No I.D. isn’t just a producer—he’s the quiet architect behind some of the most important careers and sounds in hip-hop.

In this special episode of BackTrak, we sit down with the legendary Chicago native to talk legacy, growth, silence, structure, and why true creativity takes time. Known for shaping artists like Common, Kanye West, J. Cole, and executive producing for Jay-Z, No I.D. reveals the philosophies that have guided his multi-decade career. He reflects on building from intention, not clout—on letting the music age well—and on the lessons he's still learning every day. He also gives us a rare look into the DNA of “I Used to Love H.E.R.”, remaking it live in the studio—but that’s just one page of a much deeper book.

0:00 Intro 4:52 The Rise of House Music & DJ Dion Wilson   9:46 1988: The Apex of Influence (Criminal Minded & Paid in Full)   11:24 Learning to Dig for Jazz Samples with The Beat Nuts   13:14 The Pursuit of Dopeness vs. Commercial Success   15:47 The South: Getting Pennies Thrown at FAMU   17:23 Character Building: Opening for KRS-One in Jersey   19:17 Moving to Atlanta: Seeking Jermaine Dupri’s Infrastructure   21:19 Songwriting Lessons: Learning the Artist Side of Producing   23:35 Mentoring Kanye West: Watching Him Break the Rules   26:11 The Jesus Piece vs. Buying Equipment   30:16 The "Diamond Era": Street Rap & The Shift to Big Money   36:44 Long-term Career Strategy: The Rick Rubin & Quincy Jones Model   37:54 What do you need all that money for? 41:30 The 5-to-7 Year Artist-Producer Relationship Cycle   45:47 Staying Sharp: Why Value Trumps Loyalty   48:37 Debunking the Jay-Z "Rock the World" Production Myth   54:15 Dealing with Industry Calamity & Storytelling   57:04 List Culture: Being Offended by "Top 50" Producers   1:04:13 Legacy Beyond Music: Photography & Writing   1:07:21 The "Vintage Chair" Philosophy   1:10:00 Reconnecting with Kanye after the Loss of His Mother   1:12:15 The Hawaii Sessions: Treating the Studio Like a Band   1:14:33 Technical Breakdown: Producing "I Used to Love H.E.R."   1:21:56 Recreating the Sample & Bassline in Ableton   1:31:27 Realizing the Legacy: When Resurrection Became a Classic   1:34:51 Final Reflections: Doing it for the Love

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#common #jayz #kanye

On this episode of Backtrak, we spotlight platinum producer Needlz as he breaks down the creation of Drake’s early classic “I’m Goin In” featuring Lil Wayne and Jeezy. Known for his precise drum programming and cinematic layering, Needlz walks us through how the track came together. From dialing in the hard-hitting 808s to building the moody backdrop that set the tone for Drake’s So Far Gone era, this episode offers a rare look into how a timeless record was crafted. It’s a behind-the-scenes deep dive into the sound that helped shape a generation and cement Drake, Wayne, and Jeezy as a legendary trio on wax.

Join legendary mixing engineer Marcella Araica as she breaks down the creative process behind mixing the hit single "Knock You Down" by Keri Hilson, featuring Kanye West and Ne-Yo. 🔥 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more beat deconstructions! Follow Marcella Araica 📸 https://instagram.com/incrediblelago Follow us for more insights into hip hop history and music production: 📸 https://instagram.com/tmronetwork 📸 https://instagram.com/Doncannon 🎽 Merch: https://shoptmro.com/ #MarcellaAraica #KnockYouDown #Mixing #KeriHilson # Kanye #Neyo #MusicProduction #AudioEngineering #BehindTheMix

 We dive deep into the infectious beat of Promiscuous by Nelly Furtado, produced by the legendary Danja. Discover how this 2006 hit blends bouncy synths, punchy drums, and Timbaland’s signature groove to create a timeless club anthem. We break down the rhythm, melody, and production techniques that made this track a staple of the 2000s. From the hypnotic bassline to the call-and-response structure, learn what makes this beat so addictive. Whether you're a music producer, a fan of early 2000s hits, or just curious about how great songs are made, this breakdown is for you! 

