In the latest wave of artists that fans have handpicked to keep the West Coast resurgence going, G. Perico is at the forefront. The slim, jheri-curled, slick-talking rapper has a look reminiscent of an era long gone, yet his sound speaks much more to today’s climate. Often compared to California staples like DJ Quik and Eazy-E—which the South Central native understands and appreciates—Perico is determined to make his own lane, and leave his deep-rooted history with the streets behind him.
It’s a scenario that’s not unique; Perico grew up in the streets and got caught up in that life one too many times. With multiple jail bids behind him, the longtime writer turned to music as a way out, but just when it seemed like he would finally progress in his rap career, his past life would keep trying to pull him back in.
While in his neighborhood just before a major show at the legendary Roxy last year, Perico was cornered and shot at multiple times. One bullet connected with his hip, and though a hospital visit was mandatory, he only stayed an hour before still making it to the venue and performing—blood dripping down his leg and all.
Things are different now, though. As we sit in his studio, built in a room in a Hollywood Hills mansion he now calls “home,” the self–proclaimed “street poet” is finally seeing a real change. He’s gearing up for his first headlining show, artists are lining up to work with him, and there are offers from labels on the table. However, he still operates a store from the neighborhood he grew up in, and he understands that one wrong move can change everything. One thing is for certain: G. Perico is not going to let his past affect his future.
