In this day and age, it’s nearly impossible for someone raised in an urban setting not to be affected by Hip-Hop culture in some way. But to rise from fan to purveyor to a successful artist remains an uphill battle, especially when The Notorious B.I.G.’s famous quote, “Either you slingin’ crack rock or you got a wicked jump shot,” speaks to one’s true life situation.
Rapper Snootie Wild can attest to said statement. Hailing from Memphis, the southerner can effectively speak about what’s happening in the streets, because he’s not too far removed. He’s what we like to call a success story in its early stages–one that can take a turn for the worse or make strides for the better at any given moment. In his current disposition, Snootie is focused on the latter, more positive route, having scored a hit single in “Yayo” and a spot on Yo Gotti’s CMG Records roster.
But that opportunity didn’t come without its fair share of let downs and life lessons. Around the age of 16 or 17, Snootie was stabbed in the knee, ending any NBA aspirations. He soon took to the streets, but eventually got caught up and landed in prison. Having a chance to “sit still,” however, gave Snootie a chance to hone his rap talents–once a hobby–into a career.
As you can see, things have panned out thus far.
Who: Born and raised in Memphis, Tenn., Snootie Wild, 29, is one of the city’s promising up and coming artist. His hit record “Yayo” caught the ear of hometown legend Yo Gotti, who at the time was forming his CMG Records imprint with Epic Records. It was only logical to sign Snootie to the team. The rapper has since appeared on CMG’s Chapter One compilation mixtape and the accompanying tour. He’s currently prepping his upcoming project, Go Mode.
Credentials: Under the tutelage of Gotti, Snootie has already toured and is prepping to hit the road on T-Pain’s “The Drankin Patna” Tour.
Fun Fact: Snootie says that one of his crowning moments was performing at the legendary B.B. King’s in NYC while on Gotti’s I Am Tour.
Hip–Hop Wired: “Yayo” took off quickly. Of all the records you were making, did you think that would be your breakout hit?
Snootie Wild: Most definitely, I didn’t think that was going to be the record. When it came out, I was in the car doing exactly what I was saying on the record. Really stressing myself and speaking out loud on those things, it became a hit. It was a blessing.
HHW: You’ve aligned with Yo Gotti, a veteran in the rap game. What has he taught you?
Snootie Wild: Just paying attention to big bruh because he’s a teacher and an artist at the same time. It’s like the best of both worlds because he has an up and coming rap label. CMG is doing very well. And then he’s an artist as well. I get to educate myself on both lanes. How to move as an artist and how to conduct myself as a businessperson.
HHW: I’m guessing that Gotti being from Memphis played a part in you signing with him, right?
Snootie Wild: Most definitely. What’s understood doesn’t need to be explained. Where he’s from is right up the street from where I was born and raised. We understand each other’s struggles, most definitely. Really, there wasn’t anything else to be said.
HHW: He took you on the Chapter One tour. How was that experience?
Snootie Wild: It was a success. It was crazy. Basically, it was a good experience, as far as the team to be able to unite and get to know each other on a personal level, since we were around each other. And at the same time, vibe off each other musically.
That was real big plus on that end. Other than that, we just stayed focused, had a good time, tried to conquer state to state, and] try to make a point, a statement on this Chapter 1/CMG movement. We’re letting the people know that we’re here.
HHW: It’s normal for artists to record while on the road. Did you create any fire while touring?
Snootie Wild: Most definitely. First of all, I don’t write anything. It’s all off the hip. By creating and coming up with new music, I was able to see new things, hear new things (lingo). I was able to put that in my repertoire and create new music. The things I see and I go through, that’s where my music comes from.
HHW: Now you’re slated to tour with T-Pain, who’s a very different artist than you. How do you think this experience will shape you as an artist?
Snootie Wild: I know that it’s going to be a great experience, because ain’t nothing personal in life. This a blessing from God, so what happens on tour, it’s going to happen regardless because it was already written. Other than that, I’m gonna go out and be the best I can, I’m gonna be Snootie Wild.
It’s going to be great, because T Pain is just as crazy and animated as I am. I believe we’re going to rock the crowd.
HHW: With all this talk of touring, what’s up with the Go Mode project.
Snootie Wild: The EP coming out, it should be September 18. It’s going to be big. It’s going to be epic. Shout outs to Lil Boosie for supporting it.
HHW: How does it feel to have around OGs like [Yo] Gotti and Lil Boosie?
Snootie Wild: I look at it like this. When it comes down to seeking knowledge and reaching out, I believe God plays a big part in laying people in your path to learn from. I never look forward to [meeting] anyone. I just thank God, and whoever He brings in my path, I learn from–no matter good or bad.
