Toriano of Fully Loaded, San Quinn, and Done Deal Entertainment. Inspired by early Bay rap covers, Oakland's Phunky Phat Graph-X, and especially Pen & Pixel, Shemp soon became the most in-demand graphic designer in the Bay. He has worked with Mac Dre, E-40, Berner, Messy Marv, Jacka, and many more. -- Sponsored by Stem Social https://stemsocial.io IG: https://instagram.com/stem.social -- For promo opportunities on the podcast, e-mail: historyofthebaypodcast@gmail.com -- History of the Bay Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3ZUM4rCv6xfNbvB4r8TVWU?si=9218659b5f4b43aa Online Store: https://dregsone.myshopify.com Follow Dregs One: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1UNuCcJlRb8ImMc5haZHXF?si=poJT0BYUS-qCfpEzAX7mlA Instagram: https://instagram.com/dregs_one TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@dregs_one Twitter: https://twitter.com/dregs_one Facebook: https://facebook.com/dregsone415

Dubee is a respected rapper from Vallejo's Crestside neighborhood who was one of Mac Dre's closest associates. Turning down a football scholarship to pursue a record deal with Khayree's Young Black Brotha Records, he released his debut album "AKA Sugawolf" in 1996. From there he became part of the group Cutthoat Committee along with Dre and PSD. Dubee released albums on Thizz Entertainment in production with Wash House Music and was featured heavily in the Treal TV DVD series. After being implicated in a federal case by one of his closest friends, Dubee served a prison stint in 2013. Since his release he's continued to put out music, represent for Mac Dre's legacy, and continue his own solo career. -- Sponsored by Stem Social https://stemsocial.io IG: https://www.instagram.com/stem.social/ -- For promo opportunities on the podcast, e-mail: historyofthebaypodcast@gmail.com -- Produced by DEO @deo415, videography by @mvp_kingced --- History of the Bay Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3ZUM4rCv6xfNbvB4r8TVWU?si=9218659b5f4b43aa Follow Dregs One: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1UNuCcJlRb8ImMc5haZHXF?si=poJT0BYUS-qCfpEzAX7mlA Instagram: https://instagram.com/dregs_one TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@dregs_one Twitter: https://twitter.com/dregs_one Facebook: https://facebook.com/dregsone415

Larussell is one of the most dynamic rappers to come out of the Bay Area. In a short period of time, he has gained millions of followers and a national spotlight for his music and innovative approach to the industry. Growing up in Vallejo, Larussell was heavily influenced by the Bay Area sound while staying true to his authentic self. The result is a refreshingly honest, thought-provoking style of hip-hop that has attracted a diehard audience through countless viral clips on social media. With his collective Good Compenny, Larussell has innovated new ways to share his music. Achieving unprecedented success on his own, he has turned down offers from major labels like Def Jam in favor of creating his own independent pathways. -- For promo opportunities on the podcast, e-mail: historyofthebaypodcast@gmail.com -- "The Fogumentary:" https://youtu.be/Y79Go5W37GQ?si=HRjMp-DTYY3ud4Ul "Fog Mode" album on CD: https://dregsone.myshopify.com/products/fog-mode-album-on-cd "Fog Mode" album on streaming platforms: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/dregsone/fog-mode-the-album -- Produced by @deo415, videography by @mvp_kingced -- History of the Bay Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3ZUM4rCv6xfNbvB4r8TVWU?si=9218659b5f4b43aa Follow Dregs One: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1UNuCcJlRb8ImMc5haZHXF?si=poJT0BYUS-qCfpEzAX7mlA Instagram: https://instagram.com/dregs_one TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@dregs_one Twitter: https://twitter.com/dregs_one Facebook: https://facebook.com/dregsone415

Locksmith is considered one of the best lyricists to ever come out of the Bay Area. Growing up in Richmond, he co-founded the group The Frontline in the late 90s. Frontline blew up with the help of E-A-Ski's production and landed a record deal. This propelled them to the forefront of what would be termed "The New Bay," and eventually the Hyphy Movement. Locksmith also sharpened his reputation as a battle rapper, participating in freestyle battles against other local legends like Mistah FAB and Clyde Carson. After his groupmate Left put music to the side to pursue a career in education at UC Berkeley, Lock traveled to New York to move his solo career forward. Along the way he put out projects with Dame Dash and Ski Beatz and broke out of the regional Bay Area circuit to become an internationally respected MC.

