In a heartfelt interview on Skipping Class with Lalaa Shepard of The Progress Report, Shawty Lo JR opened up about preserving his father Shawty Lo’s legacy, his personal journey through grief, and his plans for D4L Week.
Shawty Lo JR revealed that this year’s D4L Week, an event dedicated to celebrating Shawty Lo’s music and community impact, will be held in Detroit instead of Atlanta. The move is part of his effort to expand the brand and reach a broader audience. He explained that Detroit was chosen because of his connections with influential figures in the city who can help bring his vision to life.
Coping with the Loss of Shawty Lo
Reflecting on the nine years since his father’s passing in September 2016, Shawty Lo JR admitted that it still doesn’t feel real. He shared that his way of coping has been to stay focused on his goals while allowing himself moments to grieve. He emphasized the importance of channeling memories and pain into motivation, recognizing that everyone experiences loss differently.
Family Bonds and the Impact of Shawty Lo’s Death
Shawty Lo’s passing deeply affected his family, and JR acknowledged that while some relationships grew stronger, others became strained. He described his father as the glue that held their family together, and after his passing, some members drifted apart while others became closer.
D4L Tensions: Thoughts on Fabo and Mook B’s Fallout
When asked about the reported tension between Fabo and Mook B, former members of D4L, Shawty Lo JR stated that such issues wouldn’t have happened if his father were still alive. He described Shawty Lo as a respected figure who could resolve conflicts before they escalated.
Latto’s Tribute to Shawty Lo on “Put It On Da Floor”
Shawty Lo JR also addressed Latto’s shoutout to his father on her song Put It On Da Floor. He saw it as a testament to Shawty Lo’s lasting influence, noting that nearly a decade after his passing, artists are still sampling, remaking, and honoring his music and legacy. While he couldn’t attend the video shoot, he was pleased that Shawty Lo’s mother was featured, further solidifying the tribute.
Final Thoughts: What He Wants People to Remember
When asked what he wants people to remember about both him and his father, Shawty Lo JR emphasized love, family, unity, and fun—all values his father stood for. Through D4L Week and his continued efforts, he remains committed to keeping his father’s name and impact alive.
D4L Week is scheduled for March 20-23, with sponsorship opportunities available for those looking to get involved.
