In a recent episode of *Hard Knock Radio*, host Davey D sat down with legendary West Coast hip-hop artist Volume 10 for an in-depth conversation about his career, his groundbreaking contributions to the genre, and his upcoming projects. The interview offered a rare glimpse into the mind of an artist who has consistently pushed the boundaries of hip-hop, blending rap, singing, and genre-defying experimentation.
### **From the Bay to L.A.: Volume 10’s Roots and Journey**
Volume 10, born Dino Hawkins, opened up about his multi-city upbringing, which has shaped his unique perspective and sound. Born in Los Angeles, he moved to Oakland at the age of six and later returned to L.A. during the height of the crack epidemic. Currently based in Phoenix, Volume 10 revealed that he’s considering a return to Oakland, calling the Bay Area “home” and one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
“I’m from three different places: L.A., Oakland, and Phoenix,” he explained. “I’ve been shuffling between these cities my whole life. Right now, I’m in Phoenix, but I’m trying to relocate to Oakland again. The Bay Area is home.”
### **The Enduring Legacy of “Pistol Grip Pump”**
Davey D kicked off the conversation by highlighting Volume 10’s iconic track, *Pistol Grip Pump*, a song that has stood the test of time. Released over 30 years ago, the track remains a staple in hip-hop culture. When asked if he anticipated the song’s longevity, Volume 10 admitted that he had no expectations when he first recorded it.
“I didn’t expect to get a record deal, a hit record, or any of it,” he said. “I was just following the breadcrumbs. It’s all been a blessing. I’m not rich, but I don’t have to work a regular job. The music has taken care of me.”
### **Ahead of the Curve: Volume 10’s Evolution as an Artist**
Volume 10’s style has always been ahead of its time. From his early days in the Good Life Café and Project Blowed collectives to his recent forays into singing and blues fusion, he has consistently defied categorization. His ability to blend rap with singing and experiment with different genres has influenced a new generation of artists, including Kendrick Lamar.
“I’m an artist, not just a rapper,” Volume 10 emphasized. “I like classic music, whether it’s rock, pop, or jazz. If I hear a beat I like, I’m going to rap, sing, scat—whatever it takes. I’m not confined to one style.”
His recent album, *Volume 10 as Dean Hawkins*, showcases his singing abilities, blending bluesy tones with hip-hop sensibilities. Despite initial skepticism from some fans and peers, Volume 10 has proven that his artistry knows no bounds.
### **The Good Life Café: A Crucible of Hip-Hop Innovation**
The conversation turned to the legendary Good Life Café, a hub for underground hip-hop in Los Angeles during the late ’80s and early ’90s. Volume 10 described the Good Life as a ruthless but transformative space where only the most skilled MCs could thrive.
“It was cutthroat,” he recalled. “If you weren’t from the crew or didn’t have the skills, you’d get booed off the stage. It was like a combat sport.”
He shared anecdotes about artists like Fat Joe and Lewis Gabor, who faced the Good Life’s notoriously tough crowd. Volume 10 also reflected on the collective’s influence on hip-hop, comparing it to the bebop era in jazz.
“We were the pinnacle of rap,” he said. “We did everything you could do in hip-hop. The industry had to dumb it down after us because there was nowhere else to go.”
### **Ageism in Hip-Hop: A Call to Respect the OGs**
Volume 10 didn’t shy away from addressing ageism in the music industry. He criticized the notion that rap is a “young man’s game” and urged fans to support older artists who continue to create meaningful music.
“There’s been a stigma attached to rappers over a certain age,” he said. “But these older artists have wisdom and knowledge to share. Don’t let the industry convince you that they’re not worth listening to.”
He emphasized the importance of generational knowledge, urging younger artists to learn from the OGs who paved the way. “If you’re not listening to the older rappers, you’re missing out on valuable information,” he added.
### **Looking Ahead: New Music and Collaborations**
Volume 10 teased his upcoming album, *Back to Phoenix Still in L.A.*, a two-sided project that blends hardcore hip-hop with gangster rap. He also expressed interest in collaborating with Bay Area legend E-40, praising him as one of the most underrated MCs in hip-hop.
“E-40 is one of my favorite rappers of all time,” he said. “If he was from L.A., he’d be considered the dopest rapper on the planet. I’ve got some heat that he can get on right now.”
### **Final Thoughts: Volume 10’s Enduring Impact**
As the interview wrapped up, Volume 10 left listeners with a powerful message: “Don’t let the industry bamboozle you. Recognize good music and support the artists who are pushing the culture forward. I’m as good as I’ve ever been, and I’m not done yet.”
With his innovative spirit and unwavering dedication to his craft, Volume 10 continues to inspire both fans and fellow artists. His journey is a testament to the enduring power of hip-hop and the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision.
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.
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