In 2005, Paul Wall, the self-proclaimed “People’s Champ” and Houston rap legend, cemented his place in hip-hop history with his iconic verse on “Grillz.” The track, a connection with Nelly, Ali, and Gipp, became an anthem celebrating the blinged-out dental accessories that defined an era. As the 20th anniversary of Grillz approaches, Paul Wall looks back on the song that transformed his career and elevated the Houston rap scene to global prominence.

The Road to Grillz

By the time Grillz was released in 2005, Paul Wall had already established himself as a staple in the Houston rap scene. Known for his smooth Southern drawl and entrepreneurial spirit, Wall was a key player in the city’s chopped-and-screwed movement, connecting with local legends like DJ Screw, Chamillionaire, and Slim Thug.

The Grillz Business

Wall wasn’t just rapping about grillz—he was living it. Alongside his business partner Johnny Dang, Paul Wall co-owned one of the most successful custom grillz businesses in the country. Their flashy creations adorned the mouths of everyone from street hustlers to A-list celebrities.

“I started making grillz because I loved the culture,” Wall recalls. “In Houston, grillz weren’t just jewelry—they were a statement. It’s like wearing your personality on your teeth.”

The Collab with Nelly

The opportunity to work with Nelly came as a surprise. The St. Louis rapper was already a megastar, and his interest in grillz brought national attention to a subculture that had been thriving in the South for years.

“Nelly reached out because he wanted authenticity,” Wall explains. “He knew we were doing it big in Houston, and he wanted that real Southern flavor for the song.”

Crafting the Iconic Verse

Paul Wall’s verse on Grillz is unforgettable, not just for its lyrical content but for the charisma he brought to the track. Lines like “Call me George Foreman, ‘cause I’m sellin’ everybody grillz” showcased his unique ability to blend humor, swagger, and authenticity.

Behind the Lyrics

“When I wrote that verse, I wanted to represent Houston,” Wall says. “I wanted people to know this wasn’t just about jewelry—it was about culture, community, and pride.”

The verse also doubled as a commercial for his grillz business, cementing Paul Wall’s reputation as both an artist and an entrepreneur.

Recording the Track

Wall remembers the recording session vividly. “It was electric,” he says. “Nelly had this energy that was contagious. We knew we were making something special, but we didn’t know how big it would become.”

The Cultural Impact of Grillz

When Grillz hit the airwaves, it was an instant success. The track topped the Billboard Hot 100, went platinum, and brought the Southern hip-hop aesthetic to a mainstream audience.

Mainstreaming a Subculture

For years, grillz had been a symbol of Southern street culture. They were flashy, rebellious, and deeply personal. With Grillz, what was once niche became a nationwide trend.

•Fashion Influence: Celebrities outside the hip-hop world began sporting grillz, from Katy Perry to Rihanna.

•Pop Culture Staples: Grillz started appearing in movies, TV shows, and advertisements, becoming synonymous with luxury and individuality.

Empowering the South

The success of Grillz was a win for the South, showcasing its influence on hip-hop culture. “This song put Houston on the map in a big way,” Wall says. “It wasn’t just about me—it was about all of us.”

How Grillz Changed Paul Wall’s Life

For Paul Wall, the success of Grillz was transformative. The song propelled him from regional fame to global stardom, opening doors he never thought possible.

A Booming Business

“After Grillz dropped, our business exploded,” Wall says. “We went from making a few grillz a week to thousands. Everyone wanted to be part of the movement.”

Johnny Dang & Co., the business he co-founded, became a household name, synonymous with high-quality, custom grillz.

A Lasting Legacy

While many hits from the 2000s have faded into obscurity, Grillz remains a cultural touchstone. “People still come up to me and quote my verse,” Wall says. “It’s humbling to know the song still means so much to people.”

The 20-Year Celebration

With the 20th anniversary of Grillz looming, Paul Wall is planning to celebrate the milestone in style.

New Music and Collaborations

Wall hints at a possible remix or sequel to Grillz, featuring a mix of old and new artists. “It’d be amazing to bring that energy back with a modern twist,” he says.

Documenting the Journey

Wall is also working on a documentary that explores the history of grillz and their cultural significance. “This isn’t just about a song—it’s about a movement,” he explains.

The Enduring Influence of Grillz

Two decades later, Grillz continues to resonate, not just as a song but as a symbol of Southern culture, entrepreneurship, and self-expression. For Paul Wall, it’s a reminder of how far he’s come and how much more he has to give.

“This song changed my life,” he says. “It’s a part of who I am, and I’m grateful every day for the opportunities it’s given me.”

As the anniversary approaches, fans of Paul Wall and Grillz can look forward to celebrating the legacy of a song that redefined hip-hop, one diamond-studded smile at a time.

 

 

 

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