Young Guru, Jay-Z’s longtime sound engineer and DJ, recently recounted a particularly difficult and hectic night on tour. The situation involved a crucial recording session for a track from Drake’s album Scorpion.
Guru had been booked to DJ a major event for months. It was a high-profile gig that required his full attention and preparation. However, the evening took an unexpected turn when Jay-Z had to record a last-minute verse for Drake’s song “Talk Up.” This verse was crucial to the song and had to be recorded quickly to meet the deadline.
The recording had to take place at the venue where Jay-Z was performing, as he was on tour. Guru had to act quickly and set up a temporary recording studio on site. This was no easy task; it required hastily gathering the necessary tools and making sure the area was ready for recording.
Guru had to manage both this and his DJ duties simultaneously. He was late for his own party, which added to his stress levels. Guru focused on making sure the recording went smoothly despite the pressure and tight deadline. His ability to manage both the DJ gig and the recording setup was an example of his skill and dedication.
Guru recounted a particularly difficult night during the On the Run II tour. Hov instructed him to set up a makeshift studio at the venue. Guru was initially surprised by the request, but he was able to fulfill it.
After a demanding two-hour show that required him to remember every verse perfectly without backing tracks, Guru faced a new challenge: he was late for an after-party he had planned months in advance. Although he couldn’t remember the exact location, it was clear that he had made a long-term commitment.
Guru discovered that Live Nation’s internet connection had been cut off after the performance. Left with no other choice, he connected with his phone and sent the session to Drake’s producer Noah “40” Shebib. Despite these obstacles, he made it to the club just in time to begin his set.
When Guru thought back about how much work a night like that must have taken, he was glad that he had managed to juggle his duties as a DJ and his performance at the club.
ALSO READ: Happy Birthday, Hoda Kotb: 8 unknown facts about the American TV personality on her 60th birthday
