INTERVIEW: Larry June, 2 Chainz & The Alchemist Talk Gatekeeping In Music, New Album, 'Not Like Us' + More

Summary

The Breakfast Club Podcast: Episode Summary Title: INTERVIEW: Larry June, 2 Chainz & The Alchemist Talk Gatekeeping In Music, New Album, 'Not Like Us' + More
Host: DJ Envy and Charlamagne Tha God
Release Date: February 12, 2025

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1. Introduction to Guests and New Album

The episode kicks off with DJ Envy welcoming the special guests: rapper Larry June, hip-hop icon 2 Chainz, and renowned producer The Alchemist. They introduce their collaborative project, the new album titled "Life is Beautiful," which DJ Envy describes as an "early album of the year contender" (02:31).

Notable Quote:

• Larry June (02:40): “Early album of the year contender. It's still early. It's Only February, early album of the year contender, man.”

2. Foundations of Collaboration

The conversation delves into the origins of their collaboration. 2 Chainz expresses his admiration for Larry June's music and his affinity for cohesiveness in projects, leading to their decision to work exclusively with The Alchemist on the album.

Notable Quotes:

• 2 Chainz (04:06): “I love storytelling and I love you.”
• Charlamagne Tha God (04:23): “Yeah.”

3. The Alchemist’s Role and Production Style

DJ Envy inquires about The Alchemist's pivotal role in shaping the album's sound. The guests discuss how The Alchemist's minimalist and raw production style allows the lyricists ample space to express themselves, fostering a dynamic and authentic musical experience.

Notable Quotes:

• Larry June (05:01): “Love those real hip hop beats. That boom bat, you know, I mean, that's sun done.”
• 2 Chainz (05:19): “James. My voice is able to cut through on samples. With the trap drums.”

4. Independence vs. Major Labels

2 Chainz shares his journey transitioning from major labels to independent projects, highlighting the freedom and challenges that come with independence. He contrasts his experiences, emphasizing the efficiency and creative control he enjoys outside the constraints of major label timelines.

Notable Quotes:

• 2 Chainz (22:08): “This was my first independent project that I've dropped.”
• Larry June (24:46): “You got money. Two chains. Like, everybody can't be independent.”

5. Addressing Gatekeeping in the Music Industry

A significant portion of the discussion centers around gatekeeping—the barriers and exclusivity within the music industry that restrict emerging talent. The trio critiques gatekeeping practices, advocating for inclusivity and collaboration over competition.

Notable Quotes:

• Larry June (44:39): “Gatekeeping has got to be some of the dumbest shit.”
• Charlamagne Tha God (47:07): “I'm focused on the people. You Know, I mean, the fans.”

6. Honoring Prodigy and Future Projects with Mobb Deep

The guests pay tribute to the late Prodigy, discussing his enduring legacy and the anticipation surrounding new projects with Mobb Deep. Larry June shares heartfelt thoughts on Prodigy's influence, while 2 Chainz reveals their collaborative efforts to keep Prodigy's spirit alive through upcoming releases.

Notable Quotes:

• Larry June (16:02): “Prodigy's rhymes. He went so far. He was ahead of his time.”
• 2 Chainz (17:00): “We're lucky enough to be working on a new Mobb D project.”

7. Personal Growth and Balancing Life

Charlamagne Tha God opens up about his personal growth, transitioning from early mixtapes focused on themes he wasn't fully invested in to a more authentic and mindful approach to his music. The discussion touches on balancing career ambitions with personal responsibilities, such as parenting.

Notable Quotes:

• Charlamagne Tha God (09:33): “Listening to a lot of audiobooks in high school. Robert Kawasaki and shit.”
• 2 Chainz (27:35): “It's a blessing to have because I honestly feel like he is a direct reflection of my father who passed in 2012.”

8. Favorite Productions and Musical Influences

The guests share their favorite productions and discuss the impact of iconic beats on their careers. Larry June mentions classics like EPMD's "Shook Ones," while The Alchemist emphasizes the importance of versatility in production styles.

Notable Quotes:

• DJ Envy (42:15): “Shook Ones by Mobb Deep is my favorite.”
• Larry June (42:16): “That's EPMD. That beat always knock on my head.”

9. Overcoming Industry Challenges

The conversation highlights the challenges artists face in navigating the music industry, including handling gatekeepers and maintaining authenticity. 2 Chainz recounts experiences with manipulation within the system and underscores the importance of staying true to one's artistry.

Notable Quotes:

• 2 Chainz (44:41): “I've been in... how people been manipulating the game.”
• Larry June (44:46): “Gatekeeping is corny. It's lame.”

10. Final Thoughts and Album Reception

As the episode wraps up, the hosts and guests reflect on the impact of their work and the reception of "Life is Beautiful." They express optimism about the album's potential and the positive messages it conveys about life, growth, and community.

Notable Quotes:

• 2 Chainz (43:38): “Life is beautiful. If you just got life, period.”
• Larry June (44:41): “There was some stuff I'm on, like, let's shoot. Let's, you know, do it now, anytime.”

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Conclusion

This episode of The Breakfast Club offers an in-depth exploration of collaboration, independence, and the pervasive issue of gatekeeping in the music industry. Through candid conversations, Larry June, 2 Chainz, and The Alchemist provide valuable insights into their creative processes, personal growth, and the importance of fostering an inclusive and supportive musical community. The discussion underscores their commitment to authenticity, mutual respect, and the continuous evolution of their artistry.

Highlights:

• Emphasis on authentic collaboration and cohesive project creation.
• Critique of gatekeeping practices and advocacy for inclusivity.
• Personal stories about balancing life responsibilities with career aspirations.
• Tributes to influential artists like Prodigy and ongoing projects with Mobb Deep.
• Insights into the transition from major labels to independent artistry.

For listeners seeking a deeper understanding of the dynamics within the music industry and the personal journeys of influential artists, this episode provides a rich and engaging narrative filled with wisdom, humor, and heartfelt reflections.

Transcript

[DJ Envy]

When I smoke weed, I get lost in the music. I like to isolate each instrument. The rhythmic bass, the harmonies on the piano, sticky melody.

[Justina Valentine]

Hey, careful, babe. There's someone crossing the street.

[DJ Envy]

Sorry, I didn't see him there.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

If you feel different, you drive different. Don't drive high. It's dangerous and illegal everywhere. A message from NHTSA and the Ad Council.

[Arturo Castro]

Hi, I'm Arturo Castro, and I've been lucky enough to do stuff like Broad City and narcos and Roadhouse. And now I'm starting a podcast because honestly, guys, I don't feel the space is crowded enough. Get ready for Greatest Escapes, a new comedy podcast about the wildest true escape stories in history. Each week I'll be sitting down with some of the most hilarious actors and writers and comedians. People like Ed Helms, Diane Guerrero, and Joseph Gordon Levitt.

[2 Chainz]

I love storytelling and I love you.

[Larry June]

So I can't wait.

[Arturo Castro]

Listen and subscribe to Greatest escapes on the iHeartrade radio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[AJ Stephens]

$1.4 billion in NFL quarterback contracts. The untold stories behind the biggest deals in football history. I'm AJ Stephens, vice president of client strategy at Athletes first, introducing the Athletes First Family podcast, the Quarterback series. My co host Brian Murphy, Athletes First CEO and I are sitting down with the agents who have negotiated contracts for Justin Herbert, Deshaun Watson, Dak Prescott, Tuathailoa, and Jordan Love. Listen to Athletes First Family Podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Tisha Allen]

You are cordially invited to the hottest party in professional sports. I'm Tisha Allen, former golf professional and the host of welcome to the Party. Your newest obsession about the wonderful world that is women's golf. Featuring interviews with top players on tour, tips to help improve your and the craziest stories to come out of your friendly neighborhood country club. Welcome to the Party with Tisha Allen is an I heart woman's fourth production in partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment. Listen to welcome to the party. That's P A R T E e on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcast.

[2 Chainz]

Wake that ass up early in the morning. The Breakfast Club.

[DJ Envy]

Morning, everybody. It's DJ Envy. Just hilarious Charlamagne the guy. We are the Breakfast Club. We got some special guests in the.

[Larry June]

Building Y yes, indeed.

[DJ Envy]

We got the alchemist, we got Larry June and two chains. Welcome. Good morning album Life is Beautiful is out right now.

[Larry June]

Early album of the year contender. It's still early. It's Only February, early album of the year contender, man.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I appreciate that, man.

