Podcasts > PBD Podcast > Suge Knight OPENS UP About Diddy, Dre, Tupac, Biggie & Eazy-E | PBD Podcast | Ep. 400

Suge Knight OPENS UP About Diddy, Dre, Tupac, Biggie & Eazy-E | PBD Podcast | Ep. 400

By Patrick Bet-David

In this episode of the PBD Podcast, Suge Knight delves into the conflicts, negotiations, and pivotal events that shaped the rise and fall of Death Row Records. He recounts signing Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, Tupac Shakur joining the label, and the tensions with Bad Boy Records. Knight also explores the tragic deaths of Tupac and Biggie, which marked Death Row's decline.

The episode covers Knight's allegations of exploitation and manipulation in the music industry, including potential secret society influences determining which artists succeed. He touches on his personal background, legal issues, and theories surrounding Tupac's and Biggie's unsolved murders. Knight discusses his involvement and provides insight into the interconnected web of rivalries, business dealings, and power dynamics that defined the era.

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Suge Knight OPENS UP About Diddy, Dre, Tupac, Biggie & Eazy-E | PBD Podcast | Ep. 400

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Suge Knight OPENS UP About Diddy, Dre, Tupac, Biggie & Eazy-E | PBD Podcast | Ep. 400

1-Page Summary

Death Row Records History and Explosion

Suge Knight recounts the conflicts and negotiations that shaped Death Row Records and its legendary artists. He aimed to unite the West Coast through music that would "teach real game," starting with persuading Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg to leave Ruthless Records, sparking a feud with Eazy-E.

Tupac Shakur Joins Death Row

Knight discusses the financial impact of Tupac's death on Death Row Records, contrasted with Puffy's profits after Biggie's passing. He reveals Tupac left due to realizing Dre didn't produce "California Love" and wouldn't support Snoop, detailing tensions between Death Row and Bad Boy.

Demise After Tupac and Biggie Murders

The deaths of Tupac and Biggie marked Death Row's decline. Knight implies governmental pressures contributed to the label's struggles and ultimate fall.

Allegations Against Music Industry

Exploitation and Manipulation of Artists

Knight criticizes the exploitation of artists through skyrocketing costs, lack of transparency on streaming revenue, and a restrictive environment inhibiting new talent.

Secret Society Influence

Without specifics, Knight alludes to secret societies like the Illuminati and Masons influencing which artists succeed or fail, suggesting their presence bars great talents due to ulterior motives and unethical behaviors.

Government and FBI Ties

Throughout, Knight implies ties between the music industry and government/FBI entities exerting control, citing examples like Michael Jackson's situation.

Football and Business Origins

Knight stresses the legitimate origins of his business career stemming from football, community involvement, and ethical foundations, in contrast to illegal activities.

County Jail Controversies

In jail, Knight faced communication restrictions, difficulty hiring counsel, and alleged civil rights violations like recorded attorney meetings.

Family Tragedies

Knight expresses deep sorrow over his inability to properly grieve his mother's death or arrange her funeral due to incarceration.

Theories on Key Murders and Conflicts

Who Killed Tupac?

LAPD Speculation on Puffy and Suge

While avoiding direct accusations, Knight hints at knowledge of Puffy's potential involvement in Tupac and Biggie's murders, based on claims by ex-LAPD detective Greg Kading.

Who Killed Biggie?

