​KOAT Records isn’t just a label; it’s a movement built on family, persistence, and a relentless commitment to the grind. Hailing from the competitive landscape of San Diego, this collective—featuring key voices like Obi1, Gideon, Profit Stopit, ZahZahZay, and Lucas Ramon—is rapidly establishing a reputation for raw, introspective lyricism and a disciplined approach to independent success. In this candid discussion, we sit down with Obi1 to dive deep into the group’s creative philosophy, the challenges and rewards of true independence, and how they navigate the pressure to build a lasting legacy that honors both their roots and their ambitious future vision. So, without further ado, let’s get into this fresh-ass interview with KOAT Records’ very own, Obi1!

FLH: Can you start by introducing yourself to our audience and describing the style of music you make?

Oib1: My name’s Oib1, CEO of KOAT Records, the San Diego supergroup. My music has been a lot of different things over the years, and now I embrace all of it. From horrorcore to reggae-infused hip hop to West Coast hip hop, I give my 100% in every track. I try to make my music for everyone, delivering raw energy, authentic storytelling, and vibes that connect with the streets and beyond.

FLH: You previously recorded under the name “Dirty Carnie.” What was the defining moment that led you to retire that persona and embrace the name Oib1?

Oib1: Dirty Carnie, man, I haven’t really heard that name in years. When I first came out, I was a Juggalo rapper heavily influenced by Insane Clown Posse, Twiztid, and Psychopathic Records. After years under that name, I realized I could only market myself so much in that space. I needed a rebrand that reflected growth and authenticity. That’s when I became Oib1—“Oh I Be a Real 1”—a name that truly represents who I am as an artist today.

FLH: Your journey includes a powerful commitment to sobriety starting in 2023. How has this new foundation in your life influenced the words you write and the message you feel compelled to share?

Oib1: Being in the music industry, I was surrounded by drugs and the party lifestyle. I realized I wanted to be an artist people could relate to and lean on—not just another rapper struggling with addiction. Sobriety gave me clarity and focus, allowing me to write music that’s real, introspective, and inspiring. I want listeners to know they’re not alone and that growth is possible.

FLH: You’ve said your goal is to help others realize they are “not alone.” How do you translate your personal struggles into songs that offer hope?

Oib1: I channel my life experiences—addiction, mental battles, street struggles—into lyrics that are honest and relatable. Each song is about survival, resilience, and rising above adversity. My goal is to turn pain into something others can connect with, giving hope through the music that they, too, can push through their own challenges.

FLH: How has sobriety specifically changed your daily creative process, from writing a lyric to approaching a session in the studio?

Oib1: Sobriety has transformed the way I work. I’m more disciplined, focused, and intentional in every session. Beyond being an artist, I run KOAT Records and lead a team that’s unstoppable. Now, every lyric, every beat, and every collaboration is approached strategically and creatively, making the music stronger and the team tighter than ever.

FLH: Your new mixtape is titled Gutter Muzik Vol 2. Can you tell us when it’s planned to be released and what the core message or theme you wanted this project to convey is?

Oib1: Originally, I was going to drop Gutter Muzik Vol 2, but I’ve switched it to CTE, inspired by my song “Concussion,” which dives into my sobriety and transformation. It’s essentially part two of Gutter Muzik—still raw and real, but showing the growth, clarity, and next chapter of Oib1 as an artist.

FLH: You title your music “Gutter Muzik.” For someone who hasn’t heard it, how would you describe the sonic characteristics—the production, the beat selection, and the vocal delivery—that define this style?
Oib1: Gutter Muzik started as the raw, gritty Oib1. Dark beats, aggressive energy, and unfiltered lyricism were the foundation. Now, with my transformation, it’s still hard-hitting but more refined and intentional. Production blends street energy with melody, and my delivery mixes grit and precision. It hits hard while telling authentic stories from the streets and my life.

FLH: If a new listener could only hear one track from the mixtape, which one best defines this new chapter for Oib1?

