Noisey Atlanta

Episode Synopsis

Thomas continues his conversation with Coach K about the origin of trap music, beginning with Young Jeezy's 2004 mixtape, Tha Streets Iz Watchin (according to Coach). Both Coach and super producer Zaytoven—who rose to prominence alongside Gucci Mane—explain the explosion of the genre and eventual beef between Young Jeezy and Gucci Mane. We quickly learn that Gucci Mane has not only become one of the most significant rappers in the Atlanta scene, but has so much leverage that his opinion can essentially decide the career trajectory of any new rapper trying to make it. What's perhaps most impressive is that Gucci's influence is still just as prominent as ever—even though he's currently locked up until 2016.