BACKONFIGG: West Coast Unity, Music, and Community with Lefty Gunplay and Mike & Keys"

The latest episode of the BACKONFIGG podcast was a dynamic meeting of minds, with hosts Smacc and T-Rell joined by special guests Lefty Gunplay and the acclaimed production duo Mike & Keys. Together, they explored the ups and downs of the music industry, shared insightful stories, and celebrated the sense of unity that's defining the modern West Coast scene. Here’s a recap of the key highlights.

Guest Introductions and Vibes

The episode started off on a lively note, with Smacc and T-Rell introducing their guests. Lefty Gunplay brought an infectious energy to the discussion, while Mike & Keys provided a thoughtful look behind the scenes of the industry. Lefty was quick to share his journey, which recently reached a new height with a feature on a Kendrick Lamar project. He talked about the surreal experience of working with one of hip-hop’s greatest voices and how it became a defining moment in his career.

Collaboration with Kendrick Lamar

One of the standout parts of the conversation was Lefty Gunplay’s story about collaborating with Kendrick Lamar. He spoke about how Kendrick made him feel right at home, offering not just a professional opportunity but also genuine mentorship. It wasn’t just about dropping verses but also about the connection they built, often having deep conversations that helped Lefty grow as an artist. He reflected on how the experience was not just a professional milestone but a personally transformative journey, too.

This collaboration has proven to be monumental for Lefty, who expressed immense gratitude for being featured. It opened doors not just for him but also for a broader representation of Los Angeles’ multicultural identity. Kendrick’s inclusive approach, involving artists from different backgrounds—Bloods, Crips, and Latino musicians—has contributed to a renewed sense of unity in the L.A. music scene. Lefty highlighted how important this is for building a strong cultural movement, and how Kendrick’s influence is helping reshape the perception of West Coast music.

West Coast Unity and Representation

The theme of unity was a core focus of the podcast. Lefty Gunplay emphasized that Kendrick Lamar’s vision wasn’t just about individual talent but was aimed at creating a bridge between diverse groups across Los Angeles. This gesture of bringing together Bloods, Crips, and Latino artists serves as a reminder of how music can transcend boundaries and foster collaboration where there once was division. The guests reflected on how this type of collaboration is exactly what the West Coast needs as it redefines itself in today’s musical landscape.

Lefty also spoke passionately about representing his community. He made it clear that while he is grateful for the opportunities, he sees himself as part of a larger movement to showcase Latino talent in hip-hop. Lefty’s respect for the pioneers who came before him and his enthusiasm for paving the way for the next generation shone brightly throughout the discussion. He believes it’s about time that different communities came together, and he’s determined to play his part in this transformation.

Personal Reflections and Aspirations

In addition to reflecting on the collaboration, Lefty Gunplay shared some personal insights about his life and career aspirations. He emphasized staying grounded, recounting how Kendrick encouraged him to remember his roots and never forget the hunger that got him this far. Lefty is now motivated not only to further his career but also to use his position to inspire other young artists, particularly those from underrepresented communities.

Lefty made it clear that he’s striving to be the best Latino rapper in the game and is willing to put in the work to keep evolving. He also mentioned how this moment in the spotlight is just the beginning, and he wants to capitalize on it fully—not just for himself, but for all those looking up to him. This spirit of giving back, of passing on opportunities, is something he learned during his time working with Kendrick and something he wants to uphold throughout his career.

Mike & Keys on Creativity and the Industry

Mike & Keys contributed to the conversation by sharing their perspective on the creative process and the realities of the music industry. They discussed how staying authentic is key to long-term success, and how important it is for artists to remember why they started making music in the first place. They talked about the challenges of balancing creativity with the demands of the business side of music, especially for independent artists who often have to juggle multiple roles.

The producers also spoke about the significance of collaboration in their work. For Mike & Keys, working with artists like Lefty and Kendrick isn’t just about crafting hits—it’s about building relationships that lead to organic, powerful music. They reflected on how the West Coast music scene has always been about family and connection, and how they’re excited to continue that tradition by working with both established artists and up-and-coming talent.

Community Connection

Throughout the episode, the importance of staying connected with the community came up repeatedly. Lefty, Mike, and Keys all underscored the value of their upbringing in shaping who they are as artists. The conversation turned to the necessity of keeping their music rooted in real experiences, and how being involved in the community helps keep them grounded and authentic. Whether it’s through giving back, mentoring younger artists, or simply making music that speaks to real issues, the guests all emphasized that they owe their success to the people and places that made them.

The episode ended on a note of optimism, with everyone agreeing that this is an exciting time for the West Coast. It’s a moment of transformation, with diverse voices coming together to create something unique. For Lefty Gunplay, Mike & Keys, and the hosts, it’s clear that this sense of unity and purpose is the key to pushing the culture forward and ensuring that the West Coast remains a powerful force in hip-hop and beyond.

This episode of BACKONFIGG was more than just a conversation—it was a celebration of resilience, unity, and the power of music to bring people together. As the West Coast scene continues to evolve, it’s artists like Lefty Gunplay and producers like Mike & Keys who are setting the tone for a new era, one defined by collaboration, respect, and a relentless drive to uplift their communities.

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