Oib1: That would be “CTE.” It’s the track that represents my full transformation—sobriety, clarity, and who I am going forward as an artist. It’s a blueprint for the next chapter of Oib1 and what listeners can expect from me and KOAT.

FLH: Let’s talk about KOAT. Who all is in the group, and what led to the official formation of this collective and “movement”?

Oib1: KOAT, or Kings of All Trades, is a San Diego supergroup built on skill, versatility, and energy. The crew includes:
Oib1 – CEO and lead artist; drives the vision and oversees all creative and business decisions.

Gideon – Co-CEO; manages projects, strategy, and creative direction alongside Oib1.

Profit Stopit – President and performer; the gasser with the bars, delivering raw energy and intensity on every track.

ZahZahZay – Artist and hook master; creates catchy hooks and memorable melodies that elevate every song.

Lucas Ramon – Artist; adds unique flows and perspectives, giving KOAT versatility and depth.

KOAT was formed to unify our skills, dominate the underground, and create a movement bigger than any single member. Each person is essential—without their contributions, KOAT wouldn’t have the impact, sound, or energy it does today.

FLH: The name is “Kings of All Trades.” What does that truly represent to the crew’s philosophy and its approach to music creation?

Oib1: The name represents versatility and mastery. Every member has multiple skills—writing, performing, producing, marketing, or strategizing. KOAT doesn’t just make music; we control every part of the game. This philosophy ensures every project is authentic, polished, and innovative. Being “Kings of All Trades” is about excellence, collaboration, and pushing culture forward together.

FLH: How does the group dynamic work in the studio, and how does that collective energy push each member’s individual creativity?

Oib1: In the studio, KOAT thrives on energy and collaboration. Profit Stopit brings raw intensity and killer bars, ZahZahZay crafts the hooks that stick in your head, Lucas Ramon adds unique flows, and Oib1 and Gideon guide the creative direction. That synergy pushes everyone to perform at their highest level, producing music that’s bigger than the sum of its parts.

FLH: You and KOAT have recently worked with underground legends like Stitches, Kung Fu Vampire, and Danny Diablo. How does it feel to have collaborated with such reputable artists within the scene?

Oib1: It’s an honor for the whole team. Every member—from executives to artists—played a role in making those collaborations happen. Working with legends validates our talent, vision, and professionalism, and motivates KOAT to keep pushing the underground forward while expanding our reach.

FLH: Are there any artists, established or rising, that you haven’t worked with yet who you’d like to collaborate with?

Oib1: Absolutely. The crew is always looking to collaborate with artists like Tech N9ne, Benny The Butcher, Ghostemane, and other rising talents. Working with them would challenge us creatively, elevate KOAT’s profile, and showcase each member’s individual skills alongside our collective energy.

FLH: Looking forward, what is the ultimate vision for KOAT as a group? What do you collectively hope to achieve in the next few years?

Oib1: KOAT’s vision is to build a lasting legacy. Over the next few years, we plan to:
Drop major projects showcasing every member’s strengths.

Tour extensively, connecting with fans directly.

Expand nationally and internationally while maintaining our San Diego roots.

Innovate in visuals, production, and strategy to set a blueprint for independent artists.

Every member—Oib1, Gideon, Profit Stopit, ZahZahZay, and Lucas Ramon—brings essential skills that fuel this vision. Together, we’re unstoppable.

FLH: Any shoutouts?

Oib1: Shoutout to the entire KOAT team—artists, executives, producers, and everyone grinding behind the scenes. Shoutout to our fans for supporting every project, and to independent artists fighting to make their mark. And to anyone dealing with struggles or addiction—remember, you’re not alone. KOAT represents family, persistence, and growth—stay focused and stay elevated.

We want to send a huge thank you to Obi1 for taking the time to share his insights and journey with us, and a huge shoutout to the entire KOAT crew for their relentless work. You can catch the group live this weekend, as KOAT Records has a show this Saturday in Vegas! And for the devoted fans who want to see more, be on the lookout for an in-person Faygoluvers interview coming soon. As always, keep it wicked fresh fam. WHOOP WHOOP!

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