In a music industry driven by trends, algorithms, and short attention spans, authenticity still matters. That truth is exactly what makes “Hustle Habits” stand out. The explosive collaboration between Cordell Drake, GrandMixer GMS, and MAK Musik is more than just another Hip-Hop release — it’s a statement about perseverance, independent artistry, resilience, culture, and survival.
Built from real-life experiences and fueled by Northwest pride, “Hustle Habits” speaks directly to dream chasers, creators, entrepreneurs, and anyone pushing through life’s obstacles while trying to build something meaningful. The song blends authentic storytelling, hard-hitting production, and motivational energy into a record that feels both personal and universal.
At a time when mental health, burnout, pressure, and emotional resilience are becoming major conversations within entertainment, “Hustle Habits” reminds listeners that success is not just about money or fame — it’s about discipline, consistency, self-belief, and refusing to quit when life gets difficult.
And perhaps most importantly, the collaboration shines a spotlight on the strength of the Northwest Hip-Hop movement, proving once again that powerful stories and real culture exist far beyond the mainstream industry spotlight.
Cordell Drake — Authentic Storytelling, Real Experience & Northwest Pride
For Cordell Drake, authenticity has never been optional — it’s the foundation of his entire career.
Born on April 4, 1984, in Spokane, Washington, Cordell came of age during a pivotal time for the city’s Hip-Hop culture. Raised on Spokane’s North Side, he witnessed both the creativity and the challenges shaping the local scene, experiences that would later become central themes throughout his music and storytelling. His journey began at John R. Rogers High School, where he first started writing lyrics and discovering the power of Hip-Hop as a form of expression.
Over the years, Cordell built a respected touring career and shared stages with an extraordinary lineup of Hip-Hop legends, including Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, TI, Twista, Nipsey Hussle, Tech N9ne, DMX, E-40, Too Short, DJ Quik, Coolio, Digital Underground, Nina Sky, and many more.
He also became a recurring performer at Spokane’s legendary Pig Out in the Park Festival, helping contribute to the event’s cultural legacy before its final run in 2025, performing for crowds reaching up to 15,000 people.
Cordell’s music reflects versatility and evolution. Songs like “Pull Up In A LowLow,” “All I Know,” “Do That,” and the fan-favorite collaboration “Backwoods” showcase his ability to balance street energy, real-life experiences, and emotional honesty.
His collaborations continue expanding with artists such as Spice 1, J Stalin, DL Down3r, Indo Slim, Stone P, Overtime, and Buddha Northwest, helping further establish his place within today’s West Coast and independent Hip-Hop movements.
But beyond the music, Cordell continues building a genuine relationship with his audience through social media and entertainment projects like Destination X, a travel-based series that showcases his personality beyond music.
What makes Cordell stand out most is his ability to speak from experience. His lyrics don’t feel manufactured. They feel lived. That authenticity is a major reason why his role on “Hustle Habits” feels so impactful.
Cordell Drake — Pump It Up Magazine Interview
1. You’ve shared stages with legends like Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Nipsey Hussle, Tech N9ne, and E-40. What’s one moment from your touring journey that changed your perspective on music?
Cordell Drake: Seeing all the creative and interesting people that’s shaping the look and sound of the country. Also how different people hustle their movement. I also love connecting with people whether it’s new fans or creative minds.
2. Spokane played a major role in shaping your sound and story. How has representing the Northwest influenced your identity as an artist?
Cordell Drake: It’s one of the greatest honors to be discussed as a face of the NW and Spokane. I think my music sounds the way it sounds because I am an authentic Spokane-e. My music is a mix of west coast soul, funk, jazz, party music, lowrider music, feel good music. I sing about anything I’m pretty much into and passionate about. I’ve always loved music, toured in the Seattle Cascades Drum & Bugle Corps when I was younger and can play a variety of musical instruments.
I have been interested in Lowriders since I saw my 1st one when I was young and now I am part of a lowrider CC called BLVD DreamZ which we are very involved in our community; so again, just things I’m passionate about.
3. Your music balances real-life storytelling with West Coast energy. What inspires your lyrics the most today?
Cordell Drake: My life, my dreams. I want you to feel whatever I was feeling when I was making that song. I have always been heavy on the WestCoast Sound. Put that together with my story and life and that’s what you get when you listen to my music.
