Mark Hicks is former manager of D12 and worked with Shady Records, Eminem, Biggie Smalls, and many other major labels. In this talk, he discusses growing up in Detroit, befriending Proof and managing him. He talks about meeting Eminem over a phone call with Proof and watching Eminem proser into the star that he is today. Mark Hicks began managing the original D12 members are went #1 on billboard. In this talk, he discusses taking D12 on tour and watching the group with Eminem flourish. He talks about losing D12 member Bugz. He also talks about losing Detroit Rapper Proof, and says theirs a conspiracy around his death. He also talks about Eminem calling from LA telling everyone in the group that he was with Dr. Dre recording "Hi, My Name Is." He also tells the story about Esham at the warped tour and what really set things off. Claiming that Esham had a Get Back moment in the future. D12, short for "Dirty Dozen," was a hip-hop group based in Detroit, Michigan. Formed in 1996, the group initially consisted of six members: Eminem, Proof, Bizarre, Kuniva, Swifty McVay, and the late Bugz. Known for their wild and outrageous style, D12 became a significant part of the Detroit hip-hop scene. They released their debut album Devil’s Night in 2001, which featured hits like “Purple Pills” and “Fight Music.” Their dark humor, intricate lyrics, and distinct personalities made them stand out. The group’s second album, D12 World (2004), continued their success. They often collaborated with Eminem, who was already an established solo artist by then. Tragically, the group’s dynamic changed after Proof’s death in 2006, as they struggled with loss and the challenges of moving forward without him. Eminem’s connection to D12 is deep and foundational. Before he became an international solo star, Eminem was part of the Detroit-based group, contributing heavily to their success. D12 was integral to his early career, with members like Proof being his close friends and collaborators. Eminem’s debut album The Slim Shady LP (1999) garnered attention, but it was D12's Devil’s Night (2001) that solidified his presence in the mainstream hip-hop scene. On tracks like "Purple Pills" and "Fight Music," Eminem’s presence was pivotal. As D12's most prominent member, Eminem’s solo career soared, but he never left the group behind. They supported each other, and his involvement helped propel their success. However, after Proof’s tragic death, the group faced challenges, but Eminem’s loyalty to his roots remained strong, even as his career flourished individually. Proof, born DeShaun Holton, was a central figure in D12 and an influential part of Eminem’s career. Known for his sharp lyricism, charisma, and leadership within D12, Proof’s death in 2006 was a devastating blow. He was tragically shot in a Detroit nightclub after a dispute escalated, leaving the hip-hop community reeling. His passing had a profound impact on D12, both personally and professionally. Proof was a mentor to Eminem and other group members, and his death marked a turning point for the group. The remaining members struggled to cope with the loss of their friend and leader. Despite their grief, they paid tribute to Proof in various ways, including in their music and during live performances. His memory continues to influence their work, and Eminem, in particular, frequently references Proof in his songs. The collaboration introduced them to new audiences, showcasing their wild, energetic performances. Esham, a Detroit-based rapper known for his dark, horrorcore style, brought an edge to the event, matching D12’s aggressive and unapologetic stage presence.