 #Promiscuous #NellyFurtado #BeatBreakdown #Danja #Timbaland #MusicProduction

For this episode of BackTrak, Cannon sat down with the legendary Cardo Got Wings to revisit Seen It All—his iconic production for Jeezy and JAY-Z. Cardo takes us through the process of crafting the cinematic, hard-hitting beat that set the stage for two rap heavyweights to go bar for bar.

From the sample selection to the crisp drums and deep 808s, Cardo shares how he built one of the most memorable beats in his catalog. Whether you’re a fan of timeless production or just love seeing how classic records come together, this is one you don’t want to miss!

0:00 Intro 3:12 Early Days 9:43 Rapper Origin, Beatmaking & Sampling 13:50 First Placements, Mac Miller, Wiz Khalifa 22:24 Meek Mill & Levels 30:45 'Seen It All Backstory' 37:45 BEAT BREAKDOWN 49:21 Final Remarks

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#jeezy  #jayz  #cardogotwings

For this episode of BackTrak, Don Cannon is visiting a west coast LEGEND DJ Dahi! "My Type of Party" is a track by West Coast rapper Dom Kennedy, released in 2012 as part of his mixtape The Yellow Album. The song was produced by DJ Dahi, a versatile producer known for his work across hip hop, R&B, and pop genres. DJ Dahi's production portfolio includes collaborations with artists such as Kendrick Lamar, Drake, SZA, and Travis Scott. His ability to adapt to various styles has earned him recognition as one of the most important producers in recent years. "My Type of Party" exemplifies DJ Dahi's skill in crafting engaging beats that complement Dom Kennedy's laid-back flow, contributing to the track's enduring popularity.

For this episode of BackTrak, we got in the studio with the one and only DJ Camper to revisit the making of Boom Bap—his hard-hitting collab with none other than 2024 Grammy winner Doechii. Camper takes us inside the creative process, breaking down the raw energy, knocking drums, and infectious groove that make this track a standout.

From the first spark of inspiration to the final mix, he shares the moments that brought Boom Bap to life, giving us an inside look at the chemistry that made this record hit different. If you love dope production, crazy rhythms, and behind-the-scenes gems, this one’s a must-watch!

0:00 Intro 2:03 Early Years 11:18 H.E.R., Brandy, & R&B V Rap 12:19 Moving to LA 16:36 Doja Cat & Doechii 22:40 *Jam Session* 29:25 Dream Collabs & Publishing Deals 33:17 The Future 38:28 *Full Breakdown*

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#doechii #grammys #doechiitypebeat

Don Cannon is back in Los Angeles and we linked up with the iconic DJ Khalil as he dives into the creation of 50 Cent’s hard-hitting track "I’ll Still Kill," featuring Akon. Khalil goes into his story of being raised in LA and finding his sound, breaking down the process behind crafting the synths with his tailor made sound design, and the layered production that perfectly matches 50’s intensity and Akon’s unforgettable hook

From the gritty drums to the catchy chord progressions, Khalil shares insights on how the track came together and the creative decisions that shaped its iconic sound. Don’t miss this deep dive into a true classic.

0:00 INTRO 1:51 Starting Out 5:47 Meeting Dr.Dre 11:45 Going To Atlanta 21:44 Learning From Dre 25:02 Digital VS Analog 31:34 Kinda Like a Big Deal 36:12 Home Studio VS Pro Studio 41:23 Beat Breakdown 50:25 Final Remarks

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#50cent #akon  #50centtypebeat #djkhalil

Don Cannon is making his trip around Los Angeles well worth it! Today he sat down with legendary jazz musician Terrace Martin. 

Terrace Martin is a Grammy-winning musician, producer, and multi-instrumentalist known for blending jazz, hip-hop, R&B, and funk. Raised in Los Angeles, his musical roots were shaped by his jazz musician father and the rich culture of South Central LA. A talented saxophonist, Martin’s early collaborations with Snoop Dogg launched his career, leading to groundbreaking work with Kendrick Lamar on To Pimp a Butterfly and DAMN., where he merged jazz and hip-hop.

