Nef The Pharaoh Breaks Down Bay Area Slang & The Hyphy Movement

Photo Credit: Power 106

Nef The Pharaoh is one of the biggest rappers to come out of the Bay in this generation. Three years ago, he released his breakout single “Big Tymin’,” which had fans drawing comparisons to the modern-day Mac Dre. Since then, he’s been consistently releasing bangers for his growing fanbase and new fans alike. Of course, being signed to the Ambassador of the Bay (E-40) gives you the ultimate cosign, but Nef puts in the work himself. Just a few days ago, he unleashed the official music video for “South Vallejo,” paying homage to his hometown.

Recently, the Bay Area spitter stopped by Power 106 for an exclusive interview on our Now You Know series. Off the rip, he introduces himself:

“I don’t consider myself as a street rapper, but I know I’m from the urban area. I know I’m from the hood. I just know my hood, they put something in me. We breed a different type of n*ggas, and I know I’m capable of being able to use my talent to show the world that.”

Next, he explains what the Hyphy movement meant to him — detailing the fact that he was really “outside.” The term is defined as really being on the scene. If you look up the pictures from Mistah Fab and Mac Dre shows, Nef was the kid on stage behind them. He recalls catching the bus from Oakland, going to sideshows, and getting in trouble just from getting hyphy. He states:

“It made such an impact on my life, I think it’s embedded in my child. That shit was so deep, it’s like my child’s just ‘yee!’ He turnt up, he don’t even know he’s hyphy.”

Watch above as Nef gives us a Bay Area slang lesson for terms: “thooter,” “skoomp,” “hella,” and more!

ICYMI, peep our last Now You Know w/ Jerry Purpdrank!