I just wanted to say it was a pleasure being on the seat of you for the second time it was such an amazing experience again, and I hope I have shared some experience strengthen hope and I can help some people I wasn’t in any way trying to rationalize are justify what we do in gangs I was just giving you a better picture and letting you know that we don’t intend to harm civilians. It’s unfortunate that happens and I am sorry for that.
Matt, you are an amazing person, I cannot imagine what you have been through, and to come out on the other side is very inspirational. I look forward to hearing more from you on this channel in the future!
4 months clean from heroin next week. Thank you so much Mark. Your videos have affected my life in a major way. I truly believe everything happens for a reason. I'm now back in Dallas after watching your video on Zach the recovering fentanyl addict. It gave me the motivation to leave San Francisco and come take care of a felony warrant. I have court march 30. Maybe one day I'll get to tell my story on SWU. That would be a dream come true for me. Life is so much more beautiful these days. Thank you again Mark (and Zach). Mohawk matt and lonely are two of the best interviewees on SWU thank y'all for sharing your experiences. And being so transparent and vulnerable. Rooting for y'all!!
I watched my best friend die from a shooting. I was only 12 years old. The shooter was a grown man... I remember everything. The sounds of him gasping for air and the blood gurgling inside his mouth. The blood was black because it hit his liver. I remember the smell. A metallic taste in the back of my throat like iron. His eyes rolling around while he fought to stay conscious.Its been over 30 years and it still sits vividly in my mind. It still haunts me..His name was Daniel..
Wow that's traumatic! Thank You for sharing your best friends story. Rest in Love Daniel. And you are still his best friend until now just by sharing what happened. I send Love, Healing and Peace.
I am so sorry that happened to you and your friend. That is definitely a trauma that will stay with you. I hope you’ve found peace and comfort and continue to do so
you may say that gang members do not target innocent people, but through your gang's violent actions innocent people are indirectly hurt and left to feel unsafe in their neighborhoods. This is not to be glorified in anyway
I agree about the indirect consequences impacting innocent people. Even though he claims gangs only kill “gang” members, it’s still murder in the logical sense, so the attempt to justify murder is illogical in every sense.
100% agree. He and most criminals think that, just because they stopped doing crime and hurting people and maybe did some time behind bars that they have "paid their debt to society" and are now good to go. They are wrong. Until they've compensated and made whole all the people they damaged, they are still in those people's and society's debt. Not doing crime and not hurting and damaging people is the absolute minimum responsibility every person has toward every other person and the majority of people more or less meet that standard most of the time. Celebrating someone because they've finally decided that the rules DO in fact, apply to them and start doing the barest minimum of social responsibility is bizarre.
I’m not justifying the murder and you are correct. I was simply trying to change some perspective because society does think that we purposely target in a sense we don’t there’s nothing right about gang behavior. It’s just what we have grown up with and dealt with so please forgive me I was not intended to rationalize or justify it. I was just giving you a reason of what happens and let you know that we purposely don’t intend on hurting innocent people but you’re right a lot of innocent people do get hurt in the process, so please forgive me
I can so relate to Matt, these interviews are so good. I started graffiti at 13 (In Australia) Led a life of addiction and crime, spent 16 years 6 months in prison, am covered in tattoos, am 5 and a half years clean and sober at 49, its uncanny.
We've heard some gruesome stories on SWU , but the details of that shooting and crash were, for me, up there with the most intense I've heard. I could literally see everything he described. Eloquent telling of a horrific tale.
Trust me, it was just as hard to relive and go through. Once again I had to go through all that pain and all that hurt for the child for his family for my friends. Thank you for even listening.
Such a rare thing to see someone who once lived such a violent, destructive life come out on the other side. He has so much potential, one being an influencer to younger troubled kids. I hope he puts his passion and empathy into that one day. P.S. To his estranged son, please understand that your dad grew up in a different environment than you, that he had to play the cards that were dealt to him to survive. He has changed for the better, give him a chance, I am sure you won't regret it.
I appreciate Matt, his honesty on gang, prison life & sobriety! I pray that he can connect & get a gig to be help trouble youth & adults. Life is a better place sharing the truth & having light to our troubled dark pasts. Hug 🤗 one of my top favorites, Mark. Bring him back on his next chapter of life. Can’t wait to hear about it.
@@matthewcammarano5357 here is a movie that was made of a gang leaders story. You can also find many videos on RUclips of him telling how his life was dramatically changed. ruclips.net/video/fWA5BNIz7dM/видео.html
Im 43 and I still haven't grabbed life by the balls, I have respect for men who have experienced the grisly side of life, on their terms, and still participate every day in society and life and can even share their experiences with folks that may have played it too safe and want to tap in to that edge, who may need to break out of their shell. Matt's one of my favorite guests, I'm glad to hear from you again man and that you are doing well.
Sometimes grabbing live by the balls means just not doing what the world is doing, and putting you in danger for not doing it also. I had a friend die young, with this similar lifestyle (left behind a kid), and I think of him now and then, how he was wrong for doing all the things he did, but at least he did what he wanted to do. IDK, maybe I'm wrong; What is a REAL Man is still mysterious to me.
