Fat Joe, the Bronx-born hip-hop legend, has made a powerful return to music after a 15-year hiatus. The release of his latest album, The World Changed on Me, showcases his evolution as an artist while staying true to his roots. But the driving force behind his comeback? None other than rapper and activist Killer Mike.
Killer Mike’s Grammy Wins Spark a New Chapter for Fat Joe
“Killer Mike is the guy who inspired me,” Fat Joe revealed in a recent interview with Billboard. “I was retired. I was done. I even had Eminem calling me, telling me, ‘Joe, we need you.’ But when Killer Mike won that Grammy, it lit a fire in me. It made me believe it was still possible.”
The three Grammy wins by Killer Mike, a member of the acclaimed duo Run the Jewels, were a pivotal moment for Joe. The accolades motivated him to call his longtime collaborator, Dr. Dre. “When I saw it, I called Dre and said, ‘Yo, let’s get back in the kitchen and cook,’” he shared.
Joe’s new project is an 11-track journey featuring collaborations with artists like Babyface, Ty Dolla $ign, and Anitta. Standout tracks like “Dog House” and “I Got You” highlight his lyrical prowess and fresh flow patterns. “I didn’t want to sound like today’s trends,” he explained. “This album is gangsta hip-hop, hit records, and raw lyrics. I kept it consistent with all my past music.”
His return wasn’t just about music. Fat Joe also made waves as a host with the debut of his STARZ talk show, Fat Joe Talks. The show has featured high-profile guests such as Mary J. Blige and DJ Khaled, but Joe dreams of interviewing former President Barack Obama. “Hearing him reflect on his historic 2008 election victory would be incredible,” he said.
For Fat Joe, this chapter is about reinvention and ambition. “I want that Grammy now,” he admitted. With his renewed focus and Killer Mike’s inspiration, Joe proves it’s never too late to chase greatness.