Speculation on Puffy's Involvement

Knight suggests Puffy may have held incriminating leverage over industry figures, though stopping short of directly accusing him of orchestrating Biggie's murder. Kading's investigations also implicated both Suge Knight and Puffy.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Suge Knight's conflicts and negotiations that shaped Death Row Records primarily revolved around persuading key artists like Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg to join the label, leading to a feud with Ruthless Records' Eazy-E. These negotiations were crucial in establishing Death Row's roster and sound, playing a significant role in the label's rise to prominence in the music industry. Knight's ability to navigate these conflicts and secure key talent was instrumental in defining the direction and success of Death Row Records during its peak years.
  • The tensions between Death Row Records and Bad Boy Records stemmed from the East Coast-West Coast hip-hop rivalry in the 1990s, particularly fueled by the feud between Tupac Shakur (Death Row) and The Notorious B.I.G. (Bad Boy). This rivalry escalated after Tupac's death and Biggie's subsequent murder, leading to a highly publicized and volatile period in hip-hop history. The conflict between the two record labels reflected broader tensions within the rap industry at the time, with allegiances and animosities playing out in both music and real-life events.
  • Governmental pressures on Death Row Records during its decline could involve various factors such as legal issues, investigations, and regulatory scrutiny. These pressures might have included law enforcement attention, potential legal battles, and government interference impacting the label's operations and reputation. The involvement of government entities could have led to increased challenges for the record label, affecting its ability to function effectively in the music industry. Such pressures could have contributed to the overall struggles and eventual downfall of Death Row Records.
  • The ties between the music industry and government/FBI suggest potential influence and control exerted by governmental entities on the music business, impacting artists and labels. This connection implies a level of involvement or surveillance that could affect the industry's operations and decisions. It raises questions about the extent of government influence on the music scene and how it may shape the careers and outcomes of artists. The allegations hint at a complex relationship that goes beyond the surface of the music business, potentially involving regulatory, legal, or covert activities.
  • Suge Knight's business career originated from his background in football, where he played college football and briefly in the NFL. This experience helped shape his approach to business, emphasizing discipline, teamwork, and strategic thinking. Knight's ethical foundations were influenced by his upbringing and community involvement, guiding his decisions in the music industry and beyond. His early experiences in sports and community engagement laid the groundwork for his later ventures in the entertainment business.
  • Suge Knight faced communication restrictions in jail, limiting his ability to freely communicate with the outside world. He also alleged civil rights violations, such as recorded attorney meetings, which raised concerns about the confidentiality of his legal discussions. These restrictions and violations impacted Knight's ability to navigate his legal proceedings and maintain privacy while incarcerated.
  • Suge Knight expressed deep sorrow over his inability to properly grieve his mother's death or arrange her funeral due to his incarceration. This highlights the emotional toll of being separated from loved ones during difficult times and the challenges faced when dealing with personal tragedies while in a constrained environment like jail. Knight's comments shed light on the personal struggles and emotional hardships he faced amidst legal issues and incarceration. His statements provide insight into the human side of a public figure often associated with controversy and legal troubles.
  • Suge Knight hinted at the possibility of Puffy's involvement in the murders of Tupac and Biggie based on claims by ex-LAPD detective Greg Kading. This speculation suggests a potential connection between Puffy and the tragic events surrounding both artists. Knight's statements imply a complex web of relationships and rivalries within the music industry during that time. The investigations into these murders have involved various theories and individuals, including Puffy, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.
  • Suge Knight and Puffy have been implicated in the murder of Biggie Smalls based on investigations and claims made by individuals like ex-LAPD detective Greg Kading. These implications suggest that there may have been involvement or knowledge of the events surrounding Biggie's murder within the music industry. However, it's important to note that these implications do not amount to direct accusations of orchestrating the murder, but rather point to potential connections or influences in the case. The investigations and discussions around this topic have raised questions about the relationships and dynamics within the music industry during that time.

Counterarguments

  • Suge Knight's aim to unite the West Coast through music is overshadowed by the violent and controversial history of Death Row Records.
  • Persuading Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg to leave Ruthless Records may have been a strategic business move, but it also contributed to the intensification of rivalries within the hip-hop community.
  • The feud with Eazy-E could be seen as a personal vendetta that escalated into a larger East Coast-West Coast rivalry, which had detrimental effects on the hip-hop community.
  • The financial impact of Tupac's death on Death Row Records might be overstated, considering the label's financial troubles were also due to mismanagement and legal issues.
  • Tupac's reasons for leaving Death Row could be more complex, involving his own plans and aspirations beyond the label's internal conflicts.
  • The tensions between Death Row and Bad Boy Records were part of a larger issue within the industry and may not solely be attributed to the actions of Death Row.
  • The decline of Death Row Records after Tupac and Biggie's deaths may also be attributed to a shift in the music industry and consumer tastes, not just their murders.
  • Governmental pressures on Death Row Records could be a narrative to deflect from internal issues and poor management decisions that contributed to the label's struggles.
  • While exploitation and manipulation of artists are real concerns, not all record labels engage in these practices, and many work to ensure fair treatment and compensation for artists.
  • The lack of transparency on streaming revenue is an industry-wide issue that affects all artists and labels, not just those associated with Death Row Records.
  • Allegations of secret societies like the Illuminati and Masons influencing the music industry are often considered conspiracy theories without concrete evidence.
  • Implying ties between the music industry and government/FBI entities requires substantial proof, which is not provided in the text.
  • Suge Knight's business career may have legitimate origins, but his subsequent legal issues and the violent reputation of Death Row Records cast a shadow on his ethical foundations.
  • While Knight faced communication restrictions and civil rights violations in jail, these claims should be balanced with the context of his legal issues and the nature of the charges against him.
  • Expressing sorrow over personal tragedies is understandable, but it does not absolve Knight of his legal responsibilities or the consequences of his actions.
  • Hinting at Puffy's potential involvement in Tupac and Biggie's murders without direct evidence can be seen as defamatory and irresponsible.
  • Suggesting that Puffy had incriminating leverage over industry figures is a serious accusation that requires substantiation.
  • Investigations into Biggie's murder have not led to any convictions, and implicating individuals without conclusive evidence can be harmful and unjust.

