Harry O opens up about his time in prison and rebuilding Death Row Records
In a revealing and deeply insightful interview with Big Boy’s Neighborhood, Michael “Harry-O” Harris opened up about his remarkable journey. He discussed going from being a feared drug kingpin in the streets of South Central Los Angeles to becoming one of hip hop’s most influential figures. Harris is the co-founding member of Death Row Records. However, his role was overshadowed by Suge Knight.
During the interview, Harris shared personal details about his time behind bars. Harry-O spent over three decades in prison. Additionally, he discussed how his entrepreneurial spirit led him to help shape the West Coast rap scene from a prison cell. Big Boy is celebrating 30 years in hip hop and entertainment. So, Harry-O’s story was a fitting way to mark the anniversary. His interview offers both a look back at hip hop history and a glimpse into the future of one of the most iconic labels in the music industry.
Harry-O didn’t shy away from the tough questions. He discussed how he maintained control of Death Row Records despite being incarcerated. In addition, he spoke on his partnership with Suge Knight, and the role music played in helping him find redemption. Harris was candid about his life-altering experiences in prison. He detailed how he used his time behind bars to not only mentor fellow inmates but also to build one of the most successful music labels in history. Now he’s working alongside Snoop Dogg to rebuild Death Row as an NFT label. As a result, Harris is more focused than ever on empowering young voices and creating opportunities for artists from underserved communities.
A Powerful Interview on Big Boy’s 30th Anniversary
As part of Big Boy’s 30-year anniversary celebration, this interview holds deep significance. Over three decades, Big Boy’s Neighborhood has become one of the most influential platforms in hip hop culture, and this special edition is no exception. Harry-O’s interview marks a momentous occasion not just for fans of the radio host, but for those interested in the hidden stories of hip hop’s history.
Big Boy gave Harry-O a chance to tell his story from his perspective. The topics covered during their conversation ranged from Harry-O’s tumultuous past to the lessons he learned behind bars, and his plans to help emerging artists.
Reflections on Prison Life and Redemption
During the interview, Harris didn’t shy away from discussing the impact of spending over three decades in prison. Big Boy probed into how prison changed him and how Harris found purpose while incarcerated.
Harry-O detailed the pain that comes from anyone with a conscience doing what he was doing. While he made money being a kingpin, he realized he was hurting childhood friends. Furthermore, he thought more about this in prison. In addition, Harry-O spoke on creating programs for prison, while he was in prison. Harris detailed being in the San Quentin Rehabilitation Facility for five years.
At San Quentin, Harry-O participated in the mandatory programs. There, he learned about financial literacy and coding. As a result, Harris reached out to the warden to see if he could bring additional resources for programs in the prison. According to Harris, this led to people leaving prison, and going into six figure jobs.
He talked extensively about the programs he started for his fellow inmates. He used his influence to mentor and support others. Meanwhile, he himself navigated the complicated prison system. His reflections provided a deep, personal look into how he spent more time in prison than in freedom. Thus, shaping him in ways many couldn’t imagine.
The Birth of Death Row Records
One of the most compelling parts of the interview was when Harry-O detailed how he co-founded Death Row Records from behind bars. As Big Boy dug deeper into this story, Harry-O opened up about his partnership with Suge Knight and the vision they shared for the label.
“Death Row wasn’t just about music—it was about giving our communities a voice,” Harry-O told Big Boy, reflecting on the legacy of the label that brought artists like Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre to the world stage.
Big Boy further questioned how Harry-O managed to maintain control and influence over the label while being incarcerated. “It wasn’t easy,” Harry-O admitted, “but I believed in the power of music and I knew Death Row had the potential to change the game.” During the interview, Harris also touched on being pushed out of the label while incarcerated.
Life After Clemency: Rebuilding Death Row and Giving Back
Harry-O’s 2021 release was granted through a pardon by Donald Trump. However, Harris clarified that Trump granted him clemency. Upon his release, Harris has began making moves to not only rebuild Death Row but to elevate it into new spaces. He spoke about the excitement of working alongside Snoop Dogg. Together, they’re working to transform the iconic label into an NFT and metaverse-based business model.
“There’s a whole new generation out there, and we’re giving them the tools to tell their stories,” Harry-O said during the interview. “Snoop and I see Death Row as more than just a label—it’s a platform for voices that haven’t been heard yet.”
Big Boy dug into the details of Harris’ plans for Death Row’s future. As a result, Harris emphasized his desire to ensure that the label’s next chapter would be built around community empowerment. Additionally, celebrating young Black voices is a core mission of the new Death Row.
Big Boy’s Neighborhood: A Hub for Hip Hop Legends
Harry-O’s appearance on Big Boy’s Neighborhood not only marks a key moment in the former kingpin’s return to the public eye but also reinforces Big Boy’s standing as one of hip hop’s most influential radio hosts. Over the last 30 years, Big Boy has welcomed countless legends onto his platform. Guests range from Ice Cube to Dr. Dre, and this conversation with Harry-O is no exception.
Celebrating his 30th year in hip hop and entertainment, Big Boy’s interview with Harry-O stands as another milestone. The interview served as a reflective conversation, as both men shared the stories that have shaped them and their contributions to the culture.
Social Media Reactions: Fans Tune in and Speak Out
As soon as the interview aired, fans rushed to social media to share their thoughts. Comments poured in on YouTube. Fans were celebrating Harry-O’s openness and praising the interview’s depth:
- @robinsonkids4612: “Harry O the real example of Black excellence…”
- @damnbadger8242: “Damn this interview is deep! I gotta meet Harry O! This dude is the original Nipsey.”
- @G14Classified: “We need more interviews from him.”
The reactions showcased how deeply fans resonated with Harry-O’s story, admiring his growth from a notorious figure to a man focused on redemption and giving back.
Final Thoughts: A Journey of Redemption and New Beginnings
As Harry-O’s interview with Big Boy wrapped up, one message rang clear: Michael Harris’ story is far from over. Despite spending over three decades in prison, he has managed to find new ways to influence hip hop culture and uplift communities of color. His partnership with Snoop Dogg in revitalizing Death Row Records is just one part of his larger goal to create change.
In a world where second chances are rare, Harris is determined to use his newfound freedom to make a difference. His appearance on Big Boy’s Neighborhood is a testament to the power of redemption, and his story serves as an inspiration to all.
The post Harry O discusses Death Row’s legacy and rebuilding it with Snoop Dogg [VIDEO] appeared first on Hip Hop Vibe.
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