The new reign of Belly Gang in Old Atlanta
When you talk to Belly Gang Kushington, the sense of place is undeniable. Even over a simple Zoom call, and despite being from the area himself, it is clear that he has a deep, inherent connection to Atlanta. He embodies a certain spirit that feels uniquely rooted in the city, a blend of history and swagger.
His voice itself tells a story. With a husky baritone and an Adamsville drawl, his sound carries a texture reminiscent of molasses and tobacco, giving him an authentic, seasoned quality.
Beyond his musical contributions, Kushington’s family history is woven into the fabric of this Atlanta identity. He speaks fondly of his family, particularly his ghetto fabulous great-auntie, a figure who was instrumental in the household, known for her love of reading the Bible and cooking delicious chicken for the church pastor and the wider neighborhood.
This sense of heritage continues through his family lines. He fondly recalls his cousin, whom he affectionately calls his mama, recounting memories of her participation in the cultural scene, including attending Freaknik.
The connection between Kushington and the city’s musical evolution is equally compelling. When discussing the rise of Atlanta’s sound, he points to a pivotal moment in history. He recalls feeling immense pride when Jermaine Dupri and Ludacris released the iconic track, “Welcome To Atlanta.”
In fact, Kushington claims to have been right there for that cultural moment, noting that he was actually on the set of the video shoot. He specifically remembers the scene where Luda and JD were partying at 112, with his cousin, his mama, also present in the footage. It’s a reminder that the pulse of Atlanta’s history runs right through the lives of its residents.
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