If you haven’t heard of Boyz N Da Hood (BNDH) then you haven’t been listening to an urban radio station. These four men represent the boys from around the way and their debut single, “Dem Boyz” has been getting played around the country. Jody Breeze, Big Gee, Young Jeezy and Duke make up “Dem Boyz” or as they would like to be known as Boyz N Da Hood.  

With a name like BNDH, people recognize it as either the Easy E (NWA) song or title of the movie starring Ice Cube.  Why the name Boyz N Da Hood?  “Block came up with two or three dope names for a group and chose BNDH.” 

These may be BNDH but they got their heads on straight and their knowledge of the game is a plus in this business. Being a smart businessman, Block chose the name because it was a “good marketable name.”

 How did four distinct personalities of MCs come together to form BNDH? “Block & Duke knew each other…we were all in the same circles. We did a song together and gave it to Kim. Kim liked it and gave it to P. Diddy…and the rest is BNDH history.”

Does BNDH think rap has gone pop? Jody responded, “Gone whack…not pop.”

Duke added, “Our sound comes from the streets…no water, more concentrated.”

Which pioneers of rap do they most admire?  After a sidebar conversation, it was narrowed down. “Ice Cube…2 Pac…Easy E and Scarface” were the top contenders.

 If you love rap, then you’re sure to enjoy several songs on BNDH debut CD, which hit stores in June.  Besides the first single, Dem Boyz, some of the other tracks I like and can see getting some airplay are Don't Put Your Hands On Me, If You A Thug and Still Slizzard.

What is Slizzard? I got various definitions, which included the following: “Means getting drunk…extra, crunked, sloppy drunk…feeling good...etc.” Just in case you were like me and didn't know, you have now been informed. 

With a name that evokes a west coast feel, what steps have they taken to ensure that BNDH is representing the ATL and the Dirty South? BNDH assured me, “When you hear it, you’ll realize we don’t sound like NWA…we look and talk like we’re from the south…but we represent the street n**** from everywhere…from NYC, LA, Midwest to the South.” 

Being on the Bad Boy Records label has its perks. Sean “P Diddy” Combs seems to have the golden touch when it comes to finding hidden talent. How active of a role did P Diddy have in production of BNDH debut CD?  “Puff let us have total control of the project,” BNDH stated.  They went on to say, “Puffy brought us into the spotlight. He’s been on the promotions and distribution side.”  

This lively crew of four is on a promotional tour and may be coming to a city near you.  With their rapping skills over slamming tracks by Jazze Pha, Frank Nitti and DJ Toomp,  Boyz N Da Hood will have your head bopping and your mouth rapping right along with them. 

Shelia M Goss, is a freelance writer, and the Essence Magazine Best Selling author of My Invisible Husband and Roses are Thorns, Violets are True. Her website is http://www.sheliagoss.com.