ATLANTA (AP) – T.I. has always found a way to have success, even when it wasn’t about his own music.
He’s done a reality show with his wife and kids, appeared on blockbuster pop collaborations and endless rap features, and of course had huge success with controversial protege Iggy Azalea – all of which has kept him in the spotlight at times of transition in his own career.
Now, the self-proclaimed “King of the South” is back and looking for a musical rebirth. He changed his stage name to his childhood name of Tip, and with his new EP “Da’ Nic,” he’s gone independent, breaking away from a label for the first time.
T.I. says his ability to boost others – like his cameo on the Robin Thicke 2013 smash “Blurred Lines” – and the success of his street anthem “About the Money” last year proves he is still highly capable of churning out hits.
“If you can put together the right music, create the right energy and story, you can still have exceptional success,” said T.I., who is set to release his 10th album, “The Dime Trap,” later this year.