West Coast Royalty: Dom Kennedy Talks Legacy and New Moves with Justin Credible

Dom Kennedy recently sat down with Justin Credible for a deep and lively conversation that showcased his unique blend of humility, West Coast pride, and entrepreneurial insight. The podcast episode wasn’t just another interview—it felt like catching up with an old friend who has been steady on the grind, making moves while staying true to his roots.

Dom Reflects on Independence and Staying Grounded

Kicking things off, Justin Credible dove into Dom’s longstanding role as an independent artist and a pillar of West Coast hip-hop. Dom’s response? Classic cool with a dose of insight.

“I didn’t get into this for validation,” Dom shared. “I just wanted to create something people could feel, something they could ride to. That’s what the West Coast sound is all about.”

Dom’s reflections on his journey as an independent artist served as a reminder of his commitment to authenticity over accolades.

“You don’t need a major co-sign when you know who you are,” he said. “I built my own lane, and that’s what keeps me inspired.”

He further elaborated on the challenges of being independent, explaining how the pressure to conform to industry standards often clashes with staying authentic.

“When you’re independent, you’re responsible for everything, from the vision to the execution,” he said. “But that’s also where the freedom lies. You can pivot, you can experiment, and you can grow without answering to anyone else.”

West Coast Pride and Hip-Hop’s Evolution

Dom and Justin spent some time diving into the current state of hip-hop, particularly the West Coast’s role in shaping the culture. Dom’s pride for his city shined as he discussed how Los Angeles continues to influence music and lifestyle worldwide.

“We’ve always set trends out here,” Dom said. “From the sound to the style, we’re not just part of the culture—we are the culture.”

But Dom also made it clear that he’s paying attention to the bigger picture.

“It’s not just about where you’re from, it’s about what you bring to the table,” he explained. “If you’re authentic, people feel that no matter where you’re from.”

The conversation also touched on the responsibility of representing the West Coast legacy. Dom spoke about following in the footsteps of legends like Dr. Dre and Nipsey Hussle while carving out his own unique voice.

“They laid the foundation,” he said. “Now, it’s on us to keep building and pushing the culture forward.”

The Business of Music: Lessons Learned

Justin Credible asked Dom how he’s navigated the business side of the industry, especially in an era where streaming has shifted the game. Dom’s answer was a masterclass in patience and focus.

“You gotta own your stuff,” Dom emphasized. “People get caught up in the hype, but if you don’t know your business, it can all fall apart.”

He shared an anecdote about learning from early mistakes, explaining how he used those lessons to refine his approach to releasing music and managing his brand.

“I remember dropping a project and not fully understanding how the backend worked,” Dom admitted. “That was a wake-up call. Now, I make sure I know the ins and outs of everything I’m involved in.”

He also shared advice for up-and-coming artists trying to balance creativity and business savvy.

“Stay consistent,” he advised. “People think it’s about that one hit, but it’s about the catalog. Build something that lasts.”

Dom highlighted the importance of owning your masters and controlling your narrative in a competitive industry. “The real value is in ownership,” he said. “If you don’t own your work, someone else will profit off your hard labor.”

Family, Legacy, and Growth

One of the most heartfelt parts of the conversation came when Dom opened up about fatherhood and how it’s changed his perspective on life and music.

“Being a dad makes you think about the bigger picture,” he shared. “It’s not just about me anymore. I want to leave something that my kids can be proud of.”

Dom also reflected on how he’s grown over the years, both as an artist and as a person.

“I’m not the same Dom I was when I dropped my first mixtape,” he said with a laugh. “But that’s a good thing. Growth is part of the process.”

He spoke about the importance of creating music with intention, emphasizing that every project he puts out now is deeply personal. “It’s about leaving a legacy,” Dom said. “When I’m gone, I want people to look back and see the heart I put into everything.”

The Power of Collaboration

A major theme throughout the episode was the value of collaboration. Dom credited much of his success to the people he’s worked with over the years, from producers to fellow artists.

“Collaboration is everything,” he said. “You can’t do this alone. The right team can take your vision to places you never imagined.”

He also hinted at upcoming projects featuring some unexpected partnerships, teasing fans with a promise of fresh and exciting music.

Closing Gems: Advice for the Next Generation

As the conversation wrapped up, Dom took a moment to drop some advice for the next generation of artists and creators.

“Know your worth,” he said. “Don’t wait for someone to tell you you’re valuable. You’ve got to move like you already know it.”

He encouraged young creators to embrace their individuality, saying, “Your uniqueness is your superpower. Don’t dilute it trying to fit in.”

The episode ended on a high note, with Dom’s gratitude and optimism shining through.

“I’m thankful for everything—the ups, the downs, all of it,” he said. “It’s all part of the journey.”