Collect Call With Suge Knight, Episode 16: If "If" Was A Fifth

This episode begins with an introspective message from Suge regarding the pros and cons of growing up in the inner city as a young black man. Leading with the question “what if?” Suge addresses the difference in outcome depending on what environment an individual is raised in. And ultimately how one’s environment dictates life experiences.

4:22 Continuing with examples of how jealousy or lack of information often leads to division within our culture, Suge points out that “if” Eazy E would have listened to his advice, the landscape of hip hop would look a lot different.

04:51 Referring to the crack epidemic of the ‘80s leading into the ‘90s, Suge points out the devastation witnessed within the Black community as families were ultimately divided and destroyed once leadership was erased.

06:15 Pointing out how and why money & influence plays a pivotal role in success for one’s self and those around us; Suge points out how his resources allowed many people around him to avoid the pitfalls of the streets and prison by having access to lawyers and strong legal representation. Which has often times been a key reason for individuals going to or remaining in the prison system.

07:01 The episode takes a journey into the notion of time, how valuable it is, and ultimately how it is the one thing no one is in control of. Pointing out that the one thing an individual can never get back is and always will be “time.” Suge is clear on its value and importance.

11:58 Class is fully in session as Suge points out the importance of knowing, embracing, and respecting the history of individuals who laid the foundation for sports and entertainment in the Black community. Making reference to icons like Jackie Robinson, Gale Sayers, OJ Simpson and Jim Brown, the doors were open for athletes like Michael Jordan and Lebron James to have an enormous impact with their brands and endorsements.

13:25 Continuing with facts and key points of how perception determines outcomes, Suge points out similarities between his situation and the situation OJ Simpson experienced. Making it clear that people often judge others before judging themselves and how the effects can be detrimental to one’s freedom and overall life.

21:15 Suge explains his love and respect for Snoop and how he always wanted to see Snoop be successful during his time at Death Row. Asking the question, “How could he do something like that to Pac. And how could he do something like that to me”? referring to a situation involving Michael Harris allegedly speaking with the FBI.

25:55 Suge makes reference to Snoop’s role in acquiring Death Row amd working with Michael Harris in an attempt to erase Suge’s connection and ties with the label he ultimately built from the ground up. Asking the question, “Am I supposed to sit back and accept it? Or do I set the record straight and try to help all?”

27:45 Suge tells the story of how OJ Simpson was given 9 years in prison for attempting to retrieve his property and how it’s so similar to the situation with Suge having physical and intellectual property stolen from him.

30:18 Suge explains the artists and individuals on the label who were given Death Row chains and makes it clear who was representing the label. He also makes it clear that anything outside of being done directly by him is false.

The episode closes with a strong message of leaving the past in the past. However, it should be noted that those involved with Death Row during the height of its success should also be thankful for and give credit to Suge and his efforts.