Slimmy B is 1/4 of the multi-platinum group SOB X RBE. Growing up in Vallejo's Crestside neighborhood, the home of Mac Dre, Slimmy was heavily influenced by Bay Area rap. Shortly after making their first songs in high school, SOB X RBE blew up on a national level. Touring the country and collaborating with artists like Kendrick Lamar and Lil Yachty, the group quickly shot to superstardom. This was short-lived as internal disputes led SOB X RBE to split up. This has not stopped Slimmy's hustle and he has dropped several solo projects over the years. Focusing on music over street politics, Slimmy remains level-headed and determined to continue his success in the rap game.

Growing up in Vallejo's Crestside neighborhood, Kilo Curt is an original member of the notorious Romper Room Crew and was Mac Dre's right-hand man. As a teenager, Kilo's crew became involved in a string of bank robberies that led to a federal investigation just as Mac Dre's career started taking off. Along with Dre and J-Diggs, Kilo was arrested by the FBI in Fresno and charged with conspiracy and attempted bank robbery. After surviving 10 years in the federal prison, including an intense riot over crack-cocaine sentencing laws, Kilo was released just as Mac Dre was starting Thizz Entertainment. Starting off as Mac Dre's road manager, Kilo has played an important role behind the scenes and continues to move the Thizz Nation into the future.

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Produced by DEO @deo415, videography by @mvp_kingced -- “History of the Bay” theme song: https://songwhip.com/dregsone/history-of-the-bay History of the Bay Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3ZUM4rCv6xfNbvB4r8TVWU?si=9218659b5f4b43aa Online Store: https://dregsone.myshopify.com Follow Dregs One: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1UNuCcJlRb8ImMc5haZHXF?si=poJT0BYUS-qCfpEzAX7mlA Instagram: https://instagram.com/dregs_one TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@dregs_one Twitter: https://twitter.com/dregs_one Facebook: https://facebook.com/dregsone415

Hailing from the Central Coast town of Seaside, Stretch has played an integral role in the Bay Area music industry for decades. Starting out as a co-founder of a local record label and music store owner, Stretch began booking Bay rappers to perform in his hometown. One of those was the legendary Mac Dre, who tapped Stretch to help him run Thizz Entertainment and get Thizz Nation off the ground. After Dre's passing, Stretch worked with Mistah Fab and the spin-off companies Town Thizzness and Thizz City. From there, Stretch became a partner of SMC Recording's Will Bronson and co-founded Active Management. He has managed some of the Bay Area's greatest talents including Erk Tha Jerk, Kreayshawn, D-Lo, HBK Gang, Sage The Gemini, SOBxRBE, 24kGoldn, and more.

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Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LakWtJCx6ho

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-- Produced by DEO @deo415 --

Videography by @mvp_kingced

-- Sponsored by Amoeba Music, San Francisco @amoebasf Clothing and graffiti supplies from @dyingbreedsf available at 3045 24th Street, San Francisco or https://www.dyingbreedsf.com --- “History of the Bay” theme song: https://songwhip.com/dregsone/history-of-the-bay History of the Bay Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3ZUM4rCv6xfNbvB4r8TVWU?si=9218659b5f4b43aa

Messy Marv is one of the most popular artists to ever come out of the Bay Area. His career has often been overshadowed by controversy, beef, and incarceration. In this exclusive interview via phone from jail, Mess gives his first update in almost 5 years to let his fans know that he will be home soon and is ready to move forward from his past setbacks and conflicts. We cover his incredible life story from the beginning and his entire career history, which includes working with countless legendary artists from the Bay and beyond. Let's give this legend the support he needs - FREE MESSY MARV! --

