In a recent interview, Tony Yayo shared vivid memories of growing up in Jamaica, Queens during the 1990s, describing the neighborhood as a “war zone” marked by intense gang activity. He recalls the early emergence of the Bloods in New York, particularly on Jamaica Avenue, where violent clashes were common. Yayo detailed how multiple gangs like Toy Soldiers, Lost Boys, and Hammerheads operated in the area, making daily life dangerous with incidents such as disputes over bus passes often turning violent.

Despite the pervasive gang culture, Yayo himself never aligned with any gang, emphasizing the risks involved, especially for artists touring or performing in hostile territories like Los Angeles, where gang affiliations can be lethal regardless of one’s status. Sharing his respect for fellow rappers navigating this environment, Yayo highlighted the importance of caution and understanding street dynamics, pointing fans to resources like “Rap’s New Street Politics” to better grasp the complex realities of urban gangs today.