Hip Hop Stalwart Haas G Reflects on His Journey and Staten Island’s Music Scene
In an exclusive live session conversation for The Hype Magazine, I, sat down with 2x GRAMMY-nominated artist and producer, Haas G, also known as Hassan and Fantom of the Beat, of the groundbreaking Hip Hop duo The U.M.C.’s, to reflect on his experiences in the Hip Hop industry. We covered his early successes to the evolution of his perceptions and artistry, then, our conversation dipped into the transformative effect of Hip Hop on our lives and the legacy we aim to leave behind.
The U.M.C.’s duo consisted of Haas G and Kool Kim, known for their critically acclaimed full-length album “Fruits of Nature” released in 1991. The album achieved chart success, notably with the duo’s No. 1 Billboard Hot Rap Single, “Blue Cheese”, and No. 2 Hot Rap Single, “One To Grow On.” Their track “One To Grow On” sampled “Ursalena” by Bill Cosby, production for the album was handled by Haas G. In 1994, the duo released their second album, “Unleashed”.
Ultimately, Haas G / Fantom of the Beat shifted his focus to music production. Notably, he produced a No. 1 hit for Lil’ Kim featuring 50 Cent, titled “Magic Stick“. The single from Lil’ Kim’s third studio album, La Bella Mafia, produced Lil Kim one of two GRAMMY Award nominations in 2004. The Fantom produced “Magic Stick”, earned the collab a nod for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group. More than the GRAMMY salutes, even in 2024, this joint gets dancefloor action!
Hip Hop Legend Reflects on His Journey
It got nostalgic for a moment discussing Fantom’s Hip Hop journey, recalling early hits and the influence of other artists from Staten Island. Fantom shared insights into his realization of being a producer after the challenges faced by his group, the U.M.C.’s. Our conversation also touched on collaborations with other artists and the tight-knit community on the island.
The Rise of Staten Island Hip Hop
I was educated by Haas G about the emergence of the Wu-Tang Clan and its roots in Staten Island, highlighting the influential role played by the local Hip Hop community. He shared anecdotes about growing up in the same building as Ghostface Killah and their later work together, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that defined his early years in the industry. I’m just gonna say that the Stax Records story is a must-see and hear…yeah, you need both!
Realizing the Role of a Producer
Fantom discussed the pivotal moment when he recognized himself as a genuine producer, marking a turning point in his career. We reflected on the impact of his production on Ghostface’s Apollo Kids, and the importance of self-awareness in the music industry. Fantom expressed his desire to someday earn acknowledgment as a groundbreaking producer alongside legendary figures like Quincy Jones and Dr. Dre.
Hip Hop Influence and Legacy
We delved into the evolution of Hip Hop from the R&B era, the art of flipping samples, and the challenges of creating a hit record. On the business tip, this part of our conversation highlighted the importance of legacy and publishing rights in the music industry, emphasizing the lasting impact the work of creatives has on future generations.
Evolution of Perception and Artistry
In a candid exchange, we discussed the evolution of our perceptions about music and artistry, reflecting on personal experiences and his attending the GRAMMY Awards. Haas G shared insights into his upcoming project with the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City, MO, hinting at exciting developments in the works. Our conversation underscored the importance of growth and adaptation in the entertainment industry.
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Legacy and Community Impact
We delved into the concept of legacy and community impact, stressing the significance of passing down knowledge and skills to future generations. Haas G expressed his commitment to uplifting and empowering the community, drawing parallels to influential figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Ralph Abernathy. Our conversation ended on a note of mutual appreciation and anticipation for future collaborations.
Our conversation reaffirmed the commitment of Haas G to making a mark in the music industry and uplifting the community at large, for generations to come. Tune in to our conversation below and let us know what you think in the comments!
Haas G: More reasons why this conversation was necessary
- E.L.E. (Extinction Level Event): The Final World Front
Track listing: Take It Off (Busta Rhymes, 1998) - Supreme Clientele
Track listing: Apollo Kids (Ghostface Killah, 1999) - That Girl (Ms Toi, 2001)
- Guess Who’s Back?
Track listing: Rotten Apple (50 Cent, 2002) - La Bella Mafia
Track listing: Magic Stick (Lil’ Kim featuring 50 Cent, 2003) - The Movement (Inspectah Deck album)
Track listing: City High (Inspectah Deck, 2003) - The Movement (Inspectah Deck album)
Track listing: Get Right (Inspectah Deck, 2003) - The Movement (Inspectah Deck album)
Track listing: It’s Like That (Inspectah Deck, 2003) - The Movement (Inspectah Deck album)
Track listing: U Wanna Be (Inspectah Deck, 2003) - The Movement (Inspectah Deck album)
Track listing: Framed (Inspectah Deck, 2003) - The Movement (Inspectah Deck album)
Track listing: Bumpin’ and Grindin (Inspectah Deck, 2003) - The Movement (Inspectah Deck album)
Track listing: The Stereotype (Inspectah Deck, 2003) - More Fish
Track listing: Miguel Sanchez (Ghostface Killah, 2006) - More Fish
Track listing: Street Opera (Ghostface Killah, 2006) - More Fish
Track listing: Blue Armor (Ghostface Killah, 2006) - More Fish
Track listing: Cuban Chronicles (Raekwon, 2007) - Cynthia’s Son
Track listing: No Luv (Inspectah Deck, 2014)
About the Author
Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.
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