4. You continue to build momentum with collaborations involving Spice 1, J Stalin, DL Down3r, and more. What do you look for in an artist before collaborating?
Cordell Drake: Usually it’s an artist I listen to and I think we would do well on a track. I like to ask my fans what they think as well. Who they want to see me share the stage with or track with. Engagement. Engagement with the fans in the streets, clubs and online.
That’s what I feel works best for me on who to collaborate with anyways. Since we’re on collaborations, wait till you hear this new album I’m dropping with my bro, Las Vegas native TKO called “WestCoast Antidote” which is all WestCoast heat from the production, lyrics and sound. That drops this early Summer. Also dropping shortly after is an album I’m doing with Phoenix Arizona Artists Yostailingo, which is a mix of English and Spanish WestCoast Funk! On top of singles dropping with Buddha NW, Lil Rose and more, this year has already set the tone for the next.
5. Beyond music, you’re also expanding into entertainment through Destination X. What excites you most about growing your brand outside of hip-hop?
Cordell Drake: Hey Destination X. Shout out my bro and co host John “Risky” Boltz. This dude is a beast. He shoots most of my videos, shoots and edits Destination X, shoots short films to full length movies. So Destination X is a show where we travel the US (World Soon) and do off the wall, cool or interesting things but in a documentary kind of way. I love anything to do with traveling and being creative.
Also my business partner Dice and I are opening a business called “Global Locals” where we do brand development and will be a NW Media Hub right here in Spokane, WA with a full recording studio and photography services. Music has taken me to places I didn’t know existed. Ideas and experiences I never dreamed of. This is going to be a great year. I get to build my brand with my movie coming out finally at the end of the year called 2 Lit with RISKY on it now so we are good lol.
6. “Hustle Habits” speaks to perseverance, ambition, and staying focused through life’s struggles. How important is mental resilience and protecting your peace while chasing success in today’s music industry?
Cordell Drake: No peace no prize but no pain no gain. It’s a beautiful struggle. Me and my team are just going to keep fighting the good fight and pushing this North West / West Coast culture. Shout out my bros GrandMixer GMS & Mak Musik!
GrandMixer GMS — The DJ, Cultural Architect, Technologist & Voice Of The Northwest
If “Hustle Habits” represents real Hip-Hop culture, then GrandMixer GMS represents one of the culture’s strongest foundations: the DJ.
Long before playlists and streaming algorithms controlled music discovery, DJs were the heartbeat of Hip-Hop culture — and GMS continues honoring that tradition today.
His journey started early. GMS first touched the turntables as an 11-year-old breakdancer, and by the age of 14, he became the first DJ to mix for commercial radio in Spokane, Washington. Inspired by pioneering mastermixers and legendary Hip-Hop turntablists, he quickly developed advanced skills in mastermixing and turntable wizardry, eventually winning the inaugural Inland Northwest Battle of the DJs championship.
But GMS’s influence goes far beyond performing.
He served as a Regional Reporter for International Music Magazine PROP$, a Street Rep for Rap Sheet Newspaper, and worked alongside legendary West Coast radio icon Nasty Nes through Crazy Pinoy Promotions. During the mid-1990s, he became a mixer on Nes’s influential KCMU Rap Attack, one of the most important Hip-Hop radio platforms of its time.
Today, GMS continues carrying that legacy forward as the Rap Editor at The Urban Influencer, where he contributes weekly reporting and writes the column “Tech N Music,” blending his expertise in music, technology, and culture. His dual role as artist and industry contributor highlights his multidimensional influence on the modern music landscape.
As a DJ, GMS has:
- Mixed for Nasty Nes
- Remixed for former Eazy-E artist Tairrie B
- Earned international exposure through Eminem’s Shade 45 on Sway in the Morning
- Appeared twice on the cover of Pump It Up Magazine
- Been recognized as:
- DJ of the Week (2020)
- Artist of the Week (2026)
- 2025 BEST DJ — The Inlander Reader Poll
- West Coast Radio Mixer of the Year (2024)
Known for his legendary high-velocity style, GMS blends 70 to 100 songs per hour, far beyond the industry norm. His sets move through Hip-Hop, R&B, Pop, EDM, and Open Format music with incredible speed, precision, and creativity while staying rooted in respect for Hip-Hop’s origins.
