When you think of the Bay Area hip-hop scene, iconic names like E-40, Tupac, and Too $hort often come to mind. But behind the scenes, shaping the sound, producing the tracks, and forging connections is a powerhouse duo that has been pivotal to the movement for decades: The Mekanix. Recently featured on Sway In The Morning, the duo shared their incredible journey, their contributions to the culture, and their latest project, “Under the Hood 2.” Dive into their story and discover why they’re not just producers but architects of Northern California hip-hop. 🌟
Decades of Influence: The Mekanix Legacy
The Mekanix, comprised of Kenny Tweed and 4Rax, have worked with a staggering number of artists, including Scarface, Ice Cube, Dave East, Snoop Dogg, Jay Stalin, Mazi, and more. Their influence spans coasts, connecting the Bay Area sound with artists from the South and East. 4Rax shared, “We wear Oakland on our sleeves, on our shoulders. Every time we step outside, we’re trying to make sure that they smile and they’re proud about what we’re doing.”
Their history intertwines with legends like Digital Underground, Tupac, and Souls of Mischief, showing the duo’s deep roots in the Bay Area’s hip-hop ecosystem. Sway himself reflected on their impact, saying, “You are in the DNA of decades of music.”
Finding Their Sound: A Unique Identity in Music
Establishing a signature sound is no easy feat, yet The Mekanix have managed to create a distinct identity in their music. As D-Sharp, DJ for the Golden State Warriors, shared during the interview, “You can hear a Mekanix beat and know it’s theirs, just like you can with Pharrell or Dr. Dre.” The duo credits their success to blending influences from others while adding their own twist and consistently working to evolve.
Tweed and 4Rax emphasized that their sound reflects years of dedication, collaboration, and respect for the craft. “We take pride in the quality and collaborations we bring. We try to put together combinations that haven’t been done before,” Tweed explained.
The Importance of Loyalty and Collaboration
One of the standout qualities of The Mekanix is their commitment to loyalty and collaboration. Despite the narrative that artists in the Bay Area struggle to work together, Tweed and 4Rax have consistently proven otherwise. Their ability to collaborate with both up-and-coming and established artists speaks to their respect for the culture and their vision for elevating the community.
When asked about the key to their bond, Tweed said, “Respect, love, and no ego. If we disagree, we move right past it.” This attitude has allowed them to sustain their partnership and continue producing groundbreaking music.
“Under the Hood 2”: The Ten-Year Anniversary
Their latest album, “Under the Hood 2,” marks the ten-year anniversary since the release of their first “Under the Hood” project. It’s a testament to their longevity, showcasing collaborations with artists like Scarface, Benny the Butcher, Mister F.A.B., and Spice 1. “We try to make it special, putting together collaborations that bust heads open,” 4Rax said.
The Mekanix prioritize direct-to-consumer platforms like even.biz, ensuring their supporters can directly support their craft. “It’s changing the narrative about how we consume and think about getting behind artists,” they shared. For fans, “Under the Hood 2” is not just another album—it’s a celebration of artistry, evolution, and the Bay Area’s rich musical heritage.
Lessons in Ownership and Evolution
As independent producers, The Mekanix have been champions of ownership and protecting their artistic equity. They’ve learned the importance of publishing splits, licensing, and managing royalties, ensuring they’re not leaving money on the table. Tweed shared, “There’s a lot of moving parts with publishing and royalties. It’s not just ASCAP or BMI—it’s layers.”
The duo also spoke about the importance of evolving to stay relevant. “We have to evolve or we’ll turn into dinosaurs,” 4Rax said. Whether it’s integrating new technology like AI or creating documentaries like “Meet the Producer,” The Mekanix are constantly sharpening their skills and finding new ways to contribute to the culture.
The Mekanix are more than producers—they’re cultural icons, educators, and collaborators who have spent decades shaping the sound of hip-hop. Their story serves as an inspiration for artists everywhere, proving that loyalty, respect, and hard work can lead to longevity and success. “Under the Hood 2” is a must-listen for anyone who loves music that’s authentic, innovative, and deeply rooted in community.
What’s your favorite Mekanix track? How do you think they’ve influenced the hip-hop scene? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to support their latest album on even.biz.