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KPhMR8X5NHk

Formerly known as Erk Tha Jerk, Kevin Allen is a rapper, producer, and photographer who's played a pivotal role in Bay Area hip-hop for the last 20 years. Growing up in Richmond but moving around Oakland, he got into hip hop in high school and started releasing music in the early days of MySpace and Twitter. His 2009 single "Right Here" went from the internet to constant radio play on KMEL, leading to a distribution deal with SMC for his debut album "Nerd's Eye View." Since then he has become a professional photographer and also co-founded the artist collective Grand Nationxl, which is continuing to gain momentum in the Bay and beyond.

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Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1xYfXcJoy5k

Silk-E is a rapper and vocalist from Richmond who got her start recording verses for Bay Area compilations. After working with artists in Richmond she got the attention of E-40 who tapped her to appear on his track "Lieutenant Roast A Botch." From there Silk-E won a contest on MTV for a $200k music video budget and production by QDIII. Despite receiving interest from major labels, her situation was complicated by her commitment to a label from the Bay. But Silk-E found a new direction for her career when Boots Riley invited her to join the The Coup.

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Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fOFQci68c6k

Formerly known as Ya Boy, Rich Rocka is a critically acclaimed lyricist from San Francisco. Fresh out of high school, one of his first recordings "16s Wit Me" became the number one song on KMEL. From there, Rich released classic mixtapes and albums that got the attention of major labels. He moved to LA and joined The Game's Black Wall Street and later Akon's Konvict Music. During the 2000s Rich was the most-played artist on MySpace and worked with producers like Scott Stretch and Dr. Dre. He has had an impressive career and continues to release projects through his own label, Black Card Music.

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Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bdQgWeVex7o

Louie Loc came up as one of the few Latino rappers from San Francisco in the 1990s. At 16, he was discovered by Goldtoes and made his debut on the classic compilation "17 Reasons," featuring on the song "Black N Brown" with JT The Bigga Figga. Louie got his name from the San Francisco legend Cougnut and appeared on tracks with legends like Mac Dre, Suga Free, The Jacka and many more. After losing his best friend in a car accident, he took a long hiatus from music but is now back and hungrier than ever.

DJ QBert is one of the most influential DJs of all time and masters of scratching. As a member of Invisibl Skratch Piklz along with DJs like Mix Master Mike, Apollo, Shortkut, and others, he helped pioneer the movement of turntablism. Growing up in San Francisco, QBert gained worldwide renown by battling in competitions like the ITF and DMC. He was part of the album Dr. Octagon with Kool Keith and Dan the Automator, and has released music and scratch records through labels like Dirt Style and Skratchy Seal.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QKQ1f5v6Ck4

Gary Archer is one of the most respected names in the Bay Area music industry. In the 80s he worked with his brother DJ Jazzy Jim to revolutionize radio DJing. He managed Messy Marv during the height of his stardom, became the label manager for Mac Dre's Thizz Entertainment, and has worked with Mistah FAB since the beginning of his career. Gary shares stories about the early days of hip-hop in the Bay and gives some insight into his relentless hustle in the music game.

Twick is a member of crews like ICP and FSC and has been holding it down for San Francisco graffiti since 1983. His work is inspired by Mike Dream's revolutionary message and his Latino roots. Twick has seen the evolution of graffiti in the Bay from the beginning, including legendary spots like Psycho City. He has painted countless walls and beloved murals, and continues to push his art forward to this day.

Coming out of San Francisco’s Fillmore District, DJ X1 is a pioneer of Bay Area hip-hop. Working with legendary rapper Hugh EMC, they put out some of the earliest San Francisco rap releases. X1 shares his memories of seeing the local hip-hop scene evolve and the rise of other artists like Cougnut, Rappin 4-Tay, JT The Bigga FIgga, and San Quinn. Currently, X1 DJs on KPOO FM three nights a week and continues to be a supporter of Bay Area music.

