We spoke with Bam Bam’s Boogie about “son of a black panther” and more!

Hey! How has your history with the Black Panther Party influenced the themes and messages in “Son of a Black Panther”?

A: (KK) The spirit of a revolutionary implemented militancy, focus and drive. It’s almost like it gave more meaning to why I have to share what comes through by way of silence, then transformed into art.

What inspired the title “son of a black panther”, and how does it reflect the essence of the album?

A: (KK) The fact that my father played a pivotal part in the revolution was inspiring. Growing up, I was always fascinated with readings of anyone with a stance for change, although I’m not so political…the revolution continues through the awakenings of the soul & control of the mind.

Can you describe the narrative journey across the tracks from “Jaguar” to “Bam Bam” and how it relates to your personal and familial story?

A: (KK) Jaguar is one of my spirit animals. I am of Cherokee /Choctaw Native American Heritage, so we move like that. It also elucidates the lifestyle of a being that spends a lot of time alone. As far as the rest of the album, its bits and pieces of each member’s life experiences mixed with the energy of the moment.

“Violent Nerd” is a unique title on the album. What’s the story and message behind this track?

A: (KK) It’s an honest exposition of what I am. I’ve always been a bookworm, I love to learn and apply but then there is the other side that is completely destructive and dark. I embrace both sides of the spectrum. Some of the points made throughout the verses were situations from Jako’s life.

How did growing up in Los Angeles and your exposure to diverse cultures and sounds shape the music style on this album?

A: (KK) I didn’t just grow up in L.A but it is a part of the circus-circle that has become my life. Living on the west coast taught me a lot about the streets and how to move. What to look for and avoid. I have lived in San fran, Oakland, Las Vegas and Hollywood. The whole west side has played a part in how I live. Shout out Washington D.C and Baltimore too!

In what ways do you consider your music a continuation of the activism embodied by the Black Panther Party?

A: (KK) Revolution will never end! The ‘over-throw’ has to change though. This time it starts and ends with the mind, which leads to constructing a new way of living for everyone worldwide. The trick is that even the powers that be have to be willing to change their thinking! The individuals who possess jobs that are poison to the freedom and growth of others, also must build the courage to say NO! We won’t live like this, we won’t follow your rules/laws. Once the people become aware of and listen to the correct voice in their head….change will come. That has to be by the ‘powers that be’ as well! GOOD LUCK!!!

What was your approach to capturing emotional depth and historical significance in your songwriting and production for this album?

A: (KK) Spirit Life! I honestly feel as if I have a ‘cheat-code’. Whatever comes through is what is written. That’s why I like the song ‘SÉANCE’ so much. Most of my family is from Louisiana, so spirit connection and a serene willingness to be possessed is how I’m rocking.

(J) i have a completely different approach from Kiko, i overthink and over-produce, to the point that i need to take a break and go back to the songs some time later, in order to take off many elements that are not necessary. Knowing kiko and working with him in the songwriting, taught me a lot, he gave me the perfect balance. 

Which track from “son of a black panther” has resonated most with your audience, and why do you think that is?

A: (J) Mescaline is the one that makes people explode, this song is from our first ep and it was the very first track we recorded for our band and was the very first day i met Kiko, it was insane, never happened to me to do something like that with an artist, it was the day i understood i had to work with this guy immediately.

How do you plan to address themes of social justice and personal identity in your music moving forward?

A: (KK) Those types of situations must be dealt with at the appointed time. I let the moment and patience lead me to the correct things to do, through silence, then we react. The only problem is if that ‘other’ voice is louder than what really needs to be ingested.

Are there any new musical directions or themes you’re excited to explore in your next project?

A: (KK) Yeah, This album was so different from what we usually do separately. The three of us have other projects that we are involved in besides BAM BAM’S BOOGIE , which stems from darker, more sinister sounds like trip hop / dubstep etc. I’d like to get back to that…at least to see where the ‘possession’ can take us next!

(J) funk and soul are the only initial coordinates, then everything can happen, without limitations, i love to mix everything knowing that our style will be the fil rouge to make the sound very recognizable.