Joey Bada$$ Reveals Near Deal with JAY-Z: What Could Have Been?
Joey Bada$$ has recently stirred up the hip-hop world by revealing that JAY-Z, his idol, once expressed interest in managing him early in his career. This revelation has fans and industry insiders alike pondering the possibilities of what could have been. Let's delve into the details of this almost-partnership and its implications.
In an interview with Red Bull, Joey Bada$$ recounted the events, explaining how the potential deal never materialized. "It was a chain of communication that I didn’t have any part in," he stated. He emphasized that at 17, being approached by JAY-Z was "the dream, the highest honor." Joey expressed that JAY-Z didn't want to sign him as an artist but rather manage him, leading him to wonder if his existing management at the time played a role in the deal falling through.
Joey Bada$$ reflected on the situation during a 2022 appearance on The Breakfast Club, saying he still contemplates having a conversation with JAY-Z about it. He suspects that communication channels might have been "sabotaged," leaving him unsure of the exact reasons for the deal's failure.
Adding another layer to their intertwined paths, Joey Bada$$ was also considered for a role in the JAY-Z-produced Western film, *The Harder They Fall*. However, due to his commitment to 50 Cent's *Power Book III: Raising Kanan*, he had to decline the offer.
While a collaboration never materialized, Joey has acknowledged JAY-Z's influence, even mentioning taking notes from JAY-Z's book *Decoded*. He shared a specific passage about JAY-Z's mindset during a meeting with Russell Simmons, where JAY-Z realized he aspired to be in Simmons' position. This resonated with Joey's own ambitions.
Beyond the JAY-Z connection, Joey Bada$$ is also making waves with recent lyrical jabs in the hip-hop scene. After taking shots at Kendrick Lamar and the West Coast on "The Ruler’s Back," he continued the rivalry during a freestyle battle with TDE’s Ab-Soul.
With all these developments, what does the future hold for Joey Bada$$? Will he and JAY-Z eventually collaborate? What are your thoughts on Joey Bada$$' recent lyrical sparring?
Share your opinions and predictions in the comments below!
