Podcast Summary: "Joe and Jada - Jermaine Dupri on Kris Kross & Da Brat, Dating Janet Jackson, Usher’s Confessions & Mariah Carey"

Introduction

In this special edition of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Joe Crack and Jadakiss welcome legendary hip-hop producer Jermaine Dupri. The episode delves deep into Jermaine's illustrious career, highlighting his pivotal role in shaping the careers of iconic artists like Kris Kross, Da Brat, Usher, and Mariah Carey. Additionally, Jermaine shares personal anecdotes, including his relationship with Janet Jackson and memorable interactions with Michael Jackson.

Early Career and Kris Kross

Jermaine Dupri begins by recounting his early days in the music industry, particularly his experience touring with Kris Kross. At just 12 years old, Jermaine made the bold decision to leave middle school to join the tour, an experience that was both exhilarating and challenging.

"I was 12 years old, so I don't care. I'm going on stage. This is the first time I ever seen this many people in the arena." ([04:56])

Jermaine highlights the pioneering efforts of Kris Kross, who sold millions of records at such a young age, setting a precedent for future child stars in hip-hop.

Producing Da Brat and Challenges with Female Rappers

Transitioning from Kris Kross, Jermaine discusses his work with Da Brat, Atlanta’s first female rapper to achieve significant commercial success. He candidly shares the hurdles he faced in producing for female artists during a time when the industry was predominantly male-dominated.

"Da Brat became the first female solo artist to have a platinum album. That was crazy." ([48:59])

Jermaine emphasizes the importance of authentic storytelling in Da Brat's music, steering away from superficial themes to address real-life challenges faced by young women in the hood.

Transition to R&B: Usher’s "Confessions"

Jermaine delves into his shift towards R&B, detailing his collaboration with Usher on the groundbreaking album Confessions. He describes the creative process behind hits like "Confessions Part II," revealing how personal experiences and writer’s block inspired some of the album's most poignant tracks.

"We Belong Together directly." ([79:42])

Jermaine explains how close collaboration and understanding Usher’s personal struggles were crucial in crafting songs that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.

Working with Mariah Carey: Iconic Hits

The conversation shifts to Jermaine’s collaboration with Mariah Carey, highlighting the creation of timeless classics such as "Always Be My Baby" and "We Belong Together." Jermaine shares insights into the songwriting and production process, demonstrating his knack for blending catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics.

"Mariah told Tommy she wanted to work with me, and that's when we started working together." ([77:46])

He reflects on the success of these collaborations, noting how they solidified his reputation as a versatile and influential producer in both hip-hop and R&B genres.

Personal Life: Dating Janet Jackson

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Jermaine’s personal life, particularly his relationship with Janet Jackson. He opens up about the dynamics of dating an iconic figure in the music industry and the challenges that come with balancing personal and professional lives.

"I have to have the confidence to holla at Janet." ([73:04])

Jermaine shares heartfelt moments and the impact of this relationship on his personal growth and career trajectory.

Anecdotes Involving Michael Jackson

Jermaine recounts memorable interactions with the legendary Michael Jackson, adding a personal touch to his storied career. These anecdotes provide listeners with a glimpse into the camaraderie and mutual respect among some of the greatest artists of all time.

"Michael wanted me to come on tour with him. We sampled a part of a song, and he was all in." ([55:00])

He humorously narrates the moment he realized Jay-Z was referencing him in their collaborative work, showcasing the seamless synergy between influential artists.

Current Projects and Future Endeavors

Looking ahead, Jermaine discusses his ongoing projects, including the Magic City documentary and an upcoming Magic City soundtrack album. He expresses his commitment to fostering new talent and continuing to innovate within the music industry.

"Magic City thrives off the music. We gotta make it go." ([83:10])

Jermaine emphasizes the importance of preserving Atlanta’s rich musical heritage while pushing boundaries to create fresh and impactful music.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a reflection on Jermaine Dupri's enduring legacy in the music industry. From his early days with Kris Kross to producing some of the most beloved tracks in R&B, Jermaine’s influence is undeniable. His candid storytelling and insightful discussions offer listeners an intimate look into the life of a music industry titan.

"All these records, I just start making all of these songs about the girls. Pow." ([88:30])

Notable Quotes

• "Hair happiness starts here." – Jermaine Dupri ([00:00], Ad Segment)
• "This is royalty right here." – Joe Crack ([02:24])
• "Confessions came from me saying I just want to confess." – Bow Wow ([72:35])

Closing Remarks

Jermaine Dupri's contributions to music have left an indelible mark on both hip-hop and R&B. This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd not only celebrates his achievements but also provides an authentic glimpse into his personal journey, making it a must-listen for fans and aspiring musicians alike.