As the name implies, Hip Hop Pops is a series of interviews with Dads who’ve carved out careers in hip hop while raising a family.
That shit aint easy but some of us be bout it bout it. Peep my Hip Hop Pops interviews with Propaganda and Red Cloud, for examples.
Although some might be tempted critique hip hop culture as morally negligent (if not worse), one of the first verses I committed to memory was 2 Pac’s poignant critique of sexual abuse and unintended pregnancy. 25 years later, this cut still hits hella hard:
“Brenda’s got a baby but Brenda’s barely got a brain/
damn shame the girl can’t even spell her name/
‘That’s not our problem, that’s up to Brenda’s family’/
But let me tell you how it affects our whole community”
After listening to this cut again, I forgot how much of an impact it had on me as a youngster. It’s another example of the conscious hip hop that was taking root in the early 90’s.
Today’s Hip Hop Pops, Judah 1, is an extension of that early hip hop consciousness.
Her crown was too heavy. We were at 3cm of dilation for 3 days. So, we opted to induce labor. We prayed, we were ready, we entered boldly, I think. Alas, Aariyah crown was too great so we delivered by C-Section. That when the most glorious scream happened. A star scream, truly. Bless God.
BBD: How did you decide on a name?
Until the day before the ultrasound we were convinced we were having a boy. We just knew it. She wanted to named him David Jr. I wanted to name him “Amun” or “Djeli” “Jonah” “Judah” I had so many names. Me and her Mom argued. It was not joyous. The night before her Mom said, maybe she’s a girl…and that thought had been resonating in my Spirit. She said “If it’s a girl, let call her Oriyah” and I agreed but the name sounded familiar. Ariyah is a name of a Fela Kuti song. I suggested, “Aariyah,” in Hebrew “Ari” is Lion and “YAH” is God or the air.
BBD: What’s the best piece of advice your Mom/Dad gave you about parenting?
My father really didn’t have much to say. My mom proud I finally had a child and overwhelmed that it’s a girl. Just love her and make the time for her. They are both convinced I’ll be a great Father with good lessons.
BBD: What’s your view on spanking?
We will not spank our daughter because spanking is not necessary. I’ve never had to hit anyone my entire life, my voice should be enough.
BBD: What type of music does she like?
I play classical for her and hip hop instrumentals and freestyle over them. She loves it. FELA! And her Mother plays Little Dragon for her.
BBD: How has your poetry been impacted by Fatherhood?
I have yet to find words to describe the joy in my heart. I sing to my daughter. She literally takes my words from my lungs. I couldn’t say much more than “Hey You” for the first 2 months. Literally can’t talk. Strange. But we sing. Her eyes cause such a stillness in my spirit. No words. We hum.
Her Mother carried her in her womb, yet, you David, carry your daughter in your SOUL. It is a privilege to observe the beautiful relationship you are creating with your most precious joy, your daughter, your princess.
Her Mother carried her in her womb, yet, you David, carry your daughter in your SOUL. It is a privilege to observe the beautiful relationship you are creating with your most precious joy, your daughter, your princess.