In a heartfelt and emotional video, Houston rapper Sauce Walka shared the harrowing experience of witnessing the tragic death of his close friend and collaborator, Say So P, in Memphis. The incident, which occurred last Saturday, has profoundly impacted Sauce Walka, who expressed his grief and pain while reflecting on the circumstances surrounding his brother’s untimely passing.
Say So P, a prominent figure in the Memphis music scene and a member of Sauce Walka’s TSF (The Sauce Factory) label, had dreams of collaborating with Sauce Walka in his hometown. In the video, Sauce Walka paid tribute to Say So P, emphasizing their close bond that transcended monetary transactions, stating that their relationship was built on genuine friendship and mutual respect. “He really earned his way into the sauce just organically off of my relationship with him,” Sauce Walka explained.
The rapper recounted how Say So P had a wish list of things he wanted to accomplish in Memphis, including showcasing their music and connecting with the local community. Sauce Walka committed to honoring his friend’s legacy by fulfilling those wishes, even as he grappled with the trauma of what he had witnessed. “I just witnessed my brother lose his life in front of my face down here in Memphis,” he said, visibly shaken by the memory.
Throughout the video, Sauce Walka also addressed the complexities of being a successful Black artist in America, highlighting the dangers that come with fame and the scrutiny that public figures face. He acknowledged the inherent risks of being in the music industry, particularly in environments where violence and street conflicts are prevalent. “You sit next to a target, you become a target,” he remarked, stressing the importance of understanding the street code and the reality of life in such circumstances.
Despite the heartache, Sauce Walka expressed a desire to lead by example, advocating for peace and unity in the wake of violence. He emphasized that retaliatory actions would not bring back his friend and that it was crucial to break the cycle of violence that often plagues communities. “I could have had 400 different men ready to retaliate, but that’s not righteous,” Sauce Walka stated. “We are more valuable to each other alive than we are dead.”
The rapper’s message resonated with many, as he called for a collective awakening among young Black men to prioritize life and community over violence. He encouraged listeners to channel their energy into building a future filled with opportunities rather than falling into the traps of retaliation and chaos. “Ignorance is not the answer every time,” he urged, hoping for a shift in mindset within the industry and the community.
As he concluded the emotional tribute, Sauce Walka reaffirmed his commitment to honoring Say So P’s memory through music and business ventures. He expressed gratitude for the support he received from the Memphis community and reiterated his intention to leave a positive legacy in his brother’s name. “I’m here to create that underground railroad of young entrepreneurs and young Black men who just want to be successful,” he said, underscoring the importance of mentorship and support within the community.
The tragic loss of Say So P serves as a reminder of the harsh realities that many artists face and the urgent need for dialogue around violence, community support, and mental health in the music industry. Sauce Walka’s heartfelt message seeks to inspire change and foster unity in a time of deep sorrow and reflection.