Waka Flocka Flame could be on the verge of retiring. In early July, he revealed his displeasure with the music industry and claimed that he would eventually walk away from hip-hop. But before he makes his exit, he’s dedicating himself to promoting his new collaboration album with Gucci Mane.
During a recent interview with rolling out magazine, Waka Flocka discussed the Ferrari Boys album, the stress of being a hip-hop artist and why he chooses to stay connected to the streets. –amir shaw
Why did you and Gucci Mane decided to collaborate on an entire album?
We came together for the fans. People wanted to see what we would sound like together on an entire album. We wanted to give the fans what they want. It took about a week to finish it and another month to master it. The first day we went in, it was easy. We put a beat on and did it. It’s always easy working with Gucci.
You’ve experienced success, so you have had the opportunity to see things beyond your old neighborhood. Why is it important to stay connected to the streets?
I stay connected to the streets because I was born there. I can never run away from what I know. I can never be fake to myself. But I also stay connected to the streets by giving back to the youth and not taking away.
You often give the people who you grew up with a chance to make it in hip-hop. How do you handle the responsibility?
I give friends an opportunity instead of just giving them money or purchasing things for them. I’d rather set them up to be millionaires. It’s up to them to go with it or fall back and be lazy. My job is to set my friends up to be financially straight and mentally good.
You suggested that you would retire from hip-hop earlier this month. Do you still feel that way?
I stick with my word. I would rather provide opportunities and be behind the scenes more. This industry is pain and stress you can never imagine. If you are a weak person, it’s going to show. It’s bigger than cars, clothes and jewelry. If you’re not about your business, you can’t keep money.
