Unpacking Dave East’s ‘HDIGH’: Nipsey Hussle’s Blueprint, Mary J. Blige’s Influence, and a Rapper’s Authentic Journey

While Dave East proudly champions his Harlem roots, a significant part of his spirit undeniably resides in the vibrant Crenshaw neighborhood of Los Angeles. This profound connection was forged through his deep and lasting friendship with the late, visionary artist Nipsey Hussle. Their bond transcended geographical boundaries and musical styles, evolving into a brotherhood built on mutual respect and shared ambitions. Dave and Nipsey grew incredibly close in the years leading up to Nipsey’s tragic and untimely death in 2019, a loss that sent shockwaves through the music world and beyond. Their creative synergy was evident in several tracks where Dave featured on Nipsey’s projects, including the impactful “Clarity,” the introspective “Down The Road,” and the anthemic “Chosen.” These collaborations showcased a natural chemistry and a shared commitment to authentic storytelling within hip-hop, foreshadowing Dave’s own path.

Now, as Dave East introduces his latest project, HDIGH, he reveals to HollywoodLife in an exclusive interview that the spirit and influence of Nipsey Hussle are more alive than ever within its nine meticulously crafted tracks. “It’s like nine tracks,” Dave shares, detailing the album’s core. “Entirely produced by Mike N Keys. They are a production duo I met in L.A. with Nipsey. That’s how I connected with them.” This revelation underscores the enduring legacy of Nipsey, not just through direct references, but through the very fabric of Dave’s creative network. Nipsey’s role in connecting Dave with Mike N Keys highlights his foresight and ability to foster collaborations that would continue to yield impactful music long after his passing. The producers, Mike N Keys, who formed an integral part of Nipsey’s creative circle, now lend their distinctive sound to Dave’s project, ensuring that the collaborative energy ignited by Nipsey continues to flourish and inspire.

The Enduring Brotherhood: Nipsey Hussle’s Lasting Impact on Dave East

The relationship between Dave East and Nipsey Hussle was far more than a professional alliance; it was a genuine brotherhood. “He was my brother, man,” Dave emotionally tells HollywoodLife. “I learned a lot from him. I feel like, now the world is seeing everything he had to offer. But, I’m just fortunate that I was able to be around him, and, you know, soak up some of that game.” This sentiment speaks volumes about the depth of their connection and the invaluable mentorship Nipsey provided. Nipsey Hussle was not merely a rapper; he was a profound thinker, a community leader, and an astute businessman who championed ownership and self-sufficiency within the Black community. Dave East was among the fortunate few who had direct access to this wisdom, absorbing lessons that would shape his artistic vision and entrepreneurial spirit.

Nipsey’s “Marathon Mentality” – a philosophy centered on perseverance, strategic planning, and long-term vision – deeply resonated with Dave. It encouraged artists to take control of their careers, build their own empires, and invest in their communities. In the wake of Nipsey’s passing, the global appreciation for his contributions has grown exponentially, yet Dave reflects on the privilege of experiencing that brilliance firsthand. The “game” he soaked up wasn’t just about making music; it was about life, business, and upholding integrity in an often-compromised industry. This foundational influence from Nipsey is visibly manifested in Dave’s career choices and his approach to the music industry, transforming grief into continued inspiration and action, ensuring Nipsey’s legacy continues to empower a new generation of artists and entrepreneurs.

From Inspiration to Enterprise: Dave East’s Harlem Storefront

Dave East is an artist who doesn’t just talk about his inspirations; he actively embodies them. In a powerful testament to Nipsey Hussle’s entrepreneurial blueprint, Dave made a significant move in November 2021 by purchasing his own storefront in his native Harlem. This venture was directly inspired by Nipsey’s groundbreaking Marathon Clothing store in Los Angeles, which served as a beacon of independence and community wealth. “Bought my first store today,” Dave proudly captioned an Instagram post, featuring him confidently displaying the keys to his new business. “I told Nispey he laid the blueprint for real ones everywhere. Wish Shooter could see this sh-t. Coming soon 2022. Couldn’t have made this happen without [real estate agent Michelle Smalls.] The Realest!!!”

This act was more than a business transaction; it was a deeply personal tribute and a tangible commitment to his community. By bringing an entrepreneurial spirit akin to Nipsey’s back to Harlem, Dave East reinforces the idea of self-sufficiency and economic empowerment within his own neighborhood. The store represents a physical manifestation of the lessons learned and the shared vision he had with Nipsey. It’s a statement about investing in local economies and creating opportunities, much like Nipsey did in Crenshaw. Dave’s public acknowledgment of Michelle Smalls also highlights the importance of collaboration and seeking expertise, further solidifying his business acumen and commitment to genuine partnerships. This endeavor showcases Dave East not only as a successful recording artist but also as a dedicated entrepreneur keen on building lasting legacies and empowering the next generation of Harlem residents.

