When you think of Bun B, you likely picture him as one-half of the legendary rap duo UGK, a pioneer of Southern hip-hop with a career spanning over three decades. But these days, the Houston native is making waves in an entirely different industry: food. His latest venture, Trill Burgers, has captured the attention of food enthusiasts and music fans alike. Recently, Bun B sat down with Remixd Magazine (via virtual interview) to discuss his innovative partnership with Levi’s, being inspired by E-40, scaling Trill Burgers to other cities, and how his music career has seamlessly transitioned into a passion for food.
“People assume rappers don’t know,” Bun B told Remixd Magazine regarding how he handles the business aspect of managing a new business. “And now, we realizing that thats not the case. We know exactly what we bring to the table. Many of us are very well funded. We know that other people are watching. We know we can break down some barriers.”
Bun B discusses trend of artists transitioning to other ventures
Moreover, Bun B acknowledged that there’s a growing trend of artists using their music careers to fuel other ventures, from fashion lines to food businesses. We asked him what does he think drives this trend, and how he sees it evolving in the future.
“As recording artists become more business minded and educated on equity, we become aware of what our cultural equity is worth,” Bun B said. “We’re used to promoting everyone else’s products. Now we are realizing that if we can help other business, we can help our own businesses… without having to compromise culturally.”
Several artists in the space have also taken advantage of expanding to other ventures. E-40, for example, went into liquor and spirits industry and decided to capitalize off his iconic brand.
“E-40 has been always a good friend of mine,” Bun B continued. “He’s self-owned. Always been. Transitioned into other businesses and found different ways to invest his money and earnings. He’s a Northern California franchiser of a Fat Burger. He can handle his liquor and instead of promoting others liquor, he promotes himself.”
Bun B on his plans to scale Trill Burgers
As far as plans to expand in the future, Bun B of course wants the world to experience Trill Burgers. “We don’t want to scale too quickly, it’s a balance,” he said. “We want to open more brick-and-motors in Houston, and expand in Texas overall. In the next couple of years we’re planning to open 8-12 more stores. Over time. We’d love to continue the national momentum and energy.”
One way that Bun B is expanding is through collaborations with brands. Recently, he announced a partnership with iconic brand Levi’s. Together, they want to bring something special to the community.
“Levi’s is an iconic brand that’s been part of the culture for as long as I can remember,” Bun B said. “Levi’s has always been part of western lifestyle. When the opportunity came to partner with them for Trill Burgers, it felt like a natural fit. We’re both about authenticity, quality, and staying true to our roots.”
The partnership between Trill Burgers and Levi’s is built on the foundation of these shared values. Levi’s has a long-standing history of supporting cultural movements, and Bun B’s new venture represents a natural extension of this legacy.
From the Studio to the Kitchen
Bun B’s transition from music to the food industry may seem surprising to some, but for him, it’s a natural evolution. “Music has always been about connecting with people, and food is no different,” he explained during the interview. “When you think about it, both are about bringing people together, creating memories, and sharing something that’s meaningful.”
“We’re here to serve people,” Bun B told Remixd Magazine. “Music is a product. The burger operates in the same place. With us, now it’s like we’re making songs every 15 seconds on the grill.”
The legendary rapper credits his music career with giving him the skills needed to succeed in the culinary world. “The hustle, the grind, the creativity—it all translates. In the music industry, you have to be innovative and resilient, and those are the same qualities that drive Trill Burgers,” Bun B said.
More on transitioning to the food industry
While Bun B’s primary focus has shifted from beats to burgers, his commitment to his community remains the same. “Houston has always supported me, and I want to give back in a way that’s meaningful,” he shared. “Trill Burgers and this partnership with Levi’s is my way of contributing to the culture that’s given me so much.”
The response to Trill Burgers has been overwhelmingly positive, with the venture gaining traction not just in Houston but across the country. Bun B is quick to note that this success wouldn’t have been possible without the support of his fans and community.