[DJ Envy]

Chase came in here like, where's my picture on the wall? I'm walking around here. But his picture is right there next to his.

[Larry June]

He got his feet up.

[DJ Envy]

He got his feet up.

[2 Chainz]

No, I hadn't been to this location.

[DJ Envy]

It's the first time here.

[2 Chainz]

Yeah, it's my first time.

[DJ Envy]

Oh, it's been a minute since you've been up here?

[2 Chainz]

Yeah.

[DJ Envy]

So how y'all brothers feeling?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Been feeling good, man. How about you?

[DJ Envy]

I'm good.

[Larry June]

First of all, chains had to make the walk. Number one. You're a legend. That's number one. But number two chains was the first. The first Breakfast Club show we ever did.

[DJ Envy]

Oh, boy.

[Larry June]

And the first person anything was two chains.

[DJ Envy]

How'd you get two chains around?

[Larry June]

Oh, that don't matter. That's bad.

[DJ Envy]

Jess, you weren't here, so. No, at the time, we didn't have no money. Right. So two chains did it for the love. And Charlamagne was supposed to handle transportation.

[Larry June]

And his chains was red hot. I mean, red hot. Like early two, early incarnate. What's the word? Incarnations of two chains.

[DJ Envy]

I don't know what red hot is, but Charlamagne was supposed to handle car service. Charlamagne, man had a car. Charlamagne didn't say it was a caravan. Picked up two chains in the caravan. Yes. Yes, he did.

[Fabo]

You just thought that was cool.

[Larry June]

I had the money.

[Fabo]

But you're supposed to let a nigga know a van gonna come pick him up and not a black.

[Larry June]

I didn't know they was going in a van. I thought they had asked. Being so.

[DJ Envy]

But change, he never. He never, never complained. Came to the show and always, never talked about. Always shows love.

[Fabo]

We always appreciate how y'all three link up for this album, how we do it.

[2 Chainz]

Well, let me see. I know Larry and I worked together before. I'm a fan of his music. You know what I'm saying? He a player. You know what I'm saying? I'm a player. And I don't know, we had a conversation, like, just about doing a couple of records.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[2 Chainz]

And he. He's somebody that is into, like, cohesiveness and everything. So he was like, we just need to do one producer, you know what I'm saying? We're gonna rock with Al. And it just started becoming, like, you know, so every time a song was finished, it started becoming just dope and dope, you know what I mean? I felt like, man, we probably do about six, seven more you know what I'm saying?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[2 Chainz]

Before you knew it is, like what he said. A early contender for album of the year.

[DJ Envy]

How did Alchemist get into play? Why was he the producer? Why he was the one that's like, this is the sound we want for this one.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Didn't y'all lock in?

[Larry June]

We had. We was already working. Like, we had been talking for a while. We had a couple records in motion. Like, the last couple years, I've been.

[2 Chainz]

Working with Al, but with me, a lot of my projects, they would have different producers. So I would have two or three Al type joints on. It feel good, but people would just kind of go towards the party records or the trap records. So it felt good for me just to do what I really like to do best is. And that's rap, you know, Two chains.

[Larry June]

Love those real hip hop beats. That boom bat, you know, I mean, that's sun done. What about those type of. That sound energizes your pin, though.

[2 Chainz]

James. My voice is able to cut through on samples. With the trap drums. I be having to, like, kind of yell a little bit. I can sit down and record. When I'm doing these songs, I'll be having to stand up, record trap songs, and then. And I'll be having to kind of be creative. And sometimes I hit it and sometimes it miss, but I have to be creative around the drums and kind of peek my head out. But with those loops and things like that, I'm able just to get my idea across.

[Larry June]

Looser. Yeah, you get looser on those beats because it's like, it's just a fillet. It's not like, you know, like, it's kind of understated, the production, so it leaves room for, like, the lyricist. Like, if, you know, if you got something to say on those type of beats, you're gonna flourish, you know, you know, change. Larry. They're those type of MCs. Like, less is more.

Expound on that. I'm gonna use, like, a filet.

Like a. Yeah, like a raw filet of music versus like a stacked up. Like, I would, like, compare like a trap beat to something that's layered up, I guess.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Vocals. On the vocals.

[Larry June]

Some of these are kind of just raw, and it's just like a mood, you know what I mean? Where it's like they're just to. Just to move their pen. So it's like the focus is on the lyricist. And, you know, I mean, chains. I don't. He's been one. The people who know music know 2 Chainz has always been top tier with the pen, like, but he always had the knack to make hit records too, you know. But that never fooled me. Like, I could tell the MCs like a big Sean or somebody who's like, yo, he makes hit records, but he can rap, like, extremely well. Like, with anybody who you would put on any list, you know, so.

[Fabo]

So that's your comfort zone. A trap is not really a trap. You just do for us. You ain't really. That's.

[2 Chainz]

So of course I trapped before, right? And even on this type of subject matter, I talk about the streets in the trap. But early on, I'm always throw Tech under the bus for this, you know, early on, I was doing a mixtape. It was called All Ice on Me. It was a double mixtape. And I had. Who doing was it? It was you and who else, Tech. It was him and Scream. And then I gave Tech like some my yo kids stuff and he was like, boy, I don't want. I want some. Boy, give me some of that trap. And then when I gave him some of that trap, he came back with, like, data saying, boy, I'm telling you, they rocking with this right here. So he was more as a manager, more data driven as far as, like, what the people were kind of leaning towards. When I would drop a project that had some lyrics and some trap stuff, you know what I mean? But, you know, I'm in this thing to like, to show growth anyway and to show that anything's possible, you know what I'm saying? I ain't get my meetings till I was after 30, you know what I'm saying? I'm still out here having more motion in the ocean. I'm saying, business is doing good. The rap's gonna come out. We're gonna talk about how we got these businesses and this passive income going. We gonna pop it like that, you know what I'm saying? I ain't spending no blocks. I ain't got time to go to jail, leave my family. I ain't on no crash dummy mission. You could never get me like that. So it's just like, I just stay out the way. I'm very, very highly confident in everything I do. And so that's my comfort zone. Knowing that when I walk in the room, my chin up, my chest out, I'm like that, you know what I'm saying? Like, man, God did his thing with me.

[DJ Envy]

Now you like to collaborate a lot, Chase. Like, it feels like you like competing, right? Whether it's early on with Drake or it's with Wayne, it's with Larry June. Why is that? You never fall back. You always seem like you want to do that more.

[2 Chainz]

I think Atlanta is a place that we just are into doing collaborations, you know what I'm saying? Atlanta artists always, we always work together and work with different people. We never had that problem, you know what I mean? So like I said, I respect Larry. I wanted to do this project. It wasn't Larry's idea. I was like, we ought to do this, you know what I'm saying? And I was just like, I wanted.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

To do it too.

[2 Chainz]

I'm just letting you know. Like I, I, I mean, I go to Vegas, I go to Miami. I tell DJ, man, put on that smoothies in 1991. I tell him, man, I want to hear that before I get out of here, you know what I'm saying? So it was just about, it was just genuine organic, like his campaign. It was just organic love. And so it came really organic too though.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Like it wasn't even, we didn't think too much about it just kind of came. He had, he had a few records with Al, sent them to me, and then we just kept that shit rocking. It was real smooth.

[Larry June]

What I like about you, Larry, you rap about. You rap about a lot of health and organic living. What got you into a mindfulness lifestyle and what made you start putting that in your music?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I started a little. I dropped my first mixtape when I was 15. I was kind of talking about a lot of shit that I wasn't really fully into then. I had just tuned into my real what I was into and my actual life. And when I started rapping about my day to day shit, it just started working for me. And you know what I mean, I'm kind of like him. I didn't make no bread until my 30s, really too. So, you know, I'm gonna have to go through the ups and downs and really finding myself as an artist. And when I start talking about the shit that I really like to do, it just kind of start coming natural for me.

[Larry June]

So early on, you had a lot of cap in your rap?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, I was 15, 16, you know, I just kind of more influenced by the hip hop, you know what I mean, and the shit, you know what I mean? And just finding myself as an artist, you know what I mean? And when I started doing that and really like following what I want to do, it start working out.

[Larry June]

Did somebody tell you or did you, you just checked yourself. Did somebody be like, come on, bro.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Nobody didn't tell me I was around all that, you know, I'm from that, you know, so kind of that was like my. My environment and shit, but it was just more like, what can I bring different to the game? I was like, you know, it's only one me. I could talk about my life and what I do and people relate to it. Some people might not, but, you know, people will. And I'm thankful that some people do.

