Fat Joe Embraces Mainstream Success and Hit Records in Music Career Shift

In a recent episode of the Rap Radar Podcast, iconic rapper Fat Joe unveiled a pivotal turning point in his music career. The Bronx native shared how he transitioned from crafting traditional boom-bap hip-hop to pursuing mainstream hit records. This transformation was ignited by the realization of the immense impact a chart-topping track could have on an artist’s trajectory.

During his conversation with the podcast hosts, Fat Joe, also known as Joey Crack, reflected on his journey. He recounted the moment when he recognized the potency of hit records as a career game-changer.

While his fellow artist and friend, the late Big Pun, preferred to remain focused on crafting street-centric music, Fat Joe understood that the landscape had shifted. He drew inspiration from the achievements of industry giants like Diddy and Biggie Smalls, who reaped the rewards of their own hit creations.

Fat Joe recollected his earlier days, including a collaboration with Diddy on “Don Cartagena,” a track that still carried traces of his underground boom-bap roots.

However, the turning point arrived when he met Big Pun, and the duo contemplated their musical direction. While Big Pun aimed to continue down the path of gritty, street-oriented sounds, Fat Joe saw a different path forward. He envisioned Big Pun as a Spanish counterpart to the legendary Biggie Smalls, poised to conquer the mainstream and attract a diverse fan base.

In pursuit of this vision, Fat Joe embraced the shift towards crafting hit records. He vividly remembered the music landscape prior to this transition, marked by intense and raw lyrical content.

Fat Joe acknowledged that the change was not merely about commercial success but also about connecting with a broader audience. His album “Don Cartagena” reflected his evolving sound, characterized by elements of the underground ethos combined with hints of the mainstream appeal.

As Fat Joe continued to evolve, he realized the potential of consistent hit-making. He revealed that it was after Big Pun’s passing that he fully committed to this new direction. Recognizing the allure of success and financial gain, Fat Joe decided to keep the hits flowing.