By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
In 2003, Joe Budden was signed to Def Jam and he released his self-titled debut album. At the time, he was one of the more popular new artists in the game. Early in his career, Budden boasted collaborations from many big names, such as Busta Rhymes. However, immediately, Joe Budden and Jay-Z were adversaries.
Things did not bode well for Joe Budden, when Jay-Z took over as the president of Def Jam, as he was preparing to release his next album. Tired of waiting on a release date, Joe Budden returned to the streets. The first Mood Music mixtape was compiled of leftover tracks from Budden.
Joe Budden said he decided to go to the mixtape scene in order to give his fans some form of new music. When he released Mood Music 2, Joe Budden said it caught on with fans, so he delivered more mixtapes. Along with his mixtape series, Joe Budden spoke on his overall growth as an artist, saying he has grown more comfortable in his own skin.
Being himself is what has led to Joe Budden’s success and he advised other rising artists to always remain true to themselves, while rising to the top.
