By Kaye Foley



Daveed Diggs, rapper, writer, actor and star of “Hamilton,” is adding another title to his name — Tony nominee. Diggs plays both Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson in the smash hit musical created by Lin-Manuel Miranda about Alexander Hamilton and the founding of America.

Yahoo Global News Anchor Katie Couric met up with Diggs in Times Square at The Knickerbocker hotel rooftop to talk about his Oakland roots and his rap career, and to toast all his “Hamilton” success.

“Before any of the accolades or anything happened, I was doing the best thing,” Diggs said. “I have the most fun doing that show every night with all these great people. … My cake has a lotta icing right now.”

While Diggs is no stranger to the stage — he majored in theater at Brown University — being in a musical has been a new adventure.

“This is a new world for me. I’ve never watched a Tonys. It’s all stuff I don’t know anything about. And as I learn more and more about it, I’m so — I’m deeply honored.”

On how he met Lin-Manuel Miranda

Before coming to New York to take his star turn in “Hamilton,” Diggs was working on his hip-hop career in Oakland. In addition to solo projects, he’s also a member of clipping., the experimental rap group. Even with his busy Broadway schedule, Diggs plans to release new music sometime this year.

As far as his future plans, he remains focused on “Hamilton.” While the show has opened doors, Diggs said, “I think this idea of a big break is a lie.” He explains, “If a project feels good to you, say yes. And do it with everything that you have and hope that the outcome is good.”

On his “Hamilton” co-stars

“Playing favorites”



His advice to college graduates

Related links:

‘Hamilton’s’ Lin-Manuel Miranda: The genius behind Broadway’s biggest hit



Backstage with ‘Hamilton’s’ leading ladies

Tony nominated Daveed Diggs talks ‘Hamilton’