Kokane, a true legend of West Coast Funk and Hip Hop, is much more than a musical pioneer—he’s a visionary redefining the future of music. With a career spanning over three decades, Kokane (born Jerry B. Long) has crafted a unique sound that blends the raw energy of Funk, the soul of R&B, and the rhythm of West Coast Hip Hop. Raised in a musical family, Kokane’s blood runs with the legacy of Motown, and it’s clear in his profound ability to fuse diverse genres while never losing touch with his roots.
Beyond the charts and stages, Kokane is committed to building something much more impactful: a legacy that empowers the next generation of artists through his label, Budēboy Entertainment. Founded 17 years ago, Budēboy is designed to be an artist-first, family-oriented platform where musicians thrive creatively and financially. Kokane’s mission is simple but powerful: to ensure artists control their craft and avoid the pitfalls of exploitative contracts that have historically plagued the industry.
Budēboy Entertainment is more than just a label—it’s a school for self-sufficiency. Kokane is hands-on, mentoring emerging talent and teaching them not just how to create music, but how to understand and navigate the business side of the industry. Artists like his daughter Anissa Long, D3 from Long Beach, Hectik from Orange County, and R&B singer Cydre are already making waves under his guidance. Kokane’s approach is methodical and deliberate, ensuring his artists build solid foundations for lasting careers, rather than chasing fleeting success.
Kokane’s own artistry is as vibrant as ever. His latest project, The Funkin’ Adventures of Dr. Kokanstine, is a 37-track album that blends live band energy with collaborations from West Coast icons like Ice Cube and Kurupt. Available exclusively through his website, the release reflects Kokane’s commitment to independent artistry and direct fan connection.
Kokane’s legacy isn’t just in his music—it’s in his dedication to helping artists take control of their futures. Through Budēboy Entertainment, he’s ensuring that the next wave of talent not only makes great music but also understands how to sustain their success, creating a lasting impact for years to come.
