If respect was all that was needed to sell rap albums, Jadakiss and Styles P would undoubtedly be two of the top selling artists in hip-hop. Since debuting on Bad Boy Records in the late 1990s, the former LOX members have received critical acclaim for their lyrical skills and are often mentioned along with some of the top rappers of all-time. During the NBA All-Star weekend, we caught up with the Yonkers emcees who discussed the music business, reaching young black men and why they have a love for basketball.
There seems to be an influx of hip-hop artists who are in Phoenix supporting the NBA All-Star weekend. Did you ever have dreams of playing in the NBA?
Jadakiss: I would love to get a 10-day contract in the NBA. I would play for any team in the league. I used to play ball back in high school, but I was too short and too slow to take it to the next level. I had to tighten my bars up and jump into rap.
Why is there such a connection between hip-hop and sports?
Jadakiss: All the rappers want to be ball players and all of the ball players want to be rappers. It jells well. I have a good relationship with a lot of NFL and NBA players.
Styles P: As kids coming up, we all played basketball and fell in love with the sport. Where we’re from, most kids look up to musicians or athletes to find a way out.
You talked about kids who are looking to find a way out. What advice do you give to young men who are trying to change their circumstances?
Jadakiss: Times are hard. You have to stay strong and don’t give up. Everything gets greater if you work at it. You have to pray and try to learn the most about the business before you get into it. And you should also remain close with the people who have your best interest in mind. Styles P: You have to always follow your dreams. If things aren’t looking good, you have to believe in God and stay focused. Read more books and do whatever you can to stay on top.
Jadakiss and Styles P are the owners of D-Block records. In 2007, Jadakiss partnered with Cutting Edge LLC, to create Bada Bing Cigars and has done television work for Reebok. Jadakiss will release his third solo album, The Last Kiss, in March.
