In a recent interview on the We In Miami Podcast, Benzino, the former head of The Source magazine, made shocking allegations about his encounter with Jay-Z and Dame Dash. According to Benzino, the Roc-A-Fella co-founders visited The Source offices in New York City to address a cover situation, but they were met with a surprising response.
Unbeknownst to Jay-Z and Dame Dash, Benzino had strategically positioned seven armed goons in different rooms of the magazine's offices. As tensions rose during the discussion, Benzino's associates emerged, prompting Jay-Z and Dame Dash to swiftly exit the premises. Although there were only three or four individuals accompanying the Roc-A-Fella moguls, the presence of seven armed men proved overwhelming.
Benzino's revelation sheds light on a dark period in Hip Hop journalism during the '90s when artists intimidating or even assaulting reporters was not uncommon. Journalists such as Cheo Hodari Coker and Jesse Washington faced violent encounters with Wu-Tang Clan's Masta Killa and Deric "D-Dot" Angelettie, respectively.
However, Benzino boldly asserts that such tactics never worked against The Source under his leadership. He emphasized his refusal to be bullied or have anything taken from him, asserting that he grew up as the one who takes. The magazine's reputation for being armed and ready deterred anyone from pressing them or attempting to secure unwarranted coverage.
Further in the interview, Benzino boasted about The Source's financial success, claiming that the magazine was making millions in cash every month at its peak. He even went on to claim that he was wealthier than Jay-Z, Diddy, and other rap moguls in New York City during that time.
These claims by Benzino paint a vivid picture of the power dynamics and intense rivalries within the Hip Hop industry during the height of The Source's influence. While the allegations may spark debate and further investigation, they offer a glimpse into the tumultuous world of Hip Hop media and the persona of Benzino himself.
As time goes on, the details and consequences of such incidents may become clearer, but for now, Benzino's account serves as a reminder of the complex and often confrontational relationships within the music industry.
