Local Artist Joey Hopper’s Hope For Harmony

By: Brink Young

September 11th, 2024

Rapper Joey Hopper

Legendary Rapper 8ball & Joey Hopper

Joey Hopper & DJ Paul of Three 6 Mafia

In the heart of Memphis, a city known for its rich musical history and vibrant cultural heritage, a young man named Joey Hopper is making waves. At first glance, Joey may not seem like the stereotypical rapper—he’s a soft-spoken, white 23-year-old from the suburbs. But don’t let appearances fool you. With a mic in his hand and a message in his heart, Joey Hopper is on a mission: to use his music to heal the city he loves.

Joey Hopper in the studio listening to playback

Memphis Roots, Hip-Hop Dreams

Growing up in Memphis, Joey was surrounded by the sounds of the city. From the soulful rhythms of Beale Street to the hard-hitting beats of Southern hip-hop, music was always in the air.  But for Joey, it wasn’t just about the beats and the rhymes.  It was about what the music could do.  Music is known to bring people together, tell stories, and most importantly, inspire change.  Joey saw the divisions in the city, the violence, the tension and wanted to find a way to make a difference.  He wasn’t interested in rapping about flashy cars or money. Instead, his lyrics tackled deeper issues like love, poverty, and the need for peace. His goal? To give a voice to those who felt voiceless and to create a platform for healing and unity.

In the rap world, Joey’s identity stands out.  He's a young white rapper from Memphis with an image that could easily be dismissed.  But Joey doesn’t shy away from the challenges that come with it.  Instead, he embraces them.  He understands people don’t expect him to be a rapper, let alone one that talks about peace and social justice.  But that’s the beauty of hip-hop, it’s about expression, no matter who you are or where you come from.  Joey credits Memphis rap legends like Three 6 Mafia and Young Dolph for paving the way, but his sound is uniquely his own.  His beats are smooth, influenced by underground rap & Memphis soul.  While his lyrics are sharply laced with messages of reconciliation and hope, Joey wants to redefine what it means to be a rapper in today’s world.  Hopper wants to prove that the often negatively criticized genre can be a powerful tool for change, regardless of the artist’s background.

Joey Hopper & Tommy Wright III

I first met Joey in 2020 during the first quarter of the pandemic.  At the time, he was a senior in high school and had aspirations for music & film.  During our first BrinkTV Interview, a nervous 18 year old Joey continued to express his gratitude to me.  Joey considered me a 'Memphis legend' and was honored to be working with me.  I humbly thanked him and even met his mother moments after the interview. Mrs. Hopper double down on the appreciation.  “He watches all your shows on YouTube since we don’t have Comcast” Mrs. Hopper exclaimed while smiling.  I smiled and thanked her as well. You see up until that point, I’d never experienced that much genuine support for my platform from another race.  Memphis is oftentimes a culturally divided city.  Many people tend to mostly like & prefer their own culture’s content & content creators.  Even in the year 2024, there are still many barriers to be broken with race relations in the mid-south.  Perhaps Joey Hopper may be an antidote of sorts.  He spends alot of time at events around town meeting other artists and performing his music. Whenever I see Joey he's always smiling and networks like his life depends on it.  Joey has linked with some of Memphis’ biggest & most legendary rappers, producers, & Dj’s over the last 4 years. I am amazed at his ability to innocently navigate through this industry and being welcomed by some of Memphis' Greats. Tommy Wright III considers Joey Hopper his homie. I have even seen Joey in photos with Playa Fly & DJ Paul which is an incredbile accomplisment that I have yet to fulfill. It doesn't take long to recognize Joey's genuine nature. He's a good kid who wants to see a better Memphis.

Joey Hopper & Brink Young (May 2020)

At the core of Joey’s mission is his belief in the power of music to inspire peace.  His latest single, “Better” featuring LilDezzyX is an anthem for Memphis, calling on the community to come together and rise above violence.  With thought piercing lines: “Getting these guns under control, that should be our number one goal” Joey remains adamant to see a safer Memphis.

In a time where so many are divided, Joey Hopper’s voice is a refreshing call for unity. He’s not just an aspiring rapper—he’s an artist with a mission, using his platform to make a real difference in the city he calls home. With every beat and every lyric, Joey Hopper is proving that peace is possible, and that Memphis, a city built on music, can once again find harmony through song.

Playa Fly & Joey Hopper