Nef The Pharaoh is a rapper from South Vallejo who rose to nationwide fame with his hit single "Big Tymin" in 2015. Influenced by Bay Area rappers like Mac Dre from an early age, Nef ended up signed to E-40's Sick Wid It Records. From there he has toured around the world and dropped multiple projects featuring artists from all over the West Coast and beyond. In 2020, a series of personal tragedies caused him to fall back from music but he has since returned with his new album "4Eva The Pharaoh."

Goldtoes is an independent executive behind the labels Black N Brown Entertainment, Thizz Latin and GT Digital. Losing his father at an early age, he fell into the street life before transitioning into the music world. Goldtoes worked with some of the Bay's greatest rappers and producers to create the classic compilation "17 Reasons." This project featured artists like Mac Dre, San Quinn, Cougnut, B-Legit, and many others. Since then, Black N Brown has put out many compilations and solo artists. Goldtoes went on to start Thizz Latin as a way to keep Mac Dre's legacy alive and also has his own distribution company, GT Digital. Linking with South Park Mexican in the late 90s, Goldtoes later relocated to Houston where he currently resides. He has helped Berner start his career and continues to develop artists and put out projects to this day.

Sleep Dank is a rapper from Vallejo's Crestside neighborhood. Starting with The Mac and Mac Dre, he witnessed the birth the Bay Area rap scene from his hometown. Sleep Dank became part of the 535 Crew along with Mac Mall and Dubee and was involved with their albums with Khayree on Young Black Brotha Records. Appearing on classic Mac Dre albums like "Thizzelle Washington," he launched his own successful independent career. As a veteran of the Thizz Movement, Sleep Dank became part of a legacy that has lasted for decades.

The Architect is a renowned producer from Milpitas who is one half of the group Homeliss Derilex. Coming up in the South Bay around Charizma and Peanut Butter Wolf, Architect was around for the early days of Stones Throw Records. He also produced for artists like Coolio, Planet Asia and Rasco (Cali Agents), Total Devastation, and many others. After taking a hiatus from music, Architect became inspired by the online underground hip-hop scene and started working with rappers like The God Fahim. Currently he is performing with Souls of Mischief on their 30-year anniversary tour for "93 Til Infinity."

San Quinn is a legendary rapper from San Francisco's Fillmore District. This year marks his 30-year anniversary in rap, having dropped his first album "Don't Cross Me" in 1993 at the age of 15. Since then, Quinn has navigated street politics, addiction, and the ups and downs of the industry. He's collaborated with some of the most legendary rappers in the Bay Area and beyond and held a world record for the most feature appearances by an artist under the age of 21. This interview goes in-depth to the stories behind Quinn's incredible career which is still in motion to this day.

On November 1, 2004, the hip-hop world was shocked to learn that Bay Area legend Mac Dre was gunned down in Kansas City. Almost 20 years later, there is still no definitive answer as to what led to his death. Using thousands of documents obtained from the KC police department, journalist Donald Morrison conducted a thorough investigation of the facts for his 2021 article, "Who Killed Mac Dre?" On this podcast, Donald reviews his findings and discusses the details around Mac Dre's trip to Kansas City, the shooting, and the rumors that KC rapper Fat Tone was responsible. He also shares his experience witnessing the death of LA superstar Drakeo the Ruler and discusses the parallels between him, Mac Dre, and the long list of other rappers who fell victim to senseless violence.

Mind Motion is a staple in the Bay Area hip-hop scene who's been DJing since the early 90s. For decades, millions of people heard him breaking classic records on the airwaves of 106.1 KMEL alongside Chuy Gomez. Before that, he came up in San Francisco as a dancer, graffiti writer, and party DJ. Mind Motion has been instrumental in getting almost every hit song from the Bay off the ground, and in this interview he shares his thoughts on the current state of radio, how rappers can network with DJs, and how DJs can have a long career.

