Photo credit: The Breakfast club
During an interview on The Breakfast Club, Mensa addressed the reaction to his “3 Years Sober” music video and discussed the broader disagreement surrounding comments about African identity, Black American culture and the African diaspora.
The conversation also gave Mensa an opportunity to reflect on his personal growth and the experiences that have shaped his views.
Vic Mensa discusses his growth and sobriety
People may still judge Mensa based on things he did earlier in his career.
Over the years, the rapper has experienced significant personal growth. His sobriety has also played an important role in that journey.
Mensa noted that both his accomplishments and mistakes have unfolded publicly. As a result, fans have had a front-row view of his evolution.
His upcoming show, The Vic Mensa Show, will explore some of those experiences. The series will premiere Aug. 26.
Mensa also expressed respect for veteran hip-hop figures who continue to contribute to the culture.
Vic Mensa says he respects Cam’ron and other hip-hop veterans
Despite their disagreement, Mensa made it clear that he respects Cam’ron.
He even said he would welcome Cam’ron on his upcoming show.
The rapper also praised veteran voices such as Cam’ron, Ma$e, Joe Budden and Jadakiss for continuing to contribute to hip-hop.
Mensa argued that older artists should have space to remain involved in the culture they helped create, even if they no longer focus on releasing albums.
Their continued presence, he explained, gives hip-hop’s older generation an opportunity to share its experience while staying connected to today’s culture.
Vic Mensa explains his disagreement with Cam’ron
Mensa and Cam’ron disagree partly over comments about Black Americans, Africans and cultural identity.
Mensa said discussions about identity can sometimes blur the lines between nationality, ancestry and culture.
He also rejected the idea that Black Americans do not have a culture.
In his view, Black American culture has had an enormous influence around the world. He argued that Black Americans and Africans have both faced narratives that can create division between their communities.
Some people, Mensa suggested, may distance themselves from Black Americans or Africans because they view that separation as a path toward assimilation or greater proximity to whiteness.
Mensa calls for greater unity across the African diaspora
Disagreements between Black Americans and Africans should not be ignored, Mensa said.
At the same time, he questioned who benefits when Black people across the world remain divided.
The rapper acknowledged that Cam’ron’s original comments could reflect real experiences, including instances where Africans have looked down on Black Americans.
However, broad generalizations can overlook important differences between individuals and communities.
Mensa’s larger point was that people across the African diaspora can recognize their differences while still searching for common ground.
Vic Mensa points to shared struggles
During the interview, Mensa also discussed the prison system and the role of private companies.
He referenced CoreCivic, formerly known as Corrections Corporation of America, while making a broader argument about incarceration and profit.
Mensa used the example to highlight what he sees as shared struggles affecting Black communities in the United States and Africa.
He argued that division can make it harder for communities to recognize common interests and challenges.
Ultimately, Mensa wants Black people from different backgrounds to build stronger connections without ignoring legitimate disagreements.
His comments come as he continues to use his music and media projects to discuss identity, culture, politics and personal growth.
Source: The Breakfast Club Power 105.1 FM
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