Big Sean’s “I Don’t F**k With You” nearly didn’t make the cut for Dark Sky Paradise, an ironic twist considering its massive impact on his career. In a March 5 episode of the St. Brown Podcast, the Detroit rapper revealed that the song only saw the light of day because of JAY-Z.
Sean admitted the track started as a spontaneous freestyle, inspired by Too Short, with no intention of turning it into a hit. “I heard the beat, and I just freestyled that s**t,” he recalled.
He later played the song for JAY-Z and Beyoncé, who had different reactions. Beyoncé suggested adding Nicki Minaj to balance the song’s blunt energy. JAY-Z, however, saw its potential immediately. “Nah, it’s hard, though,” he told Sean. “People gonna get it that you just having fun.”
JAY-Z even sent Sean a text urging him to release it. “Every day you not putting that song out, you losing,” he wrote.
Sean hesitated, initially dismissing it as too simple. Yet, trusting JAY-Z’s instincts proved wise. The Mustard-produced track soared to No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100, while the video, featuring Big Boy and Kanye West, has racked up over 390 million YouTube views.
The song became a defining moment for Dark Sky Paradise, an album Sean celebrated its 10th anniversary in February. Reflecting on its influence, he shared his gratitude on social media.
“I can’t even lie: This album had such an impact on me and my family. I wanna celebrate all year. I owe you all so much! I’m turnt right now!”
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