Jason Goldwatch is a director and co-founder of Decon, a hip-hop record label. Growing up in San Francisco, he was inspired by hip-hop and graffiti and studied media production at School of the Arts. This led Goldwatch to the California Institute of the Arts, where he started professionally directing music videos. Over the years he has worked with Pharrell, Jay-Z, 88 Keys, Kanye West, Aceyalone, Action Bronson, Swollen Members, Dilated Peoples, Ludacris, Jeezy, Jim Jones, Atmosphere, Pusha T, The Roots, Kid Cudi, and countless others. Through Decon, he put out projects by Jay Electronica, Alchemist and Oh No, and Roc Marciano. Goldwatch recently collaborated on a film project with DJ Muggs for the new Soul Assassins album "Death Valley."

Hugh EMC is possibly the first San Francisco rapper to distribute an official release with the 1988 single, "It's The Game." His early songs like "H-Nigga Groove" (aka "Keep A Bitch Broke") and EP "Gangsta Knowledge" with DJ X-1 inspired an entire generation of SF hip-hop. Hugh's hardcore storytelling raps were directly inspired by witnessing the Fillmoe neighborhood change during the crack era. As a teen, he co-founded a gang from his projects, the Outta Control Posse, and entered into drug dealing and pimping. Hugh transitioned into starting his own record label and distributing tapes, eventually signing with In-A-Minute Records. Along the way he linked up with San Francisco rap legend Cougnut and helped mentor aspiring artists from his neighborhood like JT The Bigga Figga. After a prison stint derailed his rap career, Hugh transitioned into college education, radio broadcasting, and youth mentoring. He continues to work with youth and makes new music with a positive message.

JT The Bigga Figga is a legendary rapper, producer, record label owner, and entrepreneur from San Francisco's Fillmore District. While incarcerated as a juvenile in the early 90s, he decided to enter the emerging independent Bay Area rap scene. Despite successfully self-distributing his first demo tape, JT was rejected by In-A-Minute Records. This pushed him to start his own label, Get Low Records, which quickly became a successful entity to push his own albums as well as projects by the Get Low Playaz (San Quinn, D-Moe and Seff The Gaffla). As JT became better at marketing and promotion, he linked up with Master P during his time in Richmond and took his music nationwide. Over the course of his career, he's linked with industry heavyweights such as Jay-Z and Nas. To this day, JT The Bigga Figga is one of the most respected independent pioneers of Bay Area hip-hop.

In addition to being one of the producers on the podcast, D.E.O. is a Bay Area legend in his own right who started as one-half of the San Francisco rap duo Evenodds and transitioned into studio engineering and artist management. Over the years he's produced, recorded, mixed, and mastered some classic songs. Currently, he's managing Lil Kayla, supporting her in signing a major-label deal and touring around the country. In this episode D.E.O. steps into the spotlight to talk about his story as well as answer questions from the audience at the History of the Bay Day Party.

Recorded live at the Midway SF for the History of the Bay Day Party, this panel includes rapper CMG of Conscious Daughters, Thizz Nation photographer D-Ray, graffiti artist Dime of Few & Far Collective, and Nastia Voynovskya of KQED Arts & Culture. These women discuss their respective careers, sisterhood in the Bay Area, challenges they've faced in the industry, and what the future holds for women in hip-hop.

Benny Diar is a graffiti writer who grew up in Gilroy and made his name painting in San Jose, Portland, Seattle and beyond. Early on, he learned the consequences of graffiti while dealing with incarceration as a juvenile but never stopped his drive to paint. Coming up as a member of KYT and DTC crews, Diar's painted thousands of freight trains. He was also one of the creative minds behind Clout Magazine, which covered graffiti, rap, and streetwear from the Bay Area and beyond. Tragically, a car accident nearly took his life and left him paralyzed. Through the support of his crew, Diar pushed through and continues to paint to this day despite being confined to a wheelchair. His story is inspiring and he's shown people that anything is possible and art can help overcome even the most challenging circumstances.

