To some onlookers, signing with Cash Money Records was a red flag amidst the controversy between Birdman and Lil Wayne for R&B singer Jacquees. Fast-forward over a year, and the budding star is still logging long hours in the studio, shooting visuals and plotting the release of his debut label album.

Though he might be new to the label roster, the 21-year-old singer from Decatur, GA has been putting in his music dues since the age of 9. From selling out local shows and making a presence all before the release of his official project, the charismatic singer told REVOLT signing with Cash Money Records was the ultimate next step in his career.

“I felt like I was at the end of the road as an independent artist and I needed to do something more for my fans,” he said prior to connecting with Birdman.

“Birdman was like ‘don’t even trip youngin I’m gonna hold you down’,” adding, “two days later I met him, couple weeks later I had a deal, and now I’m Cash Money forever.”

And despite signing to a hip-hop label, he said,“I try to keep my sound classic and stick with the classic R&B, that’s just the music I love to make.”

Watch the full clip below.