[Larry June]

You talk about financial literacy a lot, too, which is interesting, because, you know, 2 Chainz, he. He talks about flexing a lot, right? And spending a lot. So how did that mesh in the studio?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Listening to a lot of audiobooks in high school. Robert Kawasaki and shit and stuff like that, and just trying to do better, you know what I mean? Coming from that environment and just trying to switch it up and do something different and have longevity in my career. So I started acknowledging myself about things like that and just put it into the music, you know what I mean? And letting people know. Not the major and minor things, but I still. I still flex. I talk about. My flake's a little different, you know. I mean, I might talk about a 15, orange juice or some shitter like that. I'm just saying, hop out with the velour suit, the bucket hat to the side, very peaceful. You know what I'm talking about?

[DJ Envy]

Now you.

[Fabo]

You got a bunch of singles that you drop on, like, different platforms, like streaming platforms and then YouTube exclusives. How do you, like, figure out what's going drop where? Cause they're in different places.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

So when I do just the YouTube, I just put it out. I don't think too much about it. I just put it out, just more just for the. For the fans and just keeping it going. I don't really think. I don't think too much about it. I talked to Dave. I. Let's just do it, like it. Let's do it. Just do whatever we feel. I don't really think too much about it.

[Larry June]

What do you like about Larry as an emcee?

I mean, when, you know, first linking with him, it was like, first like the tone, you know, Like, I go off of music, you know, obviously, Rest in peace, Prodigy. That was like my brother. We did a lot of music together, and sometimes it's just like the tone. There's something similar I heard with Bodie James. It was like Larry tone was crazy. And then I was actually late. Once I got hip to his shit, it was like he was deep in. I had to go back and like, do the. You know, because, like, with Larry music, you could you need a tour guide? Because he got so many different styles. Like, it just depends who takes you through it, you know, the right way. And it was like I dug into his music and was like, okay. I figured out after a while, okay, I feel. I feel like I could make something that'll fit to it. You know what I'm saying? And then when we started working, we did, like, one joint. I think it was Jay Worthy who linked us up, and then it sounded good. And for me, if I. If I can get one, that sounds good, you know?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

And then we did the Monaco joint.

[Larry June]

Yeah, yeah. For your album before we did Great Escape, we did one joint for his album, and it was like. I felt like there was potential because sometimes you do one record with somebody and it's like, one and done, and sometimes you build a better relationship. Plus, this is like my brother now.

[2 Chainz]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Larry June]

Larry is super likable. Like, he's just one of the coolest dudes. Like, this is my brother. So, you know, in music, you build relationships sometimes beyond.

[Fabo]

How long did this project take? Cause I saw an interview. You said if you. Larry, you said rapping too long gives you anxiety. How do you cope with that?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I ain't working with change. He. He changed that. But he worked so quick, and he owned. He owned my phone. With a verse. With a verse. I had to switch my whole program up. So this was pretty quick, you know? I mean, we got a few records we didn't put out yet, and it was. I ain't gonna. I was keeping up with chains. I ain't gonna lie. He was giving me the sauce, and I was. Yeah, see what I can do and become different on here. So, like, working with chains and Al, like, definitely took me out my element, you know? I mean, different patterns and topics and. And just making me a better mc. I'm very thankful.

[Larry June]

Is that pressure, though?

[Fabo]

Yeah.

[Larry June]

Huh?

Is that pressure when you're on your line by the verse?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It ain't. It ain't pressure. It's more like I'm just. I'm getting better. You know what I mean? He a real lyricist. He really, really do this shit. So, like, he give me, like, styles, and I ain't even thought about even doing. I mean, rap like this and try this, and it's putting me in a different box. Just like when I did the Great Escape with True. I'm telling him, like, man, I love these beast produce. He was putting me. Yeah. I mean, in the deep.

[Larry June]

He made us. I think he made us both step up.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[Larry June]

Just because of the level that changes as an artist and as a perfectionist. Like, we went out to Atlanta and got to work with him in his lab and just got to, like, get his energy in his world.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

That was like, understanding how they work is different.

[Larry June]

Super impressive. Like, he got built up in his. In his city is like, I went home, like, as a different animal. Just seeing his operation, like, change is a mastermind. So both of us going out there, seeing his operation in Atlanta was, like, super motivating. Like, yeah, we gotta.

[2 Chainz]

I wanna.

[Larry June]

I feel like Wayne was on you, like, that chance. I feel like I can see you and Wayne working together and Wayne hitting you up. Like, where is the verse? The song is done.

[2 Chainz]

Nah, this with me and Wayne. That's why I was on him like that. Cause I'm used to Wayne shooting it right back. I'm used to thinking, I'm finna smoke this guy. Then he send it back with just some crazy shit with his wind level and some lyrics. And so it was just like telling Larry, just don't. Don't overthink it. Like, come on. You know what I mean? So with me and Tune, we actually have hundreds of. We work really fast together. He's someone that I can go in the booth with half an idea and finish it up once I get in the booth. And then Wayne will go in the booth with a whole idea, so he'll just 1. Take the whole thing all the way through. So it's just different rhyme styles. But actually working with him has made me a better artist, like he said I did for him. So it was cool to be able to, like, trinkle down and pass that energy on. Because me doing two projects with Wayne, I'd be lying if I say I ain't get better. You know what I'm saying? Rocking with him, you know, I was.

[DJ Envy]

Gonna ask you, you mentioned earlier with Prodigy, two questions with that. Are you surprised about how much love that Prodigy's getting now in the last couple of years? I feel like people are dissecting what he's been saying, and I think they missed it before. I've been seeing it more and more and more recently.

[Larry June]

I always felt like that was gonna happen. Like, they become, like, more legendary after, you know, because they did so much work. It was, like, insane. And you could just peel back layers of Prodigy's rhymes. Like, he went so far. He was so ahead of his time that it's like. And even them. It's funny, them being small, too. I always felt like them being these two little Guys like, they would be rediscovered in 20 years by some young kids like Mobb Deep. Like, if some kid finds them in 20 years, they're going to hit. Strike a gold mine. Like, their discography is, like, unmatched and, you know. Yeah. I mean, P's legend lives. Like, he did more than the average person while he was here and even left behind a lot of stuff. So we're lucky enough to be working on a new Mobb D project.

[DJ Envy]

So there's another Mobb D babble coming.

[Larry June]

Up with Hav Changes.

[DJ Envy]

Look, like what?

[Larry June]

Yeah, yeah, it's me and have doing the beats. And, you know, Nas is involved and that's hard. Yeah, man. It feels great just to even. Just like, when you hear his voice.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[Larry June]

Again, you're going to be like, yeah, wow. You know what I'm saying? Like, how much we missed it. It's a void. It's not hearing his voice anymore.

Did Metro reach out to you? Because when he was inspired, it seemed like Prodigy inspired those last couple of projects.

I reached out to him, actually, and thanked him for that because I thought that was so dope. When they sampled his voice throughout the album, just kept his spirit alive. That was just super. And plus, you know, him and Future had a little bit of history as well. There's a video that they never came out with that P is in actually a Future video. And it never came. I forget what song it was, but they were. They were cool.

[2 Chainz]

Thought it was a dope contrast.

[Larry June]

Yeah.

[2 Chainz]

South artists with the. That would have been creation from somebody. Is hip hop is P. I know, I thought that was dope, but I.

[Larry June]

Think we keeping the tradition alive. Even doing this.

[2 Chainz]

That's dope.

[Larry June]

That's like doing, you know, me coming from, you know, you know, my history, and then linking with somebody like Chains and Larry and just bringing it all together, you know.

[DJ Envy]

Do you have a bar when you. That was my second question. Do you have a bar of artists that you work with? Like, you'd be like, I'm not working with him because it's just. This doesn't fit. Or is it like, I give everybody opportunity. Like, Larry June fits, Chains fits. But somebody else might not fit that might say, yo, I need Alchemist beat.

[2 Chainz]

A beat.

[DJ Envy]

Cool.

[Larry June]

But, yeah, certain artists fit more where I feel like I could make whole projects with, like, you know, Rock Marcy, you know, Bodie James, Larry June, 2 Chainz, of course, prodigy. And I, you know, I do have some, like, repeat, you know, friends that I work with.

[2 Chainz]

I told him. I told him I'M making a pop producer by rocking with me. We don't have them conversation like, nah, you know, low key, underground, like, boy, stop make your ass pop out here.

