Push past the "swagga," the mind-swirling name changes and the amped-up persona as the musical King of Bling, and you'll find that Sean Combs is brilliant. In a quietly riveting new interview pegged to the 12th anniversary of the death of Biggie Smalls, aka Christopher Wallace, blogger Barry Michael Cooper conducts a wide-ranging interview that gives those of us watching an up-close look at what excellence and creative vision look like. We learn how Combs's mind works, and his process is illuminating.

This segment on the making of 'Ready to Die' is getting the most hype because Combs confirms that on one of the interludes, Biggie is actually having sex. But I suggest you listen to how Combs guides Biggie's music choices and why.


Again, in this segment, listen to how Combs spends his spare time making beats, perfecting his ear and his producing skills. He closely studied how movies were put together and scored. He says he didn't want to wait for things to happen.

My constant frustration with so many high-profile black entertainers and athletes is that they don't emphasize the hard work, focus and discipline it takes to achieve success. Cooper's interview is a great step in the right direction. I left the following comment for him: "This is a remarkable post and interview. This is what success looks like when the lights go down. I hope this interview inspires countless young people to hunker down and become excellent at something they love to do. Peace." Do yourself a favor and watch this interview. I found it inspiring. I hope you do, too.

Check It Out - Once Upon A Time in America: Sean Combs