Paul Wall Reflects on Legacy, Collaboration, and the Evolution of Houston’s Sound with Nyla Symone

Paul Wall, the self-proclaimed “People’s Champ,” sat down with Nyla Symone for her show, "We Need to Talk," in a wide-ranging interview that delved into his storied career, his ongoing love for hip-hop, and the cultural significance of Houston’s evolving music scene.

For Symone, the moment was deeply personal. “When I was a kid, Paul Wall was the same guy who made me buy gum so I could use aluminum foil grills,” she laughed, recalling the cultural wave he ignited. She was juiced up as she welcomed the Houston legend, whose signature grills and unmistakable flow have made him a fixture in Southern rap.

"Still Tippin’”: A Surprising Hit

One of the most fascinating moments in the interview came when Wall discussed his iconic track, “Still Tippin,” a record that played a crucial role in putting Houston rap on the global map. “When I first heard the beat, all it was was a violin,” Wall admitted. “I was like, ‘What am I going to talk about on this?’ I didn’t see the vision at all.” Despite his initial reservations, the track became a defining anthem of the early 2000s, encapsulating Houston’s car culture, regional pride, and distinct sound.

“T. Farris, who was the A&R at Swishahouse, believed in it,” Wall said. “He’d tell me, ‘You don’t get it now, but trust me, this is going to be big.’” Farris’ foresight paid off. The song, with its syrupy beat and hypnotic hook, catapulted Wall and fellow artists Slim Thug and Mike Jones into mainstream success.

Wall’s initial hesitation with “Still Tippin” wasn’t unique. According to him, Mike Jones almost passed on his iconic hit, “Back Then,” in favor of another track. “T Farris told him, ‘This is the one,’ and once again, he was right,” Wall said. “Sometimes, as artists, we’re too close to the music to see its full potential.”

The Impact of Houston’s Style

Wall also reflected on Houston’s cultural contributions to hip-hop, from the Screw and Chop movement pioneered by DJ Screw to the city’s emphasis on bass-heavy beats designed for car stereos. “For so long, we’d rap about street names and slang that nobody outside Houston knew,” he said. “But now, people worldwide not only know but embrace it.”

Artists like Megan Thee Stallion, Travis Scott, and Don Toliver have taken Houston’s legacy to new heights, Wall noted. “We popularized the Houston style nationally,” he explained, “but they’ve evolved it internationally.” Wall’s pride in Houston’s growth was evident, as he emphasized the importance of both honoring tradition and fostering innovation.

Collaboration Across Generations

Wall’s recent collaboration with rising star That Mexican OT on the track “Johnny Dang” exemplifies his willingness to bridge the gap between generations. “I’ve been a fan of OT,” Wall said. “His energy, his style—it’s fresh but still feels familiar. At first, I thought I missed my chance to work with him, but it came together perfectly.”

The Houston icon’s ability to connect with younger artists while staying true to his roots has been a hallmark of his career. “I love seeing these new artists shine,” he said. “It feels like I’m part of their success when I see them rocking grills I made or hear their take on Houston’s sound.”

Regional Sounds in a Global Era

The conversation turned philosophical as Wall discussed the changing landscape of hip-hop. “Regional sounds have kind of been lost,” he observed. “Now, everyone sounds the same, or a local style becomes a national trend almost overnight.” Still, Wall remains hopeful about the future of regional identity in music. “My favorite artists are the ones who sound like where they’re from. Snoop Dogg sounds like L.A., Juvenile sounds like New Orleans. That’s what makes them stand out.”

Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

As a veteran in the game, Wall shared wisdom gleaned from his decades-long career. “Work as hard as you can,” he advised. “There are moments I regret missing, like when Ghostface Killah wanted me on his album. But you learn and grow from those experiences.”

Wall’s gratitude shone through as he recounted his journey. “Sometimes, I look back and think about how everything, even the tough moments, shaped who I am,” he said. “I’m grateful for every lesson and every blessing.”

With a new album, “Once Upon a Grind,” and a continued passion for pushing boundaries, Paul Wall remains a pivotal figure in hip-hop. His story is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep love for the culture that shaped him—and one he helped shape in return.