I don't know every man with some ego has undergone some form of grabbing life by the balls, Damu and piru family was what I was around, and some crip nd some fds...and native gangs...they all told me I could do better and not join....I find most all gang members and men who feel they lack rough or contact dangerous life...just miss working with their hands, or aurvivalskill familiarity...but mainly, mainly they lack initiation even better these one lack....sacred ritual....if you are seeking more completion I am also 43 ....remember how you stood out in some way for someone. Or seek initiation like tribally or indigenous participation before gangs there was always tribals
I’m so glad you did a follow up with Matt. He has story that’s similar to mine. He replied to my Instagram msg when I asked him for some advice. He’s brutally honest and I love it.
Matt, we are the same age. Have similar experiences, and we are 2000 miles away from one another. I still struggle with addiction at times, but I have the tools, knowledge, and desire to be the best person for me and my family. You are dead on when you say that one has to seek out the change and want it. No one is going to do it for you. Stay solid. D.
Keep trying! I’ve been off the 💩 for 5 years now. It’s doable! Reading about the neuroscience of addiction helped me understand how it affects the brain and how the brain heals from it, with abstinence. A good easy read that is packed with information is, “Understanding Addiction: Know Science, No Stigma.” (Drs. Smith & Hunt). Once I got the facts, it helped more than all the dogma. Knowledge is power! Much love to you ❤️🩹.
Thank you so much Mohawk Matt! Your interviews are so eye opening ( I watched the first one too) and I feel like I walked away with so much wisdom after listening to you. I hope this interview gets around so that it prevents people from joining gangs. I am so glad you have made it as far as you have and I thank the creator for saving you and for you saving yourself.
@@mihe6212 how do you figure? Do you know Matt? It would be a real shame if he did. He seems so genuine in trying to keep his life moving forward in a positive direction
This dude real. U can here it in how he speaks. A man of struggle and he’s still standing 💯 wish you the best brotha you inspire everyone to stand strong
Grew up as a street bomber myself in early 90’s in Oakland,shit was rough back then ,can definitely relate to Matt,great interview best wishes brutha, Shout out to the crews 640,bsk,tmp,tdk,hs and many more……..
Wow Matt , It's a privilege to watch you speaking from your heart and how far you have come.. Your an inspiration man and you seem to be a very humble being.. Life is a challenge and you give HOPE to the brothers that are still stuck in the trap.. Thank you for being YOU ! Much love from New Zealand 🇳🇿
Matt is the epitome of what it takes to live THE lifestyle that’s given to you. Taking it on and living it in the moment and then taking a step back once you’re old enough to do what it takes to be the best part of society and your children and family! My life is similar but not quite as hardcore as his. I’ve got all the love in the world for him and wish him all the best that the universe and god gives him ❤
I totally understand what you are saying. Not only for gang members but for addicts you have to change everything if you want to succeed in recovery you have to change almost every aspect of your life. I wast in a gang but I have been sober for 6 or 7 years now and I want to tell all addicts it is possible but you have to want it. I see Matt has done the same thing. Great message brother and I really think you will get back in touch with your son. If all of us see your change he definitely will. Just keep your head up.
It’s awesome that this guy turned his life around and Is doing such great things. One thing that he said stuck with me. He said when they were teenagers they were out destroying the SFV all night by tagging up the Valley. He doesn’t realize how they were ruining people’s businesses, walls and streets 🤦🏻♀️ Yes tagging has changed and come a long way in a positive manner but it doesn’t take away the fact that some people were impacted negatively in the 90s. Just wish people would realize it’s not always “cool” doing these type of things for your own satisfaction. Stay blessed and keep reaching for the stars 👍🏼
I agree with you sometimes I do tend glorifying, rationalized something that made me feel good, but you’re right it was a lot of damage done to cities in buildings that we don’t necessarily take accountability for and unfortunately it said, and again I apologize for missing that. I hope I didn’t figure you were causing negative feelings.
@@dickmonddickelheimer9452 well maybe so.. but I highly doubt the bro is walking around LA that identifiable and getting away with talking shit about the gangs?
He would be an amazing, drug counselor and/or mentor to troubled youth with a high likelihood of joining gangs. He's been through it all & came out the other side alive to THRIVE!! very inspiring ❤
I grew up in Granada Hills, not too far from Kennedy HS. It’s insane to hear you speak of your gang life in my childhood neighborhood. I’m so glad you turned it around, Matt.
Thank you so much I spent my childhood going to homes junior high. I want to Granada hills high school I was involved in a prominent graffiti crew that evolved industry games throughout the cities of Mission Hills in Sun Valley.
Thank you Matt for helping us regular folk understand life as a gang member and how different it is to so many. Hopefully there are some kids out there that watch your interviews and realise that gang life is glorified and not a path they want to follow.
It’s amazing how so many of these interviews are so painful but give me so much comfort thru so many different people. Thank you Mark and the SWU community ❤🙏🪷
Matt, I appreciate your candor and willingness to expose yourself to the general population that see and hear what they want to see and hear. I have been exposed to a tiny fraction of the life you’ve lead. It’s a hard life to leave, but I truly feel that through your work with others that you are trying to amend what you can. We all have histories of destructiveness, and some more that others. Here’s a cliche’ for you, but true. Hurt people speak and act from a place of having been hurt. Your audience might be understandably hostile. But, please continue to share your message of experience, strength and hope with willing ears. Not every day will be good, not every comment will be positive or understanding, but with your perseverance and continuation of turning your life around, you have gifts to share; so please continue to do so. Stay on course with turning you life around: stay true, stay real, stay nice. I wish you peace and redemption. PS…Love the finger flipping Johnny Cash 🎸
Graffiti was what I love you more than anything that was a genuine smile that I still have whenever I talk about graffiti brother. Thank you for being a part of this.
