“The Making of TDE” panel detailed exactly how the label became the “better version” of Death Row Records

The Doggfather sat down with Terrence “Punch” Henderson, Jay Rock, SZA, Moosa Tiffith, and Brandon “Big B” Tiffith to discuss the making of the label at REVOLT Summit in L.A.

  /  11.08.2019

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer or company.

Top Dawg Entertainment is a new and improved version of Death Row Records, according to Snoop Dogg. The Doggfather sat down with Terrence “Punch” Henderson, Jay Rock, SZA, Moosa Tiffith, and Brandon “Big B” Tiffith to discuss the making of the label during “The Making of TDE” at REVOLT Summit in L.A.

It started in 1997 when Anthony “Top” Tiffith built a studio in the back of his crib in Carson, California. By 2004, TDE had become official and would go on to make itself the anchor of west coast hip hop with artists like Kendrick Lamar, SZA and ScHoolboy Q. Jay Rock — Watts native and TDE’s first artist — spoke about how his patience was essential in finding success. Brothers Brandon and Moosa spoke on how Rock was grinding for years before his rise. The two executives watched their father and his artists grow over the years, and learned from their wins and losses. Jay Rock came to embody the ideals TDE represents as a company.

Big B took TDE to the next level by getting his Master’s degree, while Moosa works in A&R at the company. TDE is a family-run label and intergenerational wealth is key to their business model. The bond that was created by Top could be felt in the room. The man that inspired Kendrick Lamar’s “Duckworth” helped open doors for SZA and others to come.

She came out as a surprise and took Snoop’s seat. After getting her shine on, she talked about how she worked with Punch for years crafting her sound, as well as the push and pull that defined their working relationship.

”I’ve come chin-to-chin with pretty much every man on this stage, especially Moosa,” she joked. The two had an obvious inside joke about who dunks on who. But overall, they communicated that TDE artists treat each other like royalty, even when they disagree. SZA mentioned Punch giving her creative freedom to experiment with ideas, even if they seemed wack. “If that’s what you want. If that’s your sound” would be his reply. Having that kind of creative support helped her be 100% comfortable with her unique sound and be comfortable being different. She passed that advice along to the audience when asked about being a different type of artist who’s trying to fit in.

When asked about what TDE looks for in an artist, Moosa highlighted character and integrity as most important. Artists must also have a different sound and the skills to meet TDE’s expectations. But above all, they need to have qualities like Jay Rock. He is the measure of character at TDE. Other TDE artists include SiR and Reason, who both made appearances throughout the weekend, and they performed on Saturday night. Their content and vibe reflect the TDE ethos of character and talent.

When producing and directing music videos, the process includes TDE, the artists, and a mix of other professionals to create formulas. That delicate balance is what’s behind much of the success of the label according to Punch and his team. “It’s a team game,” according to Moosa.

That team mentality led to the epic Black Panther soundtrack. The project was a secret even inside the label. Jay Rock talked about how he just happened to get in on those sessions, not knowing Kendrick was working with the monumentally successful Marvel film. Apparently, Jay Rock’s feature on “King’s Dead” was a happy accident. Snoop joked how they had to get all of the Avengers together to outsell Chadwick Boseman’s blockbuster — a reference to the latest Avengers: Endgame movie.

Snoop’s moderation went off track at times, but the conversation always came back to the core values that make TDE an enhanced version of Death Row Records. One of the audience members asked to smoke with him and he granted her wish. Numerous producers handed over thumb drives of beat packs to the executive team and Moosa admitted to scouting producers on Twitter.

TDE’s bond serves as an example of how to build a hip hop label today. Their ability to blend family ties with the rap game would make a show way better than “Empire.” Seeing them with the home crowd made the future of L.A. hip hop feel bright as ever. There were projects mentioned that can’t be talked about yet, so we’re keeping an eye out and our ears open for future surprises from TDE. Every L.A. studio is full of rappers who want to join TDE and if they follow the leads of its artists today, there is sure to be premium hip hop coming out of SoCal for a long time.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

View More

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

View More

Trending

Walmart has the home essentials for everyone on your holiday shopping list

Below, our gift guide highlights some of our favorite Walmart finds for anyone in need of a home refresh.

  /  11.24.2023

5 things you need to know about the 2023 Billboard Music Awards

“REVOLT Black News” correspondent Kennedy Rue counts down the top five moments from the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, including surprising wins, historic firsts, and dope performances. Sponsored by Amazon.

