Why I never wanted anything to do with Michael Jackson — Dr. Dre

Renowned music producer and influential figure, Dr. Dre, has recently disclosed that he declined opportunities to work with music legends Prince, Michael Jackson, and Stevie Wonder.

In a candid conversation with comedian Kevin Hart on Hart To Heart podcast, the 58-year-old producer explained his preference for collaborating with new artists.

Dr. Dre, born Andre Romell Young, gained fame for shaping the careers of notable artists such as Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and Ice Cube. During the podcast discussion, he revealed that despite being approached by Prince and Michael Jackson, he respectfully declined due to his perception of them as already established artists.

Expressing his viewpoint, the Compton, California native nodded in agreement with Hart, stating,

“Yeah, they just asked me to work with them, and I was just like, ‘What the f**k am I going to do with them?'”

Dre further elaborated on his reluctance, explaining that he has a specific vision of his musical heroes and prefers not to interfere with that image.

Moreover, Dr. Dre emphasized his inclination towards working with new artists, highlighting the potential for molding them into something unexpected and exciting. He contrasted this with the predicament of collaborating with established superstars who have already achieved fame.

“What the f**k am I going to do with them? Those are my heroes,” he reiterated.

Hart, attempting to instill confidence in the legendary producer, reminded him of his own stature, stating, “But you’re Dr. Dre.” However, Dre brushed off the notion, adding another prominent artist to the list of those he turned down. “Most recently, Stevie Wonder,” he revealed, leaving Hart in a state of shock at the idea that Dre possessed the gravitas to decline collaborations with such iconic figures.

Explaining his perspective, Dr. Dre stated,

“My entire life and career has been dealing with and working with new artists. That’s what I like. Nobody comes in with an agenda. These mother f**kers show up on time.”

His comments reflect a dedication to nurturing emerging talent and the creative satisfaction he derives from guiding artists at the early stages of their careers.

Dr. Dre’s breakthrough in the music industry came through his collaboration with like-minded individuals from Compton, which ultimately led to the formation of the influential group NWA.

As one of the original architects of hip hop’s gangsta rap sub-genre, the group achieved global recognition with their debut studio album, “Straight Outta Compton” in 1988.

Alongside Dr. Dre, NWA propelled the careers of Ice Cube, Eazy E, MC Ren, DJ Yella, and rapper The D.O.C. under the Ruthless Records label.

As Dr. Dre’s revelation of turning down collaborations with Prince, Michael Jackson, and Stevie Wonder reverberates within the music industry, it underscores his commitment to nurturing new talent and maintaining the sanctity of his musical heroes.

His enduring legacy as a producer and mentor continues to inspire aspiring artists while shaping the landscape of contemporary music.