Matt would be highly sought after as a drug counselor. They ALWAYS perfer some1 who has lived it & this guys testimony is fn AWESOME! He would give hope to so many who struggle with NOT having any HOPE ❤
@BJC398 No, most don't. Most people who are victims of gang violence are involved in the streets in someway. Central America gangs are a different story. Third world savages
Providing programs, clubs, workshops, sports teams, etc for children and youth to spend time and feel a part of something. A positive space to safely go through growing pains together. This is the solution to diminishing gangs. Be involved in the life of your youth family members. Reach out and reassure them that their voices matter.
So true! I volunteered with kids a lot throughout my life, until I had a relapse and got in some legal trouble. A lot of people with a record can’t volunteer with kids, and they don’t have any predatory charges. This society doesn’t let people who have had the street experience and could really influence kids to stay out of it to do so. I have stayed active by helping adults leaving the streets and the CJS system find their interests. Now other people in recovery are my “kids.” People need help throughout the lifespan but I agree…with kids, you have a powerful opportunity to keep them from the streets and drugs, to begin with.
If you watch his first interview, this guy had all of that. He came from a good family with some money & anything he needed. All of what he did or got caught up in was by choice.
I'm from Matts area [ Van Nuys ]. When I lived in California, I've seen him a few times around the rooms. I didn't really have a in depth conversation with him but I've had some small conversations with him. Good to hear he's still doing well.
SHOUT OUT TO MARK & THE SOFT WHITE UNDERBELLY CREW FOR SHOWING US VIEWERS DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES OF DIFFERENT LIVES THAT WE DON'T GET TO OBSERVE EVERYDAY! EVERYONE HAS A UNIQUE STORY IN THIS WORLD & NOBODY HAS THE RIGHT TO JUDGE THE NEXT! HOPE EVERYONE IS SAFE IN THIS WORLD & MAKES A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR OR SOMEONE ELSE'S LIFE! 😇
I've enjoyed Matt's interviews very much. He is very accurate with this accounts of tag banging in the valley. I grew up in the valley during that same era. I feel like we could have crossed paths but it's good to see he made it out, not much can be said for very many of us.
I wonder who you are we might’ve cross paths I was very very prominent, and in the graffiti scene from LA through the valley I made it out and I had to get clean and sober and change almost everything but I still keep graffiti clothes in my heart, get me on Instagram
Love love love this guy, and he’s an April baby like myself. We are very hard headed in bad ways but, when we change it sticks because we are so hard headed and we’ve made up our minds. Shout out to my April Tribe!!!
So many taggers remain unrepentant when it comes to the vandalism. My best friend is 40 years old and keeps quiet when I mention that part. I know he gets uncomfortable when I (rarely) bring that up. Not that I was innocent. I banged hard in the 90s. So happy I learned from my mistakes and that G_D saved me from myself.
Matt it’s so true !!! your statement about cycles i’m 51 dabbled in selling class As in the early 90s-93/4/avoided a 5/6 year term with 75% thank F…..K butpretty much everything IE music !!,fashion/sports gear + i’m from the crossover generation IE born 71 so no cell phones as you call them (i’m from 🏴) no internet/no social media !!!!😳 etc etc,i’m so glad i’m not a kid today because they don’t know how to play outside (woods/park) all they know is media pressure 😢 and it’s here to stay and get worse IMO,good interview 👍
Mohawk Matt is an amazing dude. I wish he could drop some of the graff crew names and writer's words from back them. I could listen to hours of bombing stories from LA - to be an active writer in greater LA is reaching the highest, most dangerous level, with all due respect to NYC. Any kids reading this: ASSUME ALL STREET DRUGS ARE LETHAL. Fentanyl has taken out so many legends from every underground creative culture you can think of. DON'T BE NEXT. That last sentence was unintended - IYKYK. Hope to see Matt on here again. Stellar YT channel
This guy used to go to my old work place California Tattoo get Sullen shirts before he got sponsored by them.He’s energy is felt when he would walk in.Who knew we are same age and went through almost the same childhood graffiti in the 90’s was no joke.
I was born in Southern Ca. My dad wanted to be a firefighter and stay in CA after he got out of the Air Force. My mom told him “fine, you stay here I’m going back home and taking the baby (me)”. Needless to say we all 3 left as a family and went back to the South East & he came a NCHSP. I wonder how my life would have turned out? ☮️
Matt is a genuinely good guy who has without a doubt learned from his past mistakes. He has a great life ahead of him. Hopefully he can connect with a few of the youth and get them to take the road less traveled.
LOVEEE MATT!!! TY Mark for another interview with him. He is awesome. His testimony is inspirational. Never lay down & give up... Keep good ENERGY ❤ Id love to hang with this guy
I was a writer (tagger) in NYC in the 90’s / early 2000’s. I still do some marker bombin, but I’m glad NYC graffiti crews never got pressed into gangbangin, but in them days NYC didn’t have Bloods and crips and LA type gangs. Even though them LA gangs are here now NYC graffiti crews, although a dying breed, are still not part of them. There may be certain graffiti writers that are Blood or crip members, the graffiti crews themselves got nothing to do with it.