D-Ray is a photographer who has taken some of the most legendary and well-recognized pictures in Bay Area rap history. Picking up photography as a hobby, she soon transitioned into doing shoots for magazines and local rappers. This quickly led to her becoming the official photographer for Mac Dre's Thizz Nation, which put her in perfect position to capture the Hyphy Movement as it exploded in the early 2000s. D-Ray soon took her work to Ozone Magazine where she became the official west coast editor and used her platform to promote underground artists from the Bay. Since then, she has overcome serious illness, doors being closed on her, and negativity in the music scene to continue documenting the culture.

Apexer is a world-renowned painter whose roots began in the San Francisco graffiti scene and evolved into one of the most recognized muralists from the Bay Area. He started writing graffiti in 3rd grade and fully immersed himself in the local scene, from bus hopping to racking paint and piecing in yards. Learning from older writers like Neon and his colleagues in BA crew, Apex created his own unique wild style of piecing. After paying his dues in the streets, he transitioned into legal walls, commissions, and fine art as a full-time career. Still, Apex has stayed grounded in graffiti traditions and incorporates the styles and techniques he developed as a writer into his current projects.

30 years after their debut, Souls of Mischief are proving that the title of their song "93 'Til Infinity" is true. Currently, they are in the middle of a world tour spanning over 100 dates, selling out shows around the globe, winning over young fans through streaming, and demonstrating a longevity that is rarely seen in rap music. This exclusive interview with all 4 members of Souls - A-Plus, Opio, Phesto and Tajai - touches on their upbringing in East Oakland, their early days recording with Del the Funky Homosapien, traveling to LA as teenagers to build with Ice Cube, Sir Jinx and Eazy-E, and the ups and downs of signing to a major label. As members of the Hieroglyphics collective along with Del, Casual, Pep Love, Domino, and DJ Toure, Souls and their comrades have been successful independent artists since the 90s. They also touch on how they define success for themselves, their pursuit of other careers outside of music, and how their friendship has helped them stick together to inspire new generations through music year after year.

Known for his unmistakable producer tag and signature style of beats, DJ.Fresh has been a staple of the Bay Area hip-hop scene for decades. Growing up in Baltimore, Fresh learned the foundations of DJing before moving to the Bay. While he was still a teenager, he entered and won several DJ competitions for the ITF and DMC. This led to Fresh becoming a tour DJ for Common and then Nas. As he started to get into producing, he launched his acclaimed "Tonite Show" album series by teaming up with Mistah Fab. Since then, Fresh has produced for Don Toliver, Tech N9ne, Wiz Khalifa, Curren$y, Larry June, E-40, Murs, Trae the Truth, Freddie Gibbs, the Jacka, Mozzy, J. Stalin and countless others. Recently, he went viral for his "Refreshed" remix series where he put a new twist on classics by artists like LL Cool J and RBL Posse. Fresh is currently working on his major label debut via BMG, "The Tonite Show" compilation.

A-Wax and Big Tone are veteran rappers representing the East Bay cities of Pittsburg and Antioch. Both got involved in gang life early and saw music as a way to turn their lives around. Wax and Tone linked up through Woodie, the legendary Antioch rapper who made his own beats and created the acclaimed Northern Expozure compilation series through his record label East Co-Co Records. Woodie taught both of them about the independent music business and inspired A-Wax to start Pie-Rx Records and Big Tone's Sav It Out Records. Wax and Tone have kept Woodie's legacy alive since his passing in 2007 and recently linked up to drop their collaborative album "The Redprint" in 2023. On this episode, they give insight into their careers and drop gems on how they navigate business, find success as an artist, and motivate others through their work.

Herm Lewis turned his life around from being a street hustler and addict in San Francisco's notorious Hunters Point neighborhood to running his own record label and becoming a motivational speaker. His first compilation, "Trying to Survive in the Ghetto," is a landmark release for San Francisco hip-hop, featuring artists like RBL Posse, Rappin 4-Tay, Cougnut, JT the Bigga Figga and more. In this interview Herm explains how he went from a drug dealer to drug user and turned his life around after a stint in prison. Since then, he's put out several successful compilations and continues to be relevant by speaking on some of Larry June's recent albums.

