“THE PEOPLE’S EMCEE”: Dell-P
PHOTO @derekbradphotography INTERVIEW TERRELL “REALIFE” BLACK
VALIDATED: First and foremost, you’ve gotten married since our last interview, congrats on the union!
DELL-P: Thank you, I truly appreciate that. Yes, it’s truly a beautiful thang (shameless plug lol). Shoutout to my queen, Zaina Abdul-Adl Smith… I love you baby!
VALIDATED: You recently dropped “The People’s Emcee” album, how do you feel you’ve grown as an artist since the release of your 2021 project release “We Owe The World”?
DELL-P: On top of the fact that I learn something new everyday, I would say that I am in a great space mentally and creatively. The world is experiencing some trying times so I have a whole lot to talk about. I can honestly say that my pen game is at it’s strongest right now.
VALIDATED: The project is fully produced by Trac-Qaeda, how did the collaboration come to fruition?
DELL-P: First and foremost, Rest In Peace to my late great DJ Ant Live who died of cancer earlier this year. I was introduced to Trac-Qaeda a few years back when Ant suggested that we connect to do some records. It was only right that we honor our brother and give the world this great body of work together. If it wasn’t for DJ Ant Live this album wouldn’t exist. Thank you big bro, we love and miss you! Rest In Peace to my late great manager Naadir Muhammad who died of cancer this year also. This album is special and hits different in many ways.
VALIDATED: The album features Speech of Arrested Development, Peedi Crakk of State Property, Son Of The 215, Jay Reezy, 4everTaylorMade, Teef, Mel Alston Jr., Michael Burton, also interludes from the legendary Steady B and Big Bro Reem. What was the vision or mindset when choosing features for the project?
DELL-P: My vision was to bridge the gap and represent the culture in the purest form. I’m a big fan of artists who have never conformed no matter what is going on in the industry. Every artist featured on this album is completely out of mutual respect and a genuine rapport. I wanted interludes from the legendary Steady B and Big Bro Reem so that the youth can hear some jewels from brothers who are currently serving life in prison for making the wrong choices. I have been a fan of Steady B since I was a kid and we are from the neighborhood, so having his support is a big deal to me. Big Bro Reem is an older brother of my best friend and rap partner Donnie Boy, so this goes way deeper than music. When Reem calls me he always puts Steady B on the phone as well. I had to let the world hear from my guys on this album. I hope that it will help a few of these youngins choose the righteous path.
VALIDATED: What’s been the response to the album?
DELL-P: The response has been great so far. Many are saying that it’s my best album. I agree wholeheartedly.
VALIDATED: Which record off the project resonates most with you and why?
DELL-P: All of them!!! (LOL) It’s honestly hard to pick just one… Every song resonates with me the most, because these songs are me!
VALIDATED: My favorite record is “Don’t Forget The Hyphen”, you blacked out on that second verse! What was the motivation behind the record?
DELL-P: “Don’t Forget The Hyphen” has a double meaning. 1. When someone puts my name on promotional material I always have to say don’t forget that there is a hyphen attached to my stage name. 2. I have been super consistent with making great music, winning awards, collaborating with numerous Hip Hop legends, but many people still act like I ain’t out here getting busy. The motivation behind that record is to put some respect on my name!!!!
VALIDATED: The record “A Beautiful Thang” Feat. Son Of The 215 and Jay Reezy is dope too because the dedication to your wife is heartfelt. Do you find it difficult balancing your personal life and music?
DELL-P: No not at all. When you have the right woman in your corner things will only get better. She understands my mission and is with me every step of the way. I’m truly blessed to have her support.
VALIDATED: A fan on your Instagram mentioned you and Nas had 2 of the best albums to drop this year, as an artist how does it feel knowing your work is named in the same sentence as arguably the best MC of all time?
DELL-P: The feeling is unexplainable. Nas has always been in my Top 3 dead or alive. To be mentioned with one of the greatest of all time let’s me know that I am doing something right. This is a major compliment.
VALIDATED: Earlier this year you won Independent Hip Hop Artist of the Year at the Tri-State Awards, where does this award rank amongst the others?
DELL-P: I would say that this is the biggest award I received to date. Winning Artist Of the Year in my city was amazing but winning Tri-State Hip Hop Artist Of The Year was on another level.
VALIDATED: Wordsmith Entertainment, what can you tell us about it?
DELL-P: I launched Wordsmith Entertainment in May of 2020 because it was time to think ahead. I have a lot of talented family members and friends so I’m gonna make sure that the world hears them. I just wanna say thank you to everybody who believes in me and supports my brand.
VALIDATED: Your record “Dear Black Man” was featured in the independent film “Nobody’s Son”, how did the opportunity come about?
DELL-P: “Nobody’s Son” is a film written by Philly’s own Jimmy Dasaint. He always shows me love whether it’s giving me an acting role or putting my music in one of his movies. Once I saw the promotion for this movie I felt like “Dear Black Man” would be the perfect fit, and Jimmy agreed. Be sure to check out “Nobody’s Son” now playing on Tubi.
VALIDATED: You also got to perform with Arrested Development on stage at the Philadelphia Folk Festival, where does the accomplishment land on your bucket list?
DELL-P: That was one of the dopest ever. Not only was it the biggest crowd I’ve performed in front of, it was a few hours before my 40th birthday. That night will forever be remembered. Much love to the legendary Speech and the whole Arrested Development family.
VALIDATED: You’ve had a very productive year but what’s next for Dell-P?
DELL-P: I’m looking forward to going on tour, getting some more acting roles, and music placements. Stay tuned because the best is yet to come.
VALIDATED: Where can everyone follow and support you and your music?
DELL-P: Y’all can follow me on Instagram @DELLP215 and Twitter @WHOISDELLPEE… Dell-P “The People’s Emcee” is available on all digital platforms now! Shoutout to Validated Magazine for the love and support. Thank y’all. Peace and blessings!