What do you gain out of lying? The worst part is that you don’t even know you’re lying to yourself. You lack empathy but your ego wants to prove you have some. Lying to people like this is not going to help them it just pisses them off because no he’s older and life needs to be chill at this point
Wise man. Insightful, has street smarts and common sense. That doesn’t mean a person can’t be or isn’t immature, high emotions, unbalanced, ignorant and foolish. Yet, Matt is learning… and that’s all that matters (per the convo of the segment).
Can also relate to the passion of graffiti! Also I am 3 year clean and sober ! And relate to having been in the darkest pit of hell to get where im at today ! Thanks once again
I just wanted to say it was a pleasure being on the seat of you for the second time it was such an amazing experience again, and I hope I have shared some experience strengthen hope and I can help some people I wasn’t in any way trying to rationalize are justify what we do in gangs I was just giving you a better picture and letting you know that we don’t intend to harm civilians. It’s unfortunate that happens and I am sorry for that.
You are beautiful! Thank you for sharing your story with us ❤️💯
You're a good man and thanks for sharing your story.
thank you for sharing your story, Matt. You really do give off such good vibes, wish you only the best!
Matt, you are an amazing person, I cannot imagine what you have been through, and to come out on the other side is very inspirational. I look forward to hearing more from you on this channel in the future!
It was great to here your story Matt. Thanks for sharing and being open and honest. I wish you nothing but the best of luck in the future
4 months clean from heroin next week. Thank you so much Mark. Your videos have affected my life in a major way. I truly believe everything happens for a reason. I'm now back in Dallas after watching your video on Zach the recovering fentanyl addict. It gave me the motivation to leave San Francisco and come take care of a felony warrant. I have court march 30. Maybe one day I'll get to tell my story on SWU. That would be a dream come true for me. Life is so much more beautiful these days. Thank you again Mark (and Zach).
Mohawk matt and lonely are two of the best interviewees on SWU thank y'all for sharing your experiences. And being so transparent and vulnerable. Rooting for y'all!!
Congratulations, keep up the good work!!!
Keep going :)!!
Omg this is amazing
Congratulations Roy!
Thank you all.. blessing 🙏😊. 16 yrs on and off (prison/rehab) of heroin and finally..no more being dope sick. So grateful
I watched my best friend die from a shooting. I was only 12 years old. The shooter was a grown man... I remember everything. The sounds of him gasping for air and the blood gurgling inside his mouth. The blood was black because it hit his liver. I remember the smell. A metallic taste in the back of my throat like iron. His eyes rolling around while he fought to stay conscious.Its been over 30 years and it still sits vividly in my mind. It still haunts me..His name was Daniel..
Wow that's traumatic! Thank You for sharing your best friends story. Rest in Love Daniel. And you are still his best friend until now just by sharing what happened. I send Love, Healing and Peace.
@@noninoni454 .many thanks...
Sorry for your loss and trauma my man. Godspeed!
I am so sorry that happened to you and your friend. That is definitely a trauma that will stay with you. I hope you’ve found peace and comfort and continue to do so
@@kumarj4693 Thanks
I could listen to this guy telling stories all day.
Cuz all he does is tell whoppers.
Me too 😊
Me too
you may say that gang members do not target innocent people, but through your gang's violent actions innocent people are indirectly hurt and left to feel unsafe in their neighborhoods. This is not to be glorified in anyway
I agree about the indirect consequences impacting innocent people. Even though he claims gangs only kill “gang” members, it’s still murder in the logical sense, so the attempt to justify murder is illogical in every sense.
100% agree. He and most criminals think that, just because they stopped doing crime and hurting people and maybe did some time behind bars that they have "paid their debt to society" and are now good to go. They are wrong. Until they've compensated and made whole all the people they damaged, they are still in those people's and society's debt. Not doing crime and not hurting and damaging people is the absolute minimum responsibility every person has toward every other person and the majority of people more or less meet that standard most of the time. Celebrating someone because they've finally decided that the rules DO in fact, apply to them and start doing the barest minimum of social responsibility is bizarre.
I’m not justifying the murder and you are correct. I was simply trying to change some perspective because society does think that we purposely target in a sense we don’t there’s nothing right about gang behavior. It’s just what we have grown up with and dealt with so please forgive me I was not intended to rationalize or justify it. I was just giving you a reason of what happens and let you know that we purposely don’t intend on hurting innocent people but you’re right a lot of innocent people do get hurt in the process, so please forgive me
Yes I totally agree, but rarely do we see these types change in a positive way, he should be commended for doing so.
How many people have been killed by new recruits wanting to join/forced into a gang?
I can so relate to Matt, these interviews are so good. I started graffiti at 13 (In Australia) Led a life of addiction and crime, spent 16 years 6 months in prison, am covered in tattoos, am 5 and a half years clean and sober at 49, its uncanny.
That is wild
We've heard some gruesome stories on SWU , but the details of that shooting and crash were, for me, up there with the most intense I've heard. I could literally see everything he described. Eloquent telling of a horrific tale.