[Larry June]

I think I get the jacket put on me sometimes to be in this, like, purest, keep it real hip hop boom. I'm really not that I don't want to. I love music. I don't want to be put in a box. I don't want to be limited. Even when we did Generations, you know, join on the album, at first, Change was like, he didn't even want to hear any of those beats because we started that record together first. And he was like, I don't want.

[2 Chainz]

Those shorties Alchemist Trap.

[Larry June]

Because to me, I have different bags. I go in depending on the artist. Like, if you listen to the Rock Marcy album I did last December, those beats sound nothing like these. So I know how to, like, kind of create different palettes. But that joint, at first, Change was like, we gonna use this for something else. And then we thought about it and was like, you know what? We should add that into the album. Because it's like, it's blending the sounds a little bit. I don't wanna. I'm not a purist. I'm not like. I hate that other stuff.

[2 Chainz]

Keep it real hip hop. I love all.

[Larry June]

There's good and there's bad in every category.

To me, I love that song Generations. You know, the hook is we the generation got all these kids on the dirty Sprite. We the generation got. Got them on the perkies every night. We the generation got em on switches. What was the conversation that hook? Because, Larry, you from that generation. I was influenced by a lot of that. So I know y'all had to have a conversation about that song.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Man, we. We did.

[2 Chainz]

It's just the truth. It just was. It just. When you look at, you know how it is, you know, everybody when you get a little older, they. They try to unk you to death. They try to, you know, they try to drink more syrup than you to death. They try to smoke more whatever than you to death. You gotta be like, bro, we the one turned y'all out. You know what I'm saying? We the one got y'all. It's like when I go back and I listen to somebody like 8 ball and MJG who I came up on, they had songs like Armed Robbery, they had me lurking, you know what I mean? And so it's the same thing that I know if it wasn't the music, it's the Videos. It's the long blunts and videos we had. It's the double cup. This stuff y'all daddy was attracted to. And then y'all come up and. Well, not y'all. I'm just talking about in general, you know what I'm saying? Some people come up and. So that's where the generation idea came from. Like, we kind of the generation that kind of might have messed up some stuff, you know what I'm saying? You know what I'm saying? Lack of parental advisory going on nowadays, so, you know, lack of church, God and everything, you know what I'm saying? So that's where the idea for generation.

[Larry June]

So how do you course correct that, though? Or do you even try to course correct it? You just acknowledge it. Hey, I know we did that.

[2 Chainz]

I think you just acknowledge it for me, you know, I know it take more than one person to. To try to save the world. You know what I mean? And so trying to be, you know, a frontline soldier was just not my idea for this. It was just more like finding a creative way to say we started a lot of what's going on right now.

[Larry June]

And it could go both ways, too. That's why I thought the hook was dope. Because it could be positive or negative, like we the generation did it, or it could be like an admission of guilt and it. Gross, yo, I'm sorry.

[2 Chainz]

Yeah, it's growing.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

His kids and his businesses, too. But he also let you know where he came from and where he, you know, his growth. You know, he young and that's the environment he was in, and he letting you know where he at. Now you talk about the LLCs and things like that. So I see. I look at it as growth. Like, you know, I mean, we the generation, but you know what I'm saying. Look at me now like, I got multiple businesses. Like, I'm taking care of my kids. I'm coaching. I'm. You know what I mean? So I thought it was dope.

[Larry June]

The next generation is more prone to listen to somebody who went through it, too.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[Larry June]

And survived it than they are to somebody who just telling them, hey, don't do this and that. But you didn't go through none of that.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[Fabo]

Back in. Back in October, you had a. Announced that she wasn't with Def Jam no more. You wasn't going to resign. You a free agent. Is that still.

[2 Chainz]

Yeah, this was my first independent project that I've dropped. Like, I don't know, man, 20. Since 20. Maybe 11 or something. 2010. I'm not sure.

[Fabo]

2012?

[2 Chainz]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, 2012. My first boats, but I was signed a couple months before that. But yeah, this was my first independent project. I just wanted to kind of like test the waters. I don't have anything against Step Jam. I've been with them over a decade. Found, you know, it was. It's ups and downs and everything. You know what I'm saying? But at the same time, I built a lot of relationships. I. You know, it was. This was just kind of stuff right here. Just a phone call for me to get up here and stuff like that. Don't nobody have to set up my New York promo or anything like that. You know what I mean? So it was just about getting out here, you know, and it's, it's, it's. It's for me, the best of both worlds. I had some great things happen on the major side, and now I'm learning how to operate in the independent space and it's freedom.

[DJ Envy]

Do you like it?

[2 Chainz]

Yeah, because like, they was like, we need to drop this next month. I was like, we can do this. We can drop this next minute. Like, yeah, we need to drop. They was looking on. It was like Christmas. They was like, we need to come next the end of January. Then I started being like, damn, these boys did shouts to empire.

[Larry June]

Yeah, but you also got money. Two chains. Like, everybody can't be independent. That's the part of the independence folks don't talk about. You got to have the paper.

[2 Chainz]

Yeah, the paper ain't no. Yeah, you the budget now, you know what I'm saying? I ain't fully wrapped my head around either. Tech was calling me about them 40s and 50s and 60s. It is like. It just be different when you playing. You know how it is. I describe it, you know, when you have somebody else money. I describe it like this. I just, I describe, like when you get a rental car, you don't never like stop over speed bumps. You just jump them. You be like, boom. And then when you get your own car, you do like a. You know what I'm saying? You do like a thing. So when you got other people money, you more reckless. You know what I'm saying is what I'm trying to say. You got other people money. You for me, I'm not gonna, you know, up the bag, but I might be a little bit more reckless. But when it's my money, you go.

[DJ Envy]

Over that speed bump mad slow, man.

[2 Chainz]

What's the difference between having your own studio and paying for studio time when you have your own Studio, you can work, go to sleep, come back when you paying for studio time. In my opinion, you ain't even got time to go pee. You got to goddamn get this work in you got. You know what I'm saying? Can't be here. So that just been my mindset to be efficient.

[Larry June]

So what do you like more, major or indie?

[2 Chainz]

I haven't been independent. You say October, so not even six months yet. But for this to be my first independent project, I'm geek now, but this would be my. And then, you know me, come this way. I'm kind of. It looks like a reinvention of Bantonio, you know, but you know, when you.

[Larry June]

Spend other people's money, steal your money.

[DJ Envy]

Yeah, you gotta pay it back.

[Larry June]

Pay it back. So actually steal your money.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[2 Chainz]

That's probably why I'm so efficient with do numbers matter?

[DJ Envy]

This time around though, do numbers matter? Cause it's a whole different game for me.

[2 Chainz]

I kind of ain't been studying numbers for a long time because, like, I'm gonna be real. I don't. Me or my team, we not. We so late to the bot party and the streaming party. Once you hear about it and who doing and all that stuff, you kinda get discouraged. Like, man, you know, a lot of people are helping themselves or whatever you want to call it, or cheating or whatever it's called. But then I think about how I go in the studio nightly. I come up with this stuff. Nobody's beside me, helping me come up with a hood. Nobody. I don't know if this is smart or not. No one has helped me write something to. I don't know what it is, but I'm able to go in and still come up with a dope idea every single night. That's what give me the life I got with this stuff, you know what I'm saying? Other than that, I think, you know, I'll probably be somewhere else with it, but me knowing I can go tonight and make a. Make something incredible, that's what got me you.

[Larry June]

You Indy too, right, Larry?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah.

[Larry June]

You got your own company, right?

[2 Chainz]

Yeah, yeah.

[Larry June]

From the beginning.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yep. Nah, I was Warner brothers in like 2017 for like two years. Did a couple eps with them. And then I. I went like fully distro kid for like a couple years. Like just straight on on the cell phone app. And then my team, double empire.

[Larry June]

What do you like?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Distribution, man. I like independent. Yeah. I can just go drop shit whenever I want to do it. I don't gotta think too much about it. I don't look at the numbers at all. I might say it a lot, but I just put it out. It's more like a. A long term game for me. It's like, like buying stocks in yourself. Like we putting the music out extreme. You know, you streaming now. You gotta just click that button. It's coming. So it's like stock. I'm putting that out. Either go like it or you don't like it.

