Dupré Kelly on Tupac, Lords of the Underground, Newark & the Journey to Becoming a Community Leader

In this episode, we sit down with Newark hometown hero Dupre Kelly and author Kyrie Williams for a powerful conversation about music, family, community, perseverance, and the journey behind everything Dupre has become.Best known as one-third of platinum-selling hip-hop group Lords of the Underground, Dupre has built a life that extends far beyond music. From Newark to community work and children’s literature, his story is one of growth, resilience, and giving back.His work in Newark is also a major part of the discussion, including his efforts through 211 Community Impact and his commitment to serving families and strengthening the community. The conversation explores what it means to keep moving forward when life does not go according to plan, why the journey can be just as important as the destination, and how experiences from earlier in life can shape the person you become.The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Dupré discusses the loss of a close friend and the promise they made to look after each other’s children. After his friend passed away, leaving behind a young daughter, Dupré helped raise her as his own. He speaks about seeing his friend in her, the memories they shared, and the people who became a second family. These reflections provide an honest look at loyalty, family, grief, and responsibility.Dupré and Khairi also discuss their children’s book, You Can Do It All, which was inspired by Dupré’s journey of failing, succeeding, getting back up, and refusing to give up. The book reminds both children and parents that it is never too late to get back up and pursue a goal. Its message connects directly to the larger themes of the episode: perseverance, self-belief, growth, and the importance of continuing to move forward.Khairi explains why he believes Dupré’s story deserves to be shared on an even larger scale. While Lords of the Underground is an important part of his legacy, there is a much bigger story involving personal experiences, setbacks, relationships, family, community, and the lessons learned along the way. The idea of a memoir becomes part of the conversation and raises the question of how many more stories from Dupré’s life could inspire others.In this episode, expect:• Dupré Kelly’s journey from Newark to platinum-selling hip-hop artist and community leader• An unforgettable Tupac Shakur story from the 1992 tour• Honest reflections on success, failure, growth, and perseverance• The story behind You Can Do It All and its message for children and parents• A moving conversation about family, friendship, loss, and loyalty• A look at Newark, the West Ward, and community impact• Why a Dupré Kelly memoir could be so importantThis is a conversation about more than a career. It is about taking the experiences life gives you and turning them into something that can help other people. Dupré’s story connects music and community, ambition and responsibility, personal loss and purpose, while Kyrie brings another perspective on why those experiences matter and how they can be shared with the next generation.Whether you know Dupré from Lords of the Underground or his work in Newark, this episode offers a closer look at the person behind the accomplishments.Thank you for listening and supporting the podcast. If you enjoyed this episode with Dupré Kelly and Khairi Williams, share it with someone who would appreciate their story, leave a review, and follow the podcast so you do not miss future episodes.Tell us your favorite moment from the conversation and which story, guest, or topic you would like the hosts to explore next. Your comments, questions, and support help shape the show and keep these conversations going.