For Compton, California native HopOutSo700, the story starts on West Laurel Street, a place he knows as “the Y.” It’s where he grew up, found his identity, and experienced the different sides of life that would eventually shape the artist he is today.
His childhood was far from ordinary. When HopOutSo700 was just one year old, his father was shot 11 times, and shortly after, his parents separated. From there, he bounced back and forth between households, growing up between different environments and experiences.
Even with everything going on around him, there were still parts of his childhood that were normal. He remembers riding bikes, playing outside and being a “badass kid.” He also looked up to his older brother, who was a talented football player and someone he admired growing up.
As he got older, the streets became a bigger part of his surroundings. He watched his uncles and other family members on his father’s side become involved in gang life. Being exposed to that at such a young age had an effect on him. He says those experiences “made him a monster” and pulled him closer toward the same lifestyle he was seeing around him.
But music had always been there.
HopOutSo700 says he has been rapping his entire life. As a kid, he would freestyle with his older brothers and cousins, turning whatever was around him into an opportunity to rap. Before having access to professional equipment, he was recording himself on old phones and searching for instrumentals online.
At first, it was simply something he enjoyed doing. Eventually, his surroundings gave him another reason to take it seriously.
He began looking at the people around him and the lifestyles they were living. At the same time, he realized he had the ability and access to pursue music without having to become something he wasn’t. Music gave him a lane where he could remain true to himself while creating a different direction for his life.
That mindset has continued to define him.
HopOutSo700 isn’t waiting around for somebody to give him an opportunity. His motivation comes from within. He speaks openly about not needing a helping hand or outside validation to create ambition. For him, the work starts with believing in himself and executing on what he sees for his future.
His family saw that potential early as well. Despite the environment he grew up in, his mother and other family members continued to support him and believed there was always going to be something special waiting for him.
As his music continued to develop, so did his visibility. Songs like “Load Em Up,” “TCF,” “WEIRDO,” “Drop Him to a Knee,” and “Drop A Dolla” became important records throughout his journey, giving listeners more insight into his world and the experiences behind the music.
His authenticity eventually started reaching a much bigger audience. Through platforms like TikTok and YouTube, his storytelling and personality helped him build a dedicated following. His connection with artists and figures such as EBK Jaaybo also helped bring more eyes to his movement.
His story has since reached major platforms, including No Jumper, along with interviews through outlets such as Innovators. What started on West Laurel Street in Compton was now reaching audiences far beyond the Y.
Now, HopOutSo700 is continuing that journey with his latest project, “NO HELP.” The 18-track project features 23peezy and TearitoffGreezy, giving listeners another look into where he is today and how much his story has shaped his sound.