He is also one of the most recognized Drive @ 5 mixshow DJs on Seattle’s c89.5 FM, appearing on:
- Planet Dance
- Mixgiving
- Pride Mix Weekend
- 4th of July BBQ Mix
- major live broadcasts and events.
His turntablism performances at c89.5’s Live Halloween Party, Valentine’s Day Party, and Rave Against The Machine helped solidify his reputation as one of the Northwest’s most technically gifted DJs.
Fans can also hear GMS on:
- Seattle’s c89.5 FM
- KYRS — Inside The Hype
- Global Frequency on KPIU Radio
- TheSoul1053.com
- iHeartRadio
- The Urban Influencer Radio
Outside music, GMS is deeply connected to martial arts and personal discipline. He trained under elite MMA programs including:
- Rick Little’s Sikjitsu
- Ralph Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
- KING’S MMA
- Gracie University.
He is also the DJ and Assistant Event Coordinator for Excitefight MMA, bringing energy and atmosphere to major fight events throughout the Northwest.
Beyond entertainment, GMS works as a paralegal specializing in Constitutional Law and Civil Rights, holds an AA degree in electronics, volunteers at local food banks, and remains passionate about technology, learning, and community service.
His presence on “Hustle Habits” brings not only DJ credibility, but also history, culture, discipline, and decades of dedication to the craft.
GrandMixer GMS — Pump It Up Magazine Interview
1. You became the first DJ to mix on commercial radio in Spokane at just 14 years old. Did you realize back then that you were helping shape Northwest Hip-Hop history?
GrandMixer GMS: Not at all. At 14, I wasn’t thinking about “history” — I was just excited that Spokane finally had a station willing to take risks. Radio back then was extremely conservative and honestly pretty dull. But when POWER 104 let TJ Collins flip the format and play what he believed in — including rap that no other Spokane station would touch, and the mixes I was creating — the whole city felt different. It felt alive.
I was just a kid who loved music and wanted people to feel the same energy I felt behind the turntables. Looking back now, I can see that those moments helped open a door for Northwest Hip-Hop. And I’m honored that my early passion became part of the region’s musical story.
2. Your sets are known for blending 70–100 songs per hour with live turntablism. How do you keep that level of creativity and energy alive after all these years?
GrandMixer GMS: I always go back to the mindset I had when I first started — back when mixing was still new and none of us really knew the “rules.” We didn’t know what we should or shouldn’t do, or what we could or couldn’t do. And because of that, we weren’t afraid to push. We were just chasing the edge without even knowing where the edge was.
That freedom shaped me. It taught me that DJing isn’t just about playing songs — it’s about creating something exciting, meaningful, and alive. That’s why I still blend 70 to 100 tracks an hour and bring live turntablism into every set. I love the challenge, the creativity, and the feeling of taking people on a journey they’ve never experienced before.
As long as I stay connected to that original spark — that fearless, boundary‑less energy — the creativity never fades.
3. Through platforms like c89.5 FM, KPIU Radio, Global Frequency, Excitefight MMA and major live events, you’ve built a powerful presence in both radio and live entertainment. What continues to drive your passion after all these years in the industry?
GrandMixer GMS: A big part of it is holding onto the mindset I had at the very beginning — that beginner’s mindset where creating mixes, sharing music, and connecting with people through sound felt like an honor. I never want to lose that sense of gratitude or curiosity.
But another part of my drive comes from understanding how rare each day really is. Every day shows up once, and once it’s gone, it’s gone. So I try to pour everything I have into the opportunities in front of me — whether it’s c89.5 FM, KPIU Radio, Global Frequency, Excitefight MMA, or a live event with thousands of people in the room.
Music has given me a life I’m grateful for, and as long as I wake up with breath in my lungs and ideas in my head, I’m going to keep creating, keep pushing, and keep showing up with the same passion I had when I was a kid discovering this art for the first time.
4. You’ve worked with legends like Nasty Nes and shared stages with icons from Ice Cube to E-40. Which experiences taught you the most about longevity in the music industry?
GrandMixer GMS: The biggest lessons about longevity came from working with Nasty Nes. Being around him, I saw firsthand how the industry can shift under your feet — new formats, new technology, new ways of breaking records. Watching his journey showed me how important it is to stay open‑minded, to keep learning, and to be willing to adapt as the landscape changes.
