Dr. Dre, Kanye West, and Pharrell Williams are producers who were able to transfer their success behind the boards into legitimate careers as rappers.
Memphis native Drumma Boy hopes to be the next producer who can create head nodding beats and control the mic. On Aug. 11, Drumma Boy celebrated his birthday and the release of his first mixtape, The Birth of D-Boy Fresh, with Trey Songz, Big Sean, DJ Drama, Tity Boi and Travis Porter at Opera in Atlanta.
Before the festivities kicked off, Drumma Boy, aka D-Boy Fresh, spoke about why he decided to delve into rap after having success as a producer. –amir shaw
You have produced hits for numerous hip-hop and R&B stars. Why did you decide to become a rapper?
There are a lot of people who want to know about the man behind the beats. They know the name, but some don’t know the face. I’m only expressing 50 percent of my mind with production. D-Boy Fresh is my spokesperson. On the business side, I’m doing branding through other ventures. It would allow me to pick up more endorsement deals and even the possibility of acting.
What does the future hold as rapper-producer?
I’m going to re-release the mixtape on iTunes in about one month or two. The deluxe edition will have six new songs. But the mixtape can be downloaded today. I’m looking forward to the feedback. I’m also staying on the production too. I have some stuff out with Tity Boi, Rocko is doing good with the “Going Steady” record, and Yo Gotti is looking good with “We Can Get it On.” My first video and single is called “I’m on Worldstar.”
What’s the meaning behind the title, The Birth of D-Boy Fresh?
During childhood, I would have dreams of hearing music in a black room. My mom later told me she would put her stomach to speakers while she was pregnant with me. She exposed me to music before I was born. I want to provide storytelling as D-Boy Fresh. I’m bringing you in to my life. It’s almost like a rebirth for me.
Check out The Birth of D-Boy Fresh
