Legendary rapper Redman recently shared the story of his massive payday for his role in Christina Aguilera’s hit song “Dirrty.” The 2002 collaboration not only earned him a spot on Aguilera’s Stripped album but also handed him one of the biggest publishing checks of his career.
A Life-Changing Collaboration
In an interview on Red Bull’s Spiral series, Redman reflected on the unexpected success of the project. He revealed that his first publishing check for the track was a staggering $250,000. “I couldn’t believe I got that much money for one verse,” he said. “Christina is, like, one of my favorite collabs.”
The collaboration came about after Aguilera heard Redman’s “Let’s Get Dirty” featuring DJ Kool. Inspired, she created an R&B/pop version of the track, inviting him to contribute. “After that, that s**t took off. We was everywhere, bro,” he added, recalling how their partnership became a defining moment in his career.
Redman Touring with a Pop Icon
Redman credited the experience with giving him a unique view of the pop music industry. Aguilera brought him on tour, an opportunity that broadened his perspective. “We was overseas, everywhere,” he said. “That album [Stripped] was one of her biggest albums. I got to actually see how a pop artist shakes and moves through this industry, and it’s another level than hip-hop.”
The Stripped album featured other major hits like “Beautiful” and “Fighter.” “Dirrty,” directed by renowned photographer and filmmaker Dave LaChapelle, became a cultural sensation. Though it peaked at No. 48 on the Billboard Hot 100, it went on to achieve platinum status and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals in 2003.
Looking back, Redman holds the collaboration in high regard. “Christina is one of my favorites,” he concluded.