In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl head to New Orleans to break down Juvenile’s game-changing 1998 album 400 Degreez. From the bounce-driven streets of the Magnolia Projects to Cash Money’s breakthrough into the national spotlight, this record reshaped the sound of hip-hop at the turn of the millennium. The duo unpacks Juvenile’s rise, the production genius of Mannie Fresh, and the cultural weight of singles like “Ha” and “Back That Azz Up.”

Key Points

• Juvenile’s early career and how he connected with Cash Money Records.


• The unique cadence and impact of “Ha” — and how Jay-Z jumped on the remix.


• Mannie Fresh’s minimalist, bounce-inspired production style.


• The mainstream success of “Back That Azz Up” and its role in bringing Southern rap nationwide.


• How 400 Degreez cemented Cash Money’s reputation and paved the way for artists like Lil Wayne.


• The album’s lasting influence on Southern hip-hop and its legacy in music history.

Music Referenced

• Solja Rags by Juvenile


• Being Myself by Juvenile


• Solja Rags by Juvenile


• Mannie Fresh


• Ha (Remix) by Jay-Z


• B.G.


• Lil Wayne


• Turk


• Get It How U Live! by Hot Boys


• Big Tymers


• DJ Jubilee


• Luxury: Cococure by Maxwell


• Oye Como Va by Tito Puente


• André 3000

Join us next week when we go international and discuss Manu Chao's Clandestino.