Trust me, it was just as hard to relive and go through. Once again I had to go through all that pain and all that hurt for the child for his family for my friends. Thank you for even listening.
Such a rare thing to see someone who once lived such a violent, destructive life come out on the other side. He has so much potential, one being an influencer to younger troubled kids. I hope he puts his passion and empathy into that one day.
P.S. To his estranged son, please understand that your dad grew up in a different environment than you, that he had to play the cards that were dealt to him to survive. He has changed for the better, give him a chance, I am sure you won't regret it.
I appreciate Matt, his honesty on gang, prison life & sobriety! I pray that he can connect & get a gig to be help trouble youth & adults. Life is a better place sharing the truth & having light to our troubled dark pasts. Hug 🤗 one of my top favorites, Mark. Bring him back on his next chapter of life. Can’t wait to hear about it.
When you say that you pray he can help troubled youth.....does this mean you are a Christian?😊
Amen and thank you
@@matthewcammarano5357 here is a movie that was made of a gang leaders story. You can also find many videos on RUclips of him telling how his life was dramatically changed.
ruclips.net/video/fWA5BNIz7dM/видео.html
Thank you again Matt for a great interview…. Happy to see you living a better life now..
Im 43 and I still haven't grabbed life by the balls, I have respect for men who have experienced the grisly side of life, on their terms, and still participate every day in society and life and can even share their experiences with folks that may have played it too safe and want to tap in to that edge, who may need to break out of their shell. Matt's one of my favorite guests, I'm glad to hear from you again man and that you are doing well.
Sometimes grabbing live by the balls means just not doing what the world is doing, and putting you in danger for not doing it also.
I had a friend die young, with this similar lifestyle (left behind a kid), and I think of him now and then, how he was wrong for doing all the things he did, but at least he did what he wanted to do.
IDK, maybe I'm wrong; What is a REAL Man is still mysterious to me.
Amen thank you brother
@@matthewcammarano5357 yessir
I don't know every man with some ego has undergone some form of grabbing life by the balls,
Damu and piru family was what I was around, and some crip nd some fds...and native gangs...they all told me I could do better and not join....I find most all gang members and men who feel they lack rough or contact dangerous life...just miss working with their hands, or aurvivalskill familiarity...but mainly, mainly they lack initiation even better these one lack....sacred ritual....if you are seeking more completion I am also 43 ....remember how you stood out in some way for someone. Or seek initiation like tribally or indigenous participation before gangs there was always tribals
I’m so glad you did a follow up with Matt. He has story that’s similar to mine. He replied to my Instagram msg when I asked him for some advice. He’s brutally honest and I love it.
Mark always has the best interviews! Love watching them & hearing everyone's different stories about their lives. Peace & love to everyone.💗🦋
Peace and love to you also!
@@tylerlienau7548 Thank you Tyler!💗
I quite like this guy. He seems very personable, articulate, and has good energy. Hope everything works out well for him!!
The pain in this interview was palpable,huge respect Matt from the UK 🙏🇬🇧
Thank you so much
Matt, we are the same age. Have similar experiences, and we are 2000 miles away from one another. I still struggle with addiction at times, but I have the tools, knowledge, and desire to be the best person for me and my family. You are dead on when you say that one has to seek out the change and want it. No one is going to do it for you. Stay solid. D.
Thank you brother I’m here if you need to speak. Also get me on Instagram I’m always available to talk.
Keep trying! I’ve been off the 💩 for 5 years now. It’s doable! Reading about the neuroscience of addiction helped me understand how it affects the brain and how the brain heals from it, with abstinence. A good easy read that is packed with information is, “Understanding Addiction: Know Science, No Stigma.” (Drs. Smith & Hunt). Once I got the facts, it helped more than all the dogma. Knowledge is power! Much love to you ❤️🩹.
Thank you so much Mohawk Matt! Your interviews are so eye opening ( I watched the first one too) and I feel like I walked away with so much wisdom after listening to you. I hope this interview gets around so that it prevents people from joining gangs. I am so glad you have made it as far as you have and I thank the creator for saving you and for you saving yourself.
Good for you Matt! Stay sober and keep helping people. Huge shout out from Melb Australia!! 🦘
@@mihe6212 how do you figure? Do you know Matt? It would be a real shame if he did. He seems so genuine in trying to keep his life moving forward in a positive direction
@@Xavier3205 don’t worry about Molly - cyber bully of the highest order.
This dude real. U can here it in how he speaks. A man of struggle and he’s still standing 💯 wish you the best brotha you inspire everyone to stand strong
Thanks, Mark for this follow-up I wanted to see him again he has a lot of knowledge and is positive after all he's done and has been through.
Grew up as a street bomber myself in early 90’s in Oakland,shit was rough back then ,can definitely relate to Matt,great interview best wishes brutha,
Shout out to the crews 640,bsk,tmp,tdk,hs and many more……..
Wow Matt , It's a privilege to watch you speaking from your heart and how far you have come.. Your an inspiration man and you seem to be a very humble being.. Life is a challenge and you give HOPE to the brothers that are still stuck in the trap..
Thank you for being YOU !
