Kid Sensation (Xola Malik) Talks Hip-Hop, Legacy & Giving Back – Black History Month Spotlight – Interview

This Black History Month, Pump It Up Magazine celebrates hip-hop legend Kid Sensation (Xola Malik)—a rapper, actor, and community leader who’s been making waves since his days with Sir Mix-A-Lot. With a career spanning music, film, and motivational speaking, Kid Sensation continues to inspire the next generation. In this exclusive interview, he reflects on his journey, the impact of Black culture in hip-hop, and his mission to uplift and empower.

Read on for an exclusive conversation with Kid Sensation!

Pump It Up Magazine:

You got your start in hip-hop at just 14, discovered by Sir Mix-A-Lot. That’s legendary! What was it like stepping into the game so young?

Kid Sensation: crazy, exciting and scary at the same time. Hanging around Sir Mix A lot, I wanted to be part of the music in any way I could, whether it was beatboxing, back up dancing, deejaying and eventually emceeing – my first time going on the road with him at 14 I got to meet some of the artists I looked up to

Pump It Up Magazine:

Hip-hop has always been a powerful voice for Black culture. What does Black History Month mean to you personally?

Kid Sensation:

It is a month that the accomplishments of African Americans is recognized in this country. So much of our history has been left out of school curriculums, downplayed, minimized and sometimes intentionally altered. Every race has its sense of identity built from its history and Black History should be no different. The history of America should be told in its entirety, good, bad and ugly. No guilt, no shame, just honesty. It gives ALL of us the insight to know the real stories of where we’ve come from, why we are where we are now and where we’re headed in the future.

Pump It Up Magazine:

Your music has that classic hip-hop feel—real storytelling, deep beats, and no profanity. Why was that important for you?

Kid Sensation:

Honestly, those are the roots of hip hop – the “why” behind the music. It was the only music that spoke to a nation of people wanting to express every emotion: joy, pain, love, struggle, hope and more. It was the soundtrack to our lives, and many of us miss the music or weren’t exposed to much of it. I want to circle back to that sound while staying lyrically sharp and up to date. Leaving the profanity behind was a no brainier. I want everyone 8 to 80 to enjoy the music, just turn it on and vibe out with no worries to who is listening.

Pump It Up Magazine:

You’ve worked with some major names—Sir Mix-A-Lot, Ken Griffey Jr., Wanz. Any favorite memories from those collaborations?

Kid Sensation:

Well, you know all athletes want to be rappers and all rappers want to be athletes? Griff and I were one of the earliest hip hop/sports collabs so that was dope. Mix was a dream come true because I got to live out the dream of my big bro while pushing toward mine. And Wanz? Come on, who wouldn’t be excited to work with the voice that made “Thrift Shop” a smash… plus he’s a genuinely cool dude

Pump It Up Magazine:

Your latest song, “Westsyde,” gives a nod to hip-hop legends. What inspired it, and what do you hope people feel when they hear it?

I’m such a big fan of Westcoast hip hop, and all of the artists I mentioned (among so many others) inspired me to get into the music and become the recording artist I am today. It’s really a reflection of the Leftcoast sound that many of us miss and love

Kid Sensation:

Pump It Up Magazine:

Beyond music, you’re an actor, speaker, and community leader. What keeps you motivated to give back?

Kid Sensation:

Acting was a new challenge for me. Commercials, like the Discover ad, were straightforward and simple. But movies were a whole different experience. Being on set with talented people like Aubrey Plaza and Kristen Bell, expected to be in character, hit your mark, and deliver lines – it can definitely be overwhelming. But they were both so kind and professional, which made Safety Not Guaranteed such an amazing movie.

The reason I wrote my book, speak to youth, and stay active in my community is because God has blessed me with a gift. I’m truly honored to use it as a way to provide young people with an example I didn’t have when I was growing up.

Pump It Up Magazine:

For young Black artists trying to break into music today, what’s one piece of advice you wish someone gave you?

Kid Sensation:

I wish someone told me early to stay true to myself and my gift. Rather than emulate what I saw and heard, the authentic version of me and my story is interesting and marketable. The road is long and rough at times, but staying focused, learning, and pushing is key. Stay around people who believe, support and keep it a buck. Don’t rush success; take time to grow, experiment, and develop your unique voice. Most importantly, remember that your story matters – use it to inspire and connect, and trust the God given purpose deep inside you.

Pump It Up Magazine:

What’s next for you? Any new music or projects we should be looking out for?

Kid Sensation: The newly released book and soundtrack: “Kings – Young Men Discovering Purpose and Shaping Their Destiny” – Kings Round Table Discussion Events with Youth – “Still That Dude” Tour Dates. Upcoming 35th Anniversary hit/remix release, more television, movies and speaking events –