Former Gambino crime family associate Louis Ferrante shares his life journey from a criminal to a spokesperson for change. Ferrante, now a TV show host and author, grew up in Queens and began his life of crime by stealing cars, which eventually escalated into hijacking trucks for their valuable contents. Despite his criminal outlook at that time, he stressed the aim was always to avoid hurting anyone. He commented on the guilt he feels today for his past actions, marking a turning point whilst in prison where he felt he was rightly incarcerated for his felonies. Ferrante spent eight and a half years studying law in prison, even overturning one of his own cases, which ultimately helped him turn his life around. To hear his full story, hit the above video.
DJ Swamp Izzo discussed his journey from South Carolina to becoming a prominent DJ. He highlighted his early struggles, including being arrested and facing racism. Izzo's career took off when he moved to Atlanta, where he was a DJ for various artists like Young Scooter and Future. He played a pivotal role in Future's rise, contributing to mixtapes and early success. Izzo also mentioned his brief stint with Cash Money Records and the challenges of managing multiple artists. He reflected on the impact of Young Thug and Rich Homie Quan's dynamic, as well as the sadness of Quan's death. Izzo emphasized his dedication to the mixtape culture and his contributions to the Atlanta music scene, as well as his contributions to Playboi Carti's #1 album, "Music."
In a new VladTV exclusive, TK Kirkland and DJ Vlad discuss Diddy's potential bail, emphasizing the importance of listening to high-profile lawyers. They compare Diddy's legal strategy to that of Jay Z, who successfully sued his accusers. The conversation shifts to Kanye West's legal battles and the impact of ego on legal outcomes. They also touch on Elon Musk's family dynamics and financial planning, including Musk's setup to support his family. The discussion includes reflections on personal experiences with legal issues, relationships, and the importance of financial stability. They conclude with a mention of NBA YoungBoy's release and his success despite legal challenges. TK Kirkland discussed his early experiences with NWA, including opening for Bobby Brown and the impact of their performances. He recounted the infamous Detroit show where NWA performed "F*** the Police" for the first time, leading to a police response. Kirkland shared stories about Eazy-E's comedic skills and their close relationship. He also mentioned the challenges of touring with NWA, including being banned from performing due to controversial statements. Additionally, Kirkland praised the success of VladTV's YouTube masterclass, emphasizing its value for content creators and the importance of monetizing content effectively.
In this 2014 interview, Ja Rule opened up about a variety of topics. He started by detailing his religious upbringing and what soured him on religion. He also talked about battling Redman and meeting DMX before reacting to Karrine Steffans' decision to include him in her infamous book. He also explained Jennifer Lopez using the n-word in their hit, "I'm Real (Remix)," and his beef with 50 Cent. Ja Rule offered his thoughts on the trends in Hip-Hop during that time, Murder Inc.'s fed case, his prison experience, and much more.
In this VladTV exclusive, John Pennisi, former made man of the Lucchese crime family, opened up about growing up in Queens before getting involved with the mafia at 14. He started off by driving a truck for a racket dealing with lost airline luggage. Pennisi later described his relationship with John Gotti Jr. and talked about serving 17 years for a non-mafia-related murder. He also explained how he ended up working with the mob again five years after his release. After Pennisi described the process of becoming a made man, he explained why he ended up cooperating with the feds. To hear his explanation and how he currently feels about his involvement with the mafia, take a look at the full interview.
Reggie White Jr. discussed his views on Keefe D's claims about his involvement in Tupac's murder, emphasizing that Keefe's accusations are baseless and aimed at gaining attention. Reggie highlighted Keefe's history of cooperation with federal agents since 1998 and his alleged snitching, which has led to his current status as a high-profile inmate. Additionally, he touched on the complexities of Suge Knight's legal situation and the potential for cooperation to reduce his sentence. Reggie White Jr. and DJ Vlad revised Reggie's tenure with Death Row Records and debated the impact of artists like Crooked I and Kurupt. They also touched on the business strategies of Death Row, the shift from physical album sales to streaming, and the aftermath of a public confrontation at Marathon Burger involving Blacc Sam and Rocstar2800.
Swerve Strickland, a former AEW (All Elite Wrestling) champion, discussed his journey from Tacoma, Washington, to becoming a professional wrestler. Born to a military family, he moved frequently, including a stint in Germany. Strickland joined the military at 17, had a child at 18, and later pursued wrestling, training at Ground Zero Wrestling. He gained prominence in Lucha Underground, notably with a brutal match against AR Fox. Strickland joined WWE's NXT, formed Hit Row, and was later released. He signed with AEW, debuting in 2022, and performed at the historic "All In" event at Wembley Stadium, marking a significant milestone in his career. Swerve Strickland discussed his rivalry with Hangman Adam Page, culminating in a Texas death match where he endured 12-13 staples. He emphasized the importance of making losses meaningful and evolving his character. Swerve highlighted his unique approach in AEW, including becoming the company's first Black AEW World Champion, and the cultural significance of his achievements. He reflected on the challenges and changes in the wrestling industry, particularly the treatment of Black talent. Swerve also touched on the impact of social media and cultural influences and his commitment to grounding his character in relatable experiences.
Karrine Steffans sat down with VladTV in 2015 and detailed more of her experiences with various stars. She spoke extensively about her romance with Lil Wayne. During the interview, she revealed that Drake had ghostwritten songs for Lil Wayne amid Drake's own ghostwriting scandal. The author also broke down the dynamic between Birdman and Lil Wayne, who were allegedly involved in a business dispute at the time. Throughout the rest of the interview, Karrine talked about her past relationship with Bobby Brown, double standards for women, and the rise of cosmetic surgeries.
Joe Tacopina discussed his career, highlighting his representation of high-profile clients like Donald Trump, Michael Jackson, and ASAP Rocky. Growing up in Brownsville, Brooklyn, he faced daily challenges but avoided legal trouble. Initially aiming to be a professional hockey player, he shifted to law after a debate professor suggested he'd excel as a trial lawyer. Tacopina emphasized his extensive trial experience, including 40 cases as a prosecutor and 120 jury trials. He detailed the ASAP Rocky case, rejecting a six-month plea deal, and successfully arguing a prop gun defense, despite the prosecution's attempts to discredit it. Joe Tacopina discussed the ASAP Rocky trial, emphasizing the jury's quick verdict of not guilty on two counts after four weeks of testimony. He highlighted Rihanna's unexpected presence in court, which provided emotional support to Rocky. Tacopina detailed his extensive preparation, including a five-and-a-half-hour summation, and the jury's immediate vote. He also compared the trial to other high-profile cases, such as Tory Lanez's conviction, and discussed the challenges of defending wealthy clients against frivolous lawsuits.
In 2019, the late Mo3 told his life story from his upbringing in Dallas up through his entry into the music industry. He recounted some of the issues he had with artists in his city and the remorse he felt for his mother after his illegal activity began affecting her household. Mo3's conversation with Vlad offers a candid portrait of his life and lays out the obstacles he overcame. Following his passing in 2020, Yella Beezy was recently arrested and charged for his alleged involvement in Mo3's death.
Former Army Ranger Nicholas Irving discussed the impacts of Trump's tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico, and the broader political dynamics between Republicans and Democrats. The conversation touched on the broader implications of these tariffs. While some Americans voted for Trump expecting economic gains, the tariffs could potentially disrupt those expectations by increasing costs and threatening job stability. The dialogue underscored the constant tension and unpredictability in American politics, regardless of party affiliation—suggesting that whether Democrat or Republican, the economic outcomes often remain uncertain.Interview by: Shawn Prez
Stevie J joined VladTV for an in-depth discussion about his life and career. The renowned producer talked about his upbringing and the impact of his mom abandoning him and his siblings. He also revealed that he came from a musical family and caught his big break with Jodeci, which led him to Diddy. Upon joining Bad Boy Records, Stevie J became a member of the legendary production team, The Hitmen, who produced many of Bad Boy's classic records. Throughout the interview, Stevie J revisits his production discography, as well as his past relationships and time on "Love & Hip-Hop."
Aries Spears and DJ Vlad discussed LeBron James' hypocrisy for criticizing Stephen A. Smith's critique of his son Bronny, citing LeBron's past actions. They debated the merits of Kanye West's controversial social media posts and Elon Musk's political stances. Aries shared his views on Michael Jackson's "The Lady in My Life" and compared Beyoncé to other iconic singers. They also touched on Amber Rose's dating preferences, Ne-Yo's polyamorous relationship, and the cultural implications of Serena Williams' appearance during Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl performance. Vlad and Aries Spears discuss Drake's music and his attempt to move past beef with other artists. They also discuss legal battles involving celebrities like Jay Z and Diddy, highlighting the challenges of proving allegations. The conversation touches on the impact of social media and the importance of respect in comedy and concludes with reflections on aging and the value of experience.
In this flashback interview from 2013, late rapper Nipsey Hussle opened up about his blossoming career, having just sold 100 copies of his "Crenshaw" mixtape to Jay-Z for $100 each. He talked about the success of the marketing plan, highlighting the connection he had with his fans. He also explained why his first major label deal with Epic Records didn't work out before breaking down how he ended up recording with Drake. Later in the interview, Nip talked about gang culture in LA and how he was focusing on his music career and business endeavors. This past weekend was the fifth anniversary of his passing.
Frank Gioia Jr., a former Lucchese mafia Made Man, discussed his upbringing in Little Italy, his father's mafia connections, and his own criminal activities, including bookmaking, loan sharking, and trafficking. He revealed his involvement in the mafia, including a hit on Frankie DeBlanco, and his eventual cooperation with the FBI to protect his family. Gioia's cooperation led to over 70 convictions, including the conviction of Tony Gonzalez for a cop murder. Despite his cooperation, he faced legal troubles again, leading to a five-year prison sentence and significant financial penalties.
Oschino and DJ Vlad discussed a variety of topics in this new VladTV exclusive. They debated the impact of having a famous father in sports, citing examples like LeBron James' son. The discussion shifted to legal issues, including Diddy's forced labor allegations, Jay Z's lawsuit against Tony Buzbee, and ASAP Rocky's acquittal in a gun case. They highlighted the challenges and strategies in high-profile legal battles, as well as the complexities of legal representation. The discussion shifts to the feud between 50 Cent and Big Meech, focusing on the financial mismanagement of Big Meech's son, Lil Meech. The conversation also touches on personal conflicts and much more.
In 2018, One-third of the Roc-A-Fella founding fathers Kareem "Biggs" Burke sat down with VladTV during the Reasonable Doubt 20th-anniversary popup shop. The Harlem native spoke forming a relationship with Dame Dash, and how the three came together to form Roc-A-Fella Records and the process of creating Jay Z's debut album. The mogul then discusses all the different ventures that came with the success of the label, and why ultimately the team went their support ways.
Boosie addressed a variety of topics in a new VladTV exclusive. The Baton Rouge native was overjoyed when news broke about ASAP Rocky's acquittal in his gun case. Boosie criticized Rocky's accuser, ASAP Relli, and advised Rocky to remain cautious moving forward. The rapper also reacted to the fallout between Big Meech and 50 Cent. As a featured performer at Big Meech's canceled 'Welcome Home' concert, Boosie described his involvement in the show and how he reacted when he heard the show was called off. He also stated how he would've reacted towards 50 Cent if he were Lil Meech. To hear more, check out the full interview above.
DCG Bsavv, a rising Chicago rapper, discussed his journey with VladTV. He and his brother DCG Shun, also a rapper, grew up in the Austin neighborhood, which had one of the highest murder rates in Chicago. Bsavv started rapping at age 8 and gained popularity with songs like "Forever Nitty," which garnered a million views in a month. He and his brother signed with Atlantic Records through the No More Heroes production team. Bsavv opened up about Shun's legal issues and their impact on the duo's career. Bsavv emphasized the importance of genuine relationships and criticized internet beefs, highlighting the need for mutual respect and collaboration in the music industry. The conversation shifts to personal topics, including Shun's brother's conversion to Islam and his own disciplined faith. Bsavv also touches on the brotherhood dynamic, coping mechanisms, and the impact of their brother's influence. The discussion moves to the DCG brothers' music careers, highlighting their collaboration with Cole Bennett and Adin Ross, and future plans like releasing a new project, performing at festivals, and starting a clothing line.
N3on, a 20-year-old streamer, discussed his journey from live streaming video games at 12 to gaining significant attention on Twitch. He faked his own death at 14, which initially boosted his visibility but later led to backlash. Leo's parents, initially skeptical, now support his career. He faced health issues, including Crohn's disease, and was arrested in Dubai for filming in a restricted area but was later released. He also shared experiences with controversial content, highlighting encounters with dangerous situations, streaming challenges, and interactions with notable figures.