In a candid revelation, West Coast rap icon Xzibit disclosed that a staggering $11 million buyout demand from his former label, Loud Records, thwarted a potential signing with Dr. Dre‘s Aftermath Entertainment. Speaking with Red Bull, Xzibit recounted how Loud Records’ CEO, Steve Rifkind, placed an exorbitant price tag on his release, effectively derailing the deal.
“He asked for an $11 million buyout,” Xzibit stated. “He just didn’t want to let me go.”
Despite the failed signing, Dr. Dre remained a pivotal figure in Xzibit’s career, serving as executive producer on two of his albums. Xzibit emphasized Dre’s unwavering support:
“He told me that no matter what he was doing or where I landed, he was gonna make sure he was there for me,” Xzibit recalled.
Departure from ‘Pimp My Ride’
Xzibit also shed light on his departure from the MTV hit show “Pimp My Ride,” which he hosted from 2004 to 2007. While the show catapulted him to mainstream fame, contract disputes led to his exit after six seasons.
“It ended because my contract was up, and I didn’t want to renew it,” he explained. “I was on my way out the door at 20th Century Fox after filming the last episode, and it was like, ‘Yo, all good things must come to an end.’ I’m good. I’m very good. I’m shaking hands and I’m like, ‘Okay guys, contract’s up, I don’t want to renew. I’m out.’”
Return with ‘Kingmaker’
After a 13-year hiatus, Xzibit has returned to the music scene with his new album, “Kingmaker,” released on May 16, 2025. The album features collaborations with hip-hop heavyweights such as Ice Cube, Redman, B-Real, Busta Rhymes, and Dr. Dre.
“The West Coast icon returns with his first album since 2012’s Napalm. And he’s got Ice Cube, Redman, B-Real, Busta Rhymes and the D-R-E ridin’ shotgun.”
“Kingmaker” is now available on major streaming platforms, marking a significant milestone in Xzibit’s enduring career.
