Paul Wall and DJ Fresh assemble a crew of lyricists to give them the opportunity to educate the masses on the latest slang in the new track “Underground Ambassador.” Relying on some familiar faces, the Houston native brings together unique wordsmiths from all four corners of the map. Freeway out of Philly, Berner from the Bay Area, Big K.R.I.T. representing Mississippi, Termanology out of Massachusetts, and Rich The Factor from Kansas City. Everyone on the track delivers a signature slang that describes grinding. The new track is the lead single for Paul Wall’s forthcoming album of the same title.
The latest release follows a lengthy history of collaborations between Paul Wall and Termanology. The two have previously joined forces on two joint albums that included guest appearances by Freeway and Big K.R.I.T. Paul has been guiding Houston hip-hop for years now with his iced-out appeal and catchy lyrics about riding down with the bass rattling. Wall was a part of the original Swish House crew that took over hip-hop in the early 2000s. “Still Trippin,” his hit song with Mike Jones and Slim Thug, turned 20 years old recently. The song’s success would lead to Wall being featured on Ye’s classic “Drive Slow.” Wall’s new album is scheduled for release this month on his own imprint.
As we celebrate the unparalleled career of the legendary Robert “DJ Screw” Davis Jr. during the week of his passing almost a quarter century ago, we decided to explore some of Houston’s most revered artists and how their career was founded and expanded due to their connection to DJ Screw. As the known originator of the famous “chopped and screwed” sound and the leader of H-Town’s Screwed Up Click, Screw released more than 350 mixtapes before his untimely passing in 2000. With chopped and screwed as his signature sound, he made tapes which he sold out his Screwed Up Records and Tapes store in Houston, solidifying himself as a businessman and a music innovator.
Here are just some of H-Town’s most respected artists that admittedly wouldn’t be where they are today if it weren’t for the foundation laid by the late DJ Screw.
Trae Tha Truth
Houston-born emcee and activist Trae Tha Truth, along with longtime collaborator Z-Ro in their group ABN, made their ascension in the game as members of the legendary Screwed Up Click, with the 44-year-old dropping 11 solo albums, over 25 mixtapes and now serves as VP of T.I.’s Grand Hustle Records. Trae is also well known for his philanthropy as the founder of both Angel by Nature, a charity aimed at helping the impoverished youth of Texas.
Lil Flip
Named Houston’s “freestyle king” by Screw himself, Lil Flip got his break in the game when Screw heard his debut album The Leprechaun on H-Town based label Sucka Free Records and put him down with the Screwed Up Click. Four years later, Flip signed a deal with Sony Urban Music and dropped his third album and first double-disc CD U Gotta Feel Me, which contained the popular single “Game Over(Flip”, earning him his first platinm plaque of his career.
Paul Wall
Even though Pau lWall repped North Houston and was under Michael “5000” Watts’ Swishahouse Records, his most popular singles, 2005’s “Sittin Sidewayz”, which samples a line from Big Pokey’s verse on DJ Screw’s “June 27th” and Mike Jones’ “Still Tippin” remix featuring Screwed Up Click’s Lil Keke and Big Pokey, set the tone for the duration of Wall’s career. Today, Wall is also an accomplished and proficient mixtape and party DJ, known for producing mixtapes in the famous chopped and screwed style, which was invented by DJ Screw.
Big Moe
Originating from Houston, Texas, and as one of the founding members of the “Original Screwed Up Click,” Big Moe started out in music by freestyling on DJ Screw mixtapes like many of his Houston peers. Big Moe’s debut album, City of Syrup, dropped in 2000). The title was a nod to Houston’s reputation for drinking codeine-laced syrup called “lean” or “sizzurp”, which Moe pours from a Styrofoam cup on the album’s cover.
DJ Mike “5000” Watts
In the mid-1990s, chopped and screwed music started to move to the north side of Houston by way of Swishahouse Records founder DJ Michael “5000” Watts. A rivalry between North and South Houston over the true originators of chopped and screwed began to arise, but Michael “5000” Watts always gave credit to DJ Screw as the originator of chopped and screwed music, although Watts has been a proponent of the slogan “screwed and chopped” instead of “chopped and screwed”.
Following the death of DJ Screw, his musical influence spread all over the southern United States. Later in 2000, the Memphis-based group Three 6 Mafia came out with their song “Sippin’ on Some Syrup”. The song debuted as a minor hit but later became one of Three 6 Mafia’s most popular songs.
