Dangerous Rob: The Forefather of Tulsa Hip Hop
Tulsa, Oklahoma, a city known for its rich musical history with legends like The Gap Band and Garth Brooks, has a hip hop trailblazer carving his legacy—Dangerous Rob. Recognized as the premier hip hop artist from Tulsa, Rob’s journey is as inspiring as it is groundbreaking. Representing T-U-L-S-A in the global music scene, he’s not only defined a genre in his hometown but also set a standard for independent artistry worldwide.
Pioneering Tulsa’s Hip Hop Scene
In the early days, Tulsa had little to no hip hop scene. Dangerous Rob, alongside his group THOB-MOB, recorded Tulsa's first rap record, Sucka Boy, when he was just 15 years old. “With Thob Mob being the first hip hop group out of Tulsa to make a record, that was a trailblazing moment,” Rob recalls. Sharing stages with icons like LL Cool J and Heavy D molded him into the performer he is today, ensuring his stage presence is always on point.
But breaking out of Tulsa wasn’t easy. “The grind is real,” Rob says, recounting how he and his crew had to venture into other markets to prove that quality music could come from their city. Their persistence paid off, with Rob gaining recognition from labels, radio stations, and DJs—laying the foundation for Tulsa’s thriving hip hop scene today.
International Success and Staying Authentic
Dangerous Rob's music has reached audiences far beyond Oklahoma, with fans in Japan, Germany, Australia, and the UK. His first record deal with ACI Records in Los Angeles in 1991 introduced his music to international markets. Since then, Rob has remained independent, staying authentic to his roots while expanding his global fanbase.
“The key to expanding was remaining original and being authentic,” he shares. It’s this authenticity that has kept his fanbase loyal, enabling him to continue reaping the benefits of his early success while consistently delivering quality music.
Milestones and Legacy
From radio play on Power 106 in Los Angeles to receiving the Icon Hip Hop Award from Perry Broadcasting, Rob’s career is filled with milestones. He’s proudest of the Icon Hip Hop Award, saying, “For them to recognize all of the hard work I have put in for years, I felt honored.”
Dangerous Rob’s achievements include eight solo albums, two Billboard singles, and collaborations with groups like Dogg Pound Next Generation. But his biggest pride lies in his perseverance. “I never gave up, I never listened to naysayers and haters, and because of that, when I’m no longer here, my voice will be heard, and my family will eat off what I’ve created.”
Advice for the Next Generation
As a forefather of Tulsa hip hop, Rob is invested in the city’s future talent. While he wishes for more collaboration among the current generation of artists, he actively supports them by sharing their music and offering advice.
His message to aspiring musicians? “Be original. There are going to be trials and tribulations, but if you stay consistent and put out quality products, you will be seen and heard. Follow your dreams, and work, work, work.”
What’s Next for Dangerous Rob
Always experimenting, Rob’s sound continues to evolve. Drawing inspiration from Tulsa’s musical roots, he blends G-funk elements with international influences, collaborating with beatmakers from around the globe. Fans can look forward to a sound that stays true to his Oklahoma upbringing while pushing boundaries.
Leaving a Legacy
Dangerous Rob’s vision for his legacy is clear: “I would like my legacy to be remembered as the forefather of Tulsa hip hop music and for the world to continue to embrace what we’ve created as independent artists from Tulsa.”
From his early days with THOB-MOB to his international success, Dangerous Rob’s journey is a testament to perseverance, originality, and the power of staying true to one’s roots. Tulsa’s hip hop scene has flourished because of his efforts, and his story will inspire generations of artists to come.
Shoutout to International Music Magazine for capturing this remarkable story of a legend straight out of T-U-L-S-A.
