THOP Fest Alumni T.F Drops New Album with DJ Muggs of Cypress Hill

Photo By: Keshia Janee

The legacy of THOP Fest continues to make waves in hip-hop culture as alumni artist T.F returns with a powerful new release—this time teaming up with legendary producer DJ Muggs of Cypress Hill on Don't Call Me Lucky.

Known for shaping the sound of West Coast hip-hop, DJ Muggs has worked with some of the most iconic names in the game. His gritty, sample-heavy production style helped define the success of Cypress Hill and continues to influence generations of artists today.

Now, he joins forces with T.F, a rising force out of Los Angeles and a respected voice among underground circles. This collaboration represents a bridge between eras, pairing OG craftsmanship with a new wave of raw, authentic storytelling.

From THOP Fest to the Global Stage

T.F’s journey is a testament to the impact of platforms like THOP Fest. As an alumni of the festival, he’s part of a growing list of artists who have used the stage as a launchpad to expand their reach and elevate their careers.

THOP Fest has built a reputation for spotlighting emerging talent before they break into wider recognition and T.F is a prime example of that trajectory in motion.

The Sound: Gritty, Soulful, and Unapologetic

The new album blends DJ Muggs’ signature dark, cinematic production with T.F’s sharp lyricism and street-rooted narratives. Fans can expect:

• Hard-hitting drums and dusty samples

• Authentic West Coast energy

• Introspective bars mixed with street wisdom

• A cohesive, timeless hip-hop sound

• Features including Ghostface Killah, Rome Streetz, Roc Marciano and more.

Why This Release Matters

In an era where trends come and go, collaborations like this remind listeners of hip-hop’s foundation. It’s about authenticity, storytelling, and respect for the craft.

For THOP Fest supporters, it’s also a proud moment seeing alumni continue to grow, collaborate with legends, and represent the culture at a high level.

Stay Connected with THOP Fest

As THOP Fest continues to highlight the next generation of artists, stories like T.F’s prove why the platform matters. Today’s performers are tomorrow’s headliners and sometimes, they’re collaborating with icons like DJ Muggs.

Be sure to stay tapped in with THOP Fest for more artist updates, exclusive releases, and opportunities to discover the next wave of hip-hop talent.

Photo By: Keshia Janee

Apollo Brown Performing Live at THOP Fest

If you weren’t at the main stage when the first snare hit, you missed a piece of hip hop history. The energy was electric as Detroit’s own Apollo Brown took over THOP Fest, proving exactly why he’s considered the gold standard of modern production.

We’ve just dropped this exclusive performance clip from his set—check it out and witness the soul of the MPC in action.

Apollo Brown didn’t just play a set; he curated an experience. From his dusty, soul-infused textures to the hard-hitting, cinematic anthems from his latest releases, the crowd was locked into every beat.

D12 Returns to the U.S. Stage for the First Time in Over a Decade at THOP Fest 2024

D12 performing live at #THOPFest 2024 by Jason Lucero

This October 5th, hip-hop history was made as D12 performed in the United States for the first time in over ten years at the Happiness of Pursuit Festival (THOPFest) in Ontario, California. Originally founded by Eminem, the legendary Detroit group burst onto the scene in the late 90s, making waves with hits like "Fight Music" and "Purple Pills." Their return brought an electrifying energy to one of Southern California’s most anticipated indie festivals.

Although the group’s lineup has changed over the years, the current roster consists of longtime members Swifty McVay and Kuniva, who continue to honor D12’s legacy. Their performance at THOPFest gave fans a powerful, nostalgic experience while also offering a fresh take on the classic sound that defined an era in hip-hop.

Sharing the stage with D12 were a stellar lineup of artists including Coast Contra, Apollo Brown, Flee Lord, and more, making THOPFest 2024 a standout event. Known for blending established legends with rising talent, THOPFest has become a key destination for hip-hop heads seeking authentic and dynamic performances.

D12's return to the U.S. stage, with Eminem’s founding legacy in mind, added an iconic touch to this year’s festival, making it one for the ages!