Hip-hop fans across Indianapolis are getting hyped about a visit from one of the “Hottest of the Hot” rappers in the industry today, B.G.
B.G. will be appearing live in concert Friday, Nov. 28 at 9 p.m. at Club Industry, 416 E. Wabash.
The successful artist and entrepreneur is no stranger to local audiences, and said he always enjoys the performances he has delivered here over the course of his career.
“Most definitely,” he said. “It’s always a lot of love in Indianapolis, man. There’s a nice crowd that participates, and people there have been supporting me from day one. It’s always love when I’m up there.”
B.G., whose birth name is Christopher Dorsey, is best known as a member of hip-hop super group the Hot Boys, which also included Lil’ Wayne, Juvenile and Young Turk.
B.G., 28, has come a long way since growing up in New Orleans on the streets of one of the nation’s toughest neighborhoods. Like many of his peers who grew up surrounded by crime and without the presence of fathers, B.G. often found himself in trouble at school and with authorities.
However, his love for the art of hip-hop literally saved his life. He began writing rap songs and held impromptu concerts at his middle school.
B.G. was eventually signed to Cash Money Records, and quickly developed a regional following with his 1995 debut “True Story,” a captivating survey of ghetto life that showcased his unique flow. In 1997 he became a co-founder of the Hot Boys, a dream team of rappers who grew up in B.G.’s neighborhood.
The Hot Boys earned fame in no time with their catchy lyrics, original rhythms and an approach that involved each member taking turns at the microphone with his own style, kind of like a rap version of The Temptations.
When the group broke up to pursue individual projects in 2001, B.G. instantly became a successful solo artist with hits such as “Uptown Thang,” “Get Your Shine On,” “I Keep It Gangsta’” and “Hottest of the Hot.”
In 2003 B.G. formed his own label, “Chopper City Records” where he has launched the careers of artists such as K’Jon and the Chopper City Boyz. Last year he obtained a major distribution deal with Atlantic Records.
B.G. is currently touring with the Chopper City Boyz, promoting their album “Life in the Concrete Jungle.” He has also recorded a new song, “Ya Heard Me” with the Hot Boys, which will be followed by a reunion tour early next year.
B.G.’s 11th solo album, “Too Hood to Be Hollywood,” will be released in February and will feature a variety of special guests.
Upfront Promotions, a local company that organizes events, provides disc jockeys and offers communications services, is bringing B.G. to Indianapolis.
“We’re excited about having him come back,” said Mike Treez, president of Upfront Promotions. “When he raps, he speaks from the heart and always speaks the truth about the streets. He is also a great person, and when people meet him they are amazed at how down-to-earth he is.”
Here are excerpts from an exclusive interview B.G. conducted with the Recorder:
Tell us about your new album, “Too Hood to Be Hollywood.”
BG: Oh man, T.I.’s executive producing the album, and I’ll have Lil’ Wayne, Juvenile, C Murder, Young Jeezy and others on it. It’s very flavorful and incredible.
What makes it different from your earlier stuff?
Everything I do is better than the last, you know what I’m saying? This is my first album since I’ve been back on a major label. I really stepped it up a couple of notches on this one. People was telling me they wanted some of the old classic stuff, like I did in ’97 and ’98. So I gave them that, but with a 2008 slant. I’ve been telling my life story with these albums, so whenever I do one I’m just picking up where I left off.
How would you describe your style?
Uncut, raw, street, ghetto fabulous.
How’s everything coming with the recovery in New Orleans from the hurricane?
It’s coming along. It’s been slow moving, but it’s coming around. I’ve been trying to do my part by donating since the hurricane hit, and we’ve just formed this private company to help people who need help the most, in da’ hood.
In recent years hip-hop has been criticized for focusing less on solving social issues and more on highlighting money, guns and sex. What do you think of the critics?
I mean, they’re probably not living our lives. I’m sure at least half of them hasn’t gone through what we have dealt with, man. I really don’t think they can speak to what we do. The good thing is that we all have freedom of speech, you know.
What do you have to say to your fans in Indy?
Man, I love all of you. Keep it real with me, and I’ll keep it real back. I appreciate your support and giving me the inspiration to keep going.