Hendo Unplugged

Dive into the pulsating heart of San Diego's hip-hop scene with master beat maker 88 as he shares his remarkable journey from Virginia Beach to California's sun-drenched studios. In this intimate conversation, 88 reveals the secrets behind his mesmerizing beats, shaped by influences like Lupe Fiasco and Pharrell, and honed under the mentorship of local legend Sami Side Fly. Join us as we explore the power of collaboration with artists such as Ohgeesy and TG, and get an exclusive glimpse into 88's highly anticipated 'Jigs in the Morning' mixtape. From discussing the role of producers in shaping the city's musical identity to pondering the delicate balance between beats and lyrical content, this session celebrates the unwavering spirit of San Diego's musical community. Join us for an enriching dialogue where rhythm meets passion and creativity knows no bounds.

Get ready for an exclusive interview with the one and only Lil Scrappy! Join us as he shares never-before-heard stories about his encounters with Big Meech, spills the tea on Love & Hip Hop drama, and dives deep into his personal relationships. This is your chance to hear directly from the hip hop icon himself about his journey in the industry. Don't miss out on this captivating conversation covering Big Meech stories, Love & Hip Hop drama, relationships, and much more!

Listen in as we explore the journey of Monaleo, a talented female rapper who gained fame with her first hit song. We discuss everything from her love for food in San Diego to how she turns her personal struggles into music that connects with people. Starting with her brother's support for her rap career, we talk about the importance of promoting oneself and her big show at Phantom Lounge. We also talk about being true to oneself and how sharing experiences with others can make us stronger. Monaleo and I share stories about breaking free from expectations and pursuing our dreams despite challenges. We talk about her past job as a crisis intervention call taker and the doubts she faced when choosing a non-traditional path. We celebrate artists like Frank Ocean and talk about how people listen to albums differently now, as well as the importance of friendship and communication. We end by discussing the unique obstacles and victories for female rappers, including body image scrutiny and building a distinct brand. Despite challenges, we highlight the resilience of women in the industry and how female rap is still going strong. Tune in for an inspiring and entertaining episode—you might want to take notes!.

Discover the power of transformation as Roann takes you from the crisp white linens of a nursing career to the pulsating heart of LA's music scene in our latest episode. Her journey is a testament to the courage it takes to follow one's dreams, with her soulful melodies and the story behind her leap into a life dedicated to music. We celebrate her latest anthem, "Give You Everything," and peel back the layers of her experiences, revealing the grit behind the glamour and the authenticity that fuels her distinctive voice.

Join me as I sit down with the legendary Big Cricet, a cornerstone of San Diego's hip-hop legacy, for an unforgettable exchange on the past, present, and future of the West Coast rap scene. We kick things off with Cricet's heartfelt recollections of his upbringing in Southeast San Diego, the indelible mark of his father's Navy boxing legacy, and his own strides to unite the city's vibrant cultural tapestry. The conversation takes a poignant turn as Cricet reflects on his encounters with gang culture and his conscious decision to pivot towards music, symbolized by his poignant Blue Damien album. He honors the profound influences in his career, including community leader Earl Hamilton, aka King P, and the unsung heroes like Steve Vicious and Jayo Felony who shaped the city's unique sound. Listen in as I explore the complex interplay of music and life with Cricet, shedding light on the hurdles and victories that define the San Diego rap scene. Our dialogue spans the anticipation and subsequent disenchantment with Death Row Records, the communal aspiration to build a San Diego music powerhouse akin to Roc Nation, and the sage guidance of OGs who channel the raw energy of the streets into potent, collaborative artistry. Cricet's candid stories about navigating the music industry's highs and lows without losing one's identity are both inspiring and cautionary, offering invaluable lessons to artists climbing the ladder today. Finally, we celebrate the power of community and the enduring influence of hip-hop culture, with Cricet emphasizing the importance of mentorship, authenticity, and crafting a legacy that stands the test of time. The spirit of unity takes center stage as we underscore the need for solidarity among San Diego artists, the importance of mutual respect, and the potential to make waves on a national scale when forces join together. Tune in for this electrifying session and catch a glimpse of what's possible when we come together in music and life, featuring special mentions of icons like Mitchy Slick, Jayo, MC Hammer, Suge Night and much more. Don't forget to check out Cricet's Instagram for more of his story and influence on hip-hop.

Join us for a personal odyssey into Fedie Demarco's heart of hip hop, from family influences to the cathartic power of music. Hear about the life-changing moment at age 20 that Fedie saw a transition from illegal car rentals to a rap career under the guidance of mentor Ice T. The serendipity of this encounter underscores the transformative potential of music and the doors it can open. Discover how a chance meeting while incarcerated launched a journey of mentorship and opportunity that continues to resonate today. In our final segment, we navigate the complexities of the music industry with sage advice from Ice T on staying authentic amidst fleeting trends. Fedie Demarco share insights into the strategy behind releasing singles over albums and the careful curation of tracks for an upcoming mixtape. We round off with a candid discussion on gang culture, the nuances of personal relationships, and the ever-controversial Mexican food debate. Don't miss out as we dissect trust, privacy, and the boundaries of the 'bro code,' all while keeping it real with insights into the industry and personal expression through lyrics.

