#061 - R.A. The Rugged Man - Biggie, Vietnam, and Modern Hip-Hop
Mar 24, 2025
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R.A. The Rugged Man, a legendary hip-hop artist and filmmaker, dives deep into his unique journey through the chaotic music industry. He shares personal stories about his father’s Vietnam War service and the lasting impact of Agent Orange on his family. The conversation touches on the evolution of hip-hop, the commercialization of the genre, and the importance of authenticity. R.A. also reflects on societal issues, political climate, and his passion for filmmaking, providing valuable insights into maintaining real artistry in today’s world.
R.A. The Rugged Man emphasizes the competitive nature of early hip-hop, where rivalry among artists drove them to continually improve their craft.
He shares personal reflections on overcoming life’s challenges, which shaped his character and ultimately enhanced his artistic journey.
The discussion highlights R.A.'s evolution as an artist, blending music and filmmaking while striving to maintain his authentic voice in a commercialized industry.
Deep dives
The Competitive Spirit of Hip-Hop
The discussion reflects on the intense competitive nature of the hip-hop scene during the speaker's early career. Artists viewed each other as both peers and rivals, often pushing the limits in a quest for superiority. This competitive atmosphere fostered a strong drive to outdo one another, motivating artists to continuously elevate their craft. The speaker expresses that, despite friendships, this rivalry was intrinsic to the culture, as they often felt a need to prove themselves against rising stars.
Reflections on Life and Career
The speaker shares personal reflections on their tumultuous journey in life and music, acknowledging the wild experiences that shaped their character. They express pride in having persevered through challenges that could have derailed their career and are ultimately grateful for their experiences. The passage of time has provided them with the perspective to appreciate their past struggles as essential to their growth. They also touch on their aspiration to accomplish everything on their 'bucket list' while remaining open to future opportunities.
The Power of Collaboration
Collaboration in hip-hop often involves an element of competition, with artists aiming to outperform one another while creating their music together. The speaker points out that over time, their approach to collaborations has evolved from a purely competitive mindset to a more nuanced understanding considering the musical styles and strengths of their peers. This adaptability fosters a collaborative environment that encourages creativity rather than just competition. The speaker acknowledges that working with other talents has played a pivotal role in their artistic journey.
Artistry in Evolution
The speaker discusses their realization of the importance of evolving their artistry while engaging with different mediums, including music and film. They acknowledge that their creative process involves blending elements from past experiences with new ideas, hinting at future projects that will showcase this creative shift. The conversation highlights the struggle of balancing the demands of multiple artistic ventures while staying true to their core identity. This evolution demonstrates their commitment to exploring new narratives and artistic expressions.
The Impact of Loss in Art
The session addresses the emotional weight of loss and how it informs the speaker’s music and storytelling. They recount personal experiences of grief, particularly with the loss of family members, and how these moments influenced their artistic expression. The memories encapsulated in their storytelling serve not only as a cathartic release but also as a means to connect with their audience on a deeper level. This connection emphasizes the universal nature of grief and its role in shaping art.
Navigating the Modern Landscape of Music and Film
The speaker discusses the complexities of transitioning into film while managing an established music career, reflecting on the challenges and risks involved. They express a desire to pursue film projects that align with their unique voice, aiming to maintain creative control amidst industry pressures. This ambition showcases a blend of their passion for storytelling and the drive to break traditional molds within the film industry. They underline the importance of harnessing modern technology and storytelling techniques to create impactful narratives.
R.A. The Rugged Man is a legendary hip-hop artist, lyricist, and filmmaker, known for his uncompromising style, underground acclaim, and powerful storytelling. From early industry blackballing to global respect, he’s earned a reputation as one of the most authentic voices in rap, praised by legends like Biggie, Kool G Rap, and Chuck D.
In this interview, we explore R.A.’s rise through the chaos of the music industry, the making of his iconic track Uncommon Valor, and the deeply personal story of his father’s service in Vietnam and the devastating impact of Agent Orange on his family. R.A. reflects on hip-hop’s evolution, the modern rap landscape, and what it means to stay real in a commercialised culture. We also dive into his passion for filmmaking, his experiences as a father, and his views on politics, war, and American decline.
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