One of Hip Hop’s most respected lyricists, Buckshot, talks about his career, the music industry, and success after nearly two decades in Hip Hop. During a Duck Down Records’ 15 year anniversary show, the emcee, whose career was launched with the classic “Who Got The Props,” gave props to Insomniac Magazine for being the first to put him on a magazine cover nearly 15 years ago. The entire Duck Down crew graced the cover of Insomniac’s second issue. Buckshot and DJ Evil Dee (two thirds of Black Moon) also appeared on a later issue’s cover.
Buckshot- Da BDI Emcee started Duck Down Enterprizez with his business partner Dru Ha after the success of Blackmoon and fellow artists Smif n Wessun’s debut albums, both releases that were hugely embraced by fans internationally during the earlier ’90s on Wreck/Nervous Records. They took their backpack Hip Hop sound and comrads over to their own label and management company, and the rest is history.
During the concert tour dates, Buckshot takes the stage with fellow Boot Camp members The Cocoa Brovaz (Smif n Wessun aka Tek and Steele) and Sean Price to perform their impressive string of underground hits. Pharoahe Monch (originally one half of Organized Konfusion), who will release his album “W.A.R.” with Duck Down, also performs on the tour. The collective is the only east coast group to complete an album with the late Tupac. I recall talking to them years ago about the amazing experience. Dru described Tupac’s amazing hospitality and respect for the crew during their time together. During a recent talk, General Steele mentioned that it was all documented by Tupac’s people on video, however, the actual music project has never been released.
Duck Down continues to thrive in the music business by releasing impressive projects, including collaborations with Buckshot and KRS One, and also his work with producer 9th Wonder. As well, the label has released many other albums, including “Smoke n Mirrors” from Cypress Hill’s B-Real. Recently, Duck Down announced their signing of former Bad Boy artist Black Rob, as well as the upcoming album for Cocoa Brovaz entirely produced by Pete Rock. In an era where artists of all genres rarely enjoy longevity, Buckshot and Duck Down continue to shine. -Israel Vasquetelle
Watch the interview with Buckshot as he discusses his career and gives advice to aspiring music entrepreneurs and artists.
Continue to view pictures from Duck Down’s Anniversary:
