Like all other artists, Rick Ross takes extreme pride in his craftsmanship, and he considers his pen game strong. However, the Teflon Don recently recounted how Kanye West was instrumental in upping his pen game.
Ross Counts West as an Inspiration
For sure, Kanye West is an inspiration. One need only scour the headlines to see Kanye West’s various influences in the industry, whether positive or negative. This time Ross gives Ye credit for helping to build his lyrical game. According to Ross, when he thought his pen game was impenetrable, West issued a challenge for him to improve. In Rozay’s words,
“This the first time somebody ever said Rozay, ‘I know you; you could go harder. Rozay ain’t used to that.”
Without a doubt, it takes a big person to accept critique and build from it.
Ross Provides Details
According to the artist, West asked him to rewrite a verse for West’s “Devil in a Blue Dress.” Rozay admits he went to work with the flow. However, West didn’t feel moved by what the artist offered, so he challenged him to go back and try again. Ross Relays
“Don’t even finish that,” he recalled Kanye telling him. “Just chill, come back and holla at me.”
Ross Steps Up His Game
The fantastic thing is how Ross approached the challenge with an open mind. He didn’t hesitate but went straight to work. As a result, he returned with a fire verse, contributing to the track that recently went certified platinum.
West’s Impact
Today Ross is upfront about Ye’s contribution to his success and other artists. In his words,
“Without a doubt, he’s most definitely gonna challenge you. To me, to be great and make sure that everybody that’s in the room with you [is] great…
That’s a big ups coming from Ross.
Legacy of West
Despite how people may see Kanye West on any given day, one thing that no one can deny is his talent and contribution to Hip-Hop. When you impact people on any level, you leave a legacy that stands. So props to Ross for accepting the challenge and rising above and Kanye for doing what was necessary to bring another artist up.
Be sure to like and follow FMHipHop on Instagram and Facebook!
Written by Renae Richardson
Facebook
Do you have an interest in Rick Ross’s creative process? Then check out FM Hip Hop’s retrospective article.
