Music

Young Thug Explains Why He Never Worked With Andre 3000: ‘Dre Likes His Ass Kissed’

Thug previously worked with Elton John and used that experience to contrast their approaches to collaboration. …

Despite being a pioneer for Atlanta hip-hop to the mainstream in the ’90s and 2000s, Andre 3000 doesn’t quite get the same level of love from his hometown successors. Although his work as a member of Outkast is often referenced in comparing the stylistic innovations of newer ATLien rappers to their predecessors, some of those predecessors aren’t exactly checking for Andre themselves. During his appearance on T.I.’s podcast ExpediTIously, Young Thug — is arguably the current epicenter of Atlanta rap — explains why he never much paid attention to Andre 3000.

“I can’t rap you two Andre 3000 songs,” he said. “I ain’t never paid attention to him. Never in my life.” When T.I. tells him that he’s “missing out” and says they need to work together, referring to his recent collaboration with Elton John. Thugger disagrees though. “But the difference between Elton John and Andre is, to simplify it, Elton John likes to kiss ass, and Dre likes his ass kissed. Elton John like “Hey! I like you, I remember your first song, I remember Gucci first song. When Guwop getting out?’ He a fan type of n****, to the point where I’m like, ‘Let’s do music,’ and he’s like, ‘N**** bet!’ Andre more like, ‘This is his secretary. Tell the n**** it’s Thug, n****.’”

T.I. also compares Andre’s fashion pioneering to Thug’s, prompting the younger rapper to explain why he wore a dress on his Jeffery cover. “That sh*t was just that simple,” he said. “That motherf*cker matched! It was not for attention. That’s on the Holy Bible, that’s on my kids.”

Watch Young Thug’s discussion with T.I. above.

Tweet LinkedIn PinShares0

Artist Spotlight

Pags creates a laid-back but calculated approach on new release “NAMELESS SUPERSTAR”

Pags’ latest release, “NAMELESS SUPERSTAR” is a hip-hop/trap track that puts emphasis on tone, flow and subtle complexity with a laid-back but calculated approach. Rather than providing obvious hooks or lengthy lyrics, the song invites self-engagement.

The relaxed conversational cadence brings an easy rhythm to the song. Pags is clean so every bar comes through naturally. This performance doesn’t need attention, but it does reward it. What’s interesting about “NAMELESS SUPERSTAR” is the writing.

Some lines are immediate, some deferred. This has gotten a lot of responses which is good for the track. Makes you curious so you listen again to understand. Pags doesn’t like explaining. That choice gives the song a conversational rather than show tone. “NAMELESS SUPERSTAR” is about the build up and the things that make you want to listen again.

Connect with Pags on Spotify || Instagram || Youtube

Tweet LinkedIn PinShares0

Artist Spotlight

Mark Winters celebrates life’s best moments on new release “All In The Rhythm”

Mark Winters’ new track, “All In The Rhythm,” is a warm and moving folk-pop release that celebrates the quiet truth that life’s best moments often come from staying in step with the people we love. The song has an organic sense of openness and forward motion, inspired by a hike in Zion National Park.

“All In The Rhythm” captures the grounding simplicity of walking, breathing, and sharing meaningful moments with others, with an acoustic guitar and a steady pulse. That pulse-like rhythm is symbolic not just of music, but of connection itself.

The track hits home because of its uplifting honesty. It poses a serious question: what if the search for happiness is not about more, but about movement in harmony with loved ones, with life, with the now? That notion gives the song emotional weight without weighing down its bright spirit.

The folk-pop foundation lends it accessibility and charm. The steady groove propels the song with a reassuring, alive momentum, while acoustic textures add warmth. It’s easy to imagine listeners connecting with its hopeful message, because it speaks to something universal.

Connect with Mark Winters on Spotify || Instagram || Facebook