The Herd with Colin Cowherd Joe and Jada - Hitmaka on Yung Berg name change, Pharrell & Kanye, WILD rap industry stories
Oct 22, 2025
Hitmaka, formerly known as Yung Berg, is a hit-making producer and songwriter who transitioned from rapping to behind-the-scenes success. He shares fascinating tales of his career transformation and reveals his influences like Kanye West and Pharrell. The conversation dives into outrageous studio stories, including wild moments with Cool & Dre and Fat Joe's epic pool parties. Hitmaka also discusses his beef with false Costco pricing on Ozempic and amusing revelations from his chat with Cam Newton about his romantic life.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Studio As Hitmaking Assembly Line
- Hitmaka describes his studio process as an "alley-oop": he brings finished smashes and the artist fills in the blanks.
- He says clients arrive expecting hits because he curates hooks, features, and A&R work for them.
Producer Lineage Shapes Career
- Hitmaka names Jermaine Dupri, Kanye West, No I.D., Timbaland and Pharrell as his top producer influences shaping his sound.
- He credits their innovation for guiding his transition from rapper to hit-making producer.
Viral Set-Up On Cam Newton's Podcast
- Hitmaka describes an uncomfortable viral moment on Cam Newton's podcast when rapid-fire personal questions were asked.
- He says the clip was recycled and made him appear more exposed than he felt in that interview.