[Fabo]

But yeah, it's not about acknowledging. It's about your art.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I don't gotta go platinum or none of that. I would love to, you know what I mean? But I'm just keeping it going. Just keeping it going. And I'm expressing my mind through the. Through the music and people relating to it. And I don't think nothing of it, you know what I mean?

[Fabo]

And then tonight, y'all performing Jimmy Fallon show. This is your first late night tv.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

My first time here too. It's crazy. Legendary, man. I'm over here looking around like, damn.

[Larry June]

Who gave you the game, Larry? Because I mean, you got such a good head on your shoulders. I mean, like I said, you talk about financial literacy, you talk about mindfulness. One of the bars I love on this album. You say. Never had a. That was hard to keep. Found out. Found one solid hoe was all I needed. I'm like for such a. For a young man to understand that, especially the lifestyle you living.

[2 Chainz]

Yeah.

[Larry June]

Expound on that line for me, just.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

From, you know, I had my kid early 19, you know what I mean? I was fortunate to have been a single father very early. And it just kind of changed my mindset on even having women around, period. My son ain't been around multiple women at all. So it was like just showing him. Cause I'm not married or nothing like that. So he never really got to see that. So I had to always let him know that, look, I'm not married like this, but it's. It's good to get married, you know, have one person that you're dealing with. And I wasn't always like that. But as I got older, I started understanding like, man, one solid woman can change everything, you know.

[Larry June]

You say older, you 33?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah. You know, but yeah, I'm still doing numbers.

[2 Chainz]

Numbers?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, man. No, I feel like I done laid this shit like a couple times. I ain't gonna hold you. I feel like I'm way older and I feel like they know peace. Peace. Like having one solid woman is peace. You know what I mean? I feel like I haven't really experienced that fully yet, you know what I mean? But I'm getting there, you know what I mean? But I think it bring a lot of peace. It can help you work more. And I realized that when I was recording that song.

[Larry June]

Was it your father, your uncle? Just life.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It was more life. Cause I used to have multiple. I was a multiple kind of guy. I had honeycomb hide, you know what I'm saying? Spots like a cheetah, you know what I mean? You know, I was moving and grooving and it was taking up too much of my time, you know what I'm saying? From, like, working and being with my kid and dealing with this situation, and this happened, I got caught texting too much extra shit, like, you know what I'm talking about? So, yeah, that's kind of where that line came from.

[Larry June]

How important is that change? Because, you know, you a married man yourself. You always see you out with your queen. How important is that to have that?

[2 Chainz]

Oh, it's very important for me, man, especially having somebody, the matriarch to take care of it. Make sure the home's straight. Make sure the little miscellaneous stuff straight. Yeah, Someone that fully supports me, listens to my music, critiques me. She sent me a very, very dope message the morning I woke up, the first message I read was from. Was from Keisha saying. Basically saying I was a lyrical God. Just big. Just doing what she's supposed to do with my ego, you know what I'm saying? Massaging that.

[Larry June]

Yeah.

[2 Chainz]

You know, and so, you know, me and her, we laugh every single day, man. We got the same habits, you know what I'm saying? We go out, you know what I'm saying? She come to Candyland with me. It's just like, you know what I'm saying? And when you find somebody like that, I love that line as well, you know what I'm saying? We shot the video for that. I thought I was like, bomb saying one one, But I don't think they kept my part in the video. But anyway, that's why it was cool working with him. Because even though the difference between him and I think Wayne is, Wayne is a more metaphoric type of mc, you know what I'm saying? Style mc, you know what I'm saying? And wordplay physics with Larry. He just, like, very direct lifestyle dripping, you know what I'm saying? And so it was cool for me to pop out my lifestyle like, bro, I'm having this going on. Let me talk, you know what I'm saying? It was more like. It was more like cool Ways to express that you not dumb, you know what I'm saying? That's what this project really is. Just a cool way to spread it. Like, you, man, them ain't no dumb brothers right there.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

You inspired me too. Seeing you how you move with your wife, I'm like, yeah, that's how you do it. That's how you rocking and got your kids, and that's real, you know what I mean? I was really inspired by that, you know what I mean? Even you talking about your wife all the time, like, yeah, that's how you do it. You know, that's real. Every boss got their queen, you know what I'm talking about? So, yeah.

[Fabo]

How old is your son?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

13. He just turned 13. He at the hotel right now. I had to bring him out of school for this, man, but see.

[Fabo]

Okay, so how does that work? You know what I mean? Cause you don't hear about a lot of single dads with these careers. How do you juggle that?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It's tough how he was torn with me since he was little, like, you know what I mean? I potty trained him on a sprinter van, you know what I mean? So, like, sometimes I can make it work. Like, my dad, he'll help me, or my. My grandmother or my mom will fly in and help. But you get times like this where it's like, you gotta slide.

[2 Chainz]

Come on. Yeah, pack up.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

We get the online working. You get to get him a room, and we just try to get it done. I'm just trying to make it happen. It do get tough.

[Fabo]

Yeah.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It be on your. On your conscience. Like, damn, I'm doing the right thing as a parent. He need to be at school for these three days or whatever, but he learning other things. Learning other things, so. And he very, like, ahead of the game for that. Just from traveling with us and seeing different things, being able to meet, you know what I mean, artists, and he, you know, he a big inspiration behind the scenes.

[Larry June]

Y'all talk about that, though, on Life is Beautiful. Y'all talk about trying to balance being a father, you know, and y'all career. So that's conversations did y'all have off the mic?

[2 Chainz]

I think it's just evident, just the energy he done talked, you know, I mean, he spoke about Eli a couple times, and then, you know, I'm Halo, like the second highest earner in my household. You know what I'm saying? I bet he get money.

[DJ Envy]

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[Larry June]

Today Available Features Compatible device Service and consumer activation of Nissan Connect Services package Required Use only when safe and legal, subject to third party service availability. For more information, see nissanusa.com connect legal Apple CarPlay is a trademark of Apple Inc. Intelligent all wheel drive cannot prevent collisions or provide enhanced traction in all conditions. Always monitor traffic and weather conditions When.

[DJ Envy]

I smoke weed I get lost in the music. I like to isolate each instrument. The rhythmic bass, the harmonies on the piano sticky melody.

[Justina Valentine]

Careful babe, there's someone crossing the street.

[DJ Envy]

Sorry, I didn't see him there.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

If you feel different, you drive different. Don't drive high it's dangerous and illegal everywhere. A message from NHTSA and the Ad Council.

[2 Chainz]

Everyone's forgotten who runs this valley. Time to remind them.

[Arturo Castro]

Yellowstone fans step into the Yellowstone universe.

[Larry June]

Our family legacy is this ranch now.

[2 Chainz]

Protector of my Life.

[Arturo Castro]

Hosted by Bobby Bones, the official Yellowstone Podcast takes you deeper into the franchise that's captivated millions worldwide. Action Explore untold behind the scenes stories, exclusive cast interviews and in depth discussions about the themes and legacy of Yellowstone.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

You know the first students to settle.

[2 Chainz]

This valley fighting was all they knew.

[Arturo Castro]

Whether you're a longtime fan or new.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

To the ranch, welcome to the Yellowstone.

[Arturo Castro]

Bobby Bones has everything you need to stay connected to the Yellowstone phenomenon.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I look forward to it.

[Arturo Castro]

Listen to the Official Yellowstone Podcast now on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[2 Chainz]

Let's go to work.

[Justina Valentine]

I'm Dr. Laurie Santos and to welcome the new year, my podcast the Happiness Lab is releasing a series of happiness how to guides to help you in 2025. I'll distill the wisdom of world class experts into easy to digest actionable tips.

[Tisha Allen]

It's about never feeling good enough. I feel like I'm always failing.

[Justina Valentine]

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[AJ Stephens]

We make it this big pie in the sky thing. And then of course, we're all frustrated because no one knows how to get there.

[Justina Valentine]

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[AJ Stephens]

The ability to approach somebody and make them experience desire for you in minutes or even hours is a rare and rather unnecessary skill, historically speaking.

[Justina Valentine]

The Happiness Lab's how to season starts January 1st. Listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[DJ Envy]

I see your son hollering at women.

[2 Chainz]

No Halo like that.

[DJ Envy]

Do you tell him chill out a little bit?

[2 Chainz]

Wait a little bit or. I ain't never told Halo even be humble. Yeah, you don't stay there. You that confident, Cocky? Don't even man humble. Cause he always asks me what this mean? What does this mean? If he ever asked me what humble me. I'm like, I don't know. I don't know. Stay like you are. And it's just about installing confidence. Especially, you know, young black boys, you know what I'm saying? I'm on them about, you know, getting his books done, whether he reading on the way to training or whatever. But it's just, you know, it's a blessing to have because I honestly feel like he is a direct reflection of my father who passed in 2012. I felt like Halo, he's just too mature to be nine years old.

