Casey Veggies’ hit single “Backflip,” which features YG and Iamsu!, has generated over 3 million views on YouTube and the rapper has performed with Kendrick Lamar, Rockie Fresh and Juicy J. He’s friends with many seasoned artists in the rap game, but for his new track, “I’m the King,” he chose to feature someone he’s even close with: his dad.
After all, his dad knows the biz — he’s a former bodyguard for Jay Z. “He’s always like that voice of reason for me,” says Veggies, aka Casey Jones. “If I’m moving too fast and not thinking, he’s always that person who can give me some advice, what I’m doing wrong. He doesn’t always tell me what I want to hear — he tells what he feel I should hear. I definitely appreciate it about him.”
Veggies is an Inglewood native who was part of the influential Odd Future collective. He started young. “I made my first mixtape when I was in 9th grade and people started to check me out, listening to it and vibing to it,” Veggies says. “It was really like 11th grade when I realized this is what I wanted to do.”
“I’m the King” is Veggies’ newest single off his album “Live & Grow.” The album’s name reflects his advancement in music. “Live & Grow” is multi-textured, showing his ability to approach the music from different perspectives.
But beyond the bright lights, “Live & Grow,” is also a tale of the artist — and young man —coming to terms with the world around him. “I just try to come with a different type of sound,” Veggies says. “I’m a young kid, 22, I’m out here dreaming big, trying to find out what’s the next step.”
Casey Veggies with Kevin Gates
Nov. 19, 8 p.m.
Theatre of Living Arts
334 South St., 215-922-1011
$18
www.lnphilly.com
Casey Veggies with Dom Kennedy
Nov. 22, 8 p.m.
Casey Veggies stays rooted in family values
Getty Images
All in the family
Finding his focus
Musical growth
Related: SXSW rap standout: Casey Veggies
The ladies’ jam “Tied Up” features a hook by DeJ Loaf and a clever double entendre — she can tie her hair up and won’t say no to a little bondage play in the boudoir. The aforementioned “Backflip” is a club banger with poppy synth groove and “Actin’ Up,” with Dom Kennedy, celebrates life in the fast lane with a mesmerizing twangy guitar sample.
Not slowing down
Besides his accelerating music career,Veggies also has a Puma sponsorship, a clothing line (Peas & Carats), and a national tour. “I’m going to keep it all going,” he says, “I’m going to stay on the grind.”
If you go:
Philadelphia
Boston
