Kanye West has always been addressed as one of the most influential singers of this generation. But many people might not know why he holds this title. His music obviously has been iconic, but he has changed the game in the music industry in more ways than one could think. One of those things includes his collaborations with other aspiring artists striving to showcase their talent. The pop icon has put a handful of rappers into the spotlight, later flourishing careers of their own.

Among them, Paul Wall was the one whose song ‘Drive Slow’ got featured in Ye’s 2005 album. But did you know the rapper did not make this song for the music mogul in the first place?

Drive Slow was almost out of the Kanye West album

In 2022, Paul Wall appeared on an episode of the Bootleg Kev podcast. During this interview, the Houston rapper spilled the backstory of his song in Kanye West’s ‘Late Registration’. He revealed how music executive Plain Pat connected him to the former billionaire for a collaboration. However, there were no promises made if he would get the chance to work with him or not.

“Even from then, I knew the opportunity was there. An amazing opportunity to get on a song for Kanye West, and I didn’t even think he was gonna use it,” explained the 42-year-old. Then he revealed he originally made the track for his debut album ‘Sittin’ Sidewayz’. But when he met up with Ye, he split the verse and it ended up becoming ‘Drive Slow’.

It is all thanks to his mentor T-Paris,  who did not let him use the verse in his album.

Paul Wall already knew Wall’s verse was made for someone great

In the same interview, the singer stated his mentor told him that the lines did not really go hand-in-hand with the beat. So he saved it for future collaboration, thinking if someone like Jay-Z would want it. It turned out West liked it and did not give another thought before adding it to his song. Thus, this way, Paul Wall found the spotlight moment of his music career because people loved the song.

The song received positive reviews from music critics, especially complimented its lyrical content. Also, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has certified it as gold in the United States. After its success, West, Paul Wall, GLC, and T.I. performed the remix at Power 106’s Powerhouse 2006 event.

What do you think about this revelation from Paul Wall? Drop your comments below!