Coppe Cantrell Interview: From 2Pac’s Legacy to Leading with Faith, Power & Purpose

Coppe Cantrell is bold, faith-filled, and beautifully grounded. From the West Coast’s golden era of hip-hop to a powerful gospel message, Coppe Cantrell has turned pain into purpose. In this exclusive interview, she opens up about music, faith, loss, and the legacy she’s still writing.

PIUM: Coppe, what was it like being around the West Coast scene during the 2Pac and Johnny “J” days?

Coppe Cantrell with her husband Johnny “J” and legendary rapper 2Pac — a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the golden era of West Coast hip-hop.

Coppe Cantrell:
Being around the West Coast Hip Hop scene during the 2Pac and Johnny “J” days was a very prolific time in Hip Hop. Watching two master craftsmen at work. It was also an exciting time watching my husband and my little brother, 2Pac, work together in the studio. Their chemistry was off the charts—like a hand fitting a glove. It was also great to see the other artists that were on the label collaborate with Johnny and 2Pac, and to see so many West Coast artists contribute to All Eyez on Me, a masterpiece.

As Johnny’s wife and his biggest fan, I had the privilege of watching him create music from the kick to the snare, adding bass lines and keyboards. Whether he was utilizing a sample or crafting a beat from his dome, witnessing Johnny and 2Pac create was like watching two geniuses build a soundtrack that still bumps in cars, bars, and clubs today. New generations continue to be introduced to their work, and their music will live on for decades to come. For me, it was just another day in the studio with my husband and my little brother.

Back then, what everyone calls ‘90s Hip Hop was truly something special—an era that will never be duplicated. Lyrics mattered, the music mattered, and the videos mattered. It was a time when battle rap was just that—until Hit Em Up. I actually said the female part, “Take Money,” in that song. None of us knew it would eventually lead to the deaths of two Hip Hop icons.

It used to be fun—bragging in lyrics, building personas—but Hit Em Up became the ultimate diss song. The only thing that could rival it now is Kendrick’s Not Like Us, almost 30 years later. I pray no one loses their life over that track.

In the ‘90s, we didn’t have a flood of artists. We had Yo! MTV Raps, BET’s Rap City—shows that raised a generation. Today, millions of artists are streaming on platforms like YouTube. Back then, you had to press CDs, print posters and flyers, and physically put in the work. Now, it’s all digital and less personal.

PIUM: You were married to one of the most iconic producers. What did you learn about the music business from Johnny “J”?

Coppe Cantrell:
Yes, I was—but I can’t say I learned the business side of music directly from Johnny. I learned how he put songs together and mastered the creative process, but the business side came later.

It started after Johnny signed an agreement with Solar Records. He came home with a signed contract and a check—but no attorney. I read the contract myself but didn’t understand it fully. We spoke to a lawyer afterward who said, “A deal is better than no deal,” and advised Johnny to buy Everything You Need to Know About the Music Business by Donald Passman.

We bought it—he didn’t read it, but I did.

That was the start of my journey. I began reading all his contracts and dealing with attorneys he picked up along the way. It was hands-on training, and I’m still learning. There’s so much I didn’t know then—and still more to learn now.

PIUM: You’ve stepped into your own light as an artist and entrepreneur. How did you build that confidence and sense of self-worth?

Coppe Cantrell:
Yes, by the grace of God, I’ve stepped into my own light—by His calling. All praises be to God Almighty, through Christ Jesus.

How did I build my confidence? By standing on the Word of God. I had to learn that obedience is better than sacrifice. I put out my first two projects within two years of each other, but then I delayed. I was trying to follow the industry’s lead instead of God’s.

I thought I wasn’t good enough. But what I didn’t realize at first was that God made me good enough. He called me just as I was, from where I came from, to be a light in this dark world. Not to be an imitator—but an innovator.

That gave me my self-worth. My purpose was greater than me. I was able to help win souls for Christ and bring healing to the brokenhearted.

As an entrepreneur, it was already in me. But when you let others define your limits, you end up shrinking your own vision. I had to step out on faith—because faith without works is dead (James 2:26).

