Overview
Scott Storch shares candid stories from his career as a hit-making music producer, discussing relationships, industry dynamics, addiction, creative process, and personal lessons learned in an extensive interview.
Early Career and Breakthroughs
- Started with The Roots but felt underappreciated, eventually leaving to pursue larger ambitions.
- Significant early collaborations included Dr. Dre, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and producing iconic tracks on albums like The Chronic 2000.
- Created piano-driven hits and was known for freestyling in the studio, producing records like "Still Dre" and "Candy Shop".
Creative Process and Musical Philosophy
- Sees beat creation as an organic, almost subconscious process likened to “receiving satellite signals.”
- Believes imperfections can be the key to creating memorable, timeless music.
- Criticizes the current state of music for lacking substance and compares modern production to fast food.
Industry Relationships and Stories
- Worked closely with many top artists: Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, Fat Joe, and DMX.
- Shares nuanced experiences with artists like Kanye West, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Diddy, including both professional collaborations and personal conflicts.
- Touched on industry politics, label power dynamics, and the challenges in receiving proper credit and compensation.
Struggles with Addiction and Personal Life
- Details rapid descent into addiction after initial exposure, leading to massive financial loss and personal chaos.
- Addiction paralleled by collecting luxury items to compensate for self-esteem issues.
- Family history included exposure to instability and criminal influences, shaping his resilience and drive.
Reflections on Relationships and Fame
- Discusses relationships with high-profile figures such as Paris Hilton and Kim Kardashian, and the superficiality in Hollywood circles.
- Notes how success affected personal connections, with most friends disappearing during his lowest points.
- Attributes career longevity to passion and adaptability, emphasizing the importance of authenticity.
Industry Insights and Producer Role
- Highlights the changing role of the producer from project visionary to beat-maker.
- Industry gatekeeping and label interests often override artistic merit.
- Describes both the supportive and exploitative sides of the music business.
Views on Other Artists and the State of Music
- Respects artists like Russ for authenticity and independence.
- Skeptical of hip-hop “beefs,” often seeing them as manufactured publicity.
- Considers older music more substantive, noting a decline in quality with easier production tools.
Future Plans
- Interested in launching a diverse media project combining live entertainment, comedy, and podcast elements.
- Continues making music, now often in collaboration with his son.
Decisions
- Leave Dr. Dre’s camp to build solo career and focus on pop/R&B production.
- Reject work with Christina Aguilera without fair compensation after prior album success.
Action Items
- TBD – Scott Storch: Develop and launch a new variety show/podcast/live entertainment project.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Which elements will be central to Scott's new show?
- Any future musical collaborations or catalog sales planned?