When the sound of redemption echoes through the streets of San Diego, it's hard not to sit up and take notice. That's exactly what we're bringing to the table this week, as we sit down with a trailblazing Christian rapper Hog Mob Dontae. His story isn't just about music; it's a narrative of transformation, community, and the relentless pursuit of authenticity. From his roots in St. Louis to his impact on San Diego's culture, this episode promises an evocative exploration of an artist reshaping Christian rap. Straddling the line between the secular world and spiritual depth, our guest offers a rare glimpse into life as a Christian rapper navigating two seemingly disparate realms. His music speaks to those wrestling with faith and life's tough choices, offering a resonant voice to listeners on the brink. We traverse the multifaceted hip-hop industry, unpacking the complexities of reputation, authenticity, and the internal conflicts that often plague the scene. It's an unfiltered look at the struggles and triumphs of an artist committed to making a difference, redefining what it means to be a beacon of light in both the Christian community and the gritty reality of street culture. As we wrap up, the conversation turns towards the broader impact of our guest's work, celebrating his role in initiatives like recovery homes and his collaboration with notable figures like Lamar Odom. This is where stories of hope and redemption take center stage, emphasizing the importance of supporting those in need, whether they're dealing with substance abuse or transitioning out of incarceration. For the aspiring rappers out there, our episode concludes with sage advice from someone who's walked a mile in those shoes. So buckle up and get ready for a journey through the sounds of transformation and the power of faith-driven music.

Ever wondered how a first-generation American with Jamaican roots could cook his way into the elite world of private jet cuisine? Meet Geoff, a former Navy chef turned defense contracting entrepreneur whose extraordinary story is a masterclass in resilience and ingenuity. Born to Jamaican parents and raised between Miami, Jamaica, and New York, Geoff's journey is a feast of determination seasoned with the zest of serendipity. From his reluctant start in the Navy kitchens to crafting meals for dignitaries mid-flight, his recipe for success is not just about the art of fine dining but about an insatiable hunger for more. As we peel back the layers of Geoff's dynamic career, witness how he transformed military culinary skills into a robust, nation-serving business. His tale is a blueprint for turning a steady stream of income into an empire of diverse ventures, all while navigating the bittersweet complexities of entrepreneurship. Big Hendo joins the table too, bringing a side dish of raw motivation with his own rags-to-riches narrative. These stories will not just whet your appetite for success—they'll show you how to savor each victory and learn from every setback. But it's not all about the flavor of triumph; we also get a taste of the challenges, like dealing with internal theft and mastering the delicate art of money management across multiple thriving businesses. Through the captivating lens of Geoff's experience, learn the reality behind earning that first million and the ongoing hustle it demands. Entrepreneurship can be a wild ride, full of unexpected turns and lessons to be learned, and this episode serves them up with a side of real talk, leaving you with a hunger to embark on your own journey toward greatness.

From the vibrant stages of San Diego's choirs to the pulsating beats of the rap scene, Bonnie's voice rings out as a declaration of destiny fulfilled. This episode welcomes the rap sensation into our studio for a raw and inspiring look at the making of a star. Bonnie shares her breathtaking climb from church harmonies to chart-topping rhymes, crediting her unwavering confidence and a medley of musical influences for her stunning evolution. She spotlights her hometown's talent, including collaborations with local artists and teases future projects that have us marking our calendars. Navigating fame's turbulent waters, Bonnie speaks to the soul of perseverance and the art of being unapologetically oneself. We dissect the nuances of harnessing both fan love and hater buzz for career propulsion. Our candid chat turns to the personal, discussing the impact her rising stardom has on relationships and facing down rumors concerning the likes of Blueface. Bonnie's transparency gives us a front-row seat to the challenges and opportunities that come with a life in the limelight, including the balancing act between public perception and private realities. As the conversation veers into the intimacy of Bonnie's personal life, she courageously opens up about the complexities of love, loyalty, and the pursuit of romance under the scrutiny of public fame. We examine the intricacies of dating with a focus on financial independence, sharing insights into her current relationship dynamics and the importance of finding a partner who brings both emotional and practical stability. In a heartfelt sign-off, Bonnie showers appreciation on her supporters and teases her upcoming ventures. Join us for this exclusive session that promises to resonate with dreamers and music lovers alike.

Skateboarding isn't just about the thrill of the ride; it's a journey through cultural landscapes and personal battles, as Brandon Turner vividly illustrates in our latest episode. From the vibrant streets of Japan to the skate parks of San Diego, Brandon's life is a captivating narrative of resilience, cultural diversity, and the unifying power of sports. His transition from traditional athletics to the liberating world of skateboarding carved a path for him to become a beacon for black skaters, navigating racial barriers and establishing his legacy in a predominantly white sport. During our conversation, Brandon shares the darker chapters of his life, uncovering the struggles with substance abuse that shadowed his rise to fame. The candor in his voice as he recounts near-death experiences that led to profound spiritual awakenings is nothing short of gripping. His story isn't just one of downfall; it's about the pivotal moments of truth, the decision to seek help, and the transformative power of acceptance and recovery. Listeners will find solace in his account, knowing that the journey to sobriety is a road often traveled, but one that can lead to remarkable personal growth and new beginnings. The final chords of our talk strike a hopeful note as Brandon unveils his vision for a groundbreaking rehab program designed with the skateboard community in mind. With music and mental health awareness at the forefront, he and artist Ray Jones discuss their collaborative effort to build a nurturing environment for healing through creativity. Their initiative is a testament to the power of channeling one's struggles into a force for positive change, inspiring a movement where support, understanding, and community stand at the heart of recovery.