Looking back with 20/20 hindsight, I can see places where things could’ve gone differently, and that taught me even more. It reminded me that none of us ever “arrive.” We’re all still learning, still growing, still figuring it out. And that’s actually the key to longevity.
For me, it comes down to this: if you keep an open mind, stay curious, learn from your mistakes and setbacks, work hard, and treat people with respect, things tend to work out — no matter what industry you’re in. That’s the lesson I carry with me every day, and it’s one of the greatest gifts I got from my time with Nes.
5. Outside of music, you’re deeply involved in martial arts, technology, community service, and civil rights work. How do all these passions influence the person and artist you are today?
GrandMixer GMS: All of those passions — martial arts, technology, community service, civil rights — they give me a well‑rounded and well‑grounded approach to life. Each one teaches me something different, and together they shape how I move through the world as both a person and an artist.
Martial arts keeps me disciplined and humble. Technology keeps me curious and adaptable. Community service and civil rights work remind me that the world is much bigger than I am, and that people are carrying struggles I may never see. Those experiences keep me mindful, grateful, and aware of how short life really is.
And that perspective shows up in everything I do — the way I approach projects, the way I treat people, the way I show up for my craft. One day I’ll be gone, just like all of us, and when people remember me, I hope they remember someone who was kind, who tried to help others, and who was genuinely passionate about music and life.
That’s what all these passions give me: a compass. A reminder of who I want to be, and how I want to show up in the world.
6. “Hustle Habits” carries a powerful message about discipline and determination. Between music, radio, MMA, and community work, how do you personally maintain mental wellness, balance, and resilience under pressure?
GrandMixer GMS: For me, balance and mental wellness come from staying rooted in the things that give my life meaning. “Hustle Habits” reflects that — it’s not just about grinding, it’s about having purpose behind the grind. With everything I’m involved in — music, radio, MMA, community work — I’ve learned that resilience comes from knowing who you are and why you show up every day.
MMA keeps my mind sharp and my spirit steady. Music keeps my heart open and my creativity flowing. Community work reminds me that life is bigger than my schedule or my goals — people are out here fighting battles we never see. And technology keeps me learning, evolving, and staying curious.
All of these things work together to keep me grounded. When pressure hits, I go back to discipline, gratitude, and perspective. I remind myself that every day is a gift, and I try to honor that by being present, being kind, and giving my best to whatever’s in front of me.
That’s how I stay balanced. Not by avoiding pressure, but by staying connected to the things that make me feel alive.
MAK Musik — The Rising Voice Bringing New Energy To Northwest Hip-Hop
While Cordell Drake and GrandMixer GMS represent experience and legacy, MAK Musik represents the future.
Born into a deeply creative environment, MAK’s relationship with music started almost unbelievably early. He received his first DJ scratch lessons at just three years old, started grabbing the microphone by age four, and by seven was already programming the legendary E-MU Systems SP-1200, one of the most iconic production machines in Hip-Hop history.
When MAK decided to seriously pursue rapping, the city noticed immediately. One of his earliest songs unexpectedly aired on Spokane’s Wild 103.9, creating a moment he still remembers vividly — hearing his own voice on the radio for the first time while hanging out with friends.
Since then, MAK’s music has expanded far beyond Spokane, earning worldwide radio play and opportunities to open for respected West Coast artists including:
- Spice 1
- Tone Loc
- J. Stalin
- Certified Outfit
- Kid Sensation & The ECP
- Jay Diggs.
Inspired by Hip-Hop legends like 2Pac, Mac Dre, Messy Marv, and The Luniz, MAK combines classic West Coast energy with modern delivery and fresh Northwest flavor.
In 2026, he teamed up with Cordell Drake and GrandMixer GMS for “Hustle Habits,” helping create one of the Northwest’s strongest independent collaborations of the year. He also joined forces with Young West The Show Stopper for “Welcome To The Northwest,” which continues climbing The Urban Influencer Rap Chart.
Outside music, MAK stays grounded through two major passions:
- basketball
- fatherhood
His dedication to family and personal growth fuels both his ambition and his artistry.
With strong work ethic, authenticity, and growing momentum, MAK Musik continues proving himself as one of the Northwest’s most promising new Hip-Hop voices.
MAK Musik — Pump It Up Magazine Interview
1. You started learning DJ skills and music production at an incredibly young age. Looking back, when did you realize music was truly your calling?
