After spending time behind bars, rising hip-hop artist L.A. Kenzo is back with a new perspective, fresh energy, and a single that’s already stirring conversation — Ricc Owns. The track, named after the avant-garde fashion icon Rick Owens but stylized in Kenzo’s own way, captures both his hunger for individuality and his drive to leave a mark on the culture. In this exclusive conversation with Billboard Hip Hop, Kenzo opened up about life after prison, the lessons he’s learned, and why Ricc Owns sets the stage for the next chapter of his career.
Billboard Hip Hop: First off, welcome home. How does it feel to finally be free and able to move on your own terms again?
Appreciate it my guyyy . & it feels good man . Getting bacc to my Glo & what I do best .
Billboard Hip Hop: Can you walk us through what your first 24 hours out of prison looked like?
Shxt my 1st.. 24 hrs …looked like A lot of blue notes & Taagggg hittinnn lol had to get the fashion in tact , Get some good food & catch up with some ppl .
Billboard Hip Hop: While you were inside, what kept you motivated and focused on your music and future?
Just hearing a lot of people inside telling me to stay focused with it ..stay focused on music stay out the streets . And me sitting down I felt like I’m wasting time but i gained a lot of knowledge doing my time .
Billboard Hip Hop: What was the biggest lesson you learned during your time away that you’re carrying with you now?
Just not taking freedom for granted fr
Billboard Hip Hop: Do you feel like your time in prison shaped or sharpened your artistry in any way?
Yeah I feel like it added to my story & gives me more to speak about when it comes time to
Billboard Hip Hop: Your new single Ricc Owns is making noise. What inspired the record and its vibe?
Just my Itch for the fashion..how I feel when I’m putting that on mixed with my lifestyle mixed in with it
Billboard Hip Hop: What do you want fans to feel when they first hear Ricc Owns?
I want the fans to feel like w.e they got on …to feel good in it ..even if it’s not ricc
Billboard Hip Hop: How does this single set the tone for the music you’re planning to release next?
I feel like it’s just letting people see what I’m capable of doing if they dont know already
Billboard Hip Hop: Fashion plays a big role in the culture — why did you choose Rick Owens as the centerpiece for this track?
I can’t even tell you how I came up or chose it ..I’ll say it chose me ..& that’s how it came about ..
Billboard Hip Hop: Are there any specific producers, engineers, or collaborators who helped bring Ricc Owns to life?
Next question ..
Billboard Hip Hop: Coming home and jumping right back into music — what’s your mission now?
My mission just get some more heat cooking drop some videos & keep grinding fr
Billboard Hip Hop: What do you feel separates L.A. Kenzo from other artists in today’s hip-hop scene?
I just do what I want with this rappinn & just be me im still having fun with it I like do my own things on tracks that stand out ..
Billboard Hip Hop: Who or what are you listening to right now that inspires you?
Man all I listen to is the Trappp shit lol that drip shit . That fashion shit that money shit you know
Billboard Hip Hop: What message do you want to send to others who may be facing setbacks, whether prison or otherwise?
You just have to let it run its course & stay down plan for the other side of the set back ..plan for the come up . & take it further
Billboard Hip Hop: Looking forward, what’s next for you — projects, visuals, performances, or collaborations?
Yeah ima keep that in the vault for now I got some things coming be on the look out ima feed the fans
As Ricc Owns gains traction, L.A. Kenzo is proving that setbacks don’t define destiny. His story — from prison to promise — is just beginning a new chapter, one marked by resilience, authenticity, and undeniable sound. With more music on the way, Kenzo’s momentum is building fast, and he’s ready to claim his spot in hip-hop’s evolving landscape.
