The Ying Yang Twins | Defining Success as a Music Artist

An Exclusive Dance Mogul Magazine Interview

Originally Published: November 23, 2014  |  Updated: May 2026

The Ying Yang Twins — Kaine (Eric Jackson) and D-Roc (De'Angelo Holmes) — are one of the most iconic duos in Southern hip-hop history. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, they became architects of the crunk movement alongside Lil Jon, delivering era-defining anthems like "Salt Shaker," "Wait (The Whisper Song)," and "Get Low." In this exclusive interview with Dance Mogul Magazine, they share the story behind the grind, the spirit of the South, and what success truly means.

The Interview

Dance Mogul: Before your record deal, how long were you guys pounding the pavement and what were some of the hardships you encountered?

Kaine: Before the record deal we encountered all different types of hardships. We had a lot of jobs. We were trying to survive as two young black teens in society when we first started. We were only 18 years old. We became the Ying Yang Twins in 1998. For three years we promoted the Ying Yang Twins. We came out with the song "Whistle While You Twurk." We started out as a group with DJ Smurf who is now known as Mr. Collipark. D-Roc and DJ kind of put it together and they brought me into it. We went on DJ Smurf's label and then they brought me into it and the rest is history.

D-Roc: Some of my hardships that I experienced were summed up in a simple word called patience. They used to say to me, be patient — everything is going to work out. I got tired of hearing that because I wanted my success now. (D-Roc laughed)

Dance Mogul: What is it about the South, that they understand supporting their local artists and businesses to the max?

Kaine: I think the thing about the South and the local artists is all about the artist having ambition and the will and drive to want to do it. Not for nothing — I think all that stuff plays a part by Dr. King because he was a very influential person. I think the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King in Atlanta plays a part, being that he was from the Fourth Ward. He was the Mecca of the South, and all you have to do is have the willpower to just do it and not quit.

D-Roc: Yeah, the South is different because we all get along, but up North it is a totally different environment. The South loves each other, therefore we support one another.

Dance Mogul: In what ways have you guys used your influence to uplift your community?

Kaine: I think it is how the Ying Yang Twins are realistic that has always uplifted the community. It doesn't matter where we go, whether it is in the ghetto or the suburbs. We have been blessed enough not to have problems, whereas a lot of other artists had problems. The Ying Yang Twins do not pin their noses down at anyone. Everyone is someone to us. What you see is what you get with the Ying Yang Twins, and that is why I think people love us so much.

D-Roc: I would have to say the South again, because we help one another.

Dance Mogul: Society has many perceptions when it comes to success. How do you two define success as artists?

Kaine: I define success as an artist as simple as this — it is keeping it real with yourself and speaking from the heart. That is how I define success. People are not perfect, but some of this music motivates people beyond their wildest imaginations and dreams.

D-Roc: Success is overrated, because once you get a taste of the American pie, you will find out that it is ugly and your life is no longer your own.

Dance Mogul: What advice do you have for the next generation of artists?

Kaine: Whatever challenges you have, you should always be true and honest to yourself. Never let anyone tell you that you can't do something. All you have to do is try it and you will succeed.

D-Roc: Well, if you love it, keep doing it, because whatever you want will come to you if you are focused on it.

Dance Mogul: Are you currently working on any projects?

Kaine: Yes, I will be launching my new school called E&E Learning in Lake City / Morrow, Georgia. I want to give back to troubled kids and help them reach their goals in life — to let them know they have still got a shot at life. I hope I can get others to support me with this great cause. The Ying Yang Twins will be coming out with new music. We are working with Diamond Producer Red Spyda.

D-Roc: Yes, we are working on good music.

Dance Mogul: Is there anyone you would like to thank that has been instrumental to your success?

Kaine: I have to thank my brother D-Roc and Mr. Collipark for bringing the Ying Yang Twins to the forefront, and our fans for making us who we are today. I would also like to thank our publicist Yolanda McIntosh from MizMacMarketing LLC and our manager David Malone.

D-Roc: Well, I want to thank Kaine, because we would not be where we are if it was not for him.

Where Are They Now — 2026 Update

More than a decade after this interview, the Ying Yang Twins remain a powerhouse on the live circuit. The Atlanta duo continues to tour extensively across the United States, bringing their high-energy performances to festivals, state fairs, casinos, and concert venues coast to coast. In 2025 alone, the duo performed over 40 dates, and their 2026 schedule features more than a dozen confirmed shows — including slots alongside E-40, Too $hort, Mike Jones, Paul Wall, and Lil Jon.

Their anthems remain timeless staples of Southern hip-hop culture. Tracks like "Salt Shaker," "Wait (The Whisper Song)," and "Whistle While You Twurk" continue to energize audiences, proving that the crunk era's influence has never faded. Fan reviews from recent shows consistently praise the duo's infectious stage presence and ability to turn any venue into a party.

The Ying Yang Twins' longevity is a testament to exactly what they described in this interview — keeping it real, staying focused, and never quitting. From the Fourth Ward spirit Kaine referenced to D-Roc's hard-earned patience, their journey continues to inspire artists and fans across the global dance and music community.

Legacy at a Glance