Rick Rock is a legendary producer whose extensive credits include some of the greatest rappers of all time. He's made hits for 2pac, Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, E-40, Busta Rhymes, Redman, Method Man, Angie Martinez, Spice 1, RBL Posse, Mystikal, Marvaless, and so many more. From his humble beginnings in Alabama, he relocated to the Bay Area after passing a beat to Oakland's Conscious Daughters. That led him moving in with legendary producer Mike Mosely and many amazing opportunities that Rick describes as a dream come true. He was a member of the group Cosmic Slop Shop along with Doonie Baby and Big Lurch, and later went on to co-found the Fairfield group the Federation. As the in-house producer for the Federation, Rick single-handedly created the sound that would spark the hyphy movement. In this interview, he breaks down his approach to creativity, the music business, and the stories behind some of his greatest hits.

History of the Bay Podcast Ep. 21: Champelli is a San Francisco legend who created the beloved "champagne" strain in the 90s, decades ahead of the booming legal cannabis industry that exists today. He talks about how his roots in this culture intersected with clothing design, skateboarding, graffiti, and hip-hop music. While growing and hustling his own product, Champelli also entered the music industry. One of his biggest supporters was Mac Dre, who shouted out Champelli on many of his projects. Champelli also produced "The Mighty Quinn" for San Quinn and put out his own compilations. Although cannabis is now legal for recreational use in California, Champelli ended up facing federal RICO charges. This experience inspired him to advocate for others who have been incarcerated for cannabis and he now promotes his brand legally.

Ceav has been an active graffiti writer since the 1990s. Coming out of Oakland, he was influenced by older writers like Mike Dream and Serf TMP. Known for his original style, tireless work ethic, and large-scale pieces, Ceav tries his best to stay humble, show love to upcoming writers, and continue to do what he loves. At the same time, he doesn't shy away from conflict and breaks down how he's handled graffiti beef over the years. Ceav is also one of the founding members of 640, a crew that's grown in large numbers and put in work all over the Bay Area.

Mike Giant made a name for himself as an artist in the worlds of graffiti, skateboarding, tattoo, streetwear, and fine art. Drawing ever since he was a child, Giant started painting graffiti in his hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico. An opportunity to design at Think Skateboards led him to San Francisco where he relocated in 1993 when the city was a mecca of graffiti, skating, music, and culture. Giant's ambition led him to paint large productions and he eventually traveled the world and established his art around the globe. He later transitioned into tattooing, which led him into streetwear design for Rebel 8, a brand he co-founded. Giant continues to make a living as a full-time artist, selling work online and at galleries. He shares some incredible stories that happened along the way and also discusses how he approaches his style, hustle, and career.  -- Produced by DEO @deo415 and Scino @squadelujah  Videography by King Ced for MVP Productions @mvpkingced and Rocky Vision @rocky__vision

Rocky Rivera is a rapper, journalist, and activist from San Francisco. After her family immigrated from the Philippines, she became immersed in hip-hop culture and grassroots community education. This led Rocky to San Francisco State University where she studied journalism and landed an editor position at Ruckus Magazine, which was a Bay Area media staple during the Hyphy Movement. After auditioning for an MTV reality show, she was given the opportunity to try out for a contributing editor position at Rolling Stone Magazine, which she won. Rocky has also written for outlets like The Source and Mass Appeal, but she challenged the mainstream, male-dominated spaces she found herself in. As a rapper, she expresses her unique voice on the mic and developed an avid fan base that supports her via Patreon. Rocky is a member of the Beatrock Music collective along with her partner Bambu, and she also shares relationship advice for creative couples. She has recently released her first book "Snakeskin" and is currently working on new music.

From Richmond, Mack Magic Mike started rapping in 1982. Along with his partner Calvin T, he sold homemade tapes around the Bay Area and influenced the likes of E-40, Mac Dre, and Mac Mall. Along with Too $hort and Freddy B, Magic Mike and Calvin T are considered some of the first rappers from the Bay Area and possibly the whole west coast. When you hear Magic Mike's music, the style of rapping and production is way ahead of its time and lays the blueprint for the Bay Area sound. Although he and Calvin T were set back by prison bids, Mike is still going hard today for his legacy and feeding international underground fanbase with new music.

