No Bars Off: Benny Watts on Surviving a 17-Year Bid, the Independent Hustle, and Delivering “1000 Watts”
Artist Name: Benny Watts
Hometown: Virgina
Forged in the streets of Virginia and tempered by nearly 18 years in the prison system, Benny Watts brings an uncompromising authenticity to hip-hop that simply can’t be manufactured. Splitting his life between Norfolk and Virginia Beach, Watts channels his harsh realities into gritty, punchline-heavy bars that pay homage to 90s East Coast legends like Mobb Deep, Wu-Tang Clan, and Kool G Rap. Now navigating the modern independent landscape with a strict direct-to-consumer hustle, the veteran MC is proving he still refuses to take a single bar off. In this interview, Watts opens up about his journey from his 1997 studio debut to the realities of the streaming era, and why his latest unapologetic project, 1000 Watts, is a must-listen for true hip-hop heads.
Q: Can you tell us about your background? Where did you grow up, and how has that influenced your music?
A: Well I’m an ex-drug dealer who did 17 years and 10 months in prison. I spent half of my life in Norfolk va. and the other half in Va. Beach va. My influence came from my experience in the streets and prison.
Q: What was your early introduction to music and hip-hop? Do you have any specific artists or experiences that inspired you?
A: When I first saw “Shook Ones ” video by Mobb Deep. Kool G Rap, Wu-Tang, Prodigy, L.O.X., Jadakiss, Raekwon.
Q: When did you start making music, and what was your first project?
A: 97′ in Norfolk at Third Eye Entertainment. That was Pete Twist from the Grim Lords old studio. An album called Studio Life, it was a compilation album featuring my group the Suspects, the Gypcees, and Doomz Day
Q: How would you describe your style and sound? What sets you apart from other artists?
A: Punchline rapper that don’t take No Bars Off and love spitting over grimey beats
Q: What challenges have you faced as an independent artist in the hip-hop scene? How have you overcome them?
A: The streaming part Spotify killing niggas fr. You can over come it by doing Direct to Consumer Bandcamp, Even, etc.
Q: What has been your proudest moment in your music career so far?
A: Dropping my new album 1000 Watts. Its a must listen make sure you cop that on Bandcamp.
Q: Can you tell us about your latest project? What can fans expect from it?
A: 1000 Watts is a classic album with a 90’s feel. Production is flawless and the lyrics are legendary. Fans can expect another press play album from Benny Watts.
Q: How can people support you and your music as an independent artist?
A: like I said before go to Bandcamp and cop that 1000 Watts. You wont be disappointed. And when you’re on Instagram make sure you push the like button it costs you nothing.
Social Media Links:
Instagram: @bennywatts_carmafia
Website: https://bennywatts.
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