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Tim Mosenfelder/Getty; Twix
Twenty-five years later, the Ying Yang Twins are still bringing the party.
The Atlanta duo, comprised of Kaine and D-Roc, took a look back at their storied career, featuring collaborations with Britney Spears, Lil Jon and so many more. But speaking with PEOPLE about their Big Game partnership with Twix, the duo say that “It feels like we just got started yesterday.”
“This milestone means everything to us,” Kaine says of celebrating 25 years together. “It’s a testament to the music, the fans and the bond we’ve built as friends and collaborators. We’re incredibly grateful to still be here, doing what we love.”
“What they teach you in school? Hard work pays off. The more you put into it, the more you get out of it. The less you put into it the less you’re gonna get out of it,” D-Roc says. “So, if you work hard, you get honored. We’re honored to be here.”
Making their dance-floor packing hits like “Salt Shaker” and “Wait (The Whisper Song)” is a process that has evolved over the duo’s time in the music industry.
“When we started, it was all about learning and experimenting — just figuring out our sound. Now, we’ve got the experience and perspective to approach music in a different way,” Kaine explains.
“The technology, the audience and the culture have evolved, and we embrace that. We still ask ourselves: what’s the dance move or vibe people will connect with our music today? That’s part of the fun.”
D-Roc notes the process is the same in the sense that “you’ve got to make music from the heart and the soul.”
“As long as you have fun with it and it’s the music that you love, everybody else will love it, too. You know, it feels good when you get it right, but if you don’t, you’ve got to go in and try again.”
The seasoned vets say that it still means a lot when they have that moment in the studio where they realize that something is really working.
“When we’re in the studio creating something that feels larger than life, that energy is unmatched,” Kaine says. “It feels like we’re carving out a piece of history.”
Not only do the two have the pleasure of enjoying their own evolution, but they’re watching the landscape of Southern hip hop evolve as well.
“Everything is supposed to grow and everybody has their time. It started with New York, then it went to Cali and Atlanta just got it right now. So you know, we’re gonna see who gonna get it next. While you have it, you’re supposed to honor and embrace it and treat it right. Then when it’s time, pass it down to the next person,” D-Roc says.
“I respect the new generation and I don’t expect them to be doing the same thing that I was doing back then because you need it to change. Their music is a part of the crown. That’s how they feel in this generation. Just because you don’t feel that way, doesn’t mean you don’t respect the craft.”
Kaine adds, “When we started, Atlanta had this raw energy, and now it’s become a hub for creativity and innovation. Each generation keeps pushing the boundaries, and it’s amazing to see how far it’s come.”
The pair continue to push their own boundaries, too, both as individuals and as Ying Yang Twins.
“We’re hitting the road in March and April for The Millennium Tour in cities like Louisville, Detroit, Brooklyn, New Orleans, Fort Worth, Atlanta and more. It’s all about bringing the energy to the fans and celebrating what’s next for us.”
