Black History Month is more than a celebration—it’s a powerful reminder of the resilience, creativity, and impact of Black culture on the world. In music, film, and entertainment, Black creators have paved the way for innovation, storytelling, and artistic breakthroughs.
In this exclusive interview, Trudotp—a rising force in both hip-hop and film—opens up about his journey, the lessons he’s learned from legends like Onyx, M.O.P., Chris Brown, and Kurupt, and the passion behind his Billboard-charting hits. From producing music that moves the masses to making waves in the film industry, Trudotp is proving that success has no limits.
Get ready to dive into his thoughts on Black history, creativity, and what it takes to break barriers in entertainment. Let’s get into it!
Pump It Up Magazine: Trudotp, you’ve made waves in music, film, and entertainment. What does Black History Month mean to you as a creator?
Trudotp: Black History Month is incredibly significant to me. In reality, Black history is American history. You can’t look at this country’s foundation without acknowledging the contributions of Black and Indigenous people. We built this country, and I take pride in being a Black man in America today. Like my ancestors, I’m committed to continuing that legacy of building and creating.
Pump It Up Magazine: You’ve worked with legends like Onyx, M.O.P., Chris Brown, and Kurupt. What’s one lesson you’ve learned from collaborating with hip-hop royalty?
Trudotp: The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that hard work never stops, no matter what level you reach. You have to believe in your craft, know the direction you’re going, and move full speed ahead. Surrounding yourself with people who believe in you is key.
Pump It Up Magazine: Your Billboard-charting production speaks for itself! What’s your secret sauce when producing a hit?
Trudotp: I love to create something from scratch with the artist. We sit down, talk, and vibe—I want to understand where they’re coming from. A hit is all about energy. If you create the right energy at the right time, greatness will happen. I believe when two or more people align on a vision, God is in the midst. My advice to any producer: make sure you and the artist agree on the direction before creating the record.
Pump It Up Magazine: You’re not just about music—you’re also making moves in film. What inspired you to step into acting and producing?
Trudotp: My brother from another mother, EL-JAY, brought me on set one day. The director pointed at me, just like in a movie, and said, “You—yeah, you—I need a close-up.” That moment was the start of something I never saw coming!
Pump It Up Magazine: Babylon and Triumph were major projects. What was it like starring in and producing these films?
Trudotp: It was a dream. Coming from a basketball background, I never imagined I’d be acting or producing films. Entertainment was just a dream at first, but now, I’m blessed to be part of this culture and to make an impact with my creativity.
Pump It Up Magazine: You were a presenter at the 44th & 45th Annual Youth Artist Awards. How important is it for you to support up-and-coming talent?
Trudotp: It’s extremely important. Young creators don’t always know what’s “good” or “bad”—they’re just creating, like scientists testing a hypothesis. You never know what will work until you see the final product. To all young artists and creators: create without limits, and never put boundaries on your imagination—everything is possible!
Pump It Up Magazine: H1t Entertainment and H1t Fest are breaking new ground. What was the vision behind them, and where do you see them in five years?
Trudotp: H1t Fest 3 is coming up in June 2025! It’s a collaboration between me and my manager/publicist, celebrity event creator, and wellness guru Princess Va’Shion. Our vision is to create a hub for all types of creators—whether you’re an artist, a fashion designer, or someone focused on wellness. The goal is to bridge the gap between major and independent talent and help people grow in their craft while enjoying the experience.
Pump It Up Magazine: You’ve been nominated for Best Artist at the Cannabis Awards. How do cannabis and entertainment intersect in your career?
Trudotp: My connection to cannabis is personal. I lost my stepfather to cancer, and cannabis helped relieve his symptoms. That experience taught me that cannabis isn’t just a substance—it’s medicine when used responsibly. I want to help spread awareness about its benefits.
Pump It Up Magazine: You’ve pushed creative boundaries across multiple industries. What advice would you give to young Black entrepreneurs and artists trying to break into the game?
Trudotp: Keep going. There will be moments of doubt, setbacks, and obstacles, but you owe it to yourself to push forward. Believe in your vision, and don’t let anyone discourage you. You have the power to bring change and leave your mark.
BONUS ROUND: SPEED CHOICES!
Pump It Up Magazine: Studio session or film set?
Trudotp: Film set
Pump It Up Magazine: Charting on Billboard or winning an acting award?
Trudotp: Billboard
Pump It Up Magazine: H1t Fest headliner: Jay-Z or Kendrick Lamar?
Trudotp: Kendrick Lamar
Pump It Up Magazine: If you had to pick one song that defines your hustle, what would it be?
Trudotp: Speaker Knockerz – Lonely
Pump It Up Magazine: Biggest flex of 2024 so far?
Trudotp: The whole year was a flex! But being invited to the BET Awards, hosting H1t Fest 2, playing in celebrity basketball games, and writing and filming a movie in six months—those are moments I’ll never forget. Life has been a blessing!
Follow Trudotp’s journey and stay tuned for H1t Fest 3 in June 2025
🔥 Stay Connected with Trudotp! 🔥
🌍 Website: www.H1tEntertainment.com
📸 Instagram: Instagram.com/trudotp
🐦 Twitter: Twitter.com/trudotp
🎥 YouTube: YouTube.com/trudotp
