Twenty-five years ago, The Roots released their Grammy-winning hit “You Got Me,” but the story behind its creation is filled with twists and turns. For the first time, Eve and Questlove are opening up about the making of the song and the misconceptions that surrounded it in a revealing discussion led by former Philly radio star Laiya St. Clair. The conversation comes as Eve celebrates the release of her memoir, “Who’s That Girl”.
In this candid exchange, the hosts delve into the chaotic environment that shaped the creation of “You Got Me.” They emphasize the lack of communication during the process, which ultimately led to Eve’s unexpected feature on the track. At the time, she wasn’t signed yet, and she shares her feelings of being left out, only discovering her role on the song right before the mixing.
The conversation reveals how the recording journey was complicated by their temporary expulsion from Sigma Sound Studios, a situation that forced the team to adapt and improvise as they worked on the track. Despite these challenges, Eve and Questlove reflect fondly on their past performances together, with Eve emphasizing her strong ties to Philadelphia even as her career took off in New York.
The discussion also takes a lighthearted turn as they recount an unexpected intervention from Eve’s Ruff Ryders crewmate, DMX. The late rapper’s stern words to The Roots about including Eve highlight the camaraderie and complexities that have defined their musical journey together.
As Eve reflects on the legacy of “You Got Me,” it’s clear that the track is not just a Grammy-winning hit, but a testament to the connections and experiences that have shaped the artists involved. The conversation serves as a reminder of the stories that often go untold behind the music we love.
