“Good Enough Ain’t Good Enough”: RushDee on Nipsey Hussle’s 150% Hustle

Multi-platinum producer and industry executive RushDee delivered a compelling look behind the curtain of music business success during his appearance on the "One More Time Podcast." The wide-ranging conversation touched on everything from work ethic and team building to navigating independence in today’s music industry. At the heart of the interview was a powerful story about the late Nipsey Hussle and a handful of gems for independent artists trying to level up.

150 Percent: Lessons from Nipsey Hussle

Early in the interview, RushDee recalled his work with Nipsey Hussle on what would have been the follow-up to Victory Lap. Every day, like clockwork, Nipsey would hit RushDee with the same message: "Top of the top, I need a new pack." RushDee admitted that at the time, he underestimated the significance of Nipsey’s relentless pace.

"I had sent him like 10 packs, each with 10 beats, and hadn’t made anything else yet," RushDee said. "But he kept asking. Every single day."

That consistency, he explained, became a revelation after Nipsey passed. "I realized that giving 100 percent wasn’t enough. Nipsey was operating at 150 percent. For him, that was cruise control. That’s what it really takes to be great."

Behind the Studio Doors: What It Really Takes

RushDee, who’s worked with artists like Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj and Ashanti, noted that greatness doesn’t come from moments of inspiration but from consistent, day-in and day-out discipline.

"People see the club photos, the glamour, and they think that’s the job. But what they don’t see is the hours locked in the studio," he said. "The best artists work nonstop."

He also emphasized the importance of a team—not just for support, but for accountability. "Talent alone isn’t enough. You need people who will check you, keep your posture right, and help you build the world around your music."

Tips for Independent Artists: Start With Strategy

In one of the most informative stretches of the episode, RushDee laid out a blueprint for independent artists to take control of their careers. "First off, get an attorney," he advised. "A lot of artists think they can’t afford one, but most entertainment lawyers work on percentage."

He followed up with a less obvious but equally vital pick: "You need someone who understands the business. You can’t find the right manager or team if you don’t even understand what those roles are supposed to do."

His third essential? The club-hopping friend. "You need someone in the mix who can give you the pulse of what’s going on in the streets. You can’t be too isolated."

Honorable mentions went to having a visual expert who can help you "build the world around your music," and a friend who puts your ideas through the Shark Tank test.

Owning Your Process: The New Independence

The conversation turned toward the changing definition of being independent in today’s industry. RushDee pushed back against surface-level metrics.

"A lot of artists like to wear independence like a badge of honor, but what does that really mean?" he said. "If you’re getting millions from a streaming platform or distributing through a major label’s partner, are you really independent?"

To RushDee, true independence comes down to owning your process. "It’s not just about owning your masters. It’s about owning your creative control, your release schedule, your marketing. That’s real independence."

The Smartest Deal: With Yourself

One of the biggest gems dropped was about structuring your career from day one. "The smartest deal you can do is sign yourself to your own company," RushDee said. "That way, if you enter a publishing or label deal later, part of those earnings still go back to your company."

He advised every artist to form a publishing LLC and a label LLC early on, calling it a safety net that guarantees you get paid even when deals change hands.

Avoiding Pitfalls: Do the Paperwork

RushDee didn’t shy away from addressing mistakes either. "Always do paperwork," he said. "Even if it’s your grandma, you need it on paper. If you don’t have paperwork, you don’t have proof. And when a team comes in later, they’re going to ask."

He also stressed that not everyone deserves a 50/50 partnership. "If someone doesn’t understand the business, you’re going to end up carrying them. Deals should be tailored to the individual."

Making Music with Intention

As both a creative and an executive, RushDee offered insight into balancing artistry with business. While he stressed the importance of being open creatively, he also noted that preparation is everything. He encourages producers to not just send beats but include references, stems, and even lyrics.

"If I’m in the studio with Alicia Keys and she loves a track, I need to have everything ready right then—not wait to call you," he said.

Even small things like naming beats based on who they're being sent to can spark the right inspiration. "I might send the same beat to Meek Mill and Rick Ross, but name it 'Foreign Dreams' for Meek and 'Maybach Dreams' for Ross. That slight shift can change the way they connect to the track."

BeGenius and Beyond: Building Legacy

RushDee also spoke about his company, BeGenius, a full-service entertainment and publishing outfit that he is deeply passionate about. While some details are still under wraps, he mentioned a significant publishing deal with an unnamed but "amazingly talented" artist. "This one meant a lot personally," he said.

He takes pride in transforming client relationships into partnerships. "Most of the people I’ve managed, we’ve grown into partners. I want my legacy to look like a family tree—a creative dynasty."

For independent artists, RushDee’s message is clear: "Own your process, build your team, and prepare like opportunity is already knocking. Because when it does, you better be ready."