Much love from New Zealand 🇳🇿
Matt is the epitome of what it takes to live THE lifestyle that’s given to you. Taking it on and living it in the moment and then taking a step back once you’re old enough to do what it takes to be the best part of society and your children and family! My life is similar but not quite as hardcore as his. I’ve got all the love in the world for him and wish him all the best that the universe and god gives him ❤
Thank you brother thank you so much for being a part of this
I totally understand what you are saying. Not only for gang members but for addicts you have to change everything if you want to succeed in recovery you have to change almost every aspect of your life. I wast in a gang but I have been sober for 6 or 7 years now and I want to tell all addicts it is possible but you have to want it. I see Matt has done the same thing. Great message brother and I really think you will get back in touch with your son. If all of us see your change he definitely will. Just keep your head up.
Thank you so much brother amen
It’s awesome that this guy turned his life around and Is doing such great things. One thing that he said stuck with me. He said when they were teenagers they were out destroying the SFV all night by tagging up the Valley. He doesn’t realize how they were ruining people’s businesses, walls and streets 🤦🏻♀️ Yes tagging has changed and come a long way in a positive manner but it doesn’t take away the fact that some people were impacted negatively in the 90s. Just wish people would realize it’s not always “cool” doing these type of things for your own satisfaction. Stay blessed and keep reaching for the stars 👍🏼
If it’s some big corporate building, who gives a flying fuck. If not though yeah, that sucks.
@@NeuralOscillations I’m from the SFV, back then it was all small mom and pops businesses 😞
I agree with you sometimes I do tend glorifying, rationalized something that made me feel good, but you’re right it was a lot of damage done to cities in buildings that we don’t necessarily take accountability for and unfortunately it said, and again I apologize for missing that. I hope I didn’t figure you were causing negative feelings.
Matt is the most relatable story out of all these to me and im from New Zealand.. Thanks for your work mark
At least half the people on the channel are lying
@@dickmonddickelheimer9452 well maybe so.. but I highly doubt the bro is walking around LA that identifiable and getting away with talking shit about the gangs?
So glad Matt was spared, he has a lot to teach people about life.
He would be an amazing, drug counselor and/or mentor to troubled youth with a high likelihood of joining gangs. He's been through it all & came out the other side alive to THRIVE!! very inspiring ❤
Thank you for bringing matt back, really appreciated it
Thank you for being you and showing us there is change . Change is possible. I needed this . Thank you bro
Shot Caller is one of the realest movies I’ve ever seen. Spot on.
My son's spent most of his life in prison. He says the same thing.
I grew up in Granada Hills, not too far from Kennedy HS. It’s insane to hear you speak of your gang life in my childhood neighborhood. I’m so glad you turned it around, Matt.
Thank you so much I spent my childhood going to homes junior high. I want to Granada hills high school I was involved in a prominent graffiti crew that evolved industry games throughout the cities of Mission Hills in Sun Valley.
@@matthewcammarano5357 Aye -- GHouse! I wish great things for you, brother. Take care!
I grew up in mission hills/Granada hills so crazy to hear you were in my neighborhood .What elementary School did you go to Matt
@@herophant0578 I went to Catholic private elementary school in San Fernando Saint Ferdinand… I went to Holmes junior high
@@matthewcammarano5357 yes I had friends that went there , I went to lesson elementary, Porter Junior, Kennedy high school
Thank you Matt for helping us regular folk understand life as a gang member and how different it is to so many. Hopefully there are some kids out there that watch your interviews and realise that gang life is glorified and not a path they want to follow.
We need Matt to come back for a third video.
Another great interview with Matt! Love these videos...from NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA!! 🥰
I live in NS too.. Haha completely caught me off guard 😂
It’s amazing how so many of these interviews are so painful but give me so much comfort thru so many different people.
Thank you Mark and the SWU community ❤🙏🪷
You should try to interview people over in slab city
MARK!!!! PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE COME TO PORTLAND!!! What is happening here is insane. Please come interview the people here.
Matt, I appreciate your candor and willingness to expose yourself to the general population that see and hear what they want to see and hear. I have been exposed to a tiny fraction of the life you’ve lead. It’s a hard life to leave, but I truly feel that through your work with others that you are trying to amend what you can. We all have histories of destructiveness, and some more that others. Here’s a cliche’ for you, but true. Hurt people speak and act from a place of having been hurt. Your audience might be understandably hostile. But, please continue to share your message of experience, strength and hope with willing ears. Not every day will be good, not every comment will be positive or understanding, but with your perseverance and continuation of turning your life around, you have gifts to share; so please continue to do so. Stay on course with turning you life around: stay true, stay real, stay nice. I wish you peace and redemption.
PS…Love the finger flipping Johnny Cash 🎸
I grew up in Whittier in SELA and have so much in common with this dude.
Dude is speaking the real about the streets and the system....
"Forgiveness is the answer to everything." - Mark
This guy has a message! Preach, Matt! Such a great personality. He’s right, good energy. Get out there and do some good. Love to see it.
He had a big smile while talking about Graffiti and spray cans, made me smile too
He was glowing and giggling!!! Super cool!
@@ComommonlyCensored You would break Banksy's hands...??
@@ComommonlyCensored wow bud...you are hateful..
Graffiti was what I love you more than anything that was a genuine smile that I still have whenever I talk about graffiti brother. Thank you for being a part of this.
