Bootie Brown, the visionary behind legendary Hip Hop group The Pharcyde, has been a defining force in Hip Hop since the early ’90’s. From the groundbreaking sounds of “Passin’ Me By” and “Runnin'” to global stages, his raw lyricism and fearless innovation broke boundaries and inspired a generation.

Nearly three and a half decades of relentless hustle, resilience, and trailblazing creativity have cemented his place in the culture. His story is a living legacy — unfinished, unstoppable, and ever-evolving.

Let’s hop into this single, “UnAwake”. How did this particular track even come to fruition?

I have been working with Kurser [Fabrice], who is the producer, for over 20 years now. I have had an idea of UltraHipFunkWave for about 10 years. My initial thought was to use it for a title of an album, but it has turned into what I feel is the genre for what I call my sound. I met Peven through touring with Gorillaz. I have always been a fan of House/Club music. It felt right to take advantage of the opportunity that was laid out.

How then does “UnAwake” compare to or differ from your previous songs?

Hip Hop has been a catalyst for all different types of music. Some may not have listened to Jazz or Soul music or Country music. Where in the past the way I approached was to sample. With this track in particular, things were played live and carefully constructed to create a blend where one feel transitioned into the next. Which is more defining of the genre I’m looking to introduce.

As a lyricist, where do you draw inspiration from?

I believe that is something you learn to keep on. In the past, it was drawn by life experiences as I felt that it strengthened the relationship someone could feel with the track. Now, I try to draw from anything and everything. It’s all perspective, and someone on the planet shares the same question. It comes to: can you define your story well enough to hold someone’s attention.

What exactly is UltraHipFunkWave?

It’s Umami for sound. It is a compilation of something that feels good, but the traditional boundaries have been broken and reshaped. A clash of cultures.

Tell me about your musical beginnings. When did this journey start for you?

That is an answer that has many different parts to it, but I would say my family played a big role; from records to church etc.

Growing up in Altadena, CA, who were some of your biggest influences?

I think that living in Altadena exposed me to different cultures I may not have experienced if I lived anywhere else. I had all types of friends who liked different types of music. Being around those individuals, I was fortunate enough to understand how one form of music encapsulates their mood. At the same time, Altadena is a very scenic, natural
environment not far from the busy streets of greater L.A.. Gives you time to hear yourself think.

What particular string of events actually led to your initial linking up with Slimkid3, Imani and Fatlip later forming The Pharcyde?

The L.A. dance was the common denominator to how we met. J-Swift and Reggie Andrews were the common denominator in us being serious in making music. I met Lip, who was Jammer D, because he wanted me and Robert Vinson; who was a group member of 242 before Pharcyde. I met Imani when we had an East / West dance battle. We were looking for a replacement for a dancer for the competition. Imani was friends with Tre. The group consisted of Robert, Imani, Tre and myself, which was 242. When Robert decided he wanted to stick with the dancing and not pursue music, I pitched the idea of having Lip join the group.

Pharcyde’s “Passin’ Me By,” as well as Gorillaz “Dirty Harry” and “New Gold” are bonafide classics. How did these particular selections come about? Who came up with their concepts? And, please describe for me the overall studio vibe(s) on that/those fateful day(s)?

“Passin’ Me By”: I found the samples I wanted to use in Reggie Andrews’ garage. I had looped up the Quincy sample, and had a hook in my head. I had the basics of the track which Pedro – J-Swift’s brother – taught me how to use the MPC-60. I was blown back by Oliver Stone movie about The Doors. My father was a big fan of Jimi Hendrix. At the time, I was saying, “time keeps passin’ me by.” I played it for Fatlip from the 8 track recorder, he said why don’t I change it to “she keeps passin’ me by.” J-Swift saw the record laying around, and sampled from the same song. Lip and myself convinced J to use the samples he had to use for the track.

“Dirty Harry”: I had previously worked with Danger Mouse on a track called “Medieval.” He reached out to me to attempt a demo he was working on. The music was unlike anything I had done before. I had no idea what it was going to be used for. I went to his studio in Mt. Washington and recorded. Once the track was accepted (is) when I found out it was going to be used for the Gorillaz. And so began the relationship with Gorillaz.

“New Gold”: While out on tour, Damon was playing me some of the tracks he had worked on for the Cracker Island album. I was really feeling “Oil” by Stevie Nicks. I always travel with some type of recording equipment. While we were in Monterrey, Mexico, I got the hit up to go into the studio. I tried something out, but I was having a tough time with making it flow right because of the 6/8 count that Tame did for the track. I went back to the hotel, and tried to figure out a better way to approach the count. Damon coached me on where I needed to let my flow breathe, and it
started working itself out. In the next round, I heard the hook with Damon and Tame. “New Gold” was born.

Ultimately, what eventually caused you to leave the group that you essentially are the founder of?

That’s a layered question. As I never left. I always tell people to do a deep dive, and it will become more apparent what happened. At surface level, it may appear different than what actually happened. There is a string of events which led to the current circumstances.

What do you hope people take away from your music?

I would like people to understand that I’m still evolving and learning. Through the learning process, I have learned how to refine my technique where sonically it feels
good. Leaves you wondering what’s next.

Dream collaboration, who would it be?

I don’t really have a dream collab. I just want to get my personal skills to a level that I’m pleased with. You can have an opportunity to work with some of the greatest musicians and / or artists and not be prepared. Great music can be made with someone you least expected.

If you could play any venue in the world, where would it be?

The Grammys…I will be there soon.

How do you feel about the current state of Hip Hop?

We have to understand that Hip Hop is now popular music, and dynamics change with that. Hip Hop is now old enough to go through what other genres of music went through. There is still some good in it. Things evolve.

What’s the key to your longevity?

The key is to stay learning, and have an open mind. It’s cool to acknowledge a title, but don’t dwell on it. Accept a challenge on your knowledge. Motivation is needed, but push yourself beyond a comfort level you are used to.

Beyond music, what else do you want to do?

At this stage in my career, I look at music as one part of the artistry. We live in a time where we are fortunate enough to express art in so many forms. I have already begun the process. There is the streaming network PharcydeTV.com, fashion with Store242.com, film score on the way and a few other things in the works.

Biggest career moments thus far?

I think meeting individuals who I would have never thought I would meet, and hearing the personal stories is something I would say has to be career defining. Hearing these stories can help you avoid certain pitfalls in your own personal career.

What’s an average day like for you?

There is no set schedule or routine. Things change depending on what I’m trying to accomplish. I may need to source fabrics for some garment I’m attempting to make, I may need to write a song.
There could be a multitude of things I need to do.

How do you interact with your fans?

I may do a bad job with fans. Never really felt right about that term. I feel as if I have supporters. My social media numbers are not astronomical because I don’t feed into an everyday norm of what you are supposed to do. I would like to say I will get better, but as long as I’m hands on I have to go about what’s comfortable for me.

Favorite and least favorite parts of this work?

People always seem to make the difference. Honest and dishonest. Some help, some hinder.

What advice would you give to someone following in your footsteps?

Never place high expectations in anyone but yourself. Practice your craft as much as you can. Try to stick to your word.

Five to ten years from now, where do you see yourself?

That’s a difficult answer. Technology is ever evolving…hopefully I’m still able to enjoy what I do now at a more masterful level.

What’s next for Bootie Brown?

Keep exploring. Staying active. I will be out touring 2026. Making my true solo project. Outside of my bi-monthly singles.

Any parting words for our readers?

Thank you for taking time to support and reading these answers. I look forward to creating more that makes people willing to keep supporting my endeavors.