EXCLUSIVE: 9 Questions with DA G.R.I.N.D.
Da G.R.I.N.D. is a hard-hitting Hip Hop duo featuring two of Texas’s hottest rappers: Bootsy Wayne and Jay Stylez. The group’s distinctive southern style pays homage to Hip Hop legends while simultaneously pushing the genre forward. Having already released a series of critically acclaimed mixtapes, DA G.R.I.N.D. is preparing for the release of their debut album #ItsDaGrindYaBastards, featuring lead single "Daily Basis".
With a deep stylistically diverse catalog, DA G.R.I.N.D. has been making a name for themselves on the local scene for years, and are now primed to step into the national spotlight. Check-in with the two in their Hype Off Life exclusive. Then hit play on the freshly released "Daily Basis" music video.
Hailing from Houston, what do you love most about your city?
Bootsy Wayne: If I had to choose, it would be 2 things: how diverse the music scene is and how the city is constantly changing.
Jay Stylez: I am a from Beaumont, TX but with roots in Houston and Dallas. I love how the city embraces it's own and musically have our own sound.
When did each of you get into Hip Hop?
Bootsy Wayne: I first got into it when I learned how to beat box as I kid. As far as the music, I feel in love with it the first time I heard Snoop's What's my name.
Jay Stylez: I think when I was around 9 or 10 years old.
How did you guys meet?
Bootsy Wayne: In Dallas, being fellow artist on a label.
Jay Stylez: Long story short, in Dallas through mutual friends and became label mates. LOL
What acronym does Da G.R.I.N.D. stand for?
Bootsy Wayne: Da Goals Reches when Intelligence Never Doubted
Jay Stylez: Da Goals Reaches when Intelligence Never Doubted
If you could only listen to 2 albums for the rest of your life, what would they be?
Bootsy Wayne: Jay-Z's The Blueprint and Kendrick's Good Kid, Mad City
Jay Stylez: I am music head, so... but for hip hop Outkast Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik and 2Pac All Eyez On Me with UGK Ridin Dirty as an honorable mention.
Out of you guys’ well-received discography, which project was your favorite to create?
Bootsy Wayne: Our Mixtape, Volume 3: P.U.I.
Jay Stylez: It has to be Da G.RI.ND. Vol. 3, it was a mixtape and people are still rocking it to this day.
What all does Da G.R.I.N.D. have coming this year that we should keep an eye out for?
Bootsy Wayne: Video for #DailyBasis, debut album #ItsDaGrindYaBastards and new mixtape in the works.
Jay Stylez: We have been busy....Video for #DailyBasis, debut album #ItsDaGrindYaBastards and new mixtape in the works.
As veterans in the game, what advice do you have for rappers wanting that lasting power?
Bootsy Wayne: Stay consistent with what you are doing, put quality above everything and trust what you are doing will get you there.
Jay Stylez: Have a game plan, a team that believes in you and your vision. Stay working on your craft.
Who do you do it for?
Bootsy Wayne: Fans of good music, my daughters and my brother who passed away.
Jay Stylez: My kids and the love for music. Speak for the voiceless....Da G.R.I.N.D. for the people!!