He loves art
He’s such a good story teller.
Matt would be highly sought after as a drug counselor. They ALWAYS perfer some1 who has lived it & this guys testimony is fn AWESOME! He would give hope to so many who struggle with NOT having any HOPE ❤
He shouldn’t speak for all gangs. Here in Texas, Central American gangs DO target innocent for initiation.
Mexican cartels don't give a F about innocents fr
Don’t most?
@BJC398 No, most don't. Most people who are victims of gang violence are involved in the streets in someway. Central America gangs are a different story. Third world savages
Yeah i was waiting for him to say, "at least in my experience in my life"
@@BJC398 yea he should of said In California but blacks do target innocent people
Yay!! I love Matt! Thank you for having him back Mark!
So glad he spoke about Graffiti and explained the feelings it gave him and Graff stories...great stuff especially for writers to hear
i too enjoy hearing you about graff stories . it is true. there is a difference btwn. a bomber and a legal wall
Mark, watching your videos has helped me to cultivate a lot of gratitude. Matt was great, and I'm glad he is doing well right now.
Providing programs, clubs, workshops, sports teams, etc for children and youth to spend time and feel a part of something. A positive space to safely go through growing pains together. This is the solution to diminishing gangs. Be involved in the life of your youth family members. Reach out and reassure them that their voices matter.
So true! I volunteered with kids a lot throughout my life, until I had a relapse and got in some legal trouble. A lot of people with a record can’t volunteer with kids, and they don’t have any predatory charges. This society doesn’t let people who have had the street experience and could really influence kids to stay out of it to do so. I have stayed active by helping adults leaving the streets and the CJS system find their interests. Now other people in recovery are my “kids.” People need help throughout the lifespan but I agree…with kids, you have a powerful opportunity to keep them from the streets and drugs, to begin with.
If you watch his first interview, this guy had all of that. He came from a good family with some money & anything he needed. All of what he did or got caught up in was by choice.
I like this bloke. You can hear he's straight up and he's changed. No bullshit. Very entertaining as well. Aussie Andy
People like this is why I got my ccw.
I'm from Matts area [ Van Nuys ]. When I lived in California, I've seen him a few times around the rooms. I didn't really have a in depth conversation with him but I've had some small conversations with him. Good to hear he's still doing well.
love this dude, his positivity is contagious
🙏🏻🙏🏻💯💯
This guy is the definition of don’t judge a book by it’s cover. Truly inspiring.
@@garrett8454 🙏🏻🙏🏻💯💯
SHOUT OUT TO MARK & THE SOFT WHITE UNDERBELLY CREW FOR SHOWING US VIEWERS DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES OF DIFFERENT LIVES THAT WE DON'T GET TO OBSERVE EVERYDAY! EVERYONE HAS A UNIQUE STORY IN THIS WORLD & NOBODY HAS THE RIGHT TO JUDGE THE NEXT! HOPE EVERYONE IS SAFE IN THIS WORLD & MAKES A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR OR SOMEONE ELSE'S LIFE! 😇
i mean jesus fucking christ chill
Great post, well said. 👍
stop yelling
It's 7am, why you yellin?
He’s yelling cuz people need to WAKE THE F UPPP!!!
Bruh is that a Suicidal Tendencies tattoo? So awesome 👍🏻 I love ST ❤
Bring Matt back for a third go, Love how you tell your story.
I would love to see "A life on drugs, John" do another interview. Could listen to him all day.
Matt is awesome! Totally owns everything he has done in his past, now wants too help others. I wish him the best & an amazing journey in life.
Good job on your journey forward instead of backwards Matt🤘. Much love and respect from West Virginia.
I've enjoyed Matt's interviews very much. He is very accurate with this accounts of tag banging in the valley. I grew up in the valley during that same era. I feel like we could have crossed paths but it's good to see he made it out, not much can be said for very many of us.
I wonder who you are we might’ve cross paths I was very very prominent, and in the graffiti scene from LA through the valley I made it out and I had to get clean and sober and change almost everything but I still keep graffiti clothes in my heart, get me on Instagram
Love love love this guy, and he’s an April baby like myself. We are very hard headed in bad ways but, when we change it sticks because we are so hard headed and we’ve made up our minds. Shout out to my April Tribe!!!
Thanks!
April 19th!
Married on April 20th
@@rp42069 I’m April 19th too. I’ll be 32 this year.
April here too
This interview is beautifully shot I love the colorful ink vs black and white
Everything you put out in Energy is So True.
So many taggers remain unrepentant when it comes to the vandalism.
My best friend is 40 years old and keeps quiet when I mention that part. I know he gets uncomfortable when I (rarely) bring that up.
Not that I was innocent. I banged hard in the 90s. So happy I learned from my mistakes and that G_D saved me from myself.
Man, i remember those times early an mid 90s like it was yesterday. SoCal was a warzone literally.
He needs his own podcast!
