Mozzy & Kalan.Fr.Fr on Building a Legacy: Hip-Hop, Hustles & Investments

For years, Mozzy and Kalan.Fr.Fr have represented two distinct yet complementary sides of the West Coast rap scene. Mozzy’s raw, street-heavy lyricism has made him one of the most respected independent rappers in the game, while Kalan’s smooth, melodic sound has solidified his position as one of L.A.’s most versatile artists. When the two finally came together for a collaborative project, it felt inevitable.

In a recent interview on The Bootleg Kev Podcast, Mozzy and Kalan.Fr.Fr reflected on their careers, the challenges of being in the music industry, and their next moves. From label politics to financial literacy, from Kendrick Lamar’s Grammy sweep to the ongoing impact of their music, they kept it real about what it takes to succeed in today’s hip-hop world.

The Chemistry Behind Their Joint Album

Some collaborations feel forced—this wasn’t one of them. Mozzy and Kalan.Fr.Fr have a genuine bond that goes beyond the studio. According to Mozzy, their connection is more than just musical: “This one of my relatives, like a biological IAL love one, so the lock-in was easy.”

Kalan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that their day-to-day friendship made working together seamless. “This the homie every day,” he said. “We be hanging out all the time.”

Their project is a natural fusion of their styles, combining Mozzy’s gritty storytelling with Kalan’s signature melodies. Mozzy admitted that collaborating with Kalan gave him a chance to experiment with a sound outside his usual lane, allowing for a more dynamic and well-rounded album.

Major Labels vs. Independence: The Struggles of the Industry

Navigating the music industry is rarely straightforward, especially for artists trying to balance creative freedom with the realities of being signed to a major label. Kalan is still with Roc Nation, despite the label recently cutting ties with a significant number of artists. When asked if he survived the roster purge, he confirmed, “No, I’m still there.”

Even though he remains signed, Kalan admits that he often thinks about the benefits of independence. “I feel like I was built to be an independent artist,” he said. “My output would be crazy if I didn’t have to get stuff approved.”

Mozzy, on the other hand, recently parted ways with CMG (Yo Gotti’s label) but had nothing but respect for how the deal played out. “Gotti walked me in there and got me exactly what I wanted,” he said, emphasizing that the partnership was a beneficial one for both parties.

This transparency about their experiences highlights the ongoing conversation within hip-hop—how much control should artists be willing to give up in exchange for resources and exposure?

Mozzy’s Growth: Staying Out of Trouble & Making Smart Moves

Mozzy has long been known for his authenticity, but that realness has sometimes come at a cost. He’s currently on probation with about a year left and is focused on staying out of trouble. “My biggest thing right now is just not f***ing off my blessings,” he admitted. “That’s my main focus—staying out the way.”

With legal restrictions keeping him from moving freely, Mozzy has used this time for reflection. “Once they cut me loose, I’m gone,” he said. “I’m F to probably slither down there with you,” he joked to Kev about heading to Arizona.

His ability to remain patient and disciplined speaks to his evolution as an artist. Where many rappers fall victim to the cycle of legal trouble, Mozzy is making it clear that he’s moving smarter this time around.

West Coast Hip-Hop: Mozzy’s Place in the Conversation

Few artists have been as consistent as Mozzy over the past decade. When Bootleg Kev brought up the conversation about who has been holding down the West Coast, Mozzy’s name was in the mix with Kendrick Lamar and YG. “You can’t double pump fake on me like that,” Mozzy joked, acknowledging his impact while remaining humble.

Despite his influence, Mozzy doesn’t dwell on accolades. “I don’t look at it from that point of view,” he said. “When I wake up and see my square footage, my location, that sums it all up for me.”

For him, financial security is the real goal. “As long as that account stay flooded,” he said, “I ain’t got no complaints.”

Financial Literacy: Gambling, Stocks & Long-Term Wealth

Mozzy and Kalan also opened up about their financial philosophies, especially when it comes to gambling and investing. Mozzy admitted to struggling with gambling in the past, recalling a Christmas in 2019 where he lost $20,000 betting on the Rockets. “It felt like 200,” he said. “When you lose, everything feel crazy.”

While Mozzy still dabbles in sports betting, he’s also been learning about investing. “When there’s blood in the streets, that’s when you eat,” he said, quoting a classic investment philosophy about buying when the market is down.

Kalan, on the other hand, has been focused on building businesses outside of music. He recently opened a restaurant in Arizona and has been involved in multiple entrepreneurial ventures. “I’m getting well seasoned, brother,” he said, acknowledging that he’s been learning the ins and outs of running a business.

Both artists recognize that long-term wealth requires more than just music money—it’s about making smart moves outside of the industry.

Kendrick Lamar’s Grammy Sweep & the Drake Beef

Kendrick Lamar’s dominance at the Grammys was a major topic of discussion, with the rapper now holding 22 Grammy awards—only behind Jay-Z and Kanye West among hip-hop artists. Mozzy and Kalan both acknowledged Kendrick’s success but avoided diving too deep into the politics of award shows.

Of course, the elephant in the room was Kendrick’s ongoing beef with Drake. Kalan, who performed at Kendrick’s Pop Out concert, refused to pick sides. “I can listen to whoever I want,” he said when asked if he had to delete Drake from his playlist after the event.

Mozzy, however, kept it light, joking about the situation. “Shout out LeBron,” he said, referencing LeBron James’ attendance at The Pop Out and the fallout that followed.

Upcoming Music: Intrusive Thoughts & the Future

Both artists have new music on the way. Mozzy’s next album, Intrusive Thoughts, is about 85% complete. “Couple days and a wake-up,” he said, teasing the release. He also hinted at another collaboration with Berner on Slimy Individuals 2.

Kalan is working on his final album with Roc Nation, which he expects to drop in the next 60 days. While he hasn’t ruled out resigning, he made it clear that he’s keeping his options open.

A Legacy in the Making

Mozzy and Kalan.Fr.Fr’s careers represent two different approaches to success in hip-hop. Mozzy’s relentless grind and street authenticity have made him one of the most respected independent artists on the West Coast, while Kalan’s ability to blend melodies with raw storytelling has set him apart in L.A.’s ever-evolving music scene.

Their joint album was more than just a project—it was a statement. It proved that despite industry struggles, legal obstacles, and financial ups and downs, they are both here to stay. With new projects on the horizon and a clear vision for the future, Mozzy and Kalan.Fr.Fr are ensuring that their impact on hip-hop is only just beginning.