Episode 479 of the Drink Champs podcast, released on November 14, 2025, features an in-depth conversation between Juvenile (“Juvie the Great”) and hosts N.O.R.E and DJ EFN. Over the course of 1 hour and 31 minutes, the trio revisits the golden era of Southern hip-hop, particularly the early 2000s heyday of Cash Money Records.

Juvenile opens up about his journey from the bounce-music scene in New Orleans to the global recognition Cash Money eventually achieved. He shares behind-the-scenes studio moments, the business pressures, and how their music evolved to reach the Billboard charts and captivate audiences worldwide.

A highlight of the discussion is the rivalry between Cash Money and No Limit Records. Juvenile admits that the competition created intense pressure but also pushed the artists to be more creative. He speaks candidly about the Verzuz event — the music “battle” between artists or labels — revealing his genuine feelings about the dynamic between these two Southern hip-hop giants.

Beyond music and business, Juvenile emphasizes the cultural influence of New Orleans on his sound — how street culture and bounce music shaped his unique style and helped distinguish Cash Money from other labels.

The interview is not just a nostalgic look back: N.O.R.E and DJ EFN skillfully guide the conversation to uncover valuable career lessons Juvenile learned over the years. He discusses turning street knowledge into music, managing a career, and maintaining passion during Cash Money’s explosive rise.

Juvenile, born Terius Gray in 1975, began his career at a young age in New Orleans. He is best known for albums like 400 Degreez and Tha G-Code and as a member of the Hot Boys alongside Lil Wayne and Turk. DJ EFN, co-host of Drink Champs, is a renowned DJ, producer, and podcaster who, together with N.O.R.E, created the acclaimed hip-hop talk show.

In other interviews, Juvenile and Cash Money producer Mannie Fresh have shared stories about the label’s origins, competition with No Limit, and classics like “Ha” and “Back That Azz Up.”

Episode 479 is not only a nostalgic trip but also an inspiring resource for anyone interested in Southern hip-hop history. Juvenile’s honest reflections and business lessons demonstrate that he is not just a legendary rapper but also a source of inspiration and a shaper of musical legacy. For fans of Cash Money or anyone curious about the journey of a rap artist, this episode is a must-listen.