Some would say that beef is getting to redundant in the rap music industry. As cliché as it may sound, I agree with their sentiments. To many times do rappers utilize their God-given talents for the increasing of record sales. A degree of the anger that these rappers feel may truly be attributed to a difference ‘tween the two. But, come on, how much “trouble” are these guys really going through?

A genuine dispute arose around the end of 2006 where Philadelphia MC, Gillie The Kid put the reinvigorated Hot Boy, Lil’ Wayne on blast. Citing that he was the one responsible for lyrics off The Carter album, the Major Figgas veteran was ignored by the N’awlins boy wonder.

After being arrested for allegedly running two drug houses, Gillie The Kid sits down exclusively with HHDX as he discusses why he’s still better than his lyrical foes, explains why nothing can stop him from reaching the top and has a special message for the hip-hop community.

HHDX: Beef seems to be running rampant in the game. How much do you think is conjured up to generate sales?
GDK: I think a lot of it is conjured up to get sales. The shit to me isn’t real unless you have a legitimate beef. A lot of these rappers are actor's doing what they do to try and make money. If you got a real beef, then I can respect that. I had that. I had/have a real beef. Someone mentioned my name. This was someone that I was cool with and this person mentioned my name in a diss record. I don’t know if it was the drugs or whatever, but I know a lot of these guys come around just for the hype. So, either way… it is what it is.

HHDX: You even have Timbaland and Scott Storch going at it. So, if B.I.G. says what beef truly is, then why do all these emcees seem to be sensitive towards one another?
GDK: It depends on how thick your skin is. If you’re cut from cheap cloth, then you’re going to get mad. But see, where I’m from… rapping over some beats is not beef. Man, I’m from the murder capital, so “beef” really explains itself. Philly guys aren’t talking. They aren’t about rap music shit. Beef is beef and rapping is just that. These guys rap about each other and disrespect one another’s family, just doing it crazy on the mic and in the studio. Then they bump into one another in person… and it’s no problem. That’s not beef. You know what I’m saying? To me, they’re just having fun with a beat, you know? Just trying to get their buzz out.

HHDX: I know your situation is still wrapped up in legality, but can you talk about the arrest that happened early on in February?
GDK: I was advised about talking about the situation, but I’d just want to thank everybody for their support. I appreciate it. In time, I’ll be able to talk about it, but right now, I don’t even want mention it. Continued on page 2 »