MAK Musik: Honestly, I think music chose me before I even understood what that meant. I was three years old getting scratch lessons, four years old pretending to battle rap, and by seven I was programming the SP‑1200 like it was a video game. But the moment I knew it was my calling was when I realized how natural it felt. Other kids had hobbies — for me, music was just part of who I was. It never felt forced. It felt like home.
2. Hearing your own song unexpectedly play on Wild 103.9 must have been unforgettable. What was going through your mind in that moment?
MAK Musik: Man… that moment hit different. I was just chilling with friends, not expecting anything, and suddenly my voice came through the speakers. For a second I didn’t even process it — then it was like, “Yo, that’s ME.” It was surreal. It made everything feel real. It was the first time I thought, “Okay… maybe I really have something here.” That moment lit a fire in me that still hasn’t gone out.
3. Your sound blends classic West Coast influence with modern Northwest energy. Which artists and life experiences shaped your style the most?
MAK Musik: I grew up on 2Pac, The Luniz, Mac Dre, Messy Marv — that classic West Coast DNA is in me. But Spokane shaped me too. The grind, the culture, the people, the struggles… all of that gave my music its Northwest edge. My style is really a mix of what I grew up loving and what I lived through. The legends taught me how to tell a story. Spokane taught me what story to tell.
4. “Hustle Habits” with Cordell Drake and GrandMixer GMS is making noise right now. What was the creative chemistry like between all of you in the studio?
MAK Musik: The chemistry was natural. Cordell brings raw emotion and hunger, GMS brings that OG experience and precision, and I bring that West Coast/Northwest flavor. Nobody was trying to outshine anybody — we were all just trying to make something real. The energy in the room felt like three different worlds coming together with one purpose. That’s why the record hits the way it does.
5. You often mention basketball and fatherhood as major parts of your life. How do those two passions keep you grounded while pursuing music success?
MAK Musik: Basketball taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to push through when things get tough. Fatherhood taught me purpose. When I look at my son, everything becomes clear — why I work, why I grind, why I stay focused. Those two things keep me grounded because they remind me that life is bigger than music. Music is my passion, but being a father is my foundation.
6. “Hustle Habits” feels like an anthem for dream chasers and grinders. What message do you hope listeners take away about mental strength, staying motivated, and pushing through hard times?
MAK Musik: I want people to know that success isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being consistent. Life is going to hit you, people are going to doubt you, and you’re going to doubt yourself sometimes. But if you stay disciplined, stay hungry, and keep moving even on the days you don’t feel like it, you’ll get where you’re meant to go. “Hustle Habits” is about building that mindset. It’s about believing in yourself even when nobody else does.
Photo & Clothing Credit:
LoliMarr Productions
https://www.facebook.com/LoliMarrProductions
Foundation Forward Studios
https://www.facebook.com/FoundationForwardStudios
Morning Star Photography
Rick Little & Excitefight MMA
https://www.instagram.com/excitefight
Fight Chaser
https://www.facebook.com/fightchaser
Trevor Miller Photography
https://www.facebook.com/trevormillerphotography
Pros Cons
https://www.facebook.com/pros.cons.2025
Kingmullah Ent.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089537084246
Leon Lockett
GrandMixer GMS
More Than Music — A Movement Built On Resilience
What truly makes “Hustle Habits” powerful is its honesty.
The collaboration reflects real-life struggles, emotional pressure, discipline, growth, and survival. It speaks to artists, entrepreneurs, parents, dream chasers, and everyday people fighting to create better futures for themselves.
In many ways, the song represents the modern independent grind:
- staying motivated during difficult times,
- protecting mental wellness,
- believing in yourself,
- and refusing to quit.
And perhaps that’s why this collaboration feels bigger than music.
It feels like a movement.
Stream “Hustle Habits” & Experience The Movement
🔥 Ready to turn up the motivation?
🎧 Catch “Hustle Habits” and discover the next wave of independent Hip-Hop on Global Frequency hosted by GrandMixer GMS, streaming daily from 5PM – 6PM PST on KPIU Radio.
📻 Stream now:
www.kpiuradio.com
🔥 Support independent Hip-Hop by streaming “Hustle Habits,” adding it to your Spotify playlists, sharing it with your crew, and helping real Hip-Hop culture continue growing worldwide.
Because hustle isn’t just a habit…
It’s a lifestyle.
