T.I. Says ‘If I Give You $1M Then I’d Have To Take Something Back That’s Worth Way More’ While Reflecting On His Decision Not To Sign 21 Savage & Young Thug
T.I. Says ‘If I Give You $1M Then I’d Have To Take Something Back That’s Worth Way More’ While Reflecting On His Decision Not To Sign 21 Savage & Young Thug
Rap star T.I. is reflecting on his past teaching moments.
While speaking to sports personality Shannon Sharpe on his new podcast “Club Shay Shay,” the Atlanta musician spoke on the importance of not frivolously handing out millions.
T.I., real name Clifford Harris, referenced two of the biggest rappers out to date while explaining why he opted not to give them the money they asked for prior to their musical success. The 42-year-old recalled turning down “Pull Up” artist 21 Savage as well as fellow Atlanta rapper Young Thug, stating:
“Man 21 Savage, Thug, a lot of them come up to me, ‘hey man just give me a million Tip’…and I’m like ‘nah I ain’t gone do that cause if I give you a million imma have to take back something that’s gone be worth way more and we ain’t gone be able to be friends no more’.”
He continued:
“I always tell them don’t worry about the money up front because it’s gone come….I remember telling that to Slime…to 21…Savage every time he see me now he’ll hit me and say ‘aye it came’, and that puts a smile on my face.”
The “Whatever You Like” artist additionally spoke about the importance of musicians fully understanding the record deals they sign in order to avoid common pitfalls. T.I. has been making music for over two decades and says a family member gave him several books at a young age to help him better understand the industry. He explained:
“When I’m 19 and get my first record deal I already know what I’m looking for, I know what I’m supposed to be receiving and what not to give away.”
He added:
“At this point in my career I find it honorable to be able to tell [that to] new artists,”
At this time, Young Thug still remains behind bars while he awaits trial for racketeering charges. Gunna, who was also arrested in the ordeal along with more than 20 other individuals, was released earlier this year.
Do you agree with T.I. not wanting to shell out millions on new artists? Let us know in the comments below!