Photo by Andrew Zaeh
Chicago has been at the forefront of hip-hop for years due to artists like Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco, and Common. Most recently the reigns have been passed down to artists like Chief Keef, King L, and Def Jam’s latest recording artist Lil Durk. He garnered a lot of attention with his two mixtape releases I’m A Hitta and I’m Still A Hitta, and his video for “L’s Anthem” has over one million views on YouTube. For some, it may seem like a fairy tale, but his story is anything but that. Just shortly after his signing to Def Jam, Lil Durk was taken off Cloud 9 with a three month jail sentence. After completing his time, Lil Durk is back and ready to finish what he started and claim his throne.
Two years ago did you think that this is where you would be?
Actually I did. I felt very confident; I was just waiting for my time. I’m ready to work and just move on.
Do you think jail gave you a new outlook?
Yes, it gave me a big break to think about the mistakes I’ve made. It gave me a good piece of mind.
Why do you think Chicago has such an imprint on hip-hop right now?
It’s because of the 300 movement. They really opened up so many doors.
Who are you listening to right now?
I’m listening to Wale, Pusha T and Meek Mill.
What is your response to the haters?
I just keep going hard. All my videos and music are doing numbers. My teachers told me I wasn’t going to be shit and look at me now.
What have you learned in life that you would teach to your son?
I would teach him to stay out of the streets and stay in school. Learn responsibility and keep on the right track.
How did it feel getting signed to Def Jam?
It felt real good. I had to sit down and think. We went to the building and it was a lot of support.
What can we expect from your new music?
You can expect some music from me in October. Me and Young Chop gonna work together again and really step outside the box.
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