Prodigy of Mobb Deep, who helped start gangster rap for the East Coast, talks about his autobiography and lifelong battle with sickle cell anemia. The podcast explores the recent FDA approval for a new therapy for sickle cell disease, which could have saved Prodigy's life. They also discuss Prodigy's early life, musical inspiration, and the impact of their music on street life. The chapter concludes with Prodigy discussing his new song 'Stronger' and the importance of overcoming obstacles.
Prodigy's battle with sickle cell anemia influenced the dark and gritty tone of his music.
Prodigy's journey from prison to personal growth serves as an inspiration for others facing adversity.
Deep dives
Prodigy's Struggle with Sickle Cell Anemia
Prodigy, one of the pioneers of hardcore hip-hop, opens up about his lifelong battle with sickle cell anemia. He describes the hereditary blood disorder, in which blood cells change shape and cause intense pain throughout the body. Prodigy recounts his experiences as a child with sickle cell attacks, often feeling isolated and angry. He also shares his family background in show business, growing up around famous jazz musicians. Prodigy's struggle with sickle cell and his early introduction to hip-hop influenced the dark and gritty tone of his music.
Entering the Music Industry and Finding Success
Prodigy and his partner Havoc worked tirelessly to break into the music industry. They promoted their music by visiting record labels and trying to get people to listen to their demo tapes. It wasn't until Q-Tip from A Tribe Called Quest stopped to listen that they got their first break. Despite a setback with their debut album, Prodigy and Havoc refused to give up and released 'The Infamous,' which became a defining record in East Coast hardcore hip-hop. Their music stood out for its darkness and grit, reflecting the harsh realities of their neighborhood and the street lifestyle they witnessed.
A Dark Period and Redemption
After achieving success, Prodigy's life took a negative turn. He found himself involved in criminal activities and developed a reckless lifestyle, abusing drugs and alcohol. This behavior eventually led to his arrest and imprisonment. During his three years in prison, Prodigy underwent a transformative period of reflection and self-improvement. He focused on physical fitness, mental growth, and reconnecting with his spirituality. Prison became a turning point for Prodigy, allowing him to recognize the self-destructive path he was on and to commit to positive changes.
Prodigy's Resilience and Legacy
Prodigy's journey not only showcased his resilience and determination, but it also shed light on the struggles faced by individuals living with sickle cell anemia. Despite his battles, Prodigy consistently produced impactful music, demonstrating his ability to overcome obstacles. His distinctive style, representing the streets he grew up in, made a lasting impact on the rap industry. Prodigy's story serves as an inspiration for others facing adversity, highlighting the importance of persistence and personal growth.
Prodigy formed Mobb Deep alongside his partner Havoc when they were teens. Together the duo basically started gangster rap for the East Coast. When he joined the show back in 2011, Prodigy had just written a biography called My Infamous Life. He talked with us about the book and also his lifelong battle with sickle cell anemia. In 2017, he was hospitalized for his anemia and died while in care. Late last year, the FDA approved a new therapy to treat and almost eliminate symptoms of sickle cell disease. Had it been available to Prodigy when he was alive, there's a good chance he'd still be here today.