‘HDIGH’: A Journey of Authenticity and Self-Reflection

Delving into the essence of his new project, Dave East tells HollywoodLife that HDIGH – an acronym for “How Did I Get Here” – offers fans “another piece of his life.” This candid title provides a clear window into Dave’s current state of mind and his artistic approach, giving both new listeners and long-time followers a deeper, clearer vision of who he is as an artist and as a man. The album title itself suggests a moment of profound reflection, a pause to acknowledge the journey, the triumphs, the challenges, and the evolution that have brought him to this point in his career. It invites listeners to join him on this introspective exploration, making the music deeply relatable and resonating with anyone who has contemplated their own path.

Dave’s commitment to authenticity is a cornerstone of his artistic identity, a principle he reiterates emphatically. “What you see is what you get,” he asserts to HollywoodLife. “I’m not like a character, I don’t, like put on a wrap, Superman outfit, and come out here and act like something I’m not. [I’m] Authentic.” In an industry often populated by carefully constructed personas, Dave East stands out by refusing to fabricate an image. His music and public presence are genuine extensions of his real-life experiences, struggles, and successes. This unwavering dedication to being his true self resonates powerfully with his fanbase, fostering a loyal connection built on trust and shared reality. HDIGH serves as a sonic diary, offering raw, unfiltered narratives that listeners can connect with on a personal level, solidifying his reputation as a true voice of the streets and a testament to his own journey from Harlem to hip-hop prominence. It’s a project that strips away pretense, presenting Dave East in his most honest form.

Beyond the Mic: Collaborations and Cultural Connections

The exclusive video interview with HollywoodLife also provided a glimpse into other pivotal moments and future aspirations in Dave East’s diverse career. He fondly recalled his experience of working with the legendary Mary J. Blige on his impactful 2020 track, “Know How I Feel.” “That was crazy,” he shared, hinting at the awe and excitement of collaborating with an icon often referred to as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.” Working alongside Mary J. Blige was undoubtedly a career highlight, offering Dave a chance to blend his raw, street-infused lyricism with her soulful, powerhouse vocals. The collaboration not only elevated the track but also provided invaluable insights into the artistry and professionalism of a seasoned veteran, expanding Dave’s creative horizons and demonstrating his ability to effortlessly navigate different musical landscapes.

Dave also touched upon his foray into acting, specifically his acclaimed portrayal of “one of my favorite rappers,” the legendary Method Man, on Hulu’s critically celebrated series, Wu-Tang: An American Saga. Stepping into the shoes of such an iconic figure from the Wu-Tang Clan was both an honor and a challenge. Dave East, with his natural charisma and authentic connection to hip-hop culture, brought a nuanced depth to the role, earning widespread praise for his performance. This acting endeavor not only showcased his versatility but also further solidified his ties to the rich history of hip-hop, bridging his musical career with compelling storytelling on screen. His ability to embody Method Man, whose own presence is steeped in raw authenticity, further aligns with Dave’s personal brand of genuine self-expression and broadens his artistic reach beyond the recording studio.

Future Horizons and Timeless Influences

Looking ahead, Dave East hinted at an exciting potential collaboration with rising star Coi Leray, suggesting an intriguing blend of styles that could captivate a broad audience and bridge generational gaps within hip-hop. Such a partnership would undoubtedly showcase Dave’s adaptability and willingness to explore new sonic landscapes, proving his relevance across different segments of the contemporary music scene. Furthermore, he mused about why he feels he was “meant to be born in the 1970s.” This intriguing reflection speaks to his profound appreciation for an era defined by raw artistic expression, the birth of hip-hop, the soulful sounds of funk and R&B, and a certain cultural authenticity he deeply admires. It’s a nostalgic nod to a time when artistry was perhaps less filtered and more grounded, aligning perfectly with his own commitment to remaining true to himself in an ever-evolving industry. These diverse facets of his career — from iconic collaborations to impactful acting roles and thoughtful cultural reflections — paint a comprehensive picture of Dave East as a multi-talented artist with a deep respect for hip-hop’s past and a visionary eye toward its future.

Dave East’s compelling new project, HDIGH, is available now on all major streaming platforms. It stands as a powerful testament to his artistic evolution, his unwavering authenticity, and the profound, enduring influence of Nipsey Hussle’s legacy. This album is not merely a collection of tracks; it is a narrative journey, reflecting on where he’s been, who he’s become, and the vibrant future he continues to forge in music and beyond. Dive into HDIGH to experience Dave East’s unfiltered truth and his masterful storytelling, a project that invites listeners to witness the continued growth of one of hip-hop’s most genuine voices.