An Exclusive WorldWide Entertainment TV Interview

Interview By Ms Goldie, WorldWide Entertainment TV New York
Premiere Episode on BRIC Media’s Brooklyn Free Speech HD – November 4, 2025

A Yonkers Legend Speaks

WorldWide Entertainment TV kicked off its premiere on BRIC Media’s Brooklyn Free Speech HD with a powerful and heartfelt interview featuring Hip Armistead, the founder of XFMS (Extended Family Many Styles) — a true Yonkers pioneer whose life story bridges street hustle, fashion innovation, and hip-hop history.

Hosted by MS. GOLDI AKA YONKERS 1ST LADY, the episode dives deep into the untold story of a man who went from surviving the streets of Yonkers to contributing to platinum records alongside DMX, Mary J. Blige, and Jadakiss.

Early Life: Style, Struggle, and Survival

Growing up in Yonkers during the 1980s and ’90s, Hip recalls being known for his fashion sense and entrepreneurial mindset long before the era of social media.

“I always had a passion for fashion,” Hip explained. “In Yonkers, you had to stay fresh — every day was Easter Sunday.”

Yet behind the shine was hardship. At just 12 years old, Hip turned to the streets, not out of malice, but from a desire to look sharp when his family couldn’t afford it.

“I regret that part of my life,” he admits, “but I did it to buy clothes, not to hurt people.”

Despite the rough beginnings, Hip’s positivity and drive made him a respected figure in his community — one who inspired peers by proving success could come from hard work, not harm.

Turning Point: Lessons from the Streets

At 16, Hip’s life changed dramatically after being arrested in a Yonkers sweep that targeted major street figures.

“Seeing my mom come to visit me in jail broke me,” he reflected. “I knew I had to change everything.”

After receiving probation, he redirected his ambition into legitimate business — turning street smarts into creative enterprise.

From Many Styles to the Music Game

Hip’s first major business move was launching “Many Styles”, a custom clothing brand he created long before online fashion marketing existed.

“Before Instagram likes, I got my likes in person,” he joked. “I’d walk into an event wearing something I designed and people would show love face-to-face.”

Though the line was short-lived due to costs, Hip’s hunger for independence never faded. In 1996, he transitioned into the music industry, managing an artist named Richie Thumbs, who was signed to Damon Dash’s Roc-A-Block, a branch of Roc-A-Fella Records.

Working with Hip-Hop Royalty

Hip’s network and hustle soon connected him with hip-hop’s elite. A childhood friend of Mary J. Blige, Hip remembers her as “the girl who always said she was going to be a star — and she meant it.”

Through his Yonkers ties, he also worked closely with The Lox — receiving his first industry check from Jadakiss — and later linked with DMX on The Great Depression album.

“DMX gave me a shot,” said Hip. “We produced ‘Who We Be’ and ‘We Right Here’ — both singles that went platinum and earned us a Grammy nomination.”

Those collaborations solidified Hip’s legacy as both a creative force and a representative of Yonkers’ enduring influence on hip-hop.

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On Today’s Hip-Hop: Respect the Roots

Hip and Miss Goldie’s conversation took a reflective turn as they discussed modern rap’s shifting values. Hip expressed concern over a lack of respect for pioneers.

“Today’s artists don’t study the legends,” he said. “In basketball, LeBron respects Magic and Jordan — hip-hop needs that same level of respect for Biggie, Run DMC, and everyone who paved the way.”

He also called for the establishment of a Hip-Hop College or Hall of Fame, emphasizing education in the culture that birthed today’s global movement.

Advice for the Next Generation

When asked about advice for emerging artists, Hip kept it real:

“Use that internet. Go hard. Promote yourself. And treat your hustle like a business.”

He drew parallels between street hustle and entrepreneurship, saying:

“It’s the same grind — just a different product. If you could sell in the streets, you can sell T-shirts, music, anything. Just apply the same discipline.”

Looking Ahead: From Music to Movies

Hip revealed he’s currently working on a documentary and a book about his life story, with hopes of eventually bringing it to the big screen.

“My story’s a movie already,” he smiled. “Now it’s time to tell it right.”

He also hinted at upcoming collaborations in film, giving a nod to the Weinstein Company and others developing scripts tied to New York’s vibrant creative scene.

A Message of Legacy and Growth

From teenage hustler to Grammy-nominated producer and entrepreneur, Hip Armistead’s journey is one of transformation, resilience, and vision. His story reminds us that real success is about reinvention — taking the lessons from the streets and turning them into opportunities that uplift communities.

“We’re all extended family,” he says, echoing his brand’s name, XFMS. “We’ve all got different styles, but we’re part of one movement.”

How to Watch

📺 Premiere Date: November 4, 2025
🕐 Airtimes: 1:30 AM & 10:00 PM
🔁 Replays: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday @ 1:30 AM & 9:30 PM | Sunday @ 3:00 AM & 8:30 PM

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