In this episode of Philly First48, D4M $loan reflects on his diverse journey as an artist from West Philadelphia. Initially passionate about boxing, his path took a sharp turn after a life-altering car accident at 16. This pivotal moment redirected him towards music, especially after the tragic death of his close friend Tam at the age of 14.
D4M $loan, who became widely known for his collaboration with Skiano, speaks about the duo’s influence on Philly’s music scene, including the introduction of Jersey Club beats to rap. Their success led to widespread recognition in their neighborhood, with fans shouting their names on school buses. However, tragedy struck when Skiano passed away, leaving D4M $loan to navigate the painful process of creating music alone. He poignantly recalls seeing Ski earlier that day and warning him to be cautious, only to lose him later. This loss deeply affected D4M $loan’s creative process, taking years to adjust to a new life without his partner.
Reflecting on his family, D4M $loan highlights his mother’s ongoing involvement in his career and his father’s guidance following 16 years of incarceration. In 2022, he signed a significant deal with Sony, marking a major milestone in his music career.
D4M $loan also delves into his evolving sound, from club bangers to more introspective tracks. Working with top producers like Dino and Big Sean, he has been refining his craft, aiming for longevity in the music industry. His ultimate goal is to have a career that spans decades, with aspirations of performing for a lifetime like Michael Jackson.
The interview also touches on his creative journey, with stories about his early days smoking while boxing, collaborations with artists like Cory, and how his hits, including “Wolf and Demon,” have shaped the Philly rap scene. D4M $loan discusses his rising influence on platforms like TikTok, where he helped bring rap to a broader audience.
Additionally, he shares insights into his acting career, recounting the surprise of landing a role in a major production and the challenges of stepping into the acting world. His recent documentary, which covers a pivotal moment in his life, leaves room for future installments to showcase the ongoing evolution of his career.
Lastly, D4M $loan reflects on his current status in Philly’s rap scene, where few from his era are still active. Despite his success, he remains supportive of other local artists, wishing them the best and expressing his excitement about performing live, especially at major events like Powerhouse, which remains one of his career highlights.
