Ace Hood talks DJ Khaled, Struggles, and New Album

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Early this year, Ace Hood compared himself to Derek Jeter, saying he was the Derek Jeter of hip hop. At the time, Ace Hood had released many underground tracks. But, in the eyes of many, he had fallen off tremendously since the release of his debut single, "Cash Flow."

Ace Hood was the first artist signed to DJ Khaled's Def Jam imprint label, We The Best Music Group. Despite being signed to one of the biggest labels, Ace Hood struggled. His music did not receive much radio play and his albums did not sell well.

Following the low sales of his 2009 sophomore album, Ace Hood did not even release an album in 2010. Ace Hood revealed this was a tough time in his life. Today, he even admitted he had considered giving rap music up.

Going from being in music videos with A-list stars to being evicted and facing major bills, Ace Hood had to ask DJ Khaled for money. When he asked Khaled for money, he advised him to make his own. DJ Khaled told him the best way to make more money would be to make hit singles. Ace Hood responded to this request by releasing "Hustle Hard" and the popular remix with Rick Ross and Lil Wayne.

Yesterday, things came full circle for Ace Hood, when his third album, Blood, Sweat, and Tears was released. While everything was a celebration, Mr. Hood does have to face releasing his album the same day as Jay-Z and Kanye West, with their Watch the Throne album.