The year 2025 has been big for LaRussell. He dropped collaborations with Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Montell Jordan and Lil Jon, played a critically acclaimed set on Outside Lands’ biggest stage and, just last weekend—for the first time in decades—brought E-40 to play LaRussell’s and the OG hyphy torchbearer’s hometown, Vallejo.

On Sunday, Sept. 21, LaRussell headlines the largest bill in Music in the Park’s 35 seasons: seven live acts and a DJ. The headlining San Jose performance showcases the deep connections within Bay Area culture. Speaking with LaRussell, one is immediately inspired by his mission to unite people through music. Of his work with young artists, he shares, “Man, it’s changed my life.”

“There weren’t many adults in my life that really saw my perspective,” he explains, “or

See Full Page