Album Notes

In 2001, Thomas Benjamin (“Big Ben”) and Rudy Jackson (“Kinfolke Jack”) met at Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas. After sharing similar passions for music, they began a journey which led to the formation of Dem Southernfolkz (“DSFZ”). Focused on producing and promoting quality music, DSFZ set to blend hip-hop culture with easy sounds of jazz and soul music. Creating music since day one, both Big Ben and Kinfolke Jack were separated with military tours in Iraq. With the passion to make music regardless of location, the duo would send beats and written verses to each other through e-mail. Although Kinfolke Jack finished his official duty earlier than Big Ben, the two continued to make music and even spent a week straight while Big Ben visited the States making music without sleep.

Through a mutual connection, the duo met Nathan Wright IV (“Saturday Alridge”) and quickly realized the same passion in which BigBen and Kinfolke Jack met years before. After many overtures by the duo, Saturday Alridge Finally agreed to join DSFZ. It wasn’t a question of whether Big Ben and Kinfolke Jack had the talent and vision, but more of a personal question on Saturday Alridge’s step into the world of music. Soon after, Big Ben was called again to a tour in Tikrit, Iraq. Working under the same circumstances as Big Ben and Kinfolke Jack did before, the group exchanged ideas and music. The music that was eventually created is “The Message”, DSFZ’ debut album. “The Message” offers a personal insight into their world and what the feel is the mediocre music currently being made in the industry. Just spend 10 minutes with the group and you will understand both their stance on music and philosophy of life; And they’re not afraid to share it with the world!