When discussing some of the most iconic hip-hop labels, so many hopeful rappers dream to one day sign with them. That happened to Joey Bada$$, who recently revealed he wanted to sign to Young Money as a kid. Moreover, the media asked him about his love for Lil Wayne at the Recording Academy’s Black Music Collective’s Global Impact Awards. Furthermore, Baller Alert asked Joey, “Do you prefer Young Money or Cash Money Lil Wayne?” Furthermore, the New York MC adamantly sided with Weezy’s own imprint. “Young Money,” he responded.
“Because that YMCMB one is crazy,” he continued. “I wanted to be singed to Young Money, fun fact. When I was a kid, word… Yeah, I was with the smoke.” Furthermore, Joey’s talents found another home, but it’s been nothing short of a blessing. For over a decade, Joey stood and still stands as one of the game’s top lyricists and most respected artists. Moreover, his 2022 album 2000 garnered much critical acclaim and commercial success. While it didn’t get a Grammy nomination, it stood as one of the year’s lyrical highlights. Also, it’s a testament to the longevity of Joey’s career, pen, and perspective as a hip-hop leader.
Meanwhile, Young Money is one of the most successful and iconic imprints in recent memory. As an offshoot of Cash Money Records, it cemented Lil Wayne’s influence and contributed to the careers of Drake, Nicki Minaj, DJ Khaled, and many more. Most recently, Tunechi said that its best competition is actually Jay-Z’s Roc-A-Fella Records. As unlikely as it is, the teased Verzuz battle would be an absolute treat to witness.
Still, if you’re hungry for more Young Money, many of its newest roster released the “Bars on I-95” freestyle just a couple of months ago. While Weezy and Joey walk pretty distinct and differing artistic paths, the lineage between them is well-rooted. Wayne climbed to the top of the world through the skill of his punchlines, lyricism, and one-of-a-kind personality. Much in the same way, Joey’s reputation precedes him in conversations around the best in hip-hop today. Stay tuned to HNHH for the latest on Joey Bada$$, Young Money, and interesting what-ifs in the game.