  /  11.20.2023

Dig In & Drink Up | 'Bet on Black'

In this new episode of ‘Bet on Black,’ food and beverage take center stage as aspiring Black entrepreneurs from It’s Seasoned, Black Farmer Box, and Moors Brewing Co. present their business ideas to judges with mentorship from Melissa Butler. Watch here!

  /  11.15.2023

The Auditions | 'Shoot Your Shot'

The competition begins at REVOLT WORLD as rising rappers, singers, and musicians line up to audition for their spot on the main stage. Brought to you by McDonald’s.

  /  11.28.2023

Walmart's HBCU Black and Unlimited Tour kicks off at Central State University

On Oct. 10, Walmart unveiled a brand new, state of the art creative studio on the campus of Central State University.

  /  11.14.2023

The Walmart HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour visited Mississippi Valley State University

The Walmart HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour made its final stop at Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) and left a lasting impact on students and alumni alike.

  /  11.22.2023

Walmart continues HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour during lively Virginia State University stop

After unveiling their state of the art creative studio on the campus of Central State University, Walmart brought the HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour to Virginia State University (VSU) on Oct. 13.

  /  11.14.2023

Walmart HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour brings attention and wisdom to North Carolina Central University

On Oct. 17, Walmart brought the third stop of the HBCU Black & Unlimited Tour to North Carolina Central University (NCCU).

  /  11.15.2023

Walmart brings in heavy-hitters for Black and Unlimited Tour panel

REVOLT is continuing its impactful partnership with Walmart by teaming up to showcase Black creatives at HBCUs all-across America. The panel consisted of three experienced, accomplished Black HBCU alumni: Actor and media personality Terrence J, entertainment attorney John T. Rose, and actress and “REVOLT Black News” correspondent Kennedy-Rue McCullough.

  /  11.30.2023

Dr. Jaqueline Echols' mission to cure environmental racism

The health of a community can often be traced to the health of the environment that surrounds it. In Atlanta, a woman named Dr. Jaqueline Echols has dedicated her life to helping ensure that people in economically underserved communities have clean rivers – for better health and for the joy of outdoor recreational space.

  /  12.01.2023

Walmart's Makers Studio at REVOLT WORLD transformed passion into progress

Take a look inside the Makers Studio presented by Walmart at REVOLT WORLD, a space where Black creators could hone in on their brand and see it come to life.

  /  12.04.2023

Walmart's Opportunity Center at REVOLT WORLD empowered HBCU students

Fly Guy DC taps in with REVOLT WORLD attendees to learn what the Opportunity Center, presented by Walmart, means to them and their futures.

  /  12.04.2023

The $200,000 goes to… | 'Bet on Black'

In the season finale of “Bet on Black,” special guest judge Ray J joins as the finalists take the main stage to show they have what it takes to win the $200,000 grand prize; Melissa Butler and Eunique Jones Gibson mentor. Presented by Target.

  /  12.04.2023

Investing in stocks in a recession | 'Maconomics'

Host Ross Mac provides useful advice for preparing your personal finances in the event of a recession. He emphasizes the importance of budgeting properly, building an emergency fund, and maintaining discipline when investing.

  /  11.21.2023

So Phresh, so clean | 'Bet on Black'

There’s only one round left as the last few founders – Terra-Tory, Phreshly, and ConditionHER – pitch to the “Bet on Black” judges for their chance in the finals and winning the grand prize; Eunique Jones Gibson mentors. Watch here!

  /  12.04.2023

Walmart's HBCU Black and Unlimited Tour kicked off at Central State University

In October, Walmart unveiled a brand new, state of the art creative studio on the campus of Central State University. The HBCU located in Wilberforce, OH was the first stop on Walmart’s Black and Unlimited HBCU Tour.

  /  11.28.2023

16 best hip hop video games of all time

From Def Jam: Vendetta, Wu-Tang: Shaolin Style, DJ Hero and more, we list our favorite hip hop videos games of all time. Did yours make the cut? 

  /  11.06.2023

DDG has his sights set on becoming a fashion hero & talks Halle Bailey being his "best friend"

In this exclusive interview, DDG opens up about his fashion inspiration, what drew him to girlfriend Halle Bailey, dealing with negative opinions about his relationship, and more. Read up!

  /  11.28.2023

17 rappers named after food to make you crave their music

Here’s a list of rappers who are named after food. Enjoy — or shall we say, “Bon appetit”? 

  /  11.21.2023

Former kid rappers we loved: Where are they now?

From taking over the playground to dominating the rap game, many young artists have made music history. Check them out and where their journeys have taken them here! 

  /  11.13.2023
View More
Revolt - New Episodes