A person’s life can change for the better when they make good choices. On Oct 7, FMHipHop interviewed upcoming rapper Dallas Roquemore, better known as Lil Dallas, on incarceration, life transformation, mixtape, and more.
Born and raised in Sacramento, California, Dallas grew up alongside rapper Mozzy. Growing up in the same neighborhood, the two were extremely close and often rapped together.
The Imprisonment Of Lil Dallas
During his time in custody at Salinas Valley State Prison, Roquemore was 16 years of age. Upon being asked whether he would mind sharing the decisions that led to his imprisonment, he provided an answer that would open the eyes of anyone.
“I was being chased by someone, and I defended myself by shooting at him,” the rapper said. “The police happened to be parked across the street and caught everything on camera.”
Furthermore, during his time in prison, he realized that the only reason he and his community engaged in gang conflict was that that was what they were raised to do. There was a normalization of gangs and drugs and easy access to them.
Nevertheless, Dallas was fortunate to experience one good thing while incarcerated. He met his wife, and they married each other in the facility. That moment must have felt uplifted his spirit, considering the experiences he has faced in his life.
Enhancing One’s Quality Of Life
As Lil Dallas took time to reflect on himself, he realized that all his bad decisions were due to being under the influence. In addition, he decided to put his faith in his passions and family members.
As soon as he was released from prison, the Sacramento native began working with Healthy Life Recovery to share his experience to inspire others to make better choices.
“I am a manager of business development for the greater Sacramento area. A lot of people can relate to my story, and my goal is to help give people confidence to get properly diagnosed and receive the help they deserve and need.”
His involvement with the institution continues to this day.
Personal experience holds a great deal of significance. Through the storytelling, Dallas reaches out to adults and children who grew up in gang-ridden and drug-infested environments.
Taking The Rap Career Path
Apart from his role as a manager, Roquemore is also pursuing a career in rap. His interest in rapping began at an early age. “I started rapping when I was 10 years old, but I started taking it seriously when I got incarcerated,” he said.
Furthermore, Dallas would likely have achieved stardom alongside his childhood friend Mozzy had he not gone to prison. However, the good news is that it is not too late. In Dallas’s life, Mozzy is an inspiration, and he anticipates collaborating with him on an album shortly.
Meanwhile, on Sep 16, Lil Dallas released his debut mixtape, Finally Free. The meaning behind this project resonates with his realization of freedom in his daily life. “I was incarcerated for 11 years, and all I can think about is I’m finally free!! So I decided to name my project that.”
In response to the question of whether Roquemore had any performance opportunities, he said he was about to go on tour with Mozzy. Unfortunately, due to Lil Dallas’ parole status, he could not go.
Lil Dallas Has One Artist In Mind With Whom He Is Eager To Collaborate
Undoubtedly, most emerging artists would like to collaborate with established artists at some point in their careers. Besides being exciting, it also enhances your public image.
“I would like to collab with EST.GEE,” Lil Dallas said. “He is the hottest out right now, and I think we would make a hit together.”
As a result of his experiences since he was a child, Dallas would tell young people currently involved in gang activity, “It ain’t worth it! Stop while you’re ahead and enjoy life.”
Lil Dallas’ new mixtape, “Finally Free,” is available on “all digital platforms.” Click the links below to listen to them. Nikiya Biggs interviewed Lil Dallas.
Spotify | Apple Music | Amazon Music | Tidal
Written by Nikiya Biggs | Instagram: @ngv6236 | Twitter: @BiggsNikiya
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