AP: Did Nelly help you with this album?
A: He definitely helped. He is a very passionate person when it comes to being in the studio. He likes to have fun, but he is so passionate about what he does and making things perfect and trying it. Just putting everything out there. Musically we come from very, very different places. I actually did learn a lot from him just about trying different things and being willing to do something different.
AP: Why did you decide to take total control of your record this time around?
A: I would say, if you are on a ship with people and someone picks you up and throws you out of the ship with people, you are either going to sink, or you are going to swim. I decided to swim. That sums up what happened.
AP: What is your relationship with Irv Gotti?
A: The situation is what it is. I am working on my project. Ja is working on his project. Lloyd is working on his project. I think it has been such a long time that everyone is working on their individuality. The trial took a toll on everyone personally and everyone’s careers. This time around it is like focusing on the individual self, the projects and getting that music back out. No beef. I am really in a happier space right now. I have grown up so much and learned so much.
AP: Did you appreciate the break or were you yearning to be back on the music scene?
A: At times I looked at it like maybe this is a good thing. I got a chance to do John Tucker Must Die. I got a chance to do Resident Evil. At times I looked at it as I just want to get into the studio. I have this melody and idea and I think this would be hot. Again, you have to take the good with the bad. It is not like I decided to stop. Everything was yanked from me. When people say, “Did you appreciate it and you had your four-year break?’’ It wasn’t really like that. It was more of (taken away). Now what?
AP: At a time when a lot of people are exploring and discovering their independence, you seem to be doing the opposite. Your mother is your manager. Is it difficult being 27 and having your mother always around?
A: My family, we are different. It is very close-knit. I can say things in front of my dad and my mom and I don’t feel uncomfortable. There are certain things that I won’t say. You have to live your life. I happen to have an amazing relationship with both of my parents so it is cool and I am comfortable. Do I tell them every single thing? No.
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