In a recent interview, Young Dirty Ba$tard, the son of the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard from the legendary Wu-Tang Clan, opened up about his life, his father’s legacy, and his own budding career in the hip-hop industry. The conversation, hosted by Marjay Angel on Hip Hop YTV, highlighted the challenges that come with following in the footsteps of a famous parent while also exploring significant cultural themes related to hip-hop and African American history.
Young Dirty Ba$tard, now 32, expressed his feelings about stepping into a legacy that was still in the process of being defined when his father was alive. “It’s actually one of the hardest things ever,” he remarked, acknowledging that the Wu-Tang Clan’s influence was groundbreaking and that the journey of establishing their legacy has been ongoing. He emphasized his commitment to carrying forward that legacy while acknowledging the struggles that come with it.
The conversation touched on the significance of hip-hop as a cultural movement. Young Dirty Ba$tard remarked on the evolution of the genre, emphasizing that it represents a new era of black entrepreneurship and creativity, akin to the historic Black Wall Street. He recognized the need for artists from the hip-hop community to remain vigilant against external forces that seek to co-opt their culture. “That was our thing… it’s never going to be the same,” he said, highlighting the importance of authenticity in the face of commercialization.
Marjay Angel praised Young Dirty Ba$tard for his wisdom and insight, noting how he has been vocal about health and wellness long before such topics gained mainstream attention. The rapper shared that he and Wu-Tang producer RZA are currently working on new music, and he is eager to release it as the live music scene begins to revive post-pandemic. “New York City just opened back up,” he said, reflecting optimism about the future of live performances.
As the discussion progressed, Young Dirty Ba$tard shared insights into his personal experiences with the Wu-Tang Clan. He noted that the collective took him under their wing after the loss of his father, providing mentorship and support during his formative years in the industry. He expressed gratitude for their guidance and emphasized the importance of familial bonds, stating, “They had to just be there for me.”
Fans also inquired about the influence of Ol’ Dirty Bastard on his life. Young Dirty Ba$tard revealed that he feels his father’s spirit guiding him and that he often draws from his father’s legacy in his work. “I look at him through pictures every day, and I feel his energy,” he said, suggesting that his father’s influence is not just a whisper but a powerful presence in his life.
The conversation turned to the topic of technology in music, particularly the use of holograms in performances. Young Dirty Ba$tard discussed the potential of holograms to keep the memory of his father alive in a new and innovative way, despite the challenges and costs associated with such productions. He expressed a desire for his father’s legacy to be honored adequately and for the hip-hop community to continue pushing boundaries.
Looking ahead, Young Dirty Ba$tard is eager to leave his own imprint on the industry. He articulated a vision that transcends music, aiming to make a broader impact on culture and society. He hopes to inspire future generations while honoring the lessons of the past. “We got a lot to do,” he said, emphasizing the importance of legacy and continuity in hip-hop.
As the interview concluded, Young Dirty Ba$tard expressed excitement about upcoming projects, including a concert named “Spiritual Warfare,” which he believes will resonate deeply with audiences. His journey reflects not only the challenges of navigating a famous lineage but also the broader narrative of resilience and creativity within hip-hop culture. This conversation serves as a reminder of the power of music to connect, inspire, and uplift, ensuring that the legacy of Ol’ Dirty Bastard continues to thrive through his son.