Prince Dre has long been a staple in Chicago’s drill music scene. The O-Block native was present during the genre’s formative years, witnessing the rise of Chief Keef, Lil Durk, and LA Capone. As one of the early pioneers, Dre carved out his own lane, collaborating with some of the city’s most respected artists, including the late King Von. Now, after navigating label struggles and penning a book about his experiences, he’s ready to step back into the music scene.
Unlike many drill artists, Prince Dre doesn’t embrace an aggressive persona. Instead, he keeps a humble approach, often traveling alone and maintaining respect across different neighborhoods. His experiences growing up on O-Block, where drill music was birthed, shaped his artistry and worldview. Yet, he consciously avoids the diss-heavy approach that has become synonymous with the genre.
During his appearance on Cook’N Up 215, Dre reflected on the evolution of drill music. He argued that, while the genre has become associated with violence, its roots lie in storytelling and expressing the realities of life in Chicago. He emphasized that drill was never about glorifying street life but rather about survival and authenticity. He also credited Pacman as one of drill’s originators, noting how Chief Keef’s breakout success propelled the sound into the mainstream.
After facing issues with his label, Prince Dre is eager to get back to releasing music on his own terms. In addition to his musical journey, he’s been working on a book, Surviving Environment Trap, which details his life on O-Block and the lessons he’s learned. His ability to stay independent and avoid unnecessary conflicts has been key to his longevity in the scene.
Beyond music, the interview explored Dre’s perspective on Chicago’s cultural influence, from the widespread adoption of its slang to the city’s culinary roots. He touched on the origins of popular terms like “on foenem” and “thot,” expressing both pride and frustration at how Chicago’s lingo is often used without proper credit. The conversation also included a cooking segment with Chef Dre, where Prince Dre shared memories of growing up on soul food and experiencing regional cuisines while traveling.
Dre also spoke on deeper societal issues, including the lack of father figures and community leaders in his generation. He explained how gang culture in Chicago evolved from being community-based to its current state, attributing some of these changes to systemic government intervention. Despite these challenges, he remains hopeful about making a positive impact through his music and storytelling.
With new music on the horizon and a book in the works, Prince Dre is poised to reintroduce himself to the industry while staying true to his roots.
