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.

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.

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.   Follow Helluva📸 https://instagram.com/helluva313 Follow us for more insights into hip hop history and music production:📸 https://instagram.com/tmronetwork📸 https://instagram.com/Doncannon 🎽 Merch: https://shoptmro.com/ #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 Intro01:26 Welcoming Jake One: The GOAT Producer04:07 Seattle's Influence on Music and Career08:10 Versatility, Pivoting, and Finding Your Sound15:34 The Magic of the ASR-10 Sequencer19:36 Early Career: Traveling to New York and Quitting Work22:11 The Dr. Dre Call: A Career Defining Moment28:04 The Unexpected Journey with Tuxedo30:40 Evolution of Music Finances and Royalty Deals33:32 The Enduring Impact of the John Cena Theme37:09 Record Digging: From Utility to Collecting41:57 Beat Battles and Celebrating Hip Hop Generations50:28 Deconstructing J. Cole's "M Y . L I F E"01:01:40 Beat Re-Creation01:19:36 The Future: Hanging Up the Industry, Not Creativity Follow Jake One📸   / jakeuno   Follow us for more insights into hip hop history and music production:📸   / tmronetwork  📸   / doncannon   🎽 Merch: https://shoptmro.com/ #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 Intro1:52 Running The Game4:35 The Next Neptunes/Starting in Orlando, Florida5:34 Attending Full Sail and Meeting Key Connections7:33 First Equipment Used: Korg N364 10:39 Discovering Production As a Career12:48 Developing Roles in The Runners14:41 First placements16:09 The Origin of The Runners name17:46 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 Passing34:02 Recreating "Hustling" 49:18 Drums55:18 Did Mayne Start This 808 Trend?1:01:18 The Vocal Sample 🔥 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more beat deconstructions! Follow Mayne📸   / blvckjvck   Follow us for more insights into hip hop history and music production:📸   / tmronetwork  📸   / doncannon   🎽 Merch: https://shoptmro.com/ #rickross #rickrosstypebeat #hustlin #hustle

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 Intro3:12 Early Days9:43 Rapper Origin, Beatmaking & Sampling13:50 First Placements, Mac Miller, Wiz Khalifa22:24 Meek Mill & Levels30:45 'Seen It All Backstory'37:45 BEAT BREAKDOWN49:21 Final Remarks   Follow Cardo📸 https://instagram.com/cardogotwings Follow us for more insights into hip hop history and music production:📸 https://instagram.com/tmronetwork📸 https://instagram.com/Doncannon 🎽 Merch: https://shoptmro.com/ #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 Intro2:03 Early Years11:18 H.E.R., Brandy, & R&B V Rap12:19 Moving to LA16:36 Doja Cat & Doechii22:40 *Jam Session*29:25 Dream Collabs & Publishing Deals33:17 The Future38:28 *Full Breakdown* Follow DJ Camper📸   / theycallmecamper   Follow us for more insights into hip hop history and music production:📸   / tmronetwork  📸   / doncannon   🎽 Merch: https://shoptmro.com/ #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 INTRO1:51 Starting Out5:47 Meeting Dr.Dre11:45 Going To Atlanta21:44 Learning From Dre25:02 Digital VS Analog31:34 Kinda Like a Big Deal36:12 Home Studio VS Pro Studio41:23 Beat Breakdown50:25 Final Remarks Follow DJ Khalil📸   / djkhalil   Follow us for more insights into hip hop history and music production:📸   / tmronetwork  📸   / doncannon   🎽 Merch: https://shoptmro.com/ #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 Intro3:14 Musical Origins16:37 Equipment & 808s24:40 Road to Dr. Dre38:25 Working with West Coast MCs45:00 Jazz & Hiphop collabs 47:48 Drones Breakdown 01:13:03 Alright Breakdown 1:20:41 Closing remarks / outro  Follow Terrace Martin!📸   / terracemartin   Follow us for more insights into hip hop history and music production:📸   / tmronetwork  📸   / doncannon   🎽 Merch: https://shoptmro.com/ #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. 🌍💪 Follow Honorable C.N.O.T.E!📸   / honorablecnote   Follow us for more insights into hip hop history and music production:📸   / tmronetwork  📸   / doncannon   🎽 Merch: https://shoptmro.com/ #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 Intro1:16 Family & Musical Beginnings9:23 First Hardware12:03 Memphis Music Scene & Indy Artists14:51 Coming To Atlanta18:44 First Big Break24:20 The Recession Of 08'27:23 How "Put On" Came To Be30:18 The Success35:14 Beat Recreation50:47 Post Production53:43 Pro Tools Session   Follow Drumma Boy!📸   / drummaboyfresh   Follow us for more insights into hip hop history and music production:📸   / tmronetwork  📸   / doncannon   🎽 Merch: https://shoptmro.com/ #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 Intro01:13 Studio Tour02:50 Back Story08:00 Career kicking off11:50 Musical Influences16:10 Almost Trashing Dipset Anthem22:03 Sample24:10 Equipment26:50 Breakdown sample34:10 Full REMAKE of Dipset Anthem45:15 Final Remarks Follow The Heatmakerz (Rsonist)!📸   / officialheatmakerz   Follow us for more insights into hip hop history and music production:📸   / tmronetwork  📸   / doncannon   🎽 Merch: https://shoptmro.com/ #DipsetAnthem #HarlemRap #HipHopClassic

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 Intro01:20 Back Story04:20 Equipment10:30 The Sample15:00 Beat Creation23:00 Final Questions Follow Bink!📸   / binkthehumblemonsta   Follow us for more insights into hip hop history and music production:📸   / tmronetwork  📸   / doncannon   🎽 Merch: https://shoptmro.com/ #rickross  #santorinigreece #hiphop