Lil Jon Talks Celebrity Apprentice, Donald Trump Presidency

 •  News  •  by XXL Staff  •  15 Comments

Lil Jon says while his setting as a music producer has helped him learn how to deal with egos and different personalities in the past, he’d never dealt with someone as troubled as former cast member Gary Busey, which was a learning experience as well.

“I never dealt with anyone like that but I had to learn how to,” Jon says. “People asked how I kept my cool. I just dealt with him straight up and I took my time to talk to him. It taught me how to deal with someone that’s crazier than the average.”

Another thing Jon says he discovered on the show is a newfound respect for Mr. Trump, his empire, his family and workers. “Going in I think I had a certain expectation of him – