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Wiz Khalifa Reflects on Legacy, Growth and the Sequel to a Cult Classic

  • Mars
  • 4 days ago
  • 4 min read

Wiz Khalifa touched down at The Breakfast Club on the morning of his long-awaited Kush & Orange Juice 2 release, marking both a return to form and a continuation of one of hip hop’s most beloved mixtape eras. The nearly hour-long conversation, co-hosted by Charlamagne Tha God and Lauren LaRosa, unfolded as a mix of reflection, strategy, and Wiz’s signature laid-back clarity.


The appearance was timed to the 15th anniversary of Kush & Orange Juice, which dropped on April 14, 2010. “It wasn’t planned,” Wiz said. “It just worked out like that… divine alignment.” And with that, Kush & Orange Juice 2 lands as more than just nostalgia—it’s a mission statement.


A Routine Rooted in Wellness and Weed


At 37, the Pittsburgh-raised rapper operates on a tight schedule. Up by 6 a.m., he handles parenting duties, feeds the dogs, then heads to the gym. His lifestyle now includes daily martial arts, weight training, and three sessions of hot yoga a week. He’s still stoned through it all—"I smoke on the way to the gym and then on my way to the next event"—but it’s functional and intentional.


Wiz dismissed psychedelics like mushrooms, noting they served their time but weren’t part of his current process. Marijuana, though, remains central. “I just love being stoned,” he said. “I like the way it makes me feel, the decisions I make, the way movies look, the way I play with my kids.”


Revisiting an Era Without Repeating It


The new project, released through BMG, is streaming across major platforms, a major shift from the original’s mixtape-era rollout that helped change the way fans accessed music. Wiz credited the label for allowing him to control the vibe and direction, including the decision to use the “waterfall method,” releasing a handful of songs before the full project dropped.


With production handled by Cardo, Sledgren, E Dan and others from the original crew, Wiz made it clear this sequel wasn’t about imitation but evolution. “I didn’t recreate it—I just did what that sounds like now,” he said. “Same feeling, just updated formulas.” The sound leans into the G-funk, car-cruising, party-driven vibe fans have long associated with the first installment.


“Even this album now, it’s amazing music-wise,” he added. “But you can’t just sit there and listen to it. You gotta experience that sh*t.”


Dad Energy and Changing Seasons


Fatherhood was a recurring topic throughout the interview. Wiz’s son Sebastian is now a tween, and his daughter is approaching one. Wiz spoke candidly about how the energy shifts, especially being a father to a girl at a different stage in life.


“I was 25 when I had Bash. I’m 37 now,” he said. “It’s a whole different mindscape.” He stays grounded by keeping his circle tight—Chevy Woods, Ty Dolla $ign, and others still appear both on the album and in his day-to-day life. “I don’t hang with a lot of new people… I be with my kids, I be in the gym, I create content.”


Wiz also addressed the public side of parenting, especially as kids grow up online. He and Amber Rose, his ex and Sebastian’s mother, have had to navigate viral moments—including one involving her OnlyFans account—with honesty. “We just keep it 100 with him,” Wiz said. “I’d rather be the one to explain than have the streets do it.”


As for his approach to criticism, especially around his personal life, Wiz made it clear he’s not rattled. “I don’t live my life based off clickbait,” he said. “I’m in control of all that.”


Legacy, Influence and What’s Next


One emotional moment came when the hosts brought up Mac Miller and his inclusion on a “Mount Rushmore of white rappers” list. Wiz, who mentored Mac early on, responded with humility.


“He’s an amazing artist,” Wiz said. “I watched him come from a kid in the studio to changing how people digest music… he created his own identity.” Reflecting on the loss, Wiz added, “That one just never sits well. Every time it’s my birthday, I’m reminded.”


Wiz also noted how Kush & Orange Juice wasn’t just a soundtrack for stoners—it was an anthem for creators. “A lot of people bossed up,” he said. “Started blogs, clothing lines, started throwing parties. That’s what this new one is going to do too.”


His entrepreneurial footprint proves the point. From strains and wellness products to McQueen gin and Liquid Death water, Wiz has diversified smartly—often before the wave hits. “Some of these companies aren’t even public yet,” he said. “You buy in, get a percentage, and grow with it.”


Aging with Intention


The conversation circled back to age and perception, especially in a game where being called “Unc” can feel like a backhanded compliment. But Wiz embraces it. “I love being this age,” he said. “I love telling people my age and catching them off guard.”


Asked if he worries about getting older, Wiz answered with clarity. “I think certain people get better when they get older,” he said. “I care more now about being a dope human being than the flyest dude in the room.”


It’s a fitting close from an artist who never let the spotlight dictate his course. From Pittsburgh basements to global stages, Wiz Khalifa stays true to self—up early, stoned, and dialed in.

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