Eve defends Jay-Z’s advice as truth; Ends billionaire husband myth
Hip-hop icon Eve recently sat down with The Breakfast Club hosts DJ Envy, Charlamagne Tha God, and Jess Hilarious to talk about her life, career, and recent memoir Who’s That Girl?. The discussion touched on a range of topics, including her rise to fame, her husband’s financial status, and a memorable conversation with Jay-Z that she now co-signs as “facts.”
Also, Eve opened up about her experience as a mother, emphasizing how her life has changed after giving birth. She expressed the joys and challenges that come with motherhood, mentioning how it has impacted her work-life balance and mental well-being.
Jay-Z’s Advice to Eve: A Lesson in Managing Expectations
During the interview, Eve recalled a phone call from Jay-Z on the day her debut album Let There Be Eve…Ruff Ryders’ First Lady dropped in 1999. According to Eve, Jay-Z congratulated her. However, he followed with a statement many would see as cautionary: he told her not to get her hopes up too high because female rappers “don’t really do that well” in the industry.
However, Eve didn’t interpret the comment as negative. In fact, she explained that Jay-Z was simply trying to offer her a dose of reality. “It was facts,” Eve said. Thus, clarifying that Jay-Z wasn’t trying to be harsh or discouraging. Instead, he was tempering her expectations in a male-dominated industry.
Eve went on to say that she didn’t feel disheartened by his advice. Actually, she found it useful. “It wasn’t in malice or to be mean,” she added. Jay-Z’s words, according to Eve, were more about being prepared for the challenges ahead. As a result, she now views as wise counsel given the reality female rappers have historically faced in achieving lasting success.
Eve’s Breakout Success
Despite Jay-Z’s warning, Eve’s debut album did exceptionally well, selling 213,000 copies in its first week. It has since been certified double platinum. That’s a milestone many artists strive for throughout their careers. Eve’s success story became one of the major achievements in hip-hop. As a result, she solidified her place as a trailblazer for women in the genre.
Eve reminisced about her time with Ruff Ryders, reflecting on the strong bond she shared with her label mates. DMX, The L.O.X. (Jadakiss, Styles P, and Sheek Louch), and Drag-On looked out for her. She called them her family, emphasizing the deep connection and camaraderie that have lasted over the years. This gave her a sense of belonging and a support system that helped her navigate the ups and downs of her career.
Her career soared through the early 2000s, thanks to hits like “Let Me Blow Ya Mind,” featuring Gwen Stefani, and “Who’s That Girl,” which remains an anthem for her fans. Eve defied the odds in an industry that wasn’t always kind to female MCs. Thus, using Jay-Z’s cautionary advice as fuel for her rise.
Debunking the Billionaire Husband Myth
In addition to revisiting her conversation with Jay-Z, Eve also used the interview to address rumors about her husband, Maximillion Cooper, being a billionaire. The couple has been together since 2010 and tied the knot in 2014. Cooper, a British entrepreneur and founder of the Gumball 3000 car rally, has often been the subject of speculation regarding his wealth.
Eve laughed off the rumors, calling them entirely false. “He’s not a billionaire. People put more on him than what he is,” she clarified, adding that the myth likely arose because he’s British and white. Eve admitted that she had no idea where the narrative started but emphasized that she never made claims about his wealth.
A Balanced Partnership
Though Cooper may not be a billionaire, Eve shared that their relationship is built on mutual respect and love, not financial status. She praised her husband for his support, particularly as she transitioned into motherhood with their first child together, a son named Wilde Wolf. Their relationship, according to Eve, has been a source of stability and happiness in her life. As a result, her journey with him has been one of balance and personal growth.
Eve was candid about her battle with alcoholism, saying it was one of the most difficult periods in her life. She credits her sobriety to her determination to change and her support system, which includes her husband and close friends. She stressed the importance of seeking help and how getting sober helped her transform her personal and professional life.
Eve’s Influence in Hip-Hop and Beyond
Eve’s candid interview on The Breakfast Club comes as she promotes her new memoir Who’s That Girl?, in which she reflects on her life, career, and experiences as one of hip-hop’s most prominent female figures. Known for her raw talent, versatility, and powerful voice, Eve has carved out a successful career that spans across music, film, and television.
Throughout her career, Eve has been an outspoken advocate for women in hip-hop. Thus, pushing back against the industry’s barriers and encouraging more inclusivity. Her story highlights the challenges many women face in navigating the male-dominated rap world and serves as an inspiration for future generations of female artists.
Conclusion: A Journey Defined by Resilience
Eve’s reflection on Jay-Z’s advice and her husband’s wealth is a testament to her resilience and self-awareness. Despite facing challenges both in her career and personal life, Eve has managed to thrive, consistently proving that her place in the industry is well-deserved. From her debut album’s success to her continued influence in the culture, Eve’s journey has been one of overcoming obstacles and staying true to herself.
As she continues to reflect on her career and life in her new memoir, Eve stands as a powerful figure in hip-hop who refuses to be boxed in by the industry’s limitations or public misconceptions. Her story reminds us all of the importance of authenticity, perseverance, and staying grounded, no matter the circumstances.
