Comprised of Tekomin “Tek” Williams and Darrell “Steele” Yates, Smif-N-Wessun first appeared on two standout tracks from Black Moon’s 1993 premiere outing, “Enta Da Stage.” From there, the dynamic duo unleashed their own lead single, “Bucktown” b/w “Let’s Git It On,” taken from their now classic ‘95 debut, “Dah Shinin’”. The impressive magnum opus, produced entirely by Da Beatminerz, yielded a string of hit underground entries; “Wontime,” “Wrekonize,” “Sound Bwoy Bureill,” and “Stand Strong.” Nearly 30 years and 7 studio albums later, and the artists also known as Cocoa Brovaz are back with “Infinity”, their latest contribution to and for the culture.
First things first, a huge celebratory congrats is in order for the 30th anniversary of your now classic debut, “Dah Shinin’”. How does reaching this milestone make you all feel?
Steele: Give thanks. It feels great to be able to celebrate or commemorate such an incredible achievement in life. To watch your interest grow into a legacy in real time is a very humbling experience.
Tek: Salaams. Let me start off by saying Give thanks. It’s such a blessing and a journey that we’re still strapped in; locked and loaded riding till the wheels fall off.
In support of this endeavor you all went out on the road rocking stages both here and overseas on your “Still Shinin’ Tour”. How was this overall experience for you all?
Steele: The “Still Shinin’ Tour” has been both rewarding and challenging. It takes a lot to do a successful run at this age and in this time. There are so many moving pieces that all need to correlate in unison. It’s a fascinating chain of events that manifests an extraordinary experience. You learn cultures as well as personal strengths and weaknesses. I am extremely grateful to be able to perform physically, and to be received into the hearts and homes of many globally.
Tek: The Road Work is The Grind and that’s something that we’ve been doing for the better part of 20 years. But in the stage it’s a joy to be able to slow it down and really get a chance to see the beauty of nature and the people in these different countries and cities, old and new friends and fans! The grind don’t stop!
You all are also gearing up for your eighth studio body of work, “Infinity”. Conceptually, what does this title represent both to and for you all?
Steele: This title represents our struggle individually and collectively, and serves as a beacon for enlightenment and growth. It is a testament to a transition in life, embracing ones accomplishments while acknowledging and respecting the growth process. Taking account of the challenges it took to reach this point, while boldly facing new challenges and opportunities.
Tek: It holds great sentimental importance to me because it’s a saying that my bestie [Tiana Williams] would always say her love for her mother is so deep and everlasting that it spans galaxies and worlds to infinity and beyond. And it pains me to say my bestie has transitioned and got her wings on 02/22/22 from the sickle cell disease. R.I.P. Tiana!
For it, you all teamed up (exclusively) with 9th Wonder and The Soul Council. What actually prompted this decision?
Steele: From my perspective, it just seemed to make sense. We have an amazing chemistry with 9th Wonder, Khrysis, Ka$h, Knotts and the rest of The Soul Council, as well as the extended family. We were still for awhile contemplating our direction, and in the vein of not overthinking we jumped at the opportunity to work with this team of producers again.
Tek: It was basically a no brainer being that we have a track record with them already; they’re family, plus we had already done a project titled “The All” with them already.
Aside from the obvious, how then does “Infinity” either differ and/or compare to previous Smif-N-Wessun efforts?
Steele: Again, in my perspective this album feels new yet nostalgic. We speak about similar topics with a more mature introspective, as opposed to kids just rapping to the beat. It’s important to feel good, as well as entertain and even educate the audience. I believe we accomplish this organically, adding a solid studio album to our cache of masterpieces.
Tek: The only comparison is it’s us and them. Besides that, it’s all new uncharted territory.
“Infinity” is another Duck Down Music project. How and also why have you all opted (and managed) to remain with the label throughout your entire career?
Steele: Partly because of loyalty, as well as necessity. We are a family, more than just a record label. Our bond is part of our brand, unlike most record labels.
Tek: Family.
Reflecting, tell me your whole inception into music. When did you all first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for Smif-N-Wessun?
Steele: I became interested in Hip-Hop as soon as the explosion. I was a child who witnessed its defiant inception and growth. My interest in music comes from my family and surroundings. My dad had a specified selection of albums; ranging from Jazz to Funk and Soul primarily. He loved to play his music for himself and his wife, my mother. The joy he would get is infectious. I realize this in hindsight, as he never pursued any musical interest. He was a great influence for me to my core, which allowed me to traverse on my own journey as a creative. I always had a busy mind, but as a recluse I learned to develop courage to express myself slowly at first, then I began to see a bigger picture. I started as a solo artist as MC Steele. I always possessed the desire to be a part of a collective, so I created one, first as M.O.S.T, affectionately known as Major Organized Sound Troopers, which cultivated into Smif-N-Wessun and the Boot Camp Clik. This was my inception from the beginning, with individuals like Rock, Tek and later Buckshot this became manifest.
Tek: Well for me, music chose me I didn’t choose Music. I always listened to and had a love for all different genres and styles of music. I was introduced to music by my father and my uncles.
Now you all from Brooklyn, correct? So growing up in “Breukelen,” who all did/do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?
Steele: Everything moving [laughs]. I wasn’t partial to Brooklyn artists. I had a diverse interest, almost a thirst for knowledge about the culture and anything involving it. I was simply a sponge. I had no delusion of grandeur, I simply was smitten by Hip-Hop on a whole.
Tek: Bucktown, BedStuy is Correct. Each other.
In having said that, how do you all classify your overall sound and/or style?
Steele: If I had to classify our sound, I would call it urban Soul music.
Tek: I call it great music; I don’t like to label or pigeonhole.
What particular string of events actually led to your initial linking up and ultimately signing to/with Duck Down Music?
Steele: I met Buckshot’s sister in night school. She saw me rapping on a variety show, and introduced me to her brother. A few years later, he was signed to Nervous Records. Our friendship grew, as we begin to spend a lot of time building on life. I introduced him to Tek, and the rest was history.
Tek: We were grinding puttin’ our boots to the pavement, then we met up with Black Moon and, as they say, the rest is history.
Switching gears here, what exactly do you all want people to get from your music?
Steele: First off, my music is made primarily for entertainment and enjoyment. Within my creative process, I speak about my experiences, beliefs, ideas, ideals and even fantasies, none of which is designed to convert or mislead anyone, yet has the potential to connect with like minds and creatives alike.
Tek: Our music has chapters and layers, so it’s something different for everyone to get their fix.
If you all could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Steele: That is a difficult question. There are so many artists living and dead, but if I had to choose an interesting collaboration from current artists for Smif-N-Wessun, I would say OutKast.
Tek: Too many to name.
If you all could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?
Steele: I always wanted to perform in Madison Square Garden. It just has a larger than life appeal, and it’s so New York.
Tek: The Barclays and Madison Square Garden. Home soil.
On a more serious note, are you all happy with the current state of Hip-Hop?
Steele: I don’t particularly over analyze the state of Hip-Hop because it is full of fads. I like to pay attention to what the people are doing. Just spend some time in the ‘hoods of the world with the people, and you will be able to identify with the wants and needs. Hip-Hop and rap in particular reflects the desires and fantasies, and often the harsh realities of the people. It’s not much different than when it all began, aside from the fact of the power of social media. Hip-Hop is still a living, breathing, self sufficient and sustainable service, product that exceeds the fads and rap styles, which is why it is often abused.
Tek: I’m glad that we’re all creating and working and able to do something we Love and support our families.
What do you all feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
Steele: The key is to leave something that is useful or memorable, something indelible. The people decide.
Tek: Learning and reinventing ourselves, staying in tune with motion.
What’s an average day like for you all?
Steele: My average day is probably a lot like yours. I take a sh*t, shower, clean my place, cook my meals, talk sh*t on the phone, answer emails and texts, fxk wit social media, etcetera. Same sh*t, all while thinking of a masterplan. What’s the next move, or what do I need to fix up or get started. Always thinking, building, constructing. The rest of that sh*t is just missions or drills. Like studio, or shows etcetera. It’s just the job you have to prepare for.
Tek: I’m a homebody; if I’m not on the road or in the studio, then I’m with my beautiful babygirl, life partner and/or Family.
Please discuss how you all interact with and respond to fans…
Steele: I love to build with fans. I appreciate the love and support, and I look forward to sharing and showing my gratitude.
Tek: Honestly, I ain’t gon’ hold ya, all depends on how I’m feelin’ and what the energy is. As long as it’s respect given, then it’s boomerang.
What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?
Steele: I love to create. My least favorite is the politics.
Tek: Creating, dealing with ignorance.
What advice would you all have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Steele: Don’t be in a rush to sign the first contract you get offered. Know your wealth, and don’t fall for just anything.
Tek: Do your research of the business, and know that the bonds you create can take you even further.
Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you all see yourselves?
Steele: Hopefully, doing some good work in the community. Living comfortably amongst love ones.
Tek: Alive.
Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?
Steele: There is always more to build on, I believe you were very thorough and thoughtful. Give thanx for the opportunity.
Tek: Stay tuned and tune into Culture Pushaz. And get the album “Teknology”, featuring Termanology and myself. Subscribe to my YouTube page: Teksmokeelah.
Any “parting” words for our readers?
Steele: Live Your Life.
Tek: Love is love.
