R.A. The Rugged Man on Biggie, Vietnam, and Modern Hip-Hop | Peter McCormack Show

R.A. The Rugged Man is a legendary hip-hop artist, lyricist, and filmmaker, known for his uncompromising style, underground acclaim, and powerful storytelling. From early industry blackballing to global respect, he’s earned a reputation as one of the most authentic voices in rap, praised by legends like Biggie, Kool G Rap, and Chuck D.

In this interview, we explore R.A.’s rise through the chaos of the music industry, the making of his iconic track Uncommon Valor, and the deeply personal story of his father’s service in Vietnam and the devastating impact of Agent Orange on his family. R.A. reflects on hip-hop’s evolution, the modern rap landscape, and what it means to stay real in a commercialised culture. We also dive into his passion for filmmaking, his experiences as a father, and his views on politics, war, and American decline.

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00:00:00 – Introduction
00:03:09 – Life and Legacy
00:05:49 – Writing Again
00:08:27 – Biggie
00:11:12 – Uncommon Valor
00:12:46 – Telling His Father’s Vietnam Story
00:26:57 – Perspective on America
00:29:25 – American Division
00:32:50 – Fear Politics in Germany
00:34:24 – American v German Healthcare
00:36:51 – Fear-Mongering
00:41:08 – 9/11
00:44:08 – Early Career & Jive Records
00:46:06 – Being Blackballed
00:48:40 – Die, Rugged Man, Die
00:55:58 – The Jazz Cafe
00:57:48 – Thoughts on Modern Hip-Hop
01:01:03 – Lyricism
01:06:17 – Auto-Tune, AI, and Soul in Music
01:10:23 – UK Hip-Hop & Drill
01:12:20 – Film Influences
01:16:25 – Filmmaking Challenges
01:18:38 – Legacy
01:29:03 – Final Thoughts

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