Xzibit Says Working With Dr. Dre Was Like Being In ‘The Avengers’
Hip-hop artist and former Pimp My Ride host Xzibit has likened his longstanding collaboration with Dr. Dre to being part of a superhero team, describing the legendary producer’s influence as transformative both in and out of the studio.
In a recent interview with Billboard, Xzibit reflected on his creative journey with Dre – a relationship that spans over two decades – and shared insights into their latest collaboration on the track “Leave Me Alone” from his forthcoming album Kingmaker.
“Working with Dre is like being recruited into The Avengers,” Xzibit said, recalling their earlier work on the 1999 hit “Bitch Please.” “I’ll never lose that feeling. Dre brings a perspective and direction that pulls the best out of you, even if it takes you outside your comfort zone.”
“Leave Me Alone,” co-produced by Swizz Beatz and Dr. Dre, was a late addition to Kingmaker, which marks Xzibit’s first full-length release in over a decade. “We were supposed to drop the album on March 28, then this record came in. I was like, ‘Oh shit!’” he said. “Having both Swizz and Dre on one track – that’s rare. It was too good to leave off the project.”
Xzibit expressed deep appreciation for Dre’s involvement, calling him both “brother” and “coach.” Their renewed collaboration is one of several high-profile moments on Kingmaker, which also features guest appearances from Ice Cube, Busta Rhymes, Redman, Royce da 5’9″, Ty Dolla $ign, B-Real, and JasonMartin.
The album has faced multiple delays, which Xzibit addressed in previous social media posts, citing last-minute creative changes. Speaking to NME, he explained, “I’ve been making music on and off for over a decade, but it didn’t feel right until now. I needed to hear something new in myself – and I finally did.”
Kingmaker is expected to mark a new chapter in Xzibit’s musical legacy, fueled by old alliances and a refreshed sense of purpose.
