— Madhatter

San Francisco’s Diverse Hip-Hop Collective

Madhatter’s long-awaited second album, Mad World, marks the triumphant return of a Bay Area legend. After 16 years without a solo project, this album blends gritty street experiences with real-life maturity, showcasing his growth as both an artist and a person. This is just the beginning of much more to come, as Mad Slapp Muzik remains dedicated to delivering fresh hits.

Born and raised in the heart of San Francisco’s Mission District, Madhatter grew up surrounded by the challenges of a poverty-stricken yet culturally rich Hispanic community. While steering clear of the gang life that claimed many of his peers, he still faced the harsh realities of drugs, violence, and survival. Through it all, hip-hop became his salvation.

Starting his rap journey at just 13 years old under the name MC Jay, Madhatter quickly gained recognition in the Bay Area. A pivotal moment in his early career came when he met Bay Area rapper Chill E.B., who gave him the chance to perform as part of Friday Night Live, an anti-drug initiative. Touring high schools across California, Madhatter used his music to speak out against teenage drug use.

It was at Chill E.B.’s house that Madhatter met Damian “Domino Dee” Siguenza and Jason “DJ Assassin” Melton, leading to the formation of the group Def-Line Express. Together, they recorded music and pursued a potential record deal with Delicious Vinyl, with Domino Dee later becoming a founding member of the legendary Hieroglyphics crew.

After Def-Line Express disbanded, Madhatter carved out his own path with the street hit “20 Sack of Dank,” a Mission District anthem that laid the groundwork for his solo career. Partnering with Hogstatus Productions, he released two albums and performed across the Bay Area before launching his debut solo project, San Franpsycho, which sold over 10,000 copies worldwide with minimal promotion.

A five-year hiatus in Albuquerque, New Mexico, didn’t diminish his passion for hip-hop. Returning to the Bay Area, Madhatter reignited his career through a partnership with producer Slapp Turner. Over the past seven years, they’ve released four albums together, cementing Madhatter’s reputation as a force in the hip-hop industry.

Reconnecting with his old Def-Line Express collaborators, DJ KV and Domino Dee, led to the creation of City Built Ent—a record label and rap group with a mission to produce music, videos, podcasts, magazines, and even a clothing line. With over 50 songs recorded, the group is ready to make waves in hip-hop once again.

Now older and wiser, Madhatter reflects on his journey with pride. “Even at my age now, I feel like I’m better than I was when I was young,” he says. With a renewed purpose and an unshakable belief in the power of music, Madhatter continues to inspire and push boundaries.