Watch the full interview now as a VladTV Youtube Member: Click Here
Part 10: J.R. Rotem on Producing the Music for "Empire", Show Ended After Jussie Smollett Scandal
Part 8: J.R. Rotem on Nicki Minaj & Deb Antney Checking Him, Producing Nicki & Rihanna's "Fly"
Part 1: J.R. Rotem on Getting First Beat Placement on Destiny's Child Album, Only Paid $2,500
--------
JR Rotem reflects on his career and collaborations, highlighting his unexpected involvement with Maroon 5 during their experimentation with more pop-oriented tracks. He also discusses his experiences working with Cassie, describing her as a talented but limited artist whose success was largely driven by her appearance, connections, and production team rather than exceptional musical ability. Rotem and Vlad critique the narrative that Cassie's music career was sabotaged, instead framing her as an act whose opportunities stemmed from her association with Diddy. They emphasize the role of luck, timing, and industry backing in achieving success in music, while acknowledging that lasting careers require unique talent or a significant "it factor."
