Special Ed, hip-hop legend and creator of the hit single 'I Got It Made', joins the Drink Champs to share his journey in hip hop and discuss topics such as sampling in hip hop, money and publishing in the music industry, staying grounded despite fame, embracing 'Special Ed' and the importance of special education, booking artists and providing opportunities, the mindset of the younger generation, their involvement with Digital Underground and quitting weed after 40 years, experiences touring with MC Light and Queen Latifah, the influence of music personalities from Brooklyn, the need to pay for a concert, inclusivity and representation in events, the role of organizers and curators in the hip-hop industry, honoring the pioneers, and the significance of artist support.
The importance of owning your own music and understanding the business side of the industry.
The significance of loyalty and respect in the Hip-Hop community, fostering unity and mutual support.
The need to acknowledge and compensate the cultural contributions that birthed the Hip-Hop movement.
The importance of preserving the integrity and authenticity of Hip-Hop by honoring its pioneers.
The emphasis on health and wellness in maintaining a successful career in the music industry.
Deep dives
Special Ed's journey in the music industry
Special Ed shares his experiences and insights as an artist in the music industry. He talks about how he got his start and was inspired by artists like Jimmy Spicer and Run DMC. He also discusses the challenges he faced with record labels and the importance of owning your own music.
The impact of Special Ed's music
Special Ed talks about the impact of his music on the hip-hop community and how it brought people together. He emphasizes the importance of originality in the music industry and how it has changed over the years. He also highlights the importance of providing income opportunities for other artists.
Special Ed's perspective on the current music industry
Special Ed discusses his thoughts on the current state of the music industry. He talks about the lack of originality and the emphasis on commercial success. He also shares his experiences as a booking agent and the importance of providing opportunities for artists.
Personal reflections on his career and growth
Special Ed reflects on his career and growth as an artist. He talks about his experiences meeting Prince and being booked by him. He also shares his thoughts on artists like Drake and Usher and his preference for R&B music. He emphasizes the importance of owning masters and understanding the business side of the industry.
Importance of Loyalty and Respect in Hip-Hop
Loyalty and respect are vital in the Hip-Hop community as they determine trust and integrity among artists. Loyalty ensures a sense of reliability and trustworthiness, providing a solid foundation for collaborations and alliances. Respect acknowledges the value, talent, and contributions of each individual in the industry. Both loyalty and respect shape the relationships and dynamics within the Hip-Hop community, fostering a sense of unity and mutual support.
The Influence of Appropriation in the Music Industry
The issue of cultural appropriation within the music industry raises concerns about the exploitation of certain art forms and cultures for commercial gain. While events and concerts may generate excitement and revenue, it is essential to ensure that the culture, artists, and communities that birthed these movements are rightfully acknowledged and compensated. Appropriation should not overshadow the deep-rooted contributions and legacies of the individuals and communities who initially propelled the culture forward.
The Significance of Jamaican Influence in Hip-Hop
Jamaican culture has played a significant role in shaping the foundations of Hip-Hop. The emphasis on sound systems and parties, which originated in Jamaica, has been carried over to the Bronx and contributed to the birth of the Hip-Hop movement. The rich and vibrant musical traditions of Jamaica have influenced the sampling techniques, DJing styles, and innovative rhythms within Hip-Hop. The contributions of Jamaican artists, such as DJ Kool Herc, Coolie Ranks, and Super Cat, are invaluable to the development and evolution of the genre.
Acknowledging and Supporting Hip-Hop Pioneers
In order to respect and honor the pioneers and architects of Hip-Hop, it is crucial to provide them with proper recognition and compensation. This includes supporting independent artists, paying royalties for sampled works, and ensuring that events and initiatives centered around the culture are genuine and authentic. By prioritizing the contributions and legacies of Hip-Hop pioneers, we can preserve the integrity and authenticity of the culture for future generations.
Stop the Violence Movement
Special Ed is actively involved in the Stop the Violence Movement, which aims to redirect the negative energy and prevent violence among youth. He engages with kids of all ages to share his life experiences and inspire them to make positive choices. Special Ed emphasizes the importance of staying away from destructive behaviors, such as gun violence, and encourages young people to focus on their education, personal growth, and success without compromising their integrity.
Taking Care of Your Body and Mind
Special Ed shares his perspective on health and wellness, highlighting the importance of taking care of one's body and mind. He emphasizes the value of eating fruits, vegetables, and nutritious foods while avoiding harmful substances like alcohol. Special Ed practices food consciousness and mindfulness to ensure he maintains good physical condition. Additionally, he believes in being active through activities such as walking, biking, and swimming. He advocates for a holistic approach to health that encompasses all aspects of well-being.
N.O.R.E. & DJ EFN are the Drink Champs. In this episode the Champs chop it up with the legend, Special Ed! Special Ed stops by to share his journey in hip hop, from creating his debut album Youngest in Charge and selling over a half million copies, creating his hit single “I Got It Made” to much much more! Lots of great stories that you don’t want to miss! Listen as we continue to celebrate 50 Years of Hip-Hop!! Make some noise for Special Ed !!! 💐💐💐🏆🏆🏆
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