Recorded at the legendary Amoeba Music San Francisco, Dregs One and P-Lo break down their early memories of Bay Area rap, talk about P-Lo's rise in the music game, and take questions from listeners and aspiring artists in the audience. P-Lo touches on his early influences, how he met Iamsu and how their crew HBK Gang got their start at the Shmop Fest house parties hosted by Kool John in Richmond. He and Dregs also touch on important tips for up-and-coming musicians who want to make further steps in the industry.

Adisa Banjoko's contributions to hip-hop go back to its beginnings in the Bay Area. He started off as a rapper with the group Freedom Troop 187, who made it into the first unsigned hype column in The Source before disbanding. As a senior at Oceana High in Pacifica, he did Eazy-E's first interview ever for his high school newspaper. From there, he ended up writing for The Source and other acclaimed publications, and encountering 2pac, Digital Underground, Gang Starr, EPMD, Public Enemy, 2 Live Crew, and many others. Adisa's been able to witness so many Bay Area hip-hop stories, including the rise of DJ Vlad and Zion-I.  Notoriously, a disagreement with KRS-One resulted in an explosive confrontation between him and Adisa at Stanford University, which he breaks down in detail in this episode. As the founder of Hip-Hop Chess Federation, he's worked on chess events with RZA and GZA and is now partnering with them on a new organization called 64 Blocks.

Tracey Helton Mitchell is a published author, activist, and a subject of the 1999 HBO documentary "Black Tar Heroin: The Dark End Of The Street." She shares her incredible stories of San Francisco in the 90s, where she ended up strung out on drugs once she arrived in the city. As shown in the documentary, the streets she lived on were far different than today's image of SF . Although she lost many friends along the way, Tracey managed to recover from addiction after a stint in county jail. Decades later, she started writing about her experiences and published her book, "The Big Fix: Life After Heroin." Tracey is still practicing recovery, advocating for overdose prevention, and living a positive lifestyle with her husband and children. This is an inspiring story and one that we hope will let people who are dealing with drug addiction know that it's possible to make positive changes.

Total Devastation achieved legendary status in the early 90s with their hit, "Many Clouds of Smoke." The duo of Bernie Yo Potna Red Eye and Big Tone Smoke, along with DJ Tuff Cut Tim, came up in San Francisco's Mission District. As the some of the first Latin rappers in the Bay, they blazed trails independently with their first release "In The SF Streets." This led to a deal with PGA Records and a hit song that would change their lives. On this episode of the History of the Bay Podcast, Total Devastation recalls their early days navigating the gang life and being early pioneers for the cannabis movement decades before it became mainstream. Along the way, Total Devastation made waves in hip-hop, rocking shows with Lighter Shade of Brown and working with producers like Diamond D, Funkmaster Flex, and Peanut Butter Wolf. As they navigated industry politics, wear and tear from the business side pushed music to the back burner. After a hiatus, Total Devastation is now gearing up to release new music, entering into the legal cannabis business, and planning to make a documentary about the group.

Vic20 is a graffiti writer who had an infamous run in the early 2000s along with his crew KUK (Kill Until Killed). Vic grew up in the North Bay and later moved to San Francisco, where he got introduced to graffiti through the skateboarding scene. After getting up with writers like Jade and Amaze, joining THR crew, and developing his style, Vic decided to forge his own path in graffiti with some like-minded friends. This was the beginning of KUK crew, who went on a notorious streak of vandalism around the bay. After getting up on transit, housing projects, and BART stations, KUK became a law enforcement target and the members' houses were raided. After a short time on the run, eventually Vic20 had to sit down for some county jail time. He's done his time, paid his dues, and overcome the realities of a hardcore graffiti lifestyle. Now he's doing well as a family man and showed up to the podcast to share his unique perspective on graffiti in the Bay Area.