When we look back on 2022, we’ll remember a year that challenged our resourcefulness, emotions, unity, and finances. In the face of these obstacles, we learned the infinite value of togetherness. In THIS INTERVIEW we revisit the last 12 months from the perspective of artist and producer Kamau Williams AKA DJ Ill One.
A Grand Rapids, MI icon, Ill One has been a marquee performer for three decades. A role model for both the youth and adults, he’s an example of artistic integrity, stability, and unity within Hip Hop culture and his community.
Remarkable when he communes with his turntables, Ill One is quite the consummate showman. Behind the ones-and-twos he plays on all the top stages at all the top events. His production is equally worth frequent spins, as heard on his 2022 releases Grooves and Love Letter to My City.
DJ Ill One took time out of his busy schedule to share some of his thoughts with us, answering THIS questionnaire about her life in 2022 and what to expect from him in 2023. THIS is for YOU!
How would you summarize 2022?
The year 2022 showed me how strong I could be. It also showed me people and their true colors. It showed that I can do anything I wanted to, as long as I put the work in.
What was the best song, album, television show, movie, and podcast of the year?
Song: Too many to pick one!
Album: Coast Contra’s Apt. 505.
Television Show: Abbot Elementary.
Movie: The Woman King.
Podcast: “Joe Budden Podcast”.
Did you read anything inspiring or influential that you would recommend to others?
Dilla Time written by Dan Charnas, Maurice White’s My Life with Earth, Wind & Fire.
What’s something you did to help someone in need, whether you knew them or not?
Mainly listen to people and give advice.
Recall for us the most surprising thing you heard all year.
It was a funky album by a Swedish group called Dina Ogon.
How did you celebrate your birthday?
I celebrated with special people in my life.
Why is it important to live every moment of your life to the fullest?
Because we aren’t meant to stay here to enjoy your life and live. It will all be over soon enough.
Were you able to achieve the goals you set?
Yes. I put out two projects [last] year, Love Letter To My City Ep and Grooves LP. I wasn’t sure I was going to put out one project, let alone two. But by the grace of God I did
Which of your blessings would you say was the biggest?
Seeing my daughter graduate from high school and then go off to college!
Tell us how you evolved over the last 12 months.
I’ve gained much more confidence, patience, peace, and more wisdom.
Did you experience a defining moment?
Yes. I think releasing my album and EP, getting over fear and self-doubt [was a defining moment].
What can we expect from you in 2023?
More projects for sure. More new endeavors. | THIS ENT
[By Mr. Joe Walker]