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Suge Knight OPENS UP About Diddy, Dre, Tupac, Biggie & Eazy-E | PBD Podcast | Ep. 400

Death Row Records History and Explosion

Suge Knight reveals the behind-the-scenes conflicts and negotiations that helped to shape Death Row Records and the legendary artists associated with it.

Beginnings with Dre and Snoop

Knight recounts the beginnings of Death Row Records and his attempts to unify a divided West Coast through a distinct sound. He aimed to not only make music enjoyable but also to impart knowledge, using the medium to teach "real game."

Conflicts with Ruthless Records and Eazy-E

Knight discusses his negotiations with Eazy-E regarding Dr. Dre's departure from Ruthless Records, which led to a feud between Eazy-E and Dre that had previously been private. The relationship between Suge Knight and Eazy-E was complex; Knight regarded Eazy-E as his favorite NWA member because he was true to Compton.

When discussing the departure of artists and producers who wanted to join him, Knight expresses respect for the legal approach, preferring to negotiate with paperwork and contracts rather than force. Still, this business move caused contention between Knight and Eazy-E. Knight recalls an incident where he was implied to want Eazy-E dead, which he thought was a joke.

Moreover, Knight shares a tense confrontation where Eazy-E appeared fearful or hurt and started crying. Ultimately, Knight describes how Eazy-E ended up signing something, allowing for the release of the Chronic album, and suggests that without his intervention, Dre would still be under contract with Ruthless Records.

Tupac Shakur Joins Death Row

Knight contrasts the financial ramifications of Tupac's death on Death Row Records with the financial benefits that Diddy experienced following Biggie's death.

Tensions with Biggie and Puffy

Furthermore, Knight narrates the real reason Tupac left Death Row, which was his realization that Dr. Dre did not produce "California Love" and Dre's refusal to ...

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Death Row Records History and Explosion

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Suge Knight played a pivotal role in shaping Death Row Records by navigating conflicts and negotiations with artists like Dr. Dre and Eazy-E. His approach involved using legal agreements and contracts to secure talent, leading to tensions with rival record labels like Ruthless Records and Bad Boy Records. These negotiations were often complex and sometimes led to public feuds, impacting the trajectory of the artists and the label itself. Knight's strategies and decisions in these conflicts influenced the direction and success of Death Row Records during its peak years.
  • After Tupac Shakur's death, Death Row Records faced financial challenges due to the loss of one of its most prominent and commercially successful artists. Tupac's absence meant a significant decrease in revenue from his music and projects, impacting the label's overall financial stability and success. Additionally, legal battles and controversies surrounding Tupac's estate and unreleased music further complicated the financial situation for Death Row Records. The absence of Tupac as a revenue-generating artist also affected the label's ability to attract new talent and maintain its position in the music industry.
  • Tupac left Death Row Records due to his realization that Dr. Dre did not produce "California Love" and Dre's refusal to support Snoop Dogg during his murder trial. These factors, among others, led to Tupac's decision to part ways with the label.
  • The East Coast-West Coast rivalry in the 1990s was a feud between hip-hop scenes from the East Coast, centered around New York, and the West Coast, particularly Los Angeles. It involved record labels like Death Row Records (West Coast) and Bad Boy Records (East Coast) and artists like Tupac Shakur and The N ...

Counterarguments

  • Knight's perspective on unifying the West Coast through music might be seen as self-serving, as others could argue that his methods contributed to the division and violence in the hip-hop community.
  • The respect for legal approaches Knight claims to have may be contrasted with allegations and reports of intimidation and violence that have been associated with his business dealings.
  • The narrative of Eazy-E appearing fearful or hurt and the implication of Knight's involvement in the release of the Chronic album could be disputed by those who knew Eazy-E personally or have different accounts of the events.
  • The financial impact of Tupac's death on Death Row Records could be examined in the context of the label's pre-existing financial management and business decisions, rather than solely as a result of the tragedy.
  • The claim that Tupac left Death Row due to issues with Dr. Dre might be contested by other sources or individuals close to Tupac who may provide different reasons or a more nuanced understanding of Tupac's departure.
  • The suggestion that externa ...

