BandGang Lonnie Bands on Detroit Rap, BandGang’s Rise, Independence, Colorado, LA & the Sound That Changed Hip-Hop

BandGang Lonnie Bands sits down with Mile High Minute for a full conversation about growing up in Detroit, BandGang’s early rise, and watching the city’s rap sound spread far beyond Michigan.Lonnie talks about making music from a young age, the records that first gained traction, Detroit’s influence on modern rap, and why he believes artists have to separate street politics from music. He also discusses moving around, living in Los Angeles, becoming a father, staying independent, and why he refuses to rush into the wrong record deal.The conversation also gets into Colorado and Detroit’s connection, networking outside your hometown, investing in yourself as an independent artist, the realities of performing, and Lonnie’s advice for upcoming rappers trying to build something that lasts.Topics include:• Growing up on Detroit’s west side• BandGang’s early days and breakthrough• Detroit’s influence on today’s rap sound• California and Detroit’s musical connection• Moving away from Detroit and living in LA• Keeping street politics separate from music• Staying independent vs. signing a deal• Detroit and Colorado’s rap connection• Investing in yourself as an artist• Fatherhood, patience and longevityMILE HIGH MINUTE