Cordae Opens Up About the Internal Struggles That Led to YBN’s Breakup and His Solo Journey
Cordae recently opened up about the abrupt collapse of his former rap collective, YBN, offering an honest and reflective perspective on the internal dynamics that led to their split. In a livestream conversation with DMV content creator Peaks100, Cordae discussed the rise and fall of YBN, shedding light on the challenges and tensions that ultimately caused the group to dissolve.
The Dynamics Behind YBN’s Breakup:
YBN, originally consisting of Cordae, YBN Nahmir, and YBN Almighty Jay, was once a promising collective with immense potential. However, when asked about his departure from the group, Cordae did not hold back, explaining that internal struggles were a key factor. “There were so many reasons, bro,” he admitted. “Groups don’t last—name one that has. Not even the Jackson 5, and they were family.” When Peaks100 suggested that some groups, like Wu-Tang Clan, have endured, Cordae pointed out that even iconic collectives often splinter into solo projects, saying, “Wu-Tang did their own solo stuff too. Ain’t nobody really together.”
Early Tensions Within YBN:
Cordae went on to explain that the group’s cohesion was fragile from the start. “We never recorded a song with all three of us,” he confessed, hinting that the group’s lack of unity was apparent early on. He also shared that the business side of things was “super messed up,” which only contributed to the group’s eventual downfall. “We had a huge argument in Europe, and people said things you just can’t take back,” he revealed. Despite the tensions, Cordae emphasized that there’s still love between the members of YBN, although some unresolved issues remain. “Namir’s still my homie. Jay, I still mess with him. But some things stick, you know?”
Gratitude for YBN’s Impact on Cordae’s Career:
Despite the dissolution of YBN, Cordae expressed deep gratitude for the platform the group provided. He credited YBN Nahmir with helping launch his solo career, saying, “Namir threw us that alley-oop. I’ll always be thankful for that.”
Navigating the Financial Side of Music:
Cordae also took the opportunity to share some insight into the financial challenges of pursuing a music career. He explained that early on, it’s all about investing time and money without immediate returns. “When you’re starting out, it’s all about putting in,” he said. “You might not see a return on the money you invest—studio time, all of that. But it’s worth it, and you can write it off on taxes.” This realistic approach to the industry highlights the dedication and persistence required to succeed in the music business.
The Origins of YBN and Cordae’s Decision to Move On:
YBN, which stood for “Young Boss N****s,” initially formed through an online bond over gaming and music. The trio first connected during sessions of Grand Theft Auto. However, in 2020, Cordae made the decision to drop the YBN tag from his name, citing ownership concerns. “I can’t preach about ownership while pushing a brand we don’t even own,” he said, reflecting on his decision to part ways with the collective. Before making the change, Cordae sought Nahmir’s blessing, explaining that his approval was important to him. “That was what mattered most to me,” he added. “There’s no love lost.”
Growth and Moving in Different Directions:
Cordae concluded his reflection on YBN by acknowledging that sometimes, as friends and collaborators, people grow apart and develop different visions for their lives and careers. “Sometimes, as friends, you grow apart and have different visions. And that’s OK,” he said. “Nahmir and Jay will always be my brothers.”