[Fabo]

He certainly is.

[2 Chainz]

Yeah. So I'd be like, man. And he's sarcastic, just like my dad was. So I really. I'm into, you know, I'm spiritual type of person. So I'm. I'm kind of into that. And then my two girls, they growing up driving. My oldest is driving to school. So it's just like, you look up, man. Next thing you know, you know, the house gonna be empty in a little bit or whatever that is, you know what I'm saying? But it was cool to kind of pop about it over these type of vibes, you know what I'm saying? And that's what it is. I don't think it's about what the numbers we gonna do. I think if we thought about that, we wanna drop the week of the super bowl knowing that that's gonna hike Kendrick's numbers, you know what I'm saying? I think it was about putting out a project that has replay value. I haven't heard one person that just played it one time. I keep saying, I can't take it out. I can't stop playing it. And I can sleep good at night knowing that. There you go.

[Larry June]

What do you want Halo to do, man? Cause sky's the limit for young Halo. So what do you want him to do? Like, you personally, as a father, what would you want to see?

[2 Chainz]

Halo going to the league. Okay, he going to the league.

[DJ Envy]

So you on him.

[2 Chainz]

He going to the league. That's all I can just really say, you know?

[Fabo]

Did you go to the Super Bowl?

[2 Chainz]

No, I didn't go. I didn't go to the Super Bowl. I watched it at my studio back in Atlanta with a couple other guys. I had the chef cook, and I just actually had a show in Chicago on Saturday with Jeezy. And so I came back to Atlanta Sunday because I wasn't sure how. It was some question marks about the New Orleans trip. And I just came home and chilled like that. And then I came back out here yesterday and we shot a video last night. And that's another thing. He got an awesome team. That's why I like working with Larry too. He got a really, really awesome team. And they would. They would. This stuff I'm on, like, let's shoot. Let's. Let's, you know, do it now, anytime. I love that. I love that. And so I landed at 11. We shot the video, like, one. You know what I'm saying? He up, I'm up. We came and, you know, so.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

And I'm coming straight from Vegas. I had the club live right before. As soon as we got the airplane, we straight to the. To the video. But it'd be hard. We getting it done. We look back, like, happy we did.

[2 Chainz]

All that on the move.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Kind of tired, but, like, look back, we did that shit.

[DJ Envy]

Now, coming from the Bay Area, how difficult is it to get that sound out, right? Cause a lot of times when people think of the Bay Area artists, they put them in a box.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, yeah.

[DJ Envy]

How difficult was that for you?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

You know, you gotta jump over the loops and come from different angles, and you gotta be first. You gotta be respected, you know, they gotta know something about you. Like, know that you ain't like, just a random dude talking about this and that, but you gotta jump over them loops. Like, I was blessed to be able to have connections in atl, you know, living in ATL when I was a kid and coming from a different angle and working with people over there. Like, one of my first mixtapes was with TM88, 80 Way Mafia. He gave me a beat pack that was my neighbor, you know what I mean? They thought Me and him was brothers growing up. So when I started trying to get into it, I hit him like, man, I need a few beats.

[DJ Envy]

That's the dope thing about Atlanta.

[Larry June]

Just.

[DJ Envy]

Everybody just co. Mingles with each other. Like, that's the dope thing.

[2 Chainz]

I gotta do a move to Atlanta if you wanna. And just my first. The way I met Wayne was just like this. I was. I was obviously selling weed and. But I was selling weed, but I was using the money to. To book studio time at Patchwork, which is like a renowned studio in Atlanta that's owned by one of the ex Falcons players. Everybody would be in there, you know, that's where people went. And so I was in like a little B room. And baby then from Cash Money was in the A room. 30 cash money dudes, whatever, whatever. So somebody came to me and say, hey, them boys. Them boys next door need some weed. So I'm like, I come over there. You know what I'm saying? It's like the number one, you know what I'm saying? I'm being cool. But, like, he wasn't smoking at the time, but he had some other guys. They take my weed. I'm telling them, I think this was like 450 at the time, you know?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Okay.

[2 Chainz]

I'm saying, I take. I give them the zips. Don't know money come, you know, Damn. I'm gonna have to say, I don't know. I can't get nobody no weed. I ain't in that position. So I end up going to New Orleans with them, bothering them about this $900, followed them about this 900. And so this was. This was before Katrina, you know, they had all these mansions. Everybody had a mansion. They had a mansion for everybody then. Everybody had their own mansion, right? And I'm staying in the mansion for everybody. They got a big Jacuzzi as a living room sofa. This is many years ago, and at this point, I'm not a full rapper. I'm a trapper. And one day Wayne comes over and we go out in, like, the indoor pool and we smoke some gas together, you know what I'm saying? And that's how I met Wayne. Following Baby to New Orleans about these $900 that he eventually get.

[Larry June]

Did you ever get the $900?

[2 Chainz]

I got the money.

[Larry June]

Okay, okay, okay, okay.

[2 Chainz]

He came in with a new car. He was like, y'all. Something about the car came like that. I said, hey, man. Hey, OG I really. I'm really gonna need. I'm way in New Orleans. Really. He like, oh, say he go, slim. Oh, he did it.

[Larry June]

So, yeah, you should have never. So every time you see him, you could be like, yo, you owe me. That would have been more valuable.

[2 Chainz]

No, I. I need it. Then I looked up, I was on the way to New Orleans about that, man. I'm like, they go to my eyes, Slim. We out of here.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

We out.

[2 Chainz]

Where we going? Let's. I'm going. I ain't got nothing to do. I go to New Orleans. But I'm 900. But, you know, you ever thought about.

[Larry June]

Changing your name again? Because you went from titty boy to two chains and now you, you know, you a mogul. You ever thought about.

[2 Chainz]

I go by Tony. Okay. I ain't say two changed the whole album.

[Larry June]

Damn. I didn't even think about that. I did, but that was intentional.

[Fabo]

Absolutely intentional.

[2 Chainz]

Wow.

[DJ Envy]

Now I want to ask a hip hop question. Favorite production on a beat. Mine is always shook ones. Mobb Deep. So I'll start with you, Alchemist.

[Larry June]

Favorite production of all time.

[DJ Envy]

All time.

[Larry June]

I mean, I'll just say maybe. So what you saying, epmd? That beat always knock on my head.

[2 Chainz]

I ain't ready for that.

[DJ Envy]

You ain't ready for that car.

[Larry June]

Just shoot one. You know, I just picked one.

[2 Chainz]

No, if we was to my favorite, like Al, you know, we had to be a certain producer. I can't just say favorite beat of all time. I don't think that's tough.

[Fabo]

Too bright. That's too bright.

[2 Chainz]

Wow. How many damn songs?

[DJ Envy]

Because it's that one song that you always hear, that beep is just like, oh, and that's always Shook ones for me, every time I hear shook ones.

[2 Chainz]

But then you hear set it off in the party, you be Set it out. You know what I'm saying? You got out here, you know what I'm saying?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Different pockets.

[2 Chainz]

I think for me, it's moved. I'm moved.

[DJ Envy]

Moody.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, me too.

[2 Chainz]

I'm a moody guy. So this morning when I woke up, I listened to Life is Beautiful because that's what mood I was in.

[DJ Envy]

Not right.

[Fabo]

That's right, Larry.

[Larry June]

I want. Oh, go ahead, Larry.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

My young Canyon. I heard that beat, man, that thing was stupid. Like, it just came on. It's like a movie when I can see it. You know what I mean? I saw it, like, when the beat came on, it was like.

[Larry June]

That was the last one we did, too.

[2 Chainz]

That was number one. Intro was the last one.

[Larry June]

We did that in Atlanta.

[2 Chainz]

That boy. Now, we did that in Atlanta. No, we did that in la. Yeah, we did that in la.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Like, four in the morning, remember?

[Larry June]

Oh, yeah, that's right. But it was the last song we did.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, that's right.

[Larry June]

Why'd y'all name the album Life Is Beautiful?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

That's how we was feeling at the time. Like life was feeling beautiful.

[Larry June]

Change. Change came up with that one, right?

[2 Chainz]

Yeah. Because honestly, the song that Larry did, Life Is Beautiful, I really love that song. Like, I really love that song. I love that.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Appreciate that.

