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October 18, 2023 45 mins

In this week’s episode of Ryan C. Greene's BORN TO BE DOPE! we have a truly inspiring guest joining us. It's the one and only Tracey Lee, a talented MC who has experienced the highs and lows of the music industry. In this episode, Tracey takes us on a journey through his life and music career, sharing personal stories and reflections that will resonate with anyone who has ever questioned his purpose or felt alone in his pursuit of his dreams.

Tracey opens up about his early influences in hip-hop, crediting LL Cool J as the first rap superstar and even a superhero-like figure. While also sharing the impact of other legendary MCs like Kool G Rap, Rakim, KRS One, Chuck D, Big Daddy Kane, Ice Cube and Scarface. Then we get into his new album “Different” and the motivation behind it.

During our conversation, Tracey Lee reveals a fascinating connection to Puff (yes, that Puff), and speaks on his involvement with some influential figures in the music industry. 

We also explore the deeper themes that Tracey Lee explores in his music. He opens up about his faith and spirituality, and how questioning his purpose and navigating the effects of isolation changed his perspective on the world and his family. We hear about his resilience and determination to continue pursuing his gift from God, even when faced with adversity.

Join us as Tracey Lee takes us on an unforgettable journey filled with passion, self-discovery, and the unbreakable spirit of a true artist. This is an episode you don't want to miss, as we dive into the heart and soul of an extraordinary individual who has defied the odds and continues to shape the hip-hop culture we know and love. 

#BornToBeDope #Different #RyanCGreene #TraceyLee #HipHop50 #DifferentIsDope

Get Tracey Lee’s new album DIFFERENT exclusively at www.traceyleemusic.com 

Be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode! 

Watch this and other full video episodes: www.watchborntobedope.com 

Follow Born To Be Dope on Instagram: www.instagram.com/iamborntobedope 

Join the private Born To Be Dope Facebook Group: www.borntobedopegroup.com 

Follow Ryan C. Greene on Instagram: www.instagram.com/rygisdope  

Get your Born To Be Dope Apparel: www.weardopetees.com

00:01:37 Isolated, soul searching, new perspective, moving forward.
00:05:42 LL Cool J, rap superstar, influenced me.
00:08:56 Failed high school deals led to sports broadcasting.
00:10:07 Puff Daddy, Mark Pitts, D Dot signed deal producing The Theme.
00:15:37 Daddy transforms, supports, guides, and loves unconditionally.
00:17:04 Record industry favors relationships over individual artists.
00:19:46 Proud of hip hop culture recognition, but negatives arise from money and generational shifts.
00:24:41 Successful chart run, collaborations with Notorious BIG and Busta Rhymes, but limited promotion potential due to politics.
00:26:35 Second album funded, featuring Kanye West, Korrupt, Buckshot.
00:30:11 Confusion about collaboration with Big on record.
00:34:05 People noticed me and spread the word.
00:38:36 Faith-based person questions purpose, seeks acknowledgement.
00:40:57 Receiving unexpected checks helped pursue law school.
00:43:54 Excitement for new album and success goals.

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