Primo – Down For My Crown (1995)

Primo – Down For My Crown (1995)

Released in the summer of 1995, Down For My Crown marks a key moment in Memphis rap’s shifting underground landscape. Fully produced by DJ Zirk, the tape arrives after the split between Zirk and DJ Squeeky’s camp, signaling a new creative direction for Zirk as he began consolidating his own circle of artists. By this point, DJ Zirk was building momentum with a growing roster that included Primo, Tinimaine, Buckshot, Lil Kaine, Insane, Red Boss, Don Trigga, and others. Many of whom appear throughout this tape. The production leans into Zirk’s signature mid-90s sound: gritty drums and dark melodic loops Lyrically, Down For My Crown centers on loyalty, reputation, and survival in Memphis’ hyper-competitive rap scene. Tracks like “Jump Like You Want Some” and “Play Them Games With Yo Bitch” set an aggressive tone early, while posse-heavy cuts such as “Staying Paid” and the “Dedications” reinforce the tight-knit nature of Zirk’s post-split camp. “Killas From The Mound” stands out as a neighborhood anthem rooted in Orange Mound identity, a recurring theme in DJ Zirk’s catalog. While not as widely discussed as some contemporaneous releases, Down For My Crown captures DJ Zirk in a transitional yet confident phase. Solidifying his independence and helping define the sound of a new wave of Memphis underground artists during one of the city’s most volatile eras.

Tracklist:

1. Jump Like You Want Some

2. Anna Interlude

3. Lil Kaine, Buckshot, Killa Murphy – 9 To Ya Dome

4. Play Them Games With Yo Bitch

5. Don Trigga, Lil Stick Up, Red Boss, Tinimaine – Staying Paid

6. It’s on Now

7. Don Trigga, Lil Kaine – Ten Toes Down

8. Tinimaine, DJ Zirk – Killas From The Mound

9. DJ Zirk, Tinimaine, Lil Kaine, Big Pimp, Insane, Lil Grove – Dedications

https://untitled.stream/library/track/rcfugcY38Hp1RjhuKQbLh