Young Guru Recalls the Hectic Process of Recording Jay-Z’s Verse for Drake’s Talk Up

As an avid fan of Young Guru, I can’t help but be in awe of his extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication to his craft. This man is not just a DJ or an engineer; he’s a master juggler who can balance a high-profile gig with a makeshift recording studio, all while flawlessly recalling every verse without backing tracks.


In a recent reveal, long-term collaborator and DJ of Jay-Z, Young Guru, described an intense and chaotic night during one of their tours. This event took place during a critical recording session for a song on Drake’s album “Scorpion.”

For several months, Guru was scheduled to perform as a DJ at a significant event. The show demanded his utmost focus and preparation due to its high-profile nature. However, an unforeseen twist occurred when Jay-Z was required to spontaneously record a crucial verse for Drake’s song “Talk Up.” This recording needed to be done swiftly to meet the deadline, altering the course of that particular night.

To capture the performance, the recording session needed to happen at the venue where Jay-Z was giving concerts since he was touring. Guru had to work swiftly to set up a temporary recording studio right there on the spot. This wasn’t an easy feat; it involved gathering equipment promptly and ensuring the space was properly prepared for recording.

At the same time, Guru was juggling his responsibilities as a DJ and overseeing the recording process. This left him running late for his own event, increasing his stress. Remarkably, he maintained focus to ensure a smooth recording, despite the high pressure and strict deadline. His impressive ability to manage both roles showcased his talent and commitment.

During the On the Run II Tour, Guru shared an exceptionally challenging evening he experienced. Jay-Z asked him to establish a temporary studio at the concert venue, which took Guru by surprise. However, he managed to carry out the task successfully.

Following a challenging two-hour performance where he memorized every line without any backup, Guru found himself confronting another hurdle: he was running late for a previously arranged afterparty. Despite being unsure about the precise venue, it was evident that his obligations extended over a significant period.

As your trusted lifestyle guide, I found myself in an unexpected predicament during my recent performance – Live Nation’s internet connection had mysteriously gone dark. With all avenues seemingly exhausted, I resorted to a creative solution: using my phone as a hotspot to connect and send the session to Noah “40” Shebib, Drake’s esteemed producer. Against all odds, I managed to make it to the club on time and kick off my set, overcoming these unforeseen hurdles with grace and determination.

Reflecting on the effort required for tonight’s success, Guru felt content knowing he skillfully juggled his responsibilities as a DJ and entertainer at the club.

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2024-08-09 12:23