When an artist in a creative space in the studio, how do you start that process? I never tell my artists how to rap or how to approach a song.
Everybody got opinions: “You need a big feature.” “You need a crossover record.” Anybody can say those words to you but they can’t show you how to do it. Two: I made my hottest record to date just having fun. What makes it great is that the whole “Down In The DM” success is, one: I made a number 1 record with just me. But I’m still really having fun with it and I’m happy that I’m accomplishing new things. I’m a hustler so I’m always gonna have a business model. Is making songs like “Act Right” and “Down In The DM” how you get to express a side of you that people aren't familiar with, or wouldn’t expect?Īre your big hits more in line with you thinking as a businessman, or do you genuinely like making those tracks? The general perception of you is one of a street rapper but your most successful singles over the past few years have been really fun. If I’m in the street, I’m gonna be a successful dope boy. I tell people all the time-I feel like I’m supposed to be successful, no matter what I’m doing. All the opportunities are there for you but you can’t think, “Ima just sit on my ass and it’s just gonna happen because it’s supposed to happen.” Nah. Even with your blessings, you still gotta go do it. I also believe that you don’t get nothing that you don’t go for. Thinking on those people you came up with and looking at where you are now, do you ever feel like, not only did you make the right decisions, but that you may be blessed or chosen somehow?