Third World Don: Hip-Hop’s Best Kept Secret
Third World Don embodies the spirit of a talented ‘hustler’. Although he is establishing himself as a musician; Third World Don began his career as a producer; creating songs from well-known artist such as powerhouses Lil Wayne, T-Pain, Trina and more. His skills as a vocalist were recognized in his group ” Wizard Sleeve” with their hit single Riverside (Let’s Go), debuting in the UK in 2010. Gaining recognition as the No.1 song in UK and Ireland with over 23 million streams on Spotify; Third World Don knew that his career had a fighting change to become bigger than he imagined.
Born in Jamaica and living in the United Kingdom, Third World Don decided to relocate to Los Angeles in 2017 to pursue more musical opportunities. Don was able to ink a recording contract with Elliot Grainge’s label 10k Projects. Grainge is the son of Lucian Grainge, the chief executive officer and chairman of Universal Music Group. Since moving to Los Angeles; Don has been making his reputation as an artist be known throughout the entertainment industry.
Third World Don has released his songs Blessed, Kelly Price, F.D.B ft label mate Trippie Redd as well as his single Ray Charles. ‘Ray Charles’ has amassed over 1.3 million streams via Soundcloud while being featured in Universals Music Group’s curated Hip Hop Alternative compilation album, joining the likes of Pharell Williams, Logic, Ty Dolla $ign, Big Sean, Chance the rapper and more. Don’s anticipated EP Trenchtown was released November 2018; featuring Dance-hall/ Reggae legend Sizzla Kalonji.
Third World Don has been in the entertainment industry for almost a decade and still has big plans to become a household name. The Hype Magazine chatted with Third World Don about his life and future plans.
Hype: What brought you to the entertainment industry and music specifically?
Third World Don: My dad has been a Dj, Vinyl Collector & Show Promoter for over 50 years. I grew up seeing him play on the radio and throw huge concerts so i think i caught the music bug really early on.
Hype: As you see your self, who is Third World Don, both as an artist and an individual?
Third World Don: I see myself as an example to others to dream big, work hard and never give up.
My circumstances almost made it impossible for me to not only be the “Man” but also “The Artist” i am today but somehow i persevered and pushed through. So if i can make it so can you.
Hype: What and/or who influenced the sound you bring today?
Third World Don: I’m inspired by a lot of 70’s Soul,R&B, Reggae/Dancehall & of course Hip Hop/Rap.
Hype: What has been the biggest obstacle in getting to your current career phase?
Third World Don: I would say staying consistent. This is something i find most artists struggle with. You just have to keep your chin up and keep pushing, this business has a lot of peaks and valleys. When you’re up it can be such a high but the lows are even worse than you can imagine.
Hype: What do you want people to get from your music?
Third World Don: Inspiration, Motivation, Truth, Comfort, Positive Energy, Knowledge all while catching a vibe.
Hype: Tell us about your current projects that we should be on the look out for in the near future?
Third World Don: My EP “Trenchtown” is out now and features the legendary Sizzla Kalonji. It’s an amazing body of work, i’m very proud. Go check it out.
Links:
‘Ray Charles’ official video: https://youtu.be/Jk8t63tVJb8
‘Blessed’ official video: https://youtu.be/i2ucZgtil84
‘Kelly Price’ official video: https://youtu.be/2KxJUf78Gdk
Website: http://www.thrdwrldgvng.com
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/
