Published on September 18th, 2024 | by Dr. Jerry Doby

Kokane: West Coast Funk Legend on Building a Legacy Through Budēboy Entertainment

West Coast Funk and Hip Hop icon Kokane discusses his musical journey, the mission behind Budēboy Entertainment, and his efforts in artist development and entrepreneurship in the music industry.

From Funk to Hip Hop: Kokane’s Evolution

When I sat down with Kokane (Jerry B. Long), for this Live Session interview, it was clear that this man is more than a West Coast voice—he’s an institution in the world of Funk and Hip Hop. With a career that’s spanned decades, Kokane’s creative identity is deeply rooted in his musical upbringing. As the son of a Motown figure, music was in his blood, and it shows in his unique blend of genres ranging from funk to early R&B to West Coast Hip Hop.

Kokane doesn’t just make party music. He’s always used his platform to balance feel-good tracks with messages of social commentary, drawing from both his triumphs and his struggles. His career, starting in the ’80s, has been a testament to his versatility, longevity, and influence on West Coast sound.

Budēboy Entertainment: Empowering Artists for Success

Seventeen years ago, Kokane set out on a mission that went beyond just making hits—he wanted to uplift the next generation of talent through his label, Budēboy Entertainment. His goal is simple but powerful: to create a family-oriented, artist-first company where musicians can thrive without falling victim to exploitative deals.

At Budēboy, the focus is on ensuring that artists own their craft—both creatively and financially. Kokane is passionate about teaching young talent how to navigate the business side of the industry, a skillset often overlooked but crucial for long-term success.

Nurturing the Next Wave of Talent

As a mentor, Kokane is hands-on with his roster of up-and-coming artists, helping them not only hone their craft but also understand the business side of the industry. Some standout names include:

Anissa Long, his daughter, who has been in training since she was 12. Now, she’s ready to release her first project, with an approach rooted in steady development.
D3 from Long Beach is gearing up to drop his EP, “The First Meal,” showcasing a fresh voice in West Coast Hip Hop.
Hectik from Orange County is about to unleash “Lyrical Drive-By,” a project blending boom bap and West Coast sounds.
Cydre, an R&B singer, collaborated with Kokane and Suga Free and is preparing to release his EP, “Electric Love.”

Kokane believes in playing the long game. He’s adamant that artists who enter the industry too quickly without the right foundation often experience brief success, followed by a quick fall. His approach? Take it slow, build solid footing, and ensure his artists have the tools to sustain their careers.

Kokane’s Latest Masterpiece: “The Funkin’ Adventures of Dr. Kokanstein”

Amid mentoring and developing new talent, Kokane hasn’t slowed down on his own projects. His latest offering, “The Funkin’ Adventures of Dr. Kokanstine,” is a collector’s dream. The 37-song album, which features collaborations with West Coast heavyweights like Ice Cube and Kurupt, stands out not only for its sheer size but because it’s a live band album. Kokane is breaking away from traditional distribution by offering the album exclusively through his website, giving fans a direct connection while also maximizing his control over the release.

A Vision for Industry Change: Entrepreneurial Artists

In our conversation, Kokane’s passion for entrepreneurialism in music shone through. He’s on a mission to educate young Black artists about financial independence and the importance of controlling their music, revenue streams, and ultimately, their futures. His goal is to help artists keep their wealth circulating within their communities, cutting out the middlemen who have long profited off their work.

Before I Go: A Lasting Impact on West Coast Music

Kokane’s influence on West Coast Funk and Hip Hop is undeniable, but his true legacy lies in his commitment to empowering artists for the future. Through Budēboy Entertainment, he’s ensuring that the next generation not only makes great music but also understands the business behind it. With new projects on the horizon, Kokane remains a pioneering force, both musically and as a mentor.

You can tune in to our entire conversation below!

Keep up with the movement via Instagram @kokane_og_

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About the Author

Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.