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Suge Knight OPENS UP About Diddy, Dre, Tupac, Biggie & Eazy-E | PBD Podcast | Ep. 400

Allegations Against Music Industry

Suge Knight offers a critical perspective on the changes and issues within the music industry, implicating systemic exploitation, manipulation, and potentially deeper secret society influences.

Exploitation and Manipulation of Artists

Knight brings to light the exploitation and manipulation of artists within the contemporary music industry. He discusses a shift where the cost to create an album has skyrocketed from $50,000 to $5 million, with additional expenditures that often lead to artists ending up broke. He also highlights the issue of transparency in streaming counts on platforms like Spotify and Apple, which can inhibit artists from securing a guaranteed income.

Knight goes on to critique the restrictive environment of the music industry that doesn't allow talented individuals the chance to shine as artists. He expresses concern that older artists continue to be promoted, while the younger generation struggles for opportunities. He also criticizes the competitive nature of the industry, which he believes should be striving to uplift all members for the betterment of the industry's health.

Secret Society Influence

Without providing explicit details, Knight alludes to the influence of secret societies within the music industry, suggesting that such groups have a hand in which artists become successful and which do not. He mentions the Illuminati and Masons, indicating that the best talent often remains unrecognized because priorities lie with the members or interests of these secret societies. Knight links these secret societal influences to a lack of opportunities for great talent.

He subtly touches on unethical behaviors associated with these secret societies, such as demonstrations of power through "men on men" actions, which he distinguishes from being part of the gay community. Knight believes that it's the presence of these secret societal influences that prevent some of the best talents from making it in the industry, asserting that such forces have a negativ ...

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Allegations Against Music Industry

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Suge Knight is a prominent figure in the music industry, known for co-founding Death Row Records, a label that played a significant role in the rise of West Coast hip-hop in the 1990s. Knight has a controversial reputation, with involvement in various legal issues and altercations within the industry. His perspectives on the music business are often viewed through the lens of his experiences and history within the industry. Knight's insights are shaped by his background as a music executive and his interactions with artists, industry professionals, and legal authorities.
  • The mention of unethical behaviors associated with secret societies, such as "men on men" actions, alludes to rumored rituals or practices within certain secretive group ...

Counterarguments

  • The music industry has evolved with technology, and the increased cost of producing an album may reflect the higher production values and marketing efforts required in a digital age.
  • Streaming platforms have provided artists with new opportunities to reach global audiences without the traditional gatekeepers of the music industry.
  • The promotion of older artists could be driven by consumer demand and nostalgia, rather than a deliberate effort to limit opportunities for younger artists.
  • The competitive nature of the music industry can be seen as a reflection of market dynamics, where consumer preferences drive which artists are promoted.
  • Claims of secret society influence are often unsubstantiated and may detract from the real, tangible challenges artists face in the industry.
  • The music industry has mechanisms such as royalty payments and performance rights organizations that aim to ensure artists are compensated for their work.
  • Financial discrepancies between executives and artists can be found in many industries and may reflect differences in roles, responsibilities, and investment risks.
  • Jokes about sellin ...

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Suge Knight OPENS UP About Diddy, Dre, Tupac, Biggie & Eazy-E | PBD Podcast | Ep. 400

Personal Background and Legal Issues

Suge Knight speaks candidly about his life, emphasizing his legitimate career start and the harsh reality of his legal troubles and personal losses.

Football and Business Origins

Suge Knight firmly denies the notion of starting his business with drug money. He makes a point to stress the legitimacy of his business endeavors and the ethical foundation from which he built his career, distancing himself from other music industry figures possibly connected to illegal activities.

Knight shares the influence of his sports background and community interactions on his career. He played various sports, including football, and attributes the sense of loyalty and business acumen he developed in part to his time with the community around UNLV, where he is said to have played football with John Kennedy Jr. He further extends this team spirit to his music business, treating the build-up of Death Row Records as if it were a football team, promoting unity and a family-like environment among the artists.

County Jail Controversies

Suge Knight reveals his challenges during his stints in county jail. He recollects being severely restricted in communication, not allowed phone calls, or mail. In dealing with the legal system, he was required to get approval from the County Council to hire an attorney, which made it difficult for him to have adequate representation. He also alleges that his rights ...