In addition to working with icons like Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, and James Fauntleroy, Martin’s solo albums, such as Velvet Portraits and Dinner Party, showcase his artistry. Known for his electrifying live performances and mentorship of emerging artists, Martin continues to innovate, leaving a lasting impact on contemporary music.

0:00 Intro 3:14 Musical Origins 16:37 Equipment & 808s 24:40 Road to Dr. Dre 38:25 Working with West Coast MCs 45:00 Jazz & Hiphop collabs  47:48 Drones Breakdown  01:13:03 Alright Breakdown  1:20:41 Closing remarks / outro 

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#kendricklamar #snoopdogg #westcoasthiphop

Dive into the backstory of A$AP Ferg’s anthem, “New Level,” a track that took the rap world by storm with its hard-hitting beat and motivating lyrics. Released as the lead single from his 2016 album Always Strive and Prosper, the song features fellow rapper Future, who adds his unique flair to this banger. The production magic comes from Honorable C.N.O.T.E., a powerhouse in the hip-hop industry known for creating gritty, high-energy instrumentals that elevate the artist’s performance.

Honorable C.N.O.T.E. perfectly captured the intensity and drive of A$AP Ferg’s vision for “New Level,” making it an anthem for anyone hustling to reach new heights. Known for his work with artists like Gucci Mane, Migos, and 2 Chainz, C.N.O.T.E. brought his signature style to the table, fusing booming bass with haunting melodies to craft a beat that’s instantly recognizable and unforgettable.

Join us as we break down how this iconic track came to be, the inspiration behind it, and the impact it’s had on Ferg’s career and hip-hop culture. 🌍💪

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#ASAPFerg #NewLevel #HonorableCNOTE #Future #HipHopHistory

Don Cannon is BACK with another one! This time hes sitting with well anticipated legendary south producer Drumma Boy! Todays' episode were discussing the creation of "Put On" and the long lasted impact this song has done.

"Put On" by Young Jeezy, featuring Kanye West, is an anthem of pride and resilience from Jeezy's 2008 album The Recession. Produced by Drumma Boy, its booming bass and synth-heavy beat underscore Jeezy’s declaration of loyalty to his Atlanta roots and the struggles of representing his community. Kanye West’s auto-tuned verse adds a reflective contrast, exploring themes of personal loss and isolation amidst success.

The track achieved commercial and critical success, peaking at #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a Grammy nomination. A symbol of perseverance during the 2008 economic downturn, "Put On" solidified Jeezy's role as a voice for the streets while connecting with listeners navigating hardship, making it a hip-hop classic.

Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 1:16 Family & Musical Beginnings 9:23 First Hardware 12:03 Memphis Music Scene & Indy Artists 14:51 Coming To Atlanta 18:44 First Big Break 24:20 The Recession Of 08' 27:23 How "Put On" Came To Be 30:18 The Success 35:14 Beat Recreation 50:47 Post Production 53:43 Pro Tools Session

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#YoungJeezyPutOnBackstory #KanyeWestFeatures2008 #HistoryOfIconicRapSongs

Exploring the impact of Dipset Anthem, a timeless classic that shaped hip-hop culture with its hard-hitting beats, iconic lyrics, and bold Harlem energy. Released by The Diplomats in 2003, the track became a defining moment for East Coast rap, blending gritty street narratives with unmatched swagger. The anthem’s production, handled by Heatmakerz, delivered a signature sound that would influence hip-hop for years to come. Its unapologetic style and lyrical prowess, especially from Cam'ron and Juelz Santana, made it an instant street anthem. To this day, Dipset Anthem remains a cultural touchstone, representing the resilience and influence of Harlem in the rap game.

TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Intro 01:13 Studio Tour 02:50 Back Story 08:00 Career kicking off 11:50 Musical Influences 16:10 Almost Trashing Dipset Anthem 22:03 Sample 24:10 Equipment 26:50 Breakdown sample 34:10 Full REMAKE of Dipset Anthem 45:15 Final Remarks

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#DipsetAnthem #HarlemRap #HipHopClassic

In this interview, legendary producer Cardiak takes us through his journey from Jersey to creating some of hip-hop and R&B’s most iconic records. From discovering FL Studio to producing classics like “Dice Pineapples” and “Damage,” Cardiak shares his story of hard work, setbacks, and career-changing collaborations with Dr. Dre, Nipsey Hussle, Don Cannon, and more. If you’ve ever wondered how to become a music producer or wanted to learn the story behind the beats, this Cardiak producer interview gives you the blueprint.

Don Cannon is back in Circle House! This time he sits down with Legendary producer Bink The Humble Monsta as he breakdown a Rick Ross classic.

"Santorini Greece" by Rick Ross, from his 2017 album Rather You Than Me, is a luxurious yet introspective track. Over a smooth, soulful beat produced by Bink!, Ross contrasts the serene imagery of Santorini with the turbulence of his life and career. The song delves into themes of success, wealth, and the sacrifices made along the way. Ross reflects on his journey from the streets to the top, touching on betrayals and the pressures of maintaining his status. The track blends opulence with vulnerability, showcasing Ross's ability to balance materialism with deep personal reflection.

00:00 Intro 01:20 Back Story 04:20 Equipment 10:30 The Sample 15:00 Beat Creation 23:00 Final Questions

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#rickross  #santorinigreece #hiphop

In this special episode of BackTrak, legendary producer Don Cannon heads to Atlanta to link up with the mastermind behind some of Jeezy’s biggest hits, producer D Rich. Together, they take a deep dive into the making of Jeezy's chart-topping track "All There," featuring the late Bankroll Fresh. D Rich opens up about the creative process, from crafting the unforgettable beat to working with Jeezy and Bankroll in the studio.

 They explore the challenges and triumphs of producing a hit record, the chemistry that made it all come together, and the song’s impact on the culture. Whether you're a fan of Jeezy, a producer, or just love hip-hop, this episode offers an in-depth look at the behind-the-scenes magic that brought "All There" to life. Don't miss this exclusive breakdown of one of the most memorable tracks in modern hip-hop!

0:00 Intro 2:02 D Rich Origin 3:19 First Placement & Shawty Redd 6:50 Inspiration & Influences 9:51 Hardware VS Software 10:59 Bankroll Fresh 14:35 Jeezy 15:58 Favorite Equipment 18:02 "All There" Backstory 21:21 Remaking The Beat 27:20 Final Remarks

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In this episode of Backtrak: Long Story Shorts, Don Cannon brings viewers an in-depth look at the life and career of acclaimed LA producer My Guy Mars. Tune in as he speaks on  his roots in the church, where his passion for music was ignited. He shares stories of his early success and how his authentic production style has shaped some of the most memorable tracks in contemporary music.

Mars delves into the creation of "Stronger" by Kanye West, a groundbreaking anthem that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. He also breaks down "Dedication" by Nipsey Hussle, a powerful tribute that exemplifies Nipsey's relentless spirit and dedication to his craft. The episode continues with a look at "Take You Down" by Chris Brown, a smooth and seductive track that highlights Mars' versatility as a producer. Finally, he discusses "Credit" by Ty Dolla $ign, showcasing his ability to create hits across different genres.

Each of these songs represents a milestone in Mars' career, demonstrating his exceptional talent and lasting influence in the music industry. This episode of Backtrak is more than a behind-the-scenes look; it is a celebration of My Guy Mars' legendary contributions to music and his enduring impact on  the culture.