[2 Chainz]

The context, the content of it. And then when I thought about it. And obviously I thought about it before the. Because I thought about the LA fires as well, because I got homes in la. And so I was like.

[DJ Envy]

But any of them affected?

[2 Chainz]

Nah, man. I'm trying to sell one, y'all, so I'll let me. But. But I said it to say that I didn't want to be offensive to somebody whose life wasn't beautiful at the time. But I kind of just over. I overrode my opinion on that. And I just brought it to the guys. I think we should call Life Is Beautiful because I think if you just got life, period.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, yeah.

[2 Chainz]

You know what I'm saying? If you just got life, period. That's what I was trying to like, you know what I'm saying? Pinpoint, right there.

[Larry June]

One line. I love on the record, too. You said, I don't gatekeeper. I want everybody to eat.

[DJ Envy]

And that.

[Larry June]

That's very true about you. Has there been a time when a gatekeeper tried to keep you up?

[2 Chainz]

All the time, man. I'm impressionable, man. I'm, you know, I'm somebody that somebody probably try to set a screen or try to block on. But, man, I'm someone that truly believe that if it's for you, it's for you.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

So.

[2 Chainz]

But, yeah, I've been in. I'm saying now we talk about numbers and all that. This is a big secret. Been going on for years how people been manipulating the game. Ain't nobody came to say, shorty, I just seen a little dude in my. In Candyland, in my club. He said, I do the billboard stuff. I said, bill, what's what? I do the billboard. He said, the artist's name, I ain't even gonna say. He said. He tried to show me a page. So I say, shit, hey, Shorty, if this what you do, you know? You know. Cause everybody asked for my number. I said, I'll see you again if it's meant to be. The next night here in my club with the same jogging suit on and my set. So then when I seen that My. My intent to say, I don't know if you really about business. Cause you got the same stuff on. Yes. They just shouldn't even been judging, cuz. But what he showed me, start popping up like little bitty measles.

[Larry June]

So he can make. Make you amplify your screen. He can do. He showed.

[2 Chainz]

He just was like, I do this. I make sure. And we was in the club. That's another thing. I hate talking in the club. I can't hear y'all. And then I don't want to get too close. Yeah, if you spit on them, go crazy. So that's why I kind of be. Y'all might think I'm funny, man. Let's clear this up now. Let's. Let's just write a letter or something.

[DJ Envy]

Write a letter.

[2 Chainz]

Maybe write a. I don't know how we should communicate in the club if I don't give you my number. Let me think on it. But just getting really close to me. If I'm sitting down over me, I hate that. So I'm gonna stand up, and if you in my ear, I don't like it too loud. It's too loud. Then I gotta timing. I gotta see which one is the. Unclog this. I be like, I got headphones all the time, so I don't know, you know, that's just a part. But I did see some stuff, and then it popped up a couple weeks later. So I probably need to find a little buddy.

[Larry June]

What about you, Larry?

[Fabo]

Playing the same shit.

[2 Chainz]

He gonna be back in the club, same outfit.

[DJ Envy]

Like, I heard you on the Breakfast Club, right?

[2 Chainz]

Nah, he got the. He got the recipe. We gonna outstream Kendrick this week? I'm gonna call that.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

System rigged.

[Larry June]

What about you, Larry? And you too?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, I think a few times. You know what I mean? But I don't really see it as much. I'm not gonna lie. I'll be in my own bubble. But I think people do try to gatekeep, but I try to do my thing so much that I can avoid that as much as possible when I focus on the. I'm more like fan driven, like for the people. So you can try to gatekeep with the. If the people rocking with me, all the haters, it don't even matter. Like, the people. It's the people. I'm still doing digits, you know what I mean? I'm still pulling up, hopping out, drinking orange juice, popping my shit. And you know I'm talking about.

[Larry June]

Yeah, that's.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Cause I'm focused on the people. You Know, I mean, the fans, like, listen to all the outside, and I don't really, you know, they go, oh, you shouldn't do this. I can't get him on that show. Then it. We gonna keep going outside, we'll keep popping that trunk, and we'll keep doing numbers. You know what I mean?

[Larry June]

What about you? Are they trying to keep you away from certain artists?

And I mean, just straight up gatekeeping is corny. It's lame. Anybody who does that is like a sucker to me. Like, you're insecure, you know what I'm saying? To me, gatekeeping has got to be some of the dumbest shit. There was some stuff I encountered over the years, but more than that, I encountered the opposite. Like DJ Premier, like, when I first met him and was around him. Like, I met Jay Z my first time with Premier, and he was like, yo, this is Al. He's dope. He got beats. And what I took from that was like, Premier's the utmost level of secure. Yeah, he's not afraid. I'm a. If you gatekeeping, you must be afraid that these next guys are gonna come take your spot, get up out of there. That's nasty.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

That's nasty.

[Larry June]

I don't. I don't approve of gatekeeping. Like, we. We stand against that. You know what I mean?

[DJ Envy]

Right now, you didn't meet the Grams originally. Was that a gospel record or supposed.

[2 Chainz]

To be a gospel record?

[Larry June]

Samples is from a gospel gospel record.

[2 Chainz]

Yeah.

[Larry June]

What gospel artist you made that dog for?

No, I didn't.

Oh, you just sampled a guy who said, yeah, nah.

And I, you know, yeah, that's. That's a gospel record here. The sample was.

How do you feel when people make your beats, like Dish records?

It happens a lot to me.

[DJ Envy]

It does happen to you?

[Larry June]

Like, 50. Remember the animal thing back then, and it was the bang, bang. And I will come like, I want to be Switzerland. Really? I try to tell the rappers, hey, I'm Switzerland. Like, leave me out of it. You know, I don't. But they end up making me the battleground. I mean, I'm indifferent to it. It's like, I'm not. I don't have a dog, you know, so it's like I make. I make beats.

[DJ Envy]

Do people get mad at you, though?

[Larry June]

Because sometimes I know you like.

[DJ Envy]

But look, here's the beat.

[Larry June]

Sure, for sure. But, you know, in that case, I had sent the record to Dot, like, year, like, excuse me. Months before that happened. And, like, I heard it when everyone else heard it. So it was like, yeah, that was one of them situations where it was like, I don't like to get involved in stuff, but sometimes it happens, you know, it was. You know, it was tricky during the time when P and Mal Deep and Nas had beef with Jay. It was always a weird thing, you know, it probably stopped me from doing work with Jay back then. You know what I mean? But, you know, that's the fact.

Were you posted?

I mean, there was times we spoke for sure back then. You know what I mean? Like, definitely.

[DJ Envy]

You were so click with Mob Deep.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

You wasn't.

[Larry June]

I mean, you remember back then, it was kind of like. It was like, there are instances where they're like, damn near family, and it would kind of be awkward.

[2 Chainz]

Listen, man, this is a crazy question, because I asked him, I said, do you feel more like an east coast producer or a West coast producer? He's like, West Coast 100%. And then we walked into my pizza spot, and it was like, two New York kids.

[Larry June]

Yo, yo, yo, yo.

I never thought about you with the west coast ever in my life. You are synonymous with east coast production. No, I mean, it's where I'm from. Food decipher said. But no, I. I never, bro.

[2 Chainz]

Thank you.

[Larry June]

Never.

[2 Chainz]

All right.

[Larry June]

Okay.

[2 Chainz]

Thank you.

[Larry June]

I definitely made my mark out here.

Like, if somebody had to tell me to list, like, the top 10 East coast producers of all time, I'm putting alchemists on that list.

Yes, absolutely. And I lived.

[DJ Envy]

If I didn't know y'all would think it was from Queens.

[Larry June]

I mean, I put in a lot of work here, you know, So, I mean, it's a blessing. And New York embraced me, and I had an opportunity at the time to work with, like, think about that era. Like, I was working with the Locks Farm Deep, you know, CNN in the time when they was like, they had airplanes. How did I get. I went to school first I went to nyu, and then I just stayed here. I was already tied in with mugs. Long story short, he connected me with Mobb Deep and that everything happened from there. That's why I love Mobb Deep forever. Like, I actually had to ask P, when he was beefing with Nas, to go work with Nas on Godson, because that's what. Going back to the beef thing I. I respected P is that. And P was during their beef, and P was like, oh, I know you're gonna give him some heat, but go out there.

[2 Chainz]

Go out.

