Every now and then we like to go back through our archives to revisit some of our unreleased interviews. For this week, we go all the way back to the fall of 2009, for JAY Z’s Blueprint 3 Tour featuring N.E.R.D., Wale, and J.Cole. Memphis Bleek was Jay Z’s partner in crime.
You might notice I might be a bit out of breath and there is a bit of background noise. That’s because the interview was done around 3 or 4 AM in their hotel lobby back in London, Ontario. After interviewing J.Cole and Wale that night, I really wanted to interview Memphis Bleek because I grew up listening to him and Roc-A-Fella. Memphis has made so many hits, he was also one of the first rappers to collaborate with Rihanna on “The One” in 2005.
In this interview, we talk about Memphis’ third album The Process, why he is underrated and the politics he has to deal with being associated with Jay Z. Below is an excerpt from our talk, play the podcast to hear more.
I’m underrated because of my affiliation [ 03:14 ]
Chedo: You’ve worked with so many great producers, what do you think you need to get you to that next level?
Memphis: I just need everybody on the same page, to have everybody pay attention. It’s all about the right timing, and I think I’m underrated just because of my affiliation. It’s like if [Jay Z] won’t do something, then it’s left on my shoulders to carry the brunt of it. That’s really what it all boils down to. If Jay doesn’t do something for a radio show, they won’t play my record. If Jay doesn’t do something for a TV network, they won’t spin my video.
Music is my life [ 04:22 ]
Chedo: What does music mean to you Memphis?
Memphis: It’s my life. I started doing this at the age of 15, and I’m still here. This is my life; it means loyalty, life, friendship, family, everything is here. Because not only do I make music, I get to make music with my family and the childhood friends I grew up with… So what could be better?
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