Glasses Malone sat down with the BagFuel crew to discuss the tragic death of PnB Rock and the harsh realities of navigating life in Los Angeles. He emphasized that PnB Rock’s decision to wear a quarter-million dollars’ worth of jewelry in a high-risk area was a critical mistake, highlighting the dangers of flaunting wealth in impoverished communities.
Malone explained that the South Los Angeles Roscoe’s House of Chicken & Waffles, where PnB Rock was fatally shot, is notorious for its proximity to gang activity. While some in the music industry questioned why PnB Rock chose that location, Malone argued that the issue wasn’t just the specific Roscoe’s—it was the reality of entering any impoverished neighborhood while displaying extreme wealth. “You can’t tell me that if I walk into any ghetto in America wearing that much jewelry, somebody won’t try to rob me,” he stated.
He criticized rappers for having egos that make them believe they can move recklessly while wearing expensive jewelry in dangerous areas. According to Malone, the mentality of proving oneself in the streets or refusing to take off jewelry when confronted only antagonizes those already struggling. He recalled conversations where PnB Rock insisted he wouldn’t remove his jewelry, seeing it as a matter of pride, but Malone pointed out that such a mindset can lead to deadly consequences.
Malone also pushed back against the idea that Los Angeles is uniquely dangerous, arguing that any impoverished neighborhood—whether in New York, New Orleans, or elsewhere—operates on the same principles. “A quarter million dollars is life-changing money,” he said, explaining that when people struggling to survive see someone flaunting that amount, they might feel compelled to take it by any means necessary.
Ultimately, Malone urged rappers and entertainers to move smarter, emphasizing that understanding the realities of different environments is crucial for survival. He dismissed the idea that Los Angeles should be singled out for its dangers, instead pointing out that a lack of awareness and respect for street dynamics can put anyone in harm’s way.
