We recently had the chance to connect with $amson and have shared our conversation below.
$amson , a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
I personally feel that intelligence is more important of the three choices. Also, if you think about it, intelligence will lead to better energy put out by the person. The intelligent person would have knowledge of self and situations. They would be more prone to using and keeping some type of integrity.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
$amson: A True School Emcee with Deep Roots in Hip-Hop
With over two decades in the game, Samson ($amson) is more than just a hip-hop artist—he is a living testament to the culture’s enduring spirit. As an artist, producer, writer, host, DJ, and manager, he has carved out a multidimensional career since 1999, embodying his mantra of #99tillinfinity. Hailing from the storied streets of East Chicago and now rooted in Los Angeles, Samson represents the uncompromised authenticity of underground hip-hop, rejecting commercial trends in favor of deep and eclectic wordplay.
His journey began in the legendary hip-hop collective Covert Operation, where he honed his skills and established a reputation for lyrical prowess. Samson’s flow is reminiscent of a bygone era, drawing comparisons to the iconic deliveries of Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Redman—all masters of wordplay and charismatic mic presence. However, Samson is no mere throwback; he channels the raw energy and lyrical density of those influences into a style uniquely his own. His music is a true-school clinic, a masterclass in rhythm and poetic insight that stands in stark contrast to the simplistic narratives of modern “mumble rap”.
As a producer, Samson crafts beats that form the perfect foundation for his lyrical gymnastics. His production style is as versatile as his pen, pulling from a deep well of influences that give his sound a rich, layered texture. Beyond the studio, his role as a host and DJ keeps him connected to the pulse of the culture, while his experience as a manager and creator showcases his commitment to building his legacy from the ground up.
Samson’s lyrical content is as geographically diverse as his roots. The grit and blue-collar resilience of East Chicago inform his perspective, while the relentless grind and complex landscape of Los Angeles add a layer of introspective reflection. This duality provides his music with a depth and maturity that is both compelling and rare. He isn’t just telling stories; he is exploring philosophical ideas and personal experiences, inviting listeners to engage with his narratives on a deeper level.
For fans of authentic, boom-bap-infused hip-hop and for those who appreciate a true emcee’s command of the craft, Samson is a vital voice. His extensive background, from his time with Covert Operation to his tireless work as a multi-talented creator, solidifies his status not just as an artist, but as a keeper of the hip-hop flame. His career isn’t just a timeline; it’s a mission statement: #99tillinfinity. Just Relased new music on Scrybe and Bandcamp.com
www.SamsonTheHighest.Bandcamp.com
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I’ve always been myself. I never listened to what “the world” told me I should be or had already placed onto me when they first seen me.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
A few times..but in short I’ve pushed through.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes very much so.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What will you regret not doing?
Saying yes to some people and projects
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lyricalartsradio.com; Samsonthehighest.bandcamp.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samson_hiphop
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/samson_hiphop
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samson99till
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@samsonishiphop
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/LyricalArtsRadio
Image Credits
GetRightMedia , TheVibrationLA , Self($amson)
