Interview: KXNG D.O.P.E. Talks “GET OFF”, Hustle & Building His Own Lane

Inglewood rapper and entrepreneur KXNG D.O.P.E. continues to prove why he’s one of the most self-driven and versatile artists on the West Coast. From rocking high school stages across L.A. to balancing music, merch, and acting, he’s carved out a lane built on discipline and authenticity. With his latest single “GET OFF” making noise, we caught up with him to talk about his grind, growth, and what’s next.

Question 1

Congrats on the release of “GET OFF.” What inspired the single and what message were you aiming to deliver with it?

1. Thank you. I’m a big fan a dance. Dancing is something I grew up doing. So the term “get off” is a term that is very prevalent in the dance world. That term has transcended generations since the 70s. So i wanted to make a song that people can dance to, that every generation can relate to when they hear it.

Question 2

You built a big part of your fanbase by performing at high schools across Los Angeles—what pushed you to take that grassroots route?

• That’s how you build a core fan base. Allowing them to see you in person early in your career so that they can follow me on this journey. It’s been a critical part of my success and I love it.

Question 3

What was the moment you realized music was becoming more than just a side hustle compared to basketball?

• when I started seeing the impact that my lyrics were having on people’s lives. People would tell me how much my music helped them through certain times. Once I realized that, everything became so clear.

Question 4

How has your background in basketball influenced your work ethic as an artist?

The discipline, work ethic & attention to detail. Correcting the smallest mistakes can make the biggest difference. I never allowed anybody to outwork me on the court & I applied that same mindset to the studio.

Question 5

Merch has become a huge part of your brand, with you moving dozens of orders weekly. What’s your approach to creating merch that really connects with fans?

• Just creating things that apply to who i am, but also to where others can relate to as well. Items that both men and women alike can wear and be proud of what it represents.

Question 6

You’ve also found success in acting and even won awards for your comedy series. How do you juggle music, acting, and entrepreneurship?

• I’m a firm believer that you will find a way to make time for the things you want to achieve in life. Acting has always been a love of mine since high school. All of these art forms are different outlets for me to express myself. So I don’t mind sacrificing things to bring them all to fruition

Question 7

What does a typical “day in the life of KXNG D.O.P.E.” look like?

• Working, working, working. Gym, writing, brainstorming, recording, listening to records, reading a script, there’s always something creating going on in my world.

Question 8

If someone’s just discovering you for the first time, how would you describe your music in your own words?

• Raw. Authentic. Straight from the heart.

Question 9

What do you want people to take away when they hear “GET OFF” for the first time?

• “Play that again”. That’s what I want them to say.

Question 10

Who are some of the peers or influences in the game right now that motivate you to keep going harder?

• Too many artists to name just a couple. I’m inspired by all artists who are doing it with genuine love for the culture. I pull inspiration from the smallest things.

Question 11

How do you stay disciplined and focused when you’re balancing so many different projects?

• By remembering why I’m even doing to begin with. Remembering who I’m doing it for. Understanding that I have the ability to make a serious change in the world. And I won’t rest until I do exactly that.

Question 12

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far about building your career independently?

• That nobody is obligated to help me and nobody owes me anything. Entitlement will kill your career before it even begins.

Question 13

What can fans expect next from KXNG D.O.P.E. in 2025 and beyond?

• More music, more visuals, more shows, bigger shows, bigger platforms, television, film, everything you can think of. I will become a household name.