0:00 Intro 0:54 My Guy Mars Backstory  4:51 Church Background 6:30 First Placements 8:25 T.I. Atlanta & Real Producing 11:35 Reacting to Success 15:44 [Take You Down - Chris Brown]  19:41 [Dedication - Nipsey Hussle]   21:53 Relationship With Nip 25:05 [Stronger - Kanye West] 29:10 [Credit - Ty Dolla $ign ft. Sevyn Streeter] 31:31 The Freedom To Create

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This episode of BackTrak, we've partnered with Producer Culture 📸  / producerculture   📸    / @producerculturetv  

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Discover the synergy between humans and AI in music creation with KatoOnTheTrack and Don Cannon on TmrO A.I. From debunking myths about AI replacing human talent to delving into the intricacies of the songwriting process, this episode sheds light on how technology enhances rather than replaces artistic expression. Tune in for insights, inspiration, and a glimpse into the future of music production.

Together, they unpack the transformative power of AI in music production, engineering, and creativity, offering unparalleled insights into the industry's next frontier. Don't miss your chance to explore the future of music with TmrO A.I. - where innovation knows no bounds.

Tap in with MJ: https://www.instagram.com/mjxmusic/

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Welcome to TmrO A.I. where we delve into the cutting-edge intersection of artificial intelligence and the music industry. In this episode, we're joined by Don Cannon, Leslie Brathwaite, MJ Jacob, and OG Parker to discuss the making of beats, AI Vocal swapping, Ownership, Splits, and much more! 

Together, they unpack the transformative power of AI in music production, engineering, and creativity, offering unparalleled insights into the industry's next frontier. Don't miss your chance to explore the future of music with TmrO A.I. - where innovation knows no bounds.

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Welcome to TmrO A.I. where we delve into the cutting-edge intersection of artificial intelligence and the music industry. In our inaugural episode, we're joined by an illustrious panel of creatives: the pioneering music engineer Ben Thomas, the legendary producer Don Cannon, the innovative record producer Sonny Digital, and A.I. trailblazer MJ.

Together, they unpack the transformative power of AI in music production, engineering, and creativity, offering unparalleled insights into the industry's next frontier. Don't miss your chance to explore the future of music with TmrO A.I. - where innovation knows no bounds.

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First Day Out wasn’t supposed to be a hit—but that’s what made it one.

 Helluva joins BackTrak to reconstruct the moment Tee Grizzley stepped into the booth and laid down a historic, no-hook performance that would ignite Detroit’s rap resurgence. Helluva shares his process, how the beat evolved, and why that beat switch was a game-changer. It’s a story about instincts, timing, and the sound of a city that refuses to stay quiet.

By the time “First Day Out” hit the streets, Detroit was already bubbling—but this was different. The track tore through timelines, dominated aux cords, and signaled the arrival of a new voice with something urgent to say. For Helluva, it wasn’t just another beat—it was the culmination of years spent shaping the underground sound of Michigan. With a catalog that laid the foundation for artists like Sada Baby, Icewear Vezzo, and Payroll Giovanni, Helluva helped define the modern Detroit bounce. First Day Out wasn’t just Tee’s breakout—it was a city’s exhale.

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#teegrizzley  #teegrizzleytypebeat  #helluva

In this episode of BackTrak, we explore the history of DJ Spinz, a pivotal figure in Atlanta’s trap movement and the creator of the legendary SPINZ 808. Rising from Atlanta’s vibrant DJ culture, Spinz became known for his ear for hard-hitting records, producing and breaking songs that defined a generation. Beyond crafting beats, he helped pioneer the sound of modern trap with a style that combined club energy, sharp drum programming, and undeniable knock. From spinning in clubs to shaping Billboard-charting hits, DJ Spinz’s journey reflects both the grind of a DJ-turned-producer and the influence of a tastemaker whose work continues to echo through hip-hop today

In this episode of BackTrak, Don Cannon makes the highly anticipated beat rapped on by Jeezy and Jay- Z. “Go Crazy” is a standout track by Young Jeezy featuring Jay-Z, produced by the acclaimed Don Cannon. Built around the soulful Impressions sample, the beat blends vintage soul with gritty Southern flair, setting the tone for Jeezy’s raw delivery and Jay-Z’s slick lyricism. The song became a defining moment in Jeezy’s rise and helped solidify Don Cannon as a top-tier producer known for his cinematic, hard-hitting sound.

