The Breakfast Club INTERVIEW: Lil Jon Opens Up About Mental & Physical Transformation, Origins Of Crunk, Meditation Album + More
Oct 8, 2025
Lil Jon, Grammy-winning producer and crunk pioneer, shares insights into his mental and physical transformation, highlighting the importance of positivity and mindfulness. He discusses the origins of crunk, reminiscing about his rise from club chants to creating iconic anthems. Lil Jon also talks about his new meditation album, which emerged from personal challenges, and how he's using his voice for health awareness. The conversation dives into balancing success and personal peace, and even hints at a potential crunk revival.
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From Club Chants To A Breakout Single
- Lil Jon describes creating Atlanta bass mixtape culture and turning club chants into the song "Who You With."
- He credits local DJs and collaborators like DJ Kool Kali and Carl Moe for launching his artist career.
Crunk As Communal Release
- Lil Jon says crunk served as an emotional outlet for Black youth to release stress in clubs.
- He links the sound to ancestral chanting and communal release, explaining its rapid spread.
Banned Records Boosted Demand
- Lil Jon recalls banned clubs wanting crunk records more because prohibition increased demand.
- He recounts shows where crowds became so rowdy they even fought police, illustrating the music's intensity.