Duane "Keffe D" Davis grew up in Compton, California, during the 1970s and 1980s, a time when the city was known for high levels of gang activity, poverty, and violence. Compton was a central hub for the rise of gang culture in Southern California, particularly the Bloods and Crips. Davis became affiliated with the Crips gang, specifically the Southside Compton Crips, one of the most prominent and dangerous sets within the gang. His deep connections to the gang culture in Compton influenced much of his life, including his involvement in various criminal activities.