The 2007 documentary film Screwed in Houston details the history of the Houston rap scene and the influence of the chopped and screwed subculture on Houston hip hop. In 2011, University of Houston Libraries acquired over 1,000 albums owned by DJ Screw. Some of the albums were part of an exhibit in early 2012 and, along with the rest, went available for research in 2013. Today, the chopped and screwed music genre has been added to all forms of streaming services including iTunes, Spotify and has crossed over to receive mass mainstream appeal.
Slim Thug has let his allegiance be known in the divisive drama between Megan Thee Stallion and Tory Lanez, clearly siding with Megan and calling Lanez and other men who hurt women “lame” amongst other insults.
Slim took to Instagram Live on Friday and shared his thoughts on the matter in a minute and a half long video in which he clearly expressed support for his fellow Houston artist.
In the video, which can be seen on @livebitez on X, Slim sits in his car and speaks to the camera while rolling an unknown substance.
He says:
“You n***as oughta be ashamed of ya’ll self for hating on Thee Stallion. I wanted to give her a big a** hug after I watched that,” Slim said in the clip below. Man, she been through a lot. Lost her daddy, lost her mama, best friend…a n***a she slept with shot at her. And the court….ah man….boy a n***a she slept with shot at her. What n***a….I don’t give a damn, all you Tory Lanez fans…it don’t ever make sense to pull a gun on a b***h period. I don’t give a f*** what you need***as say- you pull a gun out on a girl, you are lame and that’s just life, so if you believe he should be free over that weak a** sh**, you’s a lame. Let me be clear with you, I ride with the hottie, I got her back. Big Slim ready to give her a big hug and support her for the rest of whenever. But yeah, all you men out there hating on a woman, you n***as is weird and deserved to be slapped. Real life you n***as is hella weird, but you n***as act like women so I ain’t surprised y’all…talking about a woman.”
He pauses to continue rolling before reiterating “weird a** n***as” and calling them “gossip queens,” stating “there’s a lot of gossip queens out there.”
Slim appeared in Megan’s “Bigger in Texas” video alongside other Houston artists Paul Wall, Scarface, and other Houston artists as well as legendary jeweler Johnny Dang, who reportedly made Megan the custom gri
You can take the girl out of Texas, but you can’t the Texas out of the girl. Tonight (June 14), Normani released her long-awaited debut album, Dopamine. Since her days as a member of Fifth Harmony, Normani has long-cited artists like Aaliyah, Brandy, and fellow Houston native Beyoncé as inspirations. But on a rap-inspired track called “Still,” Normani reminds us that her hometown serves as more of an inspiration to her musical craft than we might think.
The song features a prominent sample of “Still Tippin’,” an H-Town classic rap song by Mike Jones, Slim Thug, and Paul Wall. Normani herself interpolates portions of the song, as she sings “Back then they didn’t want me / now I’m hot, can’t keep ’em off me” in the song’s intro.
Throughout the chorus, Normani maintains a Texas-sized spirit, and showing out with some southern style with her day one ladies.
“Still sexy, still extra, with my girls flexin’,” she sings on the song’s chorus, reminding us that while the wait for her solo debut album may have been long, she’s finally arrived, and isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
You can listen to “Still” above.
Dopamine is out now via RCA. Find more information here.
The hip-hop world reverberated with a new beat when Paul Wall, born Paul Michael Slayton on March 11, 1981, arrived on the scene. Raised in Houston, Texas, Wall’s early passion for music and determination paved the way for his rise to prominence. Beginning with promotional work at the famed Swishahouse, Wall soon showcased his talent as a DJ and rapper.
His collaboration with Chamillionaire, as part of the duo The Color Changin’ Click, was more than a partnership; it was a revolution. They shook the underground scene, and Wall was gearing up for something monumental. His debut studio album, The Peoples Champ, didn’t just make a statement; it shouted from the rooftops. By 2024, this sound resonated to $2.5 million in net worth, according to WealthyGorilla.
From Grillz To Thrills: Career Highlights & Accolades
Paul Wall during BET 25th Anniversary Show – Arrivals at Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California, United States. (Photo by Jason Merritt/FilmMagic)
Paul Wall’s contribution to hip-hop is as multifaceted as his grillz. With his sophomore album, Get Money, Stay True, he became one of the South’s most influential rappers. Collaborations with stars like Kanye West and Nelly expanded his reach, while tracks like “Sittin’ Sidewayz” and “Grillz” became anthems for a generation.
