Jeezy Reveals Influence on Kanye West’s “808s & Heartbreak” Album During SiriusXM Interview

In a recent interview with Ed Mylett on SiriusXM, Jeezy shared insights into his collaboration with Kanye West on the acclaimed 2008 album “808s & Heartbreak.” According to the Atlanta rapper, he played a pivotal role in shaping the album’s direction, with Kanye seeking his inspiration throughout the creative process.

Jeezy recounted receiving a call from the Grammy-winning artist, inviting him to Hawaii for the album’s production. Upon arrival, he discovered a chalkboard with the words “What would Jeezy do?” written on it. Kanye went on to play each song for Jeezy, carefully observing his reactions and preferences.

“He had all these songs on there and he was playing the songs, and he would watch what I would bob my head to,” Jeezy explained, emphasizing the collaborative and consultative nature of their work together.

Jeezy highlighted Kanye’s intention to connect with a more “street” audience, recognizing Jeezy’s ability to communicate with them effectively. “And he told me,” Jeezy recalled, “‘You understand how to talk to them in a way they understand and it’s simple.'”

The Atlanta rapper also shared an anecdote about bringing Kanye West to perform at Birthday Bash, a significant event in Atlanta. This experience marked Kanye’s exposure to a large audience of “street people,” as Jeezy described it, showcasing the diversity in his audience.

Jeezy’s revelations shed light on the collaborative and strategic aspects of Kanye West’s creative process for “808s & Heartbreak,” demonstrating how the Chicago artist sought inspiration and insight from Jeezy to enhance the album’s resonance with a broader audience.