Hailing from Brookyln, New York, Bernadette Price, wife of the late great Sean Price aka Ruckus (1/2 of Heltah Skeltah and a member of supergroup Boot Camp Clik), unleashes her official debut studio collection, “A Widow’s Cry.”
The Ruck Down Records (Price currently serves as company CEO)/Duck Down Music Inc. body of work contains 16 explosive tracks, sports high profile cameos from Terror Van Poo, Ruste Juxx, Smif-n-Wessun, Rockness Monsta and even a posthumous appearance from Sean Price himself, as well as production courtesy of Vinny Idol, Stu Bangas, Khrysis and Da Beatminerz.
“A Widow’s Cry” also arrives just ahead of the tenth anniversary (August 8) of Sean’s untimely passing.
First things first, August 11th 2023 marked the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop. What exactly does that mean to and for you?
For me, it means Hip-Hop (has) more amazing music to explore.
To quote the late, great The Notorious B.I.G., “You never thought that Hip-Hop would take it this far!” Was this something that you ever could’ve imagined?
Yes, I did imagine it being here because it’s forever evolving, and it’s also paved the way for a lot of people who relate to the different messages being expressed upon the artists who make it.
What are some of your fondest, most stand-out moments/memories during your lengthy tenure in this thing called Hip-Hop?
My most standout moments, first, was presenting the world with my husband’s project, Imperius Rex, after his passing. My second was continuing our legacy.
That said, what are your future plans and / or goals for the 2025 season?
My plans are to continue making music, and being the best version of me that I can be.
Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?
I want people to get from it whatever they please, but do know I’m just sharing my story; I think there’s plenty who can relate.
If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would love to collaborate with Rah Digga ‘cause she’s just an awesome, raw lyricist. I respect her flow, and she’s clear in her music; plus, her energy is amazing.
If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?
If I could do any venue, it would be Madison Square Garden because it’s huge; the lights, the whole set up is amazing.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip-Hop?
I’m very impressed with the way it’s going; I mean, you know it’s forever evolving. There’s a few things that can be changed for Hip-Hop; like healthcare, etc.
What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
Consistency is key to longevity with everything in life.
Do you have any other outside/additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?
Yes, I have other things outside of Hip-Hop…planning on getting back in the workforce; that’s where I come from. I do a lot to stay busy until that happens.
What’s an average day like for you? And, please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…
An average day is responding to fans on daily text messages/e-mails, writing, listening to beats, cleaning my house, hitting the gym, setting up interviews.
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
My most favorite (part) about this is that you can be your authentic self…my least favorite is the way the game is played in order to stay afloat; like people be afraid to share information…show love to one another ‘cause we all have one goal we share, and it’s to give the people art/music/hope and strength for some.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
For someone wanting to follow in my footsteps, I would say you gotta stay strong, have faith, be consistent and also have patience.
Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
Five or ten years from now, I see myself in a calm and loving environment.
Any “parting” words for our readers?
In parting words I would like to say, I appreciate everyone who have supported the Price Family throughout his years here on earth, and the continuous support throughout my journey. Never leave your legacy in the hands of another, fight for what you believe in.
