Before Meek Mill or Beanie Sigel carried Philadelphia’s rap torch, Da Youngstas were already sparring with hip-hop heavyweights—despite being too young to rent studio time.
Now, decades later, the pioneering trio has revealed just how close they came to signing with some of the industry’s biggest names.
In a new AllHipHop exclusive, group member Taji (aka TM) recalls a pivotal moment when the late Notorious B.I.G. personally expressed interest in signing him after the group’s early success. “Biggie Smalls wanted me,” Taji says, describing an opportunity that could have altered hip-hop history.
At the same time, hit-making producer Jermaine Dupri—renowned for developing young rap talent—also put an offer on the table, alongside other major labels. But the abundance of options created confusion, and no deal was finalised. “We were kids. There was just too much happening at once,” Taji admits.
Now seasoned adults with families of their own, Da Youngstas have re-emerged as a duo, reflecting on the highs and bruising lows of the music business. They see themselves as survivors of an unforgiving industry, determined to carve out a space in today’s fast-moving, TikTok-driven rap landscape.
The full interview, including detailed timestamps of Taji’s recollections, is available on AllHipHop’s YouTube channel—offering fans a candid look at a group once courted by legends and now ready for a second act.
