It was a pretty good run

Jay Rock is the unsung hero of Top Dawg Entertainment, but his career hit its second peak while he was an official member of Tech N9ne‘s Strange Music label. N9ne’s knowledge of independent music has made him a perennial member of Forbes’ Hip-Hop Cash Kings list, and certainly the most successful independent rapper-slash-exec, making Strange Music the perfect platform for Jay Rock to take his career to the next step, which he did. Late in 2010 Rock inked a deal with Tech N9ne, and released his proper debut LP, Follow Me Home, the following year. While Follow Me Home didn’t chart very high (#83), it was the formal introduction of Jay Rock to the mainstream, with features ranging from Lil’ Wayne and Kendrick Lamar to will.i.am and Chris Brown, there was something for everybody on FMH. While Rock hasn’t released an album since, he’s kept his name buzzing and his anticipation high with solid free records, and the occasional scene-stealing verse (see: “Black Lip Bastard RMX”, “U.O.E.N.O. RMX”, “Money Trees”, “Shot U Down RMX”).

In Montreality‘s latest interview, they sat down with Tech N9ne, who graciously acknowledges Jay Rock’s work and work ethic during his time on Strange Music, and wishes him the best of luck as he embarks on this next phase of his career. “He’s fully TDE now,” the Cash King announces, confirming that Rock is no longer with his Strange Music label. Now, if only we can get Rock’s new album, which, according to Top Dawg’s 6 album quote for 2014, should be out before we celebrate the next New Year’s Day.

Watch the full interview below.