PIUM: “My Daddy” is a standout track — full of energy and heart. What inspired the song?

Coppe Cantrell:
I was missing my earthly father, Dorsey Cantrell Sr., who passed away in 2004. But God reminded me that even though my dad is gone, I still have my heavenly Father.

It’s like a parable—Jesus spoke many in the Bible. “My Daddy” also speaks to people who’ve never had a father in their lives. It’s fun, it’s uplifting, and it celebrates the things God has given us: our hips, lips, toes, eyes.

And it was all laid over a track from Johnny “J’s” vault—what an honor. I wanted it to uplift both the young and the old, those who have lost their fathers and those who never knew them. It’s a tribute to my dad and to our heavenly Father through Christ Jesus.

PIUM: Your faith clearly fuels your music. How did your spiritual journey shape your sound and message?

A powerful reflection of Coppe’s transformation — from hip-hop roots to a ministry of healing through music and faith.

Coppe Cantrell:
Faith fuels everything I do. On July 1, 2009, at 3 a.m., God woke me from my sleep and baptized me in the Holy Spirit. I was anointed to sing and write Christian music.

That was the beginning.

God used my life experiences to shape my message. The more I study the Word, the easier it is to write. When I’m disconnected from Scripture, writing becomes harder. I don’t do this alone—I have help from the Holy Spirit.

People ask if I have a ghostwriter. I always say, “Yes. The Holy Ghost.”

PIUM: You’re currently working on a documentary about Johnny “J” and his work with 2Pac. Can you give us a glimpse into what fans can expect—and why this story matters now more than ever?

Coppe Cantrell:
Yes, and I’m excited about it. Fans can expect unseen footage of Johnny telling his story himself. We’ll include voices from those who worked with him, grew up with him—even fans.

As a co-owner of Johnny’s music, I can include his full catalog in the doc. I also have hundreds of photos and footage that’s never been seen.

This will be a five-part docuseries, with a soundtrack and a biopic in the works. I’ve written a 250-page manuscript about his life, which will also become a book.

Why now? Because Johnny’s story hasn’t been fully told. From his beginnings in Juarez, Mexico, to becoming one of the most iconic producers in Hip Hop—his journey is the story of black and brown unity, resilience, and legacy. He deserves his flowers.

PIUM: What’s one thing today’s rising artists could learn from the ‘90s era of music?

Coppe Cantrell:
One thing? The live feel. ‘90s music didn’t rely on digital shortcuts. We had live bass, keys, guitars—that human touch.

Today’s music can feel robotic. Back then, artists had soul because they learned from the greats of the ‘70s. I encourage young artists today to take a band class, learn an instrument, or work with live musicians. That’s what gives music heart.

PIUM: When life gets heavy, how do you “Pump It Up” and push forward?

Coppe Cantrell:
When life gets heavy, I go back to God, to Jesus, to the Holy Spirit—the Holy Trinity. I read the Bible daily. Even if I miss a day, I make up for it.

I pray, I fast, I read Prayer Rain, and listen to John MacArthur sermons. I seek God’s voice. Sometimes He wakes me up at 3 or 4 a.m. to speak to me.

I don’t smoke, drink, or do drugs—only God keeps me grounded. And yes, I unwind too—through sleep, massages, facials, and good meals.

PIUM: As a woman in business, music, and ministry — what’s your message for others navigating faith, family, and ambition?

Coppe Cantrell:
Put those in that order: faith, family, and ambition.

Matthew 6:33 says, “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all things shall be added unto you.”

Family is second—because without God, there is no true love. 1 John 4:8 says, “God is love.”

Ambition? James 2:17 reminds us that faith without works is dead. You can have all the talent in the world, but if you don’t work at it, it means nothing.

Work hard. Grind with purpose. If it comes easy, it won’t last.

Thank you, Coppe.
Your journey is one of resilience, faith, and fearless transformation. From creating history alongside 2Pac to spreading light through gospel music, your voice continues to inspire, heal, and empower. The world needs your message—now more than ever.

Watch the official music video for “My Daddy”:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mCEdEGaRCs