2 Chainz on Dr. Dre's Perfectionism, Studio Etiquette, and Working with Drake

Dr. Dre's Studio Demands

• 🎯 Dr. Dre is described as a perfectionist who demands precise enunciation, unlike modern rap where vibe and energy can compensate for unclear words.
• 💡 2 Chainz recounts struggling with Dre's standards due to an overbite, leading to repeated verse retakes.
• 🎧 Despite the challenges, 2 Chainz appreciated the experience of being around Dre, noting his daily musical motivation and elaborate studio sessions.

Studio Etiquette and Personal Habits

• 💨 2 Chainz shared that he smoked often and was allowed to smoke in Dr. Dre's studio, a privilege he didn't have when working with Eminem.
• 🚭 During a session with Eminem, 2 Chainz had to smoke outside the studio while listening to beats, and later smoked in the booth, which Eminem's people initially tried to prevent.
• 🎶 2 Chainz values a simple studio setup, stating he is self-motivated and doesn't need much beyond a couple of joints.

Relationships with Drake and Other Artists

• 🤝 2 Chainz's relationship with Drake began around 2008-2009 through a tour with Lil Wayne, leading to collaborations like "I'm on One" and "Bad Boys."
• 🎤 Regarding Drake mentioning his name in songs, 2 Chainz expressed zero emotion or preference, stating it's a natural part of the culture and he doesn't get caught up in it.
• ✍️ He also discussed the concept of ghostwriting, admitting he has ghostwritten for others but emphasizes that his own work is entirely his own articulation and creation.

Views on Authenticity and Creativity

• 🎤 2 Chainz believes that true MCs write their own verses, but acknowledges that artists like Michael Jackson and Beyoncé have had success with writers.
• 🚫 He personally refuses to perform lyrics he didn't write, even if offered a hook by another artist.
• 🎶 He expresses a love for sampling, enjoying the creative process of modernizing and upgrading existing music, but also respects originality and creating beats from scratch.