Matt it’s so true !!! your statement about cycles i’m 51 dabbled in selling class As in the early 90s-93/4/avoided a 5/6 year term with 75% thank F…..K butpretty much everything IE music !!,fashion/sports gear + i’m from the crossover generation IE born 71 so no cell phones as you call them (i’m from 🏴) no internet/no social media !!!!😳 etc etc,i’m so glad i’m not a kid today because they don’t know how to play outside (woods/park) all they know is media pressure 😢 and it’s here to stay and get worse IMO,good interview 👍
Mohawk Matt is an amazing dude. I wish he could drop some of the graff crew names and writer's words from back them. I could listen to hours of bombing stories from LA - to be an active writer in greater LA is reaching the highest, most dangerous level, with all due respect to NYC. Any kids reading this: ASSUME ALL STREET DRUGS ARE LETHAL. Fentanyl has taken out so many legends from every underground creative culture you can think of. DON'T BE NEXT. That last sentence was unintended - IYKYK. Hope to see Matt on here again. Stellar YT channel
Hey Matt. Amazing awareness and insight brother. Congratulations on your new path and life. Totally inspirational! Holla from Sydney!
Stay out of the streets kids.
I was just spraying some things at work. Everyone walkin by “WOW you’re so good at that!” 😂
If someone vandalized my business or trucks, I wouldn’t be happy about it. The most unfortunate thing about tagging is it IS vandalism.
Instant 🙄 eye roll. This guy lied so bad last time he was on. Love you Mark, but hard pass.
This guy used to go to my old work place California Tattoo get Sullen shirts before he got sponsored by them.He’s energy is felt when he would walk in.Who knew we are same age and went through almost the same childhood graffiti in the 90’s was no joke.
I was born in Southern Ca. My dad wanted to be a firefighter and stay in CA after he got out of the Air Force. My mom told him “fine, you stay here I’m going back home and taking the baby (me)”. Needless to say we all 3 left as a family and went back to the South East & he came a NCHSP. I wonder how my life would have turned out? ☮️
Matt is a genuinely good guy who has without a doubt learned from his past mistakes. He has a great life ahead of him. Hopefully he can connect with a few of the youth and get them to take the road less traveled.
@Gregory Reeves Wat up Greg. Good to see ya. How ya been?
WHAT?
@@myeyeswentdeaf6213 Hey Bro. Doing good living the dream my friend. I hope life is treating you well.
@Gregory Reeves Meh…..same shhhhoe, different sock.😉 (same sh**, different day) Can’t complain though, I’m alright.
@@deborahwingard776 Have trouble reading ?
Matthew always keeping it real..Good job homie .. always having my sapport.113%
LOVEEE MATT!!! TY Mark for another interview with him. He is awesome. His testimony is inspirational. Never lay down & give up... Keep good ENERGY ❤ Id love to hang with this guy
Proud and love you Matt take care x
Thankyou Mark x
Totally appreciate this man. Truly.
Thanks for this follow-up 👍
Matt seems like he really has a passion for spray 🎨 🖌 painting!! As a veteran I can understand the war concept he speaks of and the relationships.
I was a writer (tagger) in NYC in the 90’s / early 2000’s. I still do some marker bombin, but I’m glad NYC graffiti crews never got pressed into gangbangin, but in them days NYC didn’t have Bloods and crips and LA type gangs. Even though them LA gangs are here now NYC graffiti crews, although a dying breed, are still not part of them. There may be certain graffiti writers that are Blood or crip members, the graffiti crews themselves got nothing to do with it.
Interesting interview. Thank you for sharing this video with us. 👍🇨🇦😊
Good man. Thank you Mark and guest
I would love to here more about his Navy Career.
Mr. Matt you are still a very young man and have the ability to do whatever you want if you put your mind to it!!!
What do you gain out of lying? The worst part is that you don’t even know you’re lying to yourself.
You lack empathy but your ego wants to prove you have some.
Lying to people like this is not going to help them it just pisses them off because no he’s older and life needs to be chill at this point
@@Chopper140
What do you gain out of trolling folks,Jay?
@@wesleyAlan9179 what do you gain out of asking a troll what he gains because the troll asked what do you gain first?
@@wesleyAlan9179 you look like this beard model named Eric Bandholtz look him up
those back tattoos and all of them really are pure art
We do Recover! Everyone is capable of change. If you've never lived the life you'll never understand. Keep your head up!
He should write a book
Really cool down to earth guy ..kids listen to him stay in school don't do drugs
Wise man. Insightful, has street smarts and common sense. That doesn’t mean a person can’t be or isn’t immature, high emotions, unbalanced, ignorant and foolish. Yet, Matt is learning… and that’s all that matters (per the convo of the segment).
I really love listening to Matt. And your tattoos are pretty amazing!
Right ! He's Flippin gorgeous!
Or.... Stay with me here.... You could just.... Skip the whole thing.... & start out life on a productive path.
i love his point about his face tattoos and how theyve helped him bridge a gap between two worlds
Dam he’s spot on about not having that type of energy that draws cops to you.
Can also relate to the passion of graffiti! Also I am 3 year clean and sober ! And relate to having been in the darkest pit of hell to get where im at today !
Thanks once again
Prison is a badge of honor? Yikes!!! Talking about screwed up from the get go.
You need to get more stories or follow ups with Matt
"We're playing the same game they are in a monopoly board game system."
He's trying so hard to sound articulate and it's just hilarious.
@@BatmanPops uh oh! He’s gonna end it! That was the last straw! He wants his revenge but knows it’s outta reach! Hahahahaha!
Wow…. This was intense. Glad to see him alive and out of the gangs