Rap mega-producer Southside (Joshua Luellen) has built a lengthy resume cranking out hit records for the game’s A-list stars for a half decade now.

The 26-year-old Atlanta native has grown a devout following of fans in the process and top-notch artists alike as a go-to hitmaker for major names like Waka Flocka Flame, Drake, Future, Meek Mill, Gucci Mane, Jay Z, Kanye West, 2 Chainz, Rick Ross, Travis Scott and more.

Luellen actually grew up as a talented baseball player, whose career was benched after suffering a concussion that ultimately led him to pursue music. His musical endeavors then led him to meet, now best friend, Waka Flocka Flame and Gucci Mane, who signed the then 17-year-old to his 1017 Brick Squad Records. Since then, Southside has remained an in-demand production guru for elite rappers and beyond.

REVOLT caught up with the 808 Mafia boss ahead of a gig in Los Angeles where he dished on his friendship with Waka, producing Drake and Future’s What A Time To Be Alive, advice to aspiring producers and exclusive details on studio sessions with Kanye West for his secretive forthcoming album, SWISH.

Take a look at the full interview below.