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Personal Background and Legal Issues

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Suge Knight is a prominent figure in the music industry, known for co-founding Death Row Records. He has been involved in managing and promoting various artists, including iconic names like Tupac Shakur and Dr. Dre. Knight's career has been marked by both success and controversy, with legal issues and personal tragedies shaping his public image.
  • Suge Knight faced challenges during his time in county jail, including severe communication restrictions such as being denied phone calls and mail. He had to seek approval from the County Council to hire an attorney, which hindered his ability to obtain proper legal representation. Knight also alleged that his interactions with his legal counsel were recorded without his consent, raising concerns about privacy and legal rights.
  • Suge Knight faced challenges in county jail, including severe communication restrictions like no phone calls or mail. He had to seek approval from the ...

Counterarguments

  • While Knight emphasizes the legitimacy of his career start, critics might point out that his reputation and the history of Death Row Records have been marred by allegations of violence and intimidation, which could cast doubt on the ethical foundation he claims.
  • Despite Knight's denial of starting his business with drug money, there has been public speculation and accusations about the origins of his wealth, which some might argue have not been entirely dispelled.
  • Knight's claim of promoting unity and a family-like environment at Death Row Records could be contrasted with reports of feuds and conflicts among artists associated with the label.
  • Regarding the challenges faced in county jail, some might argue that while Knight's experiences were unfortunate, they are not unique and reflect broader issues within the criminal justice system that affect many inmates.
  • The allegation of Knight's rights being vio ...

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Suge Knight OPENS UP About Diddy, Dre, Tupac, Biggie & Eazy-E | PBD Podcast | Ep. 400

Theories on Key Murders and Conflicts

Suge Knight and Patrick Bet-David delve into the speculations surrounding the murders of Tupac and Biggie Smalls.

Who Killed Tupac?

LAPD Speculation on Puffy and Suge

Suge Knight brings up a past litigation issue and feels he’s been unfairly targeted in the narratives surrounding Tupac's murder. Knight expresses strong feelings when others speak negatively of Tupac and suggests Tupac's death led to a loss for the community, as well as loss in terms of freedom and business.

Despite the various speculations on Tupac’s death, Suge refrains from claiming knowledge or involvement in events he did not witness firsthand and shares his willingness to tell the truth, yet he exhibits limits to what he’d say about the involvement of others such as Puffy, for he and Puffy will never be friends. Knight also refers to a claim by Puffy that he's not afraid of anyone except God. The implications of these remarks are not explicitly linked to Tupac's murder in Knight's discussion.

Patrick Bet-David references an interview with Greg Kading, a former LAPD detective, who investigated Tupac's murder and wrote a book suggesting Sean "Puffy" Combs's involvement in a conspiracy related to the murder.

Who Killed Biggie?

Speculation on Puffy's Involvement

Suge Knight hints at details he knows about Biggie's murder, including information that may connect Puffy to the event. There is speculation concerning Puffy’s involvement in Biggie's death, though Knight does not confirm these rumors outright. He alludes to secrets Puffy might have had, suggesting a "glass house" scenario that may ...

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Theories on Key Murders and Conflicts

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Speculations implicating Puffy in Biggie's murder are based on investigations and claims that suggest Sean "Puffy" Combs may have been involved in a conspiracy related to the event. These speculations stem from various sources, including former LAPD detective Greg Kading's work, which explores potential connections between Puffy and the circumstances surrounding Biggie's death. While these claims exist, it's important to note that direct evidence linking Puffy to the murder may not have been conclusively established.
  • The text suggests speculation connecting Puffy to Biggie's murder through information that Suge Knight hints at. There are rumors about Puffy possessing incr ...

Counterarguments

  • Suge Knight's perception of being unfairly targeted could be biased and not reflective of the evidence or broader public opinion.
  • The impact of Tupac's death on the community, freedom, and business is subjective and can be interpreted differently by different stakeholders.
  • Suge's refraining from claiming knowledge or involvement without firsthand experience is a responsible stance, but it does not necessarily absolve him of all suspicion in the eyes of law enforcement or the public.
  • Personal relationships, such as the one between Suge and Puffy, should not influence the interpretation of facts or the outcome of a legal investigation.
  • Puffy's claim about fearing only God is a personal belief and does not provide any substantive information regarding the murders.
  • Greg Kading's suggestions about Puffy's involvement are based on his investigations, but they remain allegations without conclusive legal outcomes.
  • Hints and allusions to details about Biggie's murder do not constitute evidence, and without concrete proof, they remain speculative.
  • Possession of incriminating footage by Puffy, if true, would be significant, but without verification, it is not appropriate to assume its existence or its relevan ...

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