Bounty Hunter BJ Gives His Opinion on Crip Mac

Summary

The speaker reflects on the 70s and 80s gang culture in Los Angeles, particularly in South Compton, contrasting it with the current generation's approach to 'cripping' and 'blooding.' He emphasizes the grittier, more dangerous environment of his youth, where crime was rampant and survival often meant making tough choices. The speaker shares personal experiences, including his decision to substitute anger for drugs and his involvement in gang activities, while also discussing the racial dynamics and housing discrimination that shaped the community. He concludes with a look at the evolution of drug dealing, from secretive operations to open dispensaries, highlighting the profound changes in societal attitudes and legal frameworks.

Takeaways

• 👕 The speaker reminisces about a time when wearing blue was a strong identifier, suggesting a throwback to the 1980s and a longing for a past era.
• 🔄 The speaker reflects on the changes within the gang culture, noting that the current generation of 'Hoovers' and 'Crips' are not the same as in the past, indicating a shift in identity and values.
• 🚫 The speaker emphasizes the importance of authenticity within gang culture, criticizing those who adopt the name without truly embodying the lifestyle.
• 📈 Historically, the speaker points out that the murder rate was higher in the 70s and 80s, suggesting a more violent past compared to the present.
• 💢 The speaker discusses personal choices, highlighting the decision to substitute anger for drugs during the crack epidemic, as a way to avoid being consumed by it.
• 💪 The speaker credits his father's teachings and determination as key factors in resisting the lure of drugs and maintaining a strong sense of self.
• 🚨 The speaker describes the constant vigilance and tactical mindset needed to survive in the gang culture of the 70s and 80s, emphasizing the need for awareness and caution.
• 🏠 The speaker talks about the impact of housing policies and racial discrimination that kept families confined to certain areas, contributing to the formation of gang territories.
• 🚫 The speaker recounts the formation of gangs as a response to white gangs terrorizing their communities, leading to the establishment of protective groups.
• 🎥 The speaker mentions a movie called 'The Truth,' which contains historical context and personal experiences related to the discussed topics.
• 💰 The speaker touches on the economic aspect of gang life, mentioning the money made from illicit activities and the subsequent legal troubles.

Q & A

What is the speaker's opinion on the current generation of gang members compared to the past?

The speaker believes that the current generation of gang members, specifically the young Hoovers, are not as committed to the gang lifestyle as those from the past. He suggests that many are merely adopting the name without truly understanding or living the 'cripping' or 'blooding' lifestyle.

Why does the speaker feel that the 80s gang culture was different from today's?

The speaker believes that the 80s gang culture was more intense and dangerous, with a higher murder rate and a stronger sense of identity and commitment to the gang lifestyle. He also mentions that the era was characterized by a gritty environment where one had to be constantly vigilant.

What was the speaker's personal strategy to avoid getting involved with drugs during the crack epidemic?

The speaker chose to substitute anger for drugs, using his anger as a driving force instead of succumbing to the lure of drugs. He also credits his father's teachings and his determination to not become someone's 'dope thing' as reasons for staying away from drugs.

How does the speaker describe his experience with drugs and his thoughts on long-term drug use?

The speaker admits to having done drugs for a few years but expresses disbelief at the idea of using drugs like cocaine or crack for decades. He suggests that long-term drug use is not sustainable and could lead to serious health issues.

What was the speaker's approach to staying safe during the dangerous times in Los Angeles?

The speaker always stayed vigilant, watching his surroundings and perimeters, even when driving. He mentions that he never got high or drunk in public to maintain control and awareness of his environment.

What historical factors contributed to the formation of gangs in Compton according to the speaker?

The speaker explains that white gangs from other areas used to come to Compton and terrorize the residents, which led to the formation of local gangs for protection. Additionally, he mentions the 'reprimand' where landlords collectively decided not to rent to black people, confining them to certain areas.

How did the speaker's parents' employment situation change during the 1960s and 1970s?

The speaker's parents and other residents of Compton worked in factories during the war, earning good money, which allowed them to move out of the projects and into nicer homes in areas like Beverly Hills and San Fernando Valley. However, this opportunity was later shut down.

What was the speaker's experience with law enforcement during his time as a drug dealer?

The speaker mentions that he was raided a few times but managed to avoid getting caught at the scene. He did not get into trouble for drug dealing but faced legal issues for other crimes such as attempted murder.

What was the significance of the 'board' in the drug dealing operations described by the speaker?

The 'board' was a system used to display the different types and quantities of drugs available for sale. Customers would look at the board and place their orders, which added a level of organization and efficiency to the drug trade.

How does the speaker reflect on the changes in drug culture from his past to the present?

The speaker is amazed at how open and commercialized drug culture has become, comparing the past secretive and dangerous drug trade to the modern, regulated dispensaries where people can openly consume drugs.