What was it like to work with a legendary producer like DJ Quick?
That was a great experience. DJ Quick was one of the first producers I had the opportunity to work with. When I arrived in California I met with Suga and we discussed the things that we wanted to do for the album. I got a chance to sing for Quick at the studio and from that point on he adopted me as his little brother. I just learned so much from working with DJ Quick. He’s a genius.
Did you and Tupac have a friendship outside of work?
Tupac was like a brother to me, especially throughout the last days and moments of his life working on “All Eyes On Me.” … When he signed to Death Row is when our relationship began, it felt like we’d known each other for years. I was one of the youngest artist on death row, and Pac treated me like a little brother.
What makes your sound unique?
I sing about things that touch people, not just things that sound good. Music to me is about touching people. Like Marvin Gaye when he made “What’s Going On,” people where hurting — and that song is still a song that helped people through moments. I think music is about helping people through their moments.