Jermaine Dupri is a legendary producer, songwriter, and music executive whose influence has shaped the sound of hip-hop and R&B for over three decades. Rising to fame in the early '90s, he founded So So Def Recordings, where he launched the careers of major artists like Kris Kross, Da Brat, Bow Wow, and Jagged Edge. Dupri's signature production style helped define the Atlanta music scene and contributed to the rise of Southern hip-hop as a dominant cultural force. Throughout his career, Dupri has worked with industry icons including Mariah Carey, Usher, Janet Jackson, and Jay-Z. He co-wrote and produced chart-topping hits like "We Belong Together," "Confessions Part II," and "Money Ain’t a Thang." His accolades include Grammy Awards, induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and numerous Billboard chart achievements. With a legacy built on innovation, longevity, and hit-making genius, Jermaine Dupri remains one of the most influential figures in modern music history.

Go behind the boards with legendary hip-hop producer Hi-Tek in this exclusive interview. Hailing from Cincinnati, Hi-Tek rose to fame in the late '90s as one half of *Reflection Eternal* alongside Talib Kweli, producing the critically acclaimed album *Train of Thought*. Known for his soulful, sample-heavy beats and gritty yet melodic production style, Hi-Tek has played a pivotal role in shaping the underground and mainstream sounds of hip-hop.

What does it take to build a beat that feels both cinematic and personal? In this episode of Backtrak, legendary producer Jake One breaks down the creation of “My Life” — J. Cole and 21 Savage’s anthemic collaboration from The Off-Season. From gritty soul samples to clean drum programming, Jake revisits the creative choices that gave this track its emotional weight. Watch as he remakes the instrumental from scratch and unpacks the sonic storytelling behind one of Cole’s standout records.

Timestamps

0:00 Intro 01:26 Welcoming Jake One: The GOAT Producer 04:07 Seattle's Influence on Music and Career 08:10 Versatility, Pivoting, and Finding Your Sound 15:34 The Magic of the ASR-10 Sequencer 19:36 Early Career: Traveling to New York and Quitting Work 22:11 The Dr. Dre Call: A Career Defining Moment 28:04 The Unexpected Journey with Tuxedo 30:40 Evolution of Music Finances and Royalty Deals 33:32 The Enduring Impact of the John Cena Theme 37:09 Record Digging: From Utility to Collecting 41:57 Beat Battles and Celebrating Hip Hop Generations 50:28 Deconstructing J. Cole's "M Y . L I F E" 01:01:40 Beat Re-Creation 01:19:36 The Future: Hanging Up the Industry, Not Creativity

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#jcole #21savage  #jcoletypebeat

In this episode of BackTrak, Mayne of The Runners cracks open the vault and rebuilds the beat that lit a fire under Rick Ross’ career: Hustlin’. From the cinematic horn stabs to the heavyweight drums, he takes us inside the moment this anthem was born—and how it turned a local Miami record into a national street sermon. Industry bidding wars, studio myths, and one of the coldest hooks in rap history. This is the story of a beat that wouldn’t wait.

0:00 Intro 1:52 Running The Game 4:35 The Next Neptunes/Starting in Orlando, Florida 5:34 Attending Full Sail and Meeting Key Connections 7:33 First Equipment Used: Korg N364  10:39 Discovering Production As a Career 12:48 Developing Roles in The Runners 14:41 First placements 16:09 The Origin of The Runners name 17:46 Monumental impact: Bringing Florida/Miami Back on the Map  24:09 Favorite Produced Record: Rihanna's "Cheers"  27:58 Inspired by Avril Lavigne Sample Bridge For "Cheers" 32:17 The mindset for "Hustlin" After Father's Passing 34:02 Recreating "Hustling"  49:18 Drums 55:18 Did Mayne Start This 808 Trend? 1:01:18 The Vocal Sample

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#rickross #rickrosstypebeat #hustlin #hustle