Don Private uses second chance on life to inspire others to learn from his hard ‘Lessons’ 

FAYETTEVILLE, NC – Don Private is a prolific storyteller who paints vivid pictures with his pithy bars and distinctive voice. In 2020 he offered the world his debut EP “1229,” introducing audiences to his signature style and perfect blend of sharp, solid lyrics spilled over sturdy, hypnotic beats. Currently streaming on all digital music platforms, “1229” is a tour du force of sound and style that has been bringing in an ever-widening global fanbase for this young up-and-coming rapper. This year he followed that up with the release of his sophomore project “1229Empire,” and his debut single from that EP, “Lessons,” is making waves all around the world. 

With a hard-driving, fast-paced, rapid-fire flow, Don Private showcases a unique skill as a rapper on top of a nice, bouncy beat with “Lessons.” Coupled with a fun, piano-driven background melody, the song is an intriguing juxtaposition of bouncy fun and aggressive energy. It’s a song that talks about this unique artist’s struggle – getting sentenced to 13 years in prison on a murder charge when he was only 17 years old. Now out of prison, he’s using his natural gifts as a musician to inspire others to learn from his hard-learned lessons. 

“I’ve taken my bumps and bruises and kept my dignity and honor along the way,” he said. “I could come out of all of that and look people in the eye and stand tall and tell people younger than me what to do and what not to do to succeed in life. With my music I can paint a vivid picture. I know where you’re going right now, but let me give you this dream. I learned a lesson, and you can learn from me. I’m thankful for all my blessings and just want to share that with as many people as possible.” 

Don said he honestly doesn’t know what he’d be doing today if it wasn’t for music. Once a young bull tied to the streets and the struggle, music is the thing that literally transformed his life and took him down a healthier path.  

“I’m so passionate about my music and sharing my message and my vision with the world,” he said. “Imma play Picasso in this industry. My music isn’t like most in the mainstream today. I spit from the heart. This shit here is authentic. It’s not a gimmick created to sell streams. Hip hop is beautiful. It made a way for street niggas like me to escape their environment and live life. I’m grateful for the second chance. I’m definitely thrilled about this new project. Ya’ll gonna really feel this one.” 

To listen to Don Private’s music, or to follow him on social media, please visit the following links: 

Instagram: @donprivate1229 

https://www.instagram.com/donprivate1229/

YouTube: 

http://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3TJsGp30RAUuIEkP6n48yw 

http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnf20ODKchyVgY4-psutgIQ 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Lit3Ie409o&list=OLAK5uy_kmILYs3kqlbayd6wBg4_pOp-remCRwACs&index=2

Views: 36

Reply to This

Best guide to hip hop, soul, reggae concerts & events in San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles & New York City + music, videos, radio and more

Subscribe to E-Blast

WIN TICKETS

Atmosphere
Friday, Feb 13 @ Fox Theater, Oakland

Kamaiyah
Saturday, Mar 14 @ Fox Theater, Oakland

Juvenile
Friday, June 5 @ Fox Theater, Oakland

Connect

Members

Photos

  • Add Photos
  • View All

Latest Activity

Editor's Pick posted discussions
21 hours ago
Editor's Pick posted discussions
Saturday
Editor's Pick posted discussions
Friday
Editor's Pick posted videos
Friday
Editor's Pick shared their discussion on Facebook
Friday
Editor's Pick shared their discussion on Facebook
Friday
Editor's Pick updated an event
Thumbnail

Feel Good Fridays with Ren the Vinyl Archaeologist at Mad Oak Bar, Oakland

January 23, 2026 at 9pm to January 24, 2026 at 1am
FRIDAY, JAN 23Kick off your weekend at Feel Good Fridays! 🎧 Ren the Vinyl Archaeologist brings the best Hip Hop, Top 40, House & Throwbacks. Come dance and feel the good vibes! 🙌🔥Mad Oak Bar, Oakland •  FREE entry | 21+ | 9pm-1am>> RSVP Here…See More
Friday
Editor's Pick posted discussions
Thursday
TEAM BIGGA RANKIN posted a discussion

OGMillionare Drops High-Octane Anthem “A Town Down”

Get ready to roll through the heart of the A like never before — OGMillionare is back with his latest single, “A Town Down,” a swagger-filled tribute to cruising through downtown Atlanta with the pedal smashed to the floor.Powered by tight, rhythmic flows and a beat that hits like a supercharger, the track captures the grit and glory of the city streets — from Peachtree traffic lights to late-night boulevard stunts.A Soundtrack to Atlanta’s EnergyMore than just a nod to fast cars and flash, “A…See More
Jan 22
Editor's Pick updated an event
Thumbnail

Juvenile at Fox Theater, Oakland

June 5, 2026 from 8pm to 11pm
ENTER TO WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS. WINNER WILL BE DRAWN RANDOMLY AND ANNOUNCED 2 DAYS PRIOR TO EVENT. FRIDAY, JUNE 5 Juvenile's Boiling Point Album Release Tour with The 400 Degreez BandFox…See More
Jan 21
Editor's Pick updated an event
Thumbnail

Kamaiyah (WIN TICKETS) at Fox Theater, Oakland

March 14, 2026 from 8pm to 11pm
ENTER TO WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS. WINNER WILL BE DRAWN RANDOMLY AND ANNOUNCED 2 DAYS PRIOR TO EVENT.  Sat • Mar 14, 2026 Kamaiyah A Good Night In The Ghetto 10 Year Anniversary ShowFox Theater - Oakland, Oakland, CA 8:00 PM…See More
Jan 21
Editor's Pick posted discussions
Jan 21

© 2026   Created by Ren the Vinyl Archaeologist.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service