This video is a tribute to Damon Montreal Gryen, better known as UTP Wacko, a legendary figure from New Orleans and a founding member of the rap group UTP (0:00 – 0:32). The video explores his legacy, focusing on his classic hit song, “Nolia Clap.”
Key themes and insights include:
The Origins of “Nolia Clap”: The song began as a solo effort by Wacko based on a dance he and his friends performed in clubs (2:05 – 2:20). It gained massive popularity, leading to a high-profile remix with Juvenile and Skip after Jay Prince recognized its potential (2:22 – 2:30).
The Business of Music: Wacko discusses the challenges of the music industry, specifically referencing “bad paperwork” regarding the credits and publishing for the “Nolia Clap” remix (6:40 – 7:20). He emphasizes the importance of fair business practices, reflecting on his own growth as a CEO (9:55 – 10:50).
The Impact of Hurricane Katrina: The video highlights how the momentum for UTP was significantly disrupted by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which forced a difficult transition from national success to struggling with the aftermath of the storm (14:30 – 15:00).
Community and Loyalty: Throughout the video, Wacko expresses deep loyalty to his roots in Magnolia, stating that he remains connected to his neighborhood and the people he grew up with, prioritizing community and shared success over individual fame (7:46 – 8:50, 12:45 – 13:30).
Speak On It!