What You Expect Sits Down With 88 Killa

88 Killa is a Fort Worth-based artist who is striving to leave his imprint on the Dallas-Fort Worth hip-hop scene. If you’re in the area you’ll most likely see the MC sporting a mink coat, like a southern version of Cam’ron.

The look translates well with the music, and Killa’s personality as a human. It’s charismatic, confident, and will most likely get you to crack a smile once or twice. The look and sound is very reminiscent of the artists that inspire him. The music gives that nostalgia feeling that makes the listener wanting more. The Fort Worth native sat down to talk about his new track “Mink Coat Melody”, representing where he comes from, making his project 88 Special, and more.

Let’s start from the beginning, how was life growing up for you in Texas?

Growing up was cool. I didn’t experience any  tragic deaths or anything like that. I grew up with white boys and Mexicans.

Would you say that the city Fort Worth, Texas is a melting pot?

It definitely does have a blend of all types of cultures and people from all over but its overall a pretty laid back city. Most of the people here are focused on working, getting money and tending to their families so if they go out of their way to support you, you're special!

Do you have a chip on your shoulder or added pressure to put on for your hometown? 

I don’t think its pressure per say, but I would like to make sure my city is represented properly. We have a lot of stories and perspectives to share and I just want to make sure that mine is added to the realm.

Who were some of your musical influences?

Cam’ron is #1 despite the performance last week, then it would be LL Cool J , Run DMC, artists like that.

When did you start making music, and when did you start taking it seriously?

I used to make music in high school, it was trash though. I found my voice in College, and I’ve been doing it ever since.

What was the inspiration behind the track “Mink Coat Melody”?

This song is basically what it sounds like when I wear any of my minks! When you hear this, I want you to feel the same way. It all started when I bought my first one for a show. I remember walking on stage and the crowd being really excited and now it's kind of a thing when people see me. It's a gift and a curse because sometimes they're disappointed if they catch me at the grocery store not wearing one haha.

What was the process like for making your project 88 Special?

I wrote most of the songs in the car, with the newborn it’s hard to find quiet in the house. So I listened to most of the beats in cars just riding around. I wanted to make music that gives you a good feeling in a car, and I think I did that.

What’s next for you musically after the release of your album?

I plan to continue to drop singles and videos and eventually another EP if the demand is right! I'm sure I'll always be in the middle of cooking up something because I'm involved with hip hop for life!

Are you going to tour now that outside is open? 

Yes, I would love to get out and connect with the people! Hopefully we can get a better hold of all of this covid stuff soon! I'm also looking to hire a booking agent so if you have any leads, let me know!

What songs of yours do you think will get the best reception?

I believe the songs “Risk” and “All Me” will ring off pretty well. I can't wait to test it out on a legit live sound system!

Are there any destinations you’re dying to go to to perform?

I looked at the analytics. San Jose, San Diego, Bay Area, LA do well, I wanna go somewhere up in like Montana. You never hear about what’s going on in Montana, so I would like to go up there and be nosy, see what’s up.

Last Question: What's 88 Killas dream collaboration?

Beyoncé, I would never rap again. Maybe A$AP Rocky. I feel like we would make something, and be good pals. Jay worthy, you know, fly niggas.