Moreover, Wall’s not just about the beats; he’s about the business. His venture into designing diamond-laden grillz for celebrities has seen his creativity shine in more ways than one. A rapper, an entrepreneur, and an artist who understood the rhythm of success.
The Man Behind The Mic
Rapper Paul Wall and wife Crystal Slayton arrive at The 53rd Annual GRAMMY Awards held at Staples Center on February 13, 2011 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage)
Paul Wall’s personal life reflects the authenticity and heart that mark his music. His marriage to Crystal Wall, with whom he shares two children, is a melody of love and partnership that plays a central role in his life. Additionally, Wall’s publicized weight loss journey, following gastric sleeve surgery, speaks of a man committed to health and happiness. He’s not just crafting rhymes; he’s crafting a life filled with purpose and meaning.
Beats, Business, & Benevolence
LOS ANGELES, CA – JANUARY 31: Rapper Paul Wall (L) and jeweler Johnny Dang arrive at the 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards held at Staples Center on January 31, 2010 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images for NARAS)
Wall’s business acumen extends well beyond the stage and the studio. His grillz business, Johnny Dang & Co., has adorned the smiles of celebrities, adding that touch of Wall’s signature flair. Further, his philanthropy resonates as powerfully as his bass lines. Wall’s generosity is as authentic as his verses, from supporting education initiatives to engaging in community programs. He’s giving back to the city that shaped him, turning success into service.
Conclusion
Recording artist Paul Wall and his son William Patrick Slayton backstage at Fuel TV Studios on July 2, 2010 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Tiffany Rose/WireImage)
Paul Wall’s net worth of $2.5 million in 2024 is a marker of not just financial success but cultural impact. From the underground of Houston to the heart of hip-hop, his journey has been a symphony of beats, business, and brilliance. His rhymes have transcended mere words, becoming the pulse of a movement, the voice of a culture, and the sound of a man who knows that true wealth isn’t just in the bank; it’s in the heart, the soul, and the music. That’s not just rap; that’s Paul Wall.
Rap duo and real-life couple T H R O N E are looking to make their mark in 2024. The multicultural collective is made up of YVHIKV (yuh-hey-guh) and Hayatheus. According to an interview piece from Native Max Magazine they met in a recording studio around 2019 and their relationship grew stronger with music. YVHIKV hails from Dewar, Oklahoma, while Hayatheus, or “H,” grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the Connecticut/NYC area. T H R O N E’s YVHIKV is Mvskoke (Creek) and “H” is German and Jewish.
Essentially, T H R O N E is one of the most interesting stories in hip-hop right now and no one really knows about it. However, they might grab some people’s attention with their newest offering “Truth Spoke Cold.” Part of the reason for that is because they worked with legendary Southern rapper Paul Wall. The single opens up with epic synths that lead into the rapping performances, which are all outstanding.
Listen To “Truth Spoke Cold” By T H R O N E, Paul Wall, And AYGR
It sounds very similar to Tyler, The Creator’s “RUNNING OUT OF TIME” in certain aspects, however, it is unique at the same time. Assumedly, the production comes from the third feature AYGR. However, this is not a lot of information about AYGR. Paul brings great lyricism to the table as he usually does. If you are looking to hear something a little different from the traditional hip-hop formula, give this a try. To learn more about T H R O N E, check out the rest of the interview below.
What are your thoughts on this brand-new song, “Truth Spoke Cold,” by T H R O N E, Paul Wall, and AYGR? After hearing this, would you like us to continue covering T H R O N E? Out of all the singles so far in 2024, is this one of the best so far? Should they drop an album this year? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding T H R O N E and Paul Wall. Finally, stay with us for the most informative song posts throughout the week.
Paul Wall recently sat down for an exclusive interview with SOHH. The People’s Champdiscussed his latest projects, the thriving rap scene in Houston, viral debates on social media, and more.
Houston’s Finest Is Back
In recent years, Paul Wall has been focused on releasing quality music independently, with his latest album, The Great Wall, serving as a testament to his positive vibes and true representation.
“I wanted to put some good positive vibes out there with everything from the production to the lyrics.” Wall also expressed that he wanted the album to represent him. “I want it to be the best representation of me,” Wall said.
Paul Wall x That Mexican OT
Alongside his music, the “Sitting Sideways” rapper also expressed admiration for fellow Houston rappers That Mexican OT and their collaborations, including the popular track “Covered In Ice.”
“Man, That Mexican OT been grinding for a long time putting in work on a regional scale or an independent scale. He’s got so much talent.”
Paul Wall also disclosed that he and That Mexican OT shared the same manager, leading to inquiries about feature collaboration costs. Both parties expressed mutual curiosity and admiration, ultimately deciding to collaborate willingly, fueled by their shared appreciation for each other’s work.
Grillz
Another single that Paul Wall worked on with That Mexican OT is “Johnny Dang,” which is about the famous Houston jeweler, who has been referenced by many rappers in their lyrics for years.
To many rap fans, the two are credited with popularizing grills in hip-hop. said that he started as a customer for grillz and that he just wanted to set his friends up. Wall credited Dang for increasing his interest in grillz.
“The same way Johnny Dang gave me my start to sell grillz like that is the same way he gives other jewelers their start every single day.” he referred to Dang as the “number one grill jeweler on the planet.”
One of the biggest songs that Wall has been a part of is the 2005 hit “Grillz,” with Nelly, along with Ali & Gipp.
The Houston Rap Scene
As a veteran of the Houston rap scene, Paul Wall shared his enthusiasm about its current state.
“I love the current state of the Houston rap scene,” Wall said excitedly. The biggest part of it that I love is the fanbase is so diverse. That allows every branch of the Houston tree to flourish,” Wall added.
The Houston native mentioned that all over Texas, the support is growing for many artists, regardless of where they are from.
Wall also shouted out fellow Houston artists such as Don Toliver, Monaleo, Sauce Walka, and others for being unique in their sound and bringing more attention to Houston.
‘Still Tippin’’
When drawing parallels between contemporary Houston rappers and the city’s rap pioneers, Wall refrained from mentioning specific names to avoid offending. He believes that when a new rapper shares similarities with a veteran, it should be regarded as a compliment rather than a critique.
“When I hear new artists that sound like an older artist I don’t think that’s an insult, I think it’s a compliment.”
The Great Wall rapper says as a fan, the resurgence of nostalgia is beneficial for representing the city. Additionally, he highlights the importance of rap elements such as style, cadence, delivery, and production style.
Toward the end of the interview, Wall gave his thoughts on the viral debate on social media of who had the best verse on the 2004 hit “Still Tippin,” which featured fellow Houston rappers Slim Thug and Mike Jones. When asked who he thought had the best verse, he said that he went the “hardest,” but he credited Slim Thug for the nostalgic feel to his first verse.”
“My personal favorite is Slim Thug because of the nostalgia of his original verse of where the hook sample came from.” Paul Wall also gave props to Jones for having many quotables in his verse.
SOHH Sits Down With DUBG3
In a related interview, SOHH also had the opportunity to speak with 12-year-old rap prodigyDUBG3. Hailing from Fort Worth, Texas, and gaining acclaim with the support of Houston rap legend Mike Jones, DUBG3 is making waves in the rap game at a young age.
Time is money, and Metro Boomin sure knows how to make the most of it, especially when it involves potential collaborations with his favorites like Paul Wall. The producer didn’t waste a beat. Less than two hours after showering praise on the Texas rapper, Paul Wall, Metro took to social media to announce, “just sent @paulwallbaby some heaters.” The genesis of this musical rendezvous can be traced back to Metro’s genuine admiration for Wall’s 2005 collaboration with Kanye West and GLC, “Drive Slow.”
In a social media post that garnered immediate attention, Metro didn’t mince words, hailing the track as “one of my all-time favorite moments in music.” It’s a bold statement, but for a producer of Metro Boomin’s caliber, such declarations carry weight. Moreover, Metro shared a personal story transporting fans back to 2017. To the time when he first crossed paths with the H-town rapper. Reflecting on the encounter, Metro said, “Wall was 1 of the coolest guys you will ever meet.” It’s these genuine connections that often lay the foundation for groundbreaking collaborations in the hip-hop industry.
The speed at which Metro Boomin moved from expressing admiration to sending over “heaters” underscores the dynamic and fast-paced nature of the music industry. Wspecially in the realm of hip-hop. In an era where artists can connect instantly through social media, collaborations can materialize at the speed of a tweet. Metro hinted at the excitement and creative energy that arises when two influential minds in the game come together. However, when a producer of Metro Boomin’s stature sends “heaters” to a seasoned artist like Paul Wall, the anticipation among fans reaches a fever pitch. People are excited to hear what they can expect.
What kind of sonic fusion can we expect? Will it be a nostalgic nod to the past or a futuristic exploration of sound? The possibilities are as endless as the collaboration itself. Furthermore, fans eagerly await the unveiling of this musical collaboration. It’s a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop, where artists from different generations and regions can seamlessly come together to create something fresh and innovative. Metro Boomin and Paul Wall are poised to break new ground. And the hip-hop world is watching and waiting for the magic they’re about to drop. Stay tuned, because when Metro and Paul link up, it’s bound to be nothing short of fire.
After an eight-year hiatus, Ludacris is ready to return to music, and he’s not coming back alone. Fellow artists Paul Wall and MemphisBleek seem to also be on board. With these powerhouses to return to hip-hop, fans can expect nothing short of greatness.
Ludacris Gets Honest
On Nov. 21, Ludacris sat down with BET to discuss his plan to get back into his music bag after an eight-year hiatus.
During the interview, the actor/rapper revealed that he has been working on music projects set to be released in 2024. Although he didn’t specify whether it would be an EP or an LP, the rapper expressed his eagerness to share new material with his fans. Ludacris explained:
“Yeah, some music projects will be coming out next year. I don’t wanna fake, I don’t wanna stutter-step. It’s definitely some music coming next year, but I don’t know if it’s like an EP or an LP. We’re going to figure it out. These movie projects like Fast & Furious and doing a lot of things like the Karma’s Worldproject that’s on Netflix. You know, doing other art forms where I’m creative, where I’m putting my heart into that, I want to make sure that I leave a legacy on this earth. So it was just taking a step back and getting hungry again, living some life. ‘Cause when you put out music, in order for it to be organic and real, you gotta talk about what goes on in your life. So if I had like nine consistent albums, sometimes you gotta take a step back and live some life so that you have a lot more to talk about and that’s what I was doing.”
The “Get Back” rapper also explained that he didn’t want to necessarily talk about what his new music would sound like because it was “premature” and he had been “working on a lot of stuff.”
Ludacris said he still has some goals he’d like to reach, including playing a villain on the big screen. The “How Low” rapper expressed:
“I definitely would love to be a part of the Marvel universe or DC universe, but I wouldn’t mind playing the villain that doesn’t die. That’s what I’m looking for — one of those roles or like a Training Day villain-type role.”
Ludacris With More Acting Ventures
Speaking of the Fast and Furious actor’s film career, Ludacris and Lil Rel Howreyare set to bring holiday joy in the Disney+ Christmas film Dashing Through The Snow.
In the recently released trailer, with rapper Lil Jon’s distinctive voice, the film unfolds the heartwarming journey of Ludacris as “Eddie Garrick,” a divorced social worker, and his daughter Charlotte, portrayed by Madison Skye Validum, as they embark on a magical Christmas Eve adventure.
Paul Wall Back In The Slab
Meanwhile, Paul Wall has been making moves of his own, releasing his second single titled “Covered In Ice.”
The track showcases the Houston rapper’s signature Southern sound and reflects the lifestyle and culture of his hometown. Accompanied by a music video featuring notable artists such as Bun B and Chalie Boy, titled, “Roll Skate, Bounce,” Paul Wall pays homage to his city while solidifying his place in the rap game.
Memphis Bleek Joins The Wave With A New Artist
Joining the wave of comebacks, New York rapper Memphis Bleek has resurfaced after a ten-year hiatus from music.
Bleek teamed up with Milwaukee’s rap artist Huey V on the track “Mo Money, Mo Problems.” With their shared mentor relationship and Bleek’s lyrical contribution, the collaboration encapsulates Huey V’s journey from the streets to success.
Drake Breaks His Silence
Another rapper who with their shared mentor relationship and Bleek’s lyrical contribution recently broke their hiatus was Drake. The Canadian rapper sent shockwaves through the music world with a surprise announcement of his upcoming EP, Scary Hours 3, following his hiatus declaration. The chart-topping artist captivated fans by sharing a dynamic two-minute trailer, teasing its release.