[Larry June]

He. He gave me the. The blessing to go do it, which was always appreciation for that. But, yeah, I mean, that's how it started from mob deep.

It was like, wasn't we gonna make it for Jay Z?

It wasn't for him. I played it for him, though. Yeah, you know, hip hop. You know, Campbell has been my brother for a long time, and I used to go over there and play beats, and one time he popped his head and he just checked it out. It wasn't for him, I guess, but, you know.

[2 Chainz]

Yeah.

[Larry June]

Two Chains, why did you lie to Drake about being good? Kendrick said, 2 chain said you good, but he lied. Why, why. Why you do that?

[2 Chainz]

You know, I just think it was kind of like some word play because Drake and I got a song called no Lie. And so when he said he lied, I just felt like I don't know. But I didn't take it as no kind of way. I don't think he was taking a shot at me. I've heard all type of incidents where somebody want me to say something back. I just think it was a moment where it was about Atlanta artists. And, you know, I do have a couple plaques with Drake, probably three or four plaques with Drake. So I think a lot of the people in that verse got something with him. So that was just Kendrick Whale just dialing in on some subject matter type stuff.

[Larry June]

When you first heard it, what was your reaction?

[2 Chainz]

Well, I can tell you that. I can tell you that people who named me didn't say, felt some type of way, you know what I'm saying? So I don't. I was okay with it, you know what I'm saying? You got other Atlanta artists, like man homies, you know? So I don't.

[Larry June]

That's a little baby said. Little baby said.

[2 Chainz]

He ain't.

[Larry June]

He said, keep me out of that. I ain't want my name in.

[2 Chainz]

Yeah. Some people didn't want their name. Some people was like, why he didn't say my name? And it just, like. It's just a moment. It was just a moment, but it didn't do nothing to me. I know. I think my. My harmony, my. My middle kid definitely says somebody asked at school. But it. It didn't get. It didn't get hectic.

[Larry June]

You ain't never heard nothing like us.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

No, I didn't hear. I didn't hear no name.

[2 Chainz]

No. He said, we do the Atlanta lines.

[Larry June]

The last verse.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I never heard that full song.

[Larry June]

Really?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

No, I didn't hear that full song.

[Larry June]

On purpose. Like, you rapping for the light skins. You like. I refuse to listen to this.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I. With everybody. I just did particularly hear that. That song fully. I heard A lot on Instagram and stuff like that. You know, I was doing an album with him at the time, so I wasn't really listening to too much though, like that. But you know, Kendrick, salute Kendrick. He hard respect to Kendrick for sure. I just didn't know he brought you up. That's crazy.

[Larry June]

You never heard that, that last verse, by the way. It's a phenomenal last verse.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I did. Some people commenting on the picture like kept saying like they talking about. I did see that, but I never.

[2 Chainz]

Heard you know what it is. You know it. It's not a lot of songs with three verses in.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Oh, it's three verses.

[2 Chainz]

So it's three verse. It's the third. You know what I mean? That's my opinion. I don't think it's a big song. A lot of songs these days.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

He.

[2 Chainz]

In his own bubble. That's why I love it, Wayne. That's why I love me. That's why I love me. You know what I'm saying? I just be in my own bubble. I mean, of course I know some of the things I need to know, but I really be clueless to a lot of stuff and I'm cool with that. I'm just cool with that.

[Larry June]

You ain't hit with Kendrick. Dis you on the four first Larry.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Coming already.

[Larry June]

He don't even like the month of June.

[Fabo]

Oh, God.

[Larry June]

One last question for Chan. How does it make you feel when you hear guys like Tyler the creator co signing this album Life is beautiful and he actually said 2 Chainz, you on this type of time is yes. With a bunch of S's.

[2 Chainz]

It feels good. I have a great rapport with Tyler. I don't think people know, you know what I'm saying? Great rapport. And he's booked me for slogna before when I was in a wheelchair, he booked me and was in the front. So I've listened to his last couple of albums and supported what he has done. And then I guess this one just spoke to him and he has a lot of influence. So it felt good for him to not hold his nuts on something that he thought was very tasteful and he didn't have. I didn't ask him to do anything and he just did it. So, you know, a lot of these artists are gatekeeping. I don't know if you want to.

[Larry June]

That's another version of gatekeeping.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It is for sure.

[Larry June]

You're not gonna get some of the props. It costs you anything.

[2 Chainz]

But I can't let nobody know.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

It's hard. I think I did with that sometime. Sometimes with that. Don't matter.

[Larry June]

Tyler's a man. I appreciate that. I respect him. Crazy.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Me too.

[Larry June]

Who are your peers, Larry? Like, what's your class, man?

[Charlamagne Tha God]

That's a good question. I'm, you know, maybe, you know, change Jeezy Ti, you know, back to E4.

[Larry June]

That's a different generation. I'm talking about, like, your class.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Like, oh, like my.

[Fabo]

He said he don't hang with the young.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Damn, you really a og?

[2 Chainz]

Would you. Yeah, he really, like, what? He really.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

I grew up with, like, you know, Messy Marv, Juice, the Jacket.

[2 Chainz]

A lot of.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

A lot of classic Bay Area. They was older. I always hung up with a lot of older people. You know what I mean? So I really didn't really know too many people. But when I was in the A, I met, you know, OG Mako, TM88, a lot of them rappers like that. That New Atlanta, like the Fat Man Keys and all that. Curtis and all them. So I kind of all that. You know what I mean? So I. I seen that whole era and like that. Yeah, I was. I was. At 19. I became a father. So, like, I wasn't really. Yeah, I was trying to get my bread up. I didn't have no whip or nothing. I was trying to really. I said I got nine months to. To get my together, and I just put my head down and I. I just was trying to just create this world for myself. So I.

[DJ Envy]

That's dope.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

Yeah, I kind of missed a lot. I didn't go to no proms. I didn't do none of that. I was strictly. Yeah, life is beautiful.

[DJ Envy]

Now let's get into it. Join off the album. What y'all want to hear?

[2 Chainz]

Life is Beautiful Text like the single.

[DJ Envy]

Bad Choices, which I would hear. Generation. Generation. All right, well, let's get into Generation. Pick up the album. Streaming right now. Two Chains Larry June, the Alchemist. It's the Breakfast Club Good morning soccer.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

To me Wake that ass up early.

[2 Chainz]

In the morning the Breakfast Club.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

When.

[DJ Envy]

I smoke weed, I get lost in the music. I like to isolate each instrument. The rhythmic bass, the harmonies on the piano. Sticky melody.

[Justina Valentine]

Hey, hey, hey, hey. Careful, babe. There's someone crossing the street.

[DJ Envy]

Sorry, I didn't see him there.

[Charlamagne Tha God]

If you feel different, you drive different don't drive high it's dangerous and illegal everywhere. A message from NHTSA and the Ad Council.

[Arturo Castro]

Hi, I'm Arturo Castro, and I've been lucky enough to do stuff like Broad City and narcos and roadhouse. And now I'm starting a podcast because honestly guys, I don't feel the space is crowded enough. Get ready for Greatest Escapes, a new comedy podcast about the wildest true escape stories in history. Each week I'll be sitting down with some of the most hilarious actors and writers and comedians. People like Ed Helms, Diane Guerrero, and Joseph Gordon Levitt.

[2 Chainz]

I love storytelling and I love you.

[Larry June]

So I can't wait.

[Arturo Castro]

Listen and subscribe to Greatest escapes on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[AJ Stephens]

$1.4 billion in NFL quarterback Contracts the untold stories behind the biggest deals in football history I'm AJ Stephens, Vice President of Client Strategy at Athletes first, introducing the Athletes Athletes First Family Podcast the Quarterback Series. My co host Brian Murphy, Athletes first CEO and I are sitting down with the agents who have negotiated contracts for Justin Herbert, Deshaun Watson, Dak Prescott, Tua Tugnovailoa, and Jordan Love. Listen to athletes first family podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts, you are cordially.

[Tisha Allen]

Invited to the hottest party in professional sports. I'm Tisha Allen, former golf professional and the host of welcome to the Party, your newest obsession about the wonderful world that is women's golf. Featuring interviews with top players on tour, tips to help improve your swing, and the craziest stories to come out of your friendly neighborhood country club. Welcome to the Party with Tisha Allen is an iHeart Women's fourth production in partnership with Deep Blues Force Entertainment. Listen to welcome to the Party that's P A R T E e on the iHeartRadio app, Apple podcast or wherever you get your podcasts.