San Francisco Fillmore Rapper Willie Hen Drops ‘THE FLYEST’ Single

Veteran San Francisco Fillmore rapper Willie Hen reflected on more than three decades of Bay Area hip-hop, his new single "THE FLYEST" featuring Boogs Bentley, and his latest studio sessions in a profile by Editor-in-Chief JR Valrey in the San Francisco Bay View.

From a 1990 Verse on Both Sides of the Bay to The Product

Willie Hen began rapping in 1990, making his recorded debut on the group album BSB (Both Sides of the Bay), executive-produced by his older cousin Jedi and featuring rappers J-Wanz and D-Flat. Overhearing the pair practicing verses for a track called "the BBQ" inside his grandmother's house, he wrote a verse from outside the door, auditioned it on the spot, and earned a place on the record.

Comparing early San Francisco rap with today's scene, Willie Hen noted that 1990s artists prized distinct vocal cadences, neighborhood storytelling, and mutual respect among crews, while praising the vibrancy of today's younger generation collaborating with veteran artists.

“THE FLYEST,” Solo EP Production, and 10 New Songs with Malice

Willie Hen is currently promoting his single "THE FLYEST" featuring Boogs Bentley across streaming platforms while executive-producing a new solo EP — selecting the beats and working directly with producers on a smooth, soulful sound blended with Bay Area Mob Music — and rehearsing with a live band and collaborators.

Asked about a follow-up to his acclaimed album The Product, which featured Texas hip-hop artist Scarface, Willie Hen shared that he spoke with Scarface recently and has already recorded 10 new songs with fellow group member Malice as they weigh another full Product album.