We recently had the chance to connect with Madd Hatta and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Madd, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I start my day with five to ten quiet minutes to pause, reflect, and mentally line up everything I need to handle while also taking a moment to be thankful. From there, the focus shifts to my son—getting him ready for nursery, making sure he’s fed, and set up to have a good day. Once he’s squared away, I head to the gym, carving out an hour to an hour and a half for a workout that energizes me and sets the tone for the rest of the day. It’s a routine that keeps me grounded, productive, and prepared for whatever comes next.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Houston’s own **Madd Hatta** isn’t just a radio legend—he’s a cultural force. From his iconic run on *97.9 The Box* to his current spot on *Majic 102.1*, Hatta has spent decades shaping Houston’s sound while staying connected to the streets that built him. Broadcaster, rapper, producer, curator—he’s worn every hat, and done it with style.
Through **Paid In Full Entertainment**, Hatta helped launch names like Chamillionaire and Paul Wall, cementing his status as a kingmaker in Southern hip-hop. Today, he’s keeping classics alive with digital platforms like *Klassic Joints* and *Super Throwback Party*, giving fans nonstop access to hip-hop and R&B’s golden eras. Few in the game balance credibility and creativity like he does.
But Hatta’s real flex? **Giving back.** His Madd Hatta Cares Foundation has given out thousands of dollars to college students, dressed kids for success with back-to-school backpack giveaways, and brought joy with holiday giveaways. Now, he’s aiming bigger—expanding into education programs to help the next generation rise. In a business built on ego, Hatta’s legacy is about impact: using his mic, his music, and his platform to lift up his city.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My mother taught me the true meaning of hard work through her actions, not just her words. She showed me that discipline, perseverance, and consistency are the keys to building anything worthwhile. Watching her sacrifice and push forward, no matter the obstacles, instilled in me a drive to never give up. Her example is the foundation of my work ethic and everything I’ve achieved today.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I’ve learned that no matter how tough life gets, giving up is never an option. Even in the most frustrating moments, I push through the battles and hardships, knowing they’re shaping me into something stronger. Every setback becomes fuel, every challenge a lesson, and every struggle proof that perseverance always pays off. My story is built on resilience, not retreat.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would likely say that what matters most to me is family, faith, community, and legacy. They’d point out how much pride I take in being a Father, how you never stop grinding for your loved ones, and how giving back through your foundation is just as important to you as success in music or radio. They’d also say I value loyalty—keeping my circle tight, lifting up those around me, and making sure the people I care about know they matter.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What pain do you resist facing directly?
The pain I resist facing every day is the weight of always having to be strong—providing, creating, and giving even when I feel drained myself. I don’t often stop to think about the toll it takes, because slowing down feels like falling behind. Deep down, I know I carry the cost of all those battles, but I keep pushing forward because that’s the only way I know.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://themaddhatta.com
- Instagram: @therealmaddhatta
- Linkedin: Madd Hatta
- Twitter: darealmaddhatta
- Facebook: Madd Hatta
- Youtube: The Madd Hatta Show
