Rap has always been in D Future’s life, but the moment he stepped on stage and freestyled over 2Pac’s Ambitionz Az A Ridah was when he knew music was more than a hobby. The energy from the crowd lit a fire in him that hasn’t dimmed since. From battling across states to building his brand and preparing to release his debut project GHNS, D Future embodies resilience, independence, and the relentless pursuit of generational wealth.
How did rap become more than a hobby for you?
Rap became more than a hobby for me the first time I performed on stage. I did a freestyle over “2Pac’s – Ambitionz Az A Ridah” and the crowd loved me. I always rapped and knew I loved to do it, but that high I got on stage was the moment I knew: This is it.
What does your creative process look like?
My creative process varies. As a battle rapper, I started to enjoy writing music without a beat so there’s no limitation on what I’m trying to say. But normally, I prefer to start with the beat. It allows me to catch a vibe and find the direction for the song.
Who are your biggest influences?
Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Nipsey Hussle, 2Pac, and J. Cole are my top five. They’ve all influenced my style in different ways. Jay-Z with the wordplay, Wayne with the punchlines and competitiveness, Nipsey with the “hussle” and entrepreneurial mindset, 2Pac with storytelling and substance, and J. Cole with his pen and relatability. With all those attributes, I feel like it makes me the most complete rapper out today.
Do you have a defining song so far?
I don’t think I’ve released my defining song yet—it’ll be on my first GHNS project dropping this September. But if I had to pick today, it would be Bright As A Star. It was my first single on all streaming platforms: soulful with a jazzy hook, gritty punchlines, and a crazy blend of production and artistry.
What challenges have you faced, and what breakthroughs have you had?
The biggest challenge has been my environment. I’m from a small town—family-oriented but often small-minded. My family all live close, and I’m the one they call for help daily, whether it’s errands, fixing something, or caregiving. I love it, but it has slowed my career at times.
My breakthrough came through the internet and social media, which allowed me to reach the world, and battle rap, which put me on stages across the country. Those two combined gave me a foundation to grow.
What role does storytelling play in your music?
I have a track called On The Line on GHNS. The main line is, “Risk my life for this freedom I ain’t scared to die / Everyday I’m on the grind, I put it on the line.”
That line is my truth. I’ve been homeless, judged for not working a 9-5, sold drugs, robbed, sacrificed relationships, time with my kids, been to jail, and traveled across states on suspended licenses—all to perform and keep the dream alive. That song is about the sacrifices I’ve made to show my kids and my community that there’s more to life than just working and going home.
What’s your perspective on the hip hop industry today?
Hip hop is in a rocky place, like it’s always been. There’s a lot of trash out there, but there’s also incredible talent if you look for it. Social media gives people the power to choose what they consume. The downside is that the most talented artists don’t always get their credit or compensation.
I’ve turned down deals because most contracts aren’t built to benefit the artist long-term. I see myself making noise as an independent, with the right business and marketing moves.
What’s the most misunderstood thing about you?
That I’m mean. I’m quiet and introverted, and people mistake that for attitude. But it comes from my upbringing—betrayal, trust issues, PTSD. Music allows me to show the other sides of me. Yeah, I’ve been in the streets, but I’m also a father, a business owner, a family man, a hopeless romantic at times, and an all-around good person.
What legacy do you want to leave?
I want to be the blueprint for the ones who had no blueprint. Grind Hard Never Sleep is about building generational wealth for my family. I didn’t have mentors or anyone to show me the way. I want people to look back and say I inspired them to pursue their dreams and not become a product of their environment.
What’s next for you?
GHNS is next! My debut project is dropping in September, and it’s the soundtrack for the hustlers. Music that motivates you to keep pushing, with vibes for every setting—club, car, gym, or with your girl. It’s my best work to date, with dope features and a balance of soulful, gritty, and motivational tracks.
Urban Pulse Magazine 
Leave a comment