By: Todd “DG” Davis
Rapindustry.com

 

Slaine is a veteran in both hip-hop and acting, known for his raw lyricism and authentic storytelling. Rooted in street life, he’s built a reputation for honesty and resilience. Many know Slaine for his alignment with super group, La Coka Nostra—which also includes members DJ Lethal, Danny Boy, and Ill Bill. Beyond music, he’s made a mark on screen with roles that showcase his versatility. His journey reflects a relentless drive to stay true to his roots while expanding his craft. We recently caught up with the Boston heavy-weight for an interview.

What are some of your fondest, most stand-out moments / memories during your lengthy tenure in this thing called Hip Hop?  

There are so many, man, but honestly when I look back at it all the thing that means the most to me are all the friendships I’ve built with other people in the game. There are so many people around the country and world that I’ve connected with through hip-hop. I got to travel and tell my story, build a brand and platform that gave the ability to make a living and make an impact. It’s a dream come true. I’m grateful for all of it.

That said, what are your future plans and / or goals for the 2026 season?   

I have another solo album I am almost done with, and I just want to make it great. I’m going to L.A. to work on some music with my brothers in La Coka. I got some film projects I’d like to make as well. Creatively, that’s what is in my sights at the moment.

Switching gears here, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?        

I try not to think about that. Usually, it just writes itself and I just follow my instincts and make shit that I like. If it resonates with an audience, great. If not, then it is what it is. I don’t know any other way to make good music than that. I feel like considering what other people think corrupts creativity.

If you could collaborate with any one artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?          

Probably Nas. He is my biggest influence as a writer in general. To me, he’s the greatest MC of all time. I’d love to work with Method Man as well. As far as a producer, I’d like to work with Pharrell. He has a big cinematic style of production that I dig. His work on the new Clipse album was amazing.

If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?       

I’ve played a lot of venues over the years. This question makes me think more of acting. Someday, I’d like to be in a play on Broadway. That’s something I’ve never done, that would be compelling.

 

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of hip-hop?   

Difficult question. I grew up in the Golden Era, and my career existed during an era that was an independent boom. I don’t love this social media / streaming era the way I loved the other eras. But, I guess the power is in artists’ hands to build their own careers more than ever, so that’s good. There has been some stuff I like, and stuff I don’t. I’m not as current as I once was, if I’m being honest. There isn’t a lot that really feels fresh or new. 

What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?          

I’ve had plenty of ups and downs. I just make music that tells the truth about where I’m at. My perspective is authentic and my fans have grown with me, I think. I don’t try to stay relevant. I believe the truth is always relevant.

Do you have any other outside / additional (future) aspirations, maybe even completely away from entertainment?  

Yes, and I’ve been focusing on those the last few years especially. I’ve worked as a recovery advocate in my community the past decade, which resulted in opening inpatient and outpatient substance use and mental health programs in the Greater Boston area. Between the two facilities, 170 people show up to work each day and we’ve helped over 7000 people start their recovery journeys since 2022.

What’s an average day like for you?  

First and foremost, I am a father and raise 3 kids. That’s my main focus. I also work a full-time schedule between Charles River, which is the detox I co-founded in 2022, and Grand Rising, the mental health clinic I co-founded in 2024. I go into the studio once a week to record…and when a film project comes through that interests me, then I do that sometimes, too. It’s a lot to keep up with, but what I like about it is that my days are always different.

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?   

I like to create things. I don’t necessarily like attention on a personal level because I really value my privacy and am kind of a loner. But, I create things that require me to go out and bring attention to them and by default it brings attention to me, which I don’t like so much. So, that’s my least favorite part. ? If that makes sense.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?  

I have a serious case of ADHD, so following my footsteps will be chaotic and exhausting unless you also have ADHD. In that case, there is no need to follow my steps because you will likely have your own vision that is torturing you all the time, too.

Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?      

I hope to be making more movies. I’ve enjoyed building teams and hiring talented people in building programs. I’d like to do the same with film. So, producing films is maybe my next thing. I’d like to do that. 

Any “parting” words for our readers?

I appreciate everyone who’s supported my work over the years. Thank you.