Erick Sermon Says Dr. Dre’s Songwriters Told Him, You Are Not Allowed To Write Rhymes, “We Don’t Do That Here”

Erick Sermon, the esteemed EPMD member, recently opened up about his profound encounter with Dr. Dre, one that reshaped his perspective on creating music.

In an exclusive interview with HipHopDX, Sermon delved into his studio sessions with the iconic producer, highlighting the innovative methods that left an indelible mark on his artistic process.

The journey began in Malibu, where Sermon found himself immersed in a whirlwind of creativity alongside Dr. Dre. Recounting the experience, he reflected on a night where they effortlessly churned out three records consecutively—a feat that astonished even the studio regulars.

Such efficiency and synergy were unparalleled, setting the stage for a transformative collaboration.

Amidst the studio vibes, Sermon observed Dre’s unconventional approach to crafting rhymes. Rather than penning lyrics, Dre’s team embraced a freestyle-centric methodology, where spontaneity and collective input took precedence.

Sermon, accustomed to traditional writing practices, found himself challenged by this novel approach.

The pivotal moment arrived when Sermon, inspired by Dre’s style, began jotting down rhymes, only to be gently interrupted by one of Dre’s collaborators, Smitty.

In a candid exchange, Smitty elucidated the studio ethos—no writing, just pure freestyle guided by Dre’s vision. It was a revelation for Sermon, who realized the power of collective creativity and instantaneous feedback.

Reflecting on the process, Sermon confessed that Dre’s method left an indelible impression, prompting him to reconsider his own approach to lyricism.

The collaborative dynamic, fueled by Dre’s guidance and the collective discernment of the room, yielded remarkable results. Sermon’s verse, shaped by this unconventional process, stood as a testament to the efficacy of Dre’s method.

This transformative experience marked a turning point in Sermon’s artistic journey, illuminating new avenues for exploration and growth. His collaboration with Dre and Snoop Dogg served as a catalyst for innovation, inspiring him to embrace spontaneity and collective creativity in his craft.