Comprised of Mr. Malik, née Edwards, and Jamal “Mally G” Phillips, rap duo Illegal marked their official debut in August 1993 with the arrival of their first and only album to-date, The Untold Truth, on producer Dallas Austin’s Arista distributed Rowdy Records. The 12-track body of work spawned three singles; "Head or Gut," "We Getz Busy" and "Back in the Day," with production courtesy of Austin, Diamond D, Erick Sermon, the late Biz Markie and Lord Finesse.
Following the group’s dissolution, Malik, a native of Holly Hill, SC, would later appear on high profile projects from Monica [“Like This and Like That“], Snoop Dogg [“Pump Pump”], Warren G [“What’s Next”] and Tha Dogg Pound [“Cyco-lic-no“].
First things first, let’s hop right into this solo entry, “Have It All,” featuring Bone Crusher — Tell me about this particular track; how did it actually come to fruition?
I ran across one (of) Bone's business associates on IG and reached out, and we started putting business plans together; they he had nothing but great things to say about me. So, eventually, we booked time to go in and just create, and we birthed a smash in no time. The world will enjoy this masterpiece.
Of course “Have It All” comes courtesy of your upcoming EP, King Solomon, Pt. 1 — Conceptually, what does this title represent both to and for you?
I recently read and heard more about King SOLOMON and his struggles with his calling, only to see it was a test for the better and all he went through…but in the end he was greatly rewarded with everything God meant for him to have and more. And (that’s) my exact life story, so I see a lot of me in him and his journey. So decided to n̈ame my most anticipated chess move in the game after him, as well as myself.
Also noteworthy is the fact that you and Jamal have finally reunited with this Treach assisted entry, “Bring It On Back,” and subsequent album, Jet Eye Mind Trick — Talk to me a lil bit about these offerings?
We decided it was time to give a token of appreciation to the culture, after still supporting us after the split. Along with Aftermath Entertainment Producer, Black Nails, lacing the production coming off of Eminem and Snoop's new albums, he's incredible. And, Treach been family and a role model from day one; I was discovered by Naughty. Shoutout Uncle Vin Rock and Kay Gee! Definitely a dream come true, and a great fit for that particular song.
That said, it’s been quite a long while since the masses last heard from you — What all exactly had / have you been up to, both personally and professionally speaking, during your lengthy musical hiatus?
Just mastering my growth in life and music. I will forever be a member of DPG, so losing Nate Dogg was hard for me and watching Snoopy's rise over the top in business and music has been great and inspirational…and, of course, my #1 from day one, Dr. Dre, and Beats by Dre, along with Mr. Jimmy, is amazing and opened my eyes to other business bigger than music. Shoutout to E-40 for that as well, especially the independent music lessons learned also being a mogul. And, family and friends they come and go; it's all about of God's plan, so I just learn from it and roll with the punches.
How have you either changed and / or evolved since your whole inception into music?
I changed with the game because I love music, old and new, and I will never get left behind on anything I've mastered. So I write, record, listen and learn, as if I’m a new artist, and I criticize my work while perfecting it the same way.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?
Yes, everything must grow to survive, and with growth comes change; it has to happen, so I'm completely satisfied with it and will always be.
To date, what has been your biggest career moment?
Waking up in Calabasas, leaving home with Dr. Dre and going to the studio, watching him create "Pump Pump" from scratch, and me recording it with Snoop for Doggystyle.
Looking ahead, say five or maybe even ten years from now, where do you see yourself?
Running my label, All The Math Entertainment [ATM], more major collaborations in music and business with Dre, Snoop and other conglomerates. As well as investments, and some inventions of my own. Continuing loving God and life through it all.
As for the immediate, what’s next for Mr. Malik?
My solo EP titled KING SOLOMON. And, my single, "MALIK ONE CHANCE." It's on the way!
Is there anything I left out or just plain forgot to mention?
No, you covered what's most important.
Any “closing” thoughts for our readers?
Keep God first, never give up and love yourself unconditionally first always…and respect, loyalty, longevity, persistence and patience, are keys to greatness.
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