The Geto Boys that we knew as Scarface, Bushwick Bill and Willie D died in the year 1993... Born in Jamaica, Bushwick Bill moved to New York, then in 1987, tired of NYC and anxious for a change of scenery, moved to Houston. While he was a dancer around the Houston club scene he met James "Lil' J" Smith, Rap-A-Lot Records CEO. James convinced him that he could rap and the rest is history. Bushwick became a member of the Geto Boys in 1987.
"I'd rather be hated for what I am than loved for what I'm not." - Bushwick Bill
Born in the South Acres area of southeast Houston, Scarface, AKA Mr. Scarface, managed to find trouble quite frequently. At an early age he was put out of his mother's house, moved into his grandparent's home that was full of nieces and nephews, and he started selling drugs. In 1986 at age 16, he recorded his first single "Big Time" under the name Akshun (action). People heard him and knew he was ahead of his time. James Smith heard the single and felt with a little work and better production he might have something. Scarface joined the Geto Boys in 1989.
"I'm always gonna be true to the streets. That's what I deal with on my albums, things that go on in everyday life in the ghettos all over the world --- survival." - Scarface
Willie D was born and raised in the 5th Ward section of Houston. An aspiring rapper, he performed locally whenever possible. In a strange coincidence, Rap-A-Lot Records CEO James Smith and Willie D happened to share the same barber. The barber knew Willie rapped and that James was looking for talent, so he gave Willie's phone number to James, and the rest is history. Willie D first signed to Rap-A-Lot Records as a solo artist. He became a member of the Geto Boys in 1989.
"Every day above ground is a good day." - Willie D
