Problem – All The Answers

Problem has the perseverance and drive to make his dreams come true. We spoke with the rapper about his latest mixtape, entrepreneurship and how his tattoos remind him of what’s important in life.

- By Dove Clark

Relationships are the key to success in any business, and maintaining bonds through the often rocky terrain of hip-hop’s landscape can be a challenge. Rapper and entrepreneur Problem is living proof that doing right by people will always bring great rewards, both personally and professionally. He has been a mainstay on the scene since he emerged as a songwriter and collaborator for Snoop Dogg, a partnership that includes a spot on the track “Upside Down” alongside Nipsey Hussle on Snoop’s 2009 “Malice In Wonderland” project. In 2012, the German-born, Compton-raised lyricist made a definitive mark on the game as a guest on E-40’s hit single “Function,” along with Iamsu! and YG. Since his first official solo release in 2013, Problem has worked with a formidable array of talent, including Chris Brown, Pharrell Williams, Jamie Foxx, Jim Jones, Childish Gambino, Too $hort and Kendrick Lamar, just to name a few.

Problem started 2020 as many of us did, with high hopes for his latest work to reach as far as it could go. Ultimately, he had his way, and no pandemic could stop him. Soon after the release of his short film “A Compton Story,” Problem delivered the 10-track Terrace Martin-produced mixtape “Coffee & Kush, Vol. 1” in May. Fans and media alike welcomed the project with open arms as summer kicked off. And just like that, Problem was on to round two with “Coffee & Kush, Vol. 2,” which released in September with a whirlwind of impressive features from Snoop Dogg, Jay Rock, Jack Harlow, Tyrese and Freddie Gibbs. Martin also popped in for a cameo, and was joined in production on the project by Don Cannon, Mike & Keys and more.