Jim Jones. A name synonymous with cult leadership. In 1978, under the leadership of Jim Jones, nine-hundred and fourteen members of the religious sect known as Peoples Temple members committed mass suicide Jonestown, Guyana. Jones was found dead from a gunshot wound to the head.

Two years prior, Joseph Guillermo Jones was born in Harlem, USA. He too would grow up to lead what has been described as a cult-like following, better known as the Dipset movement.

That “movement” has sold millions of records, spawned the rap careers of several heavyweights and helped to define (re-define) East Coast hip hop during the early part of this decade. Cam’ron, and Juelz Santana have thus far led the way musically, each chiseling out a name for himself among the dozens of New York representatives vying for commercial success and longevity. But driving their success, almost in the background, was Jim Jones, aka the Capo, aka One Eye Willie, aka The Kufi Smacker. Credited for his authentic blend of street smarts, business savvy, and pure huslter’s ambition, Jim Jones has helped create arguably the world’s most successful collective of New York artists.

Details aside, (you can read up on Dipset history on Myspace) its safe to say that Jones and the Diplomats have enjoyed considerable commercial success, with several controversial stops along the way. In a candid, if not downright confrontational interview, Jim Jones talked with HHDX about rumors of problems between he and Diplomat Records co-founder Cam’ron, his positions on Jay-Z and Nas, and being a part of bringing New York hip hop back.

HHDX: Let’s start with the album. What can fans expect from Hustler’s P.O.M.E?

JJ: Hustler’s POME: More money more problems man, I’ve been going through a lot as far as the business end of things, try to ahh, test and see how the street… it’s a little bit difficult, its all wrapped in one, you know what I’m saying? I got Lil Weezy, Baby on there, Diddy on there, I got a couple things going on, but for the most part it’s a wholesome project.

HHDX: And Diplomat records has signed Katt Williams, right?

JJ: Yeah we signed Katt Williams to a deal, it should be real fun.

HHDX: I see. With all of the moves that you’ve been making, there have also been reports that there’s been a disconnect between you and Cam in terms of business affairs. I hesitate to use the word “beef”, but is there anything going on with you and Cam?

JJ: What do you mean?

HHDX: I mean is there any truth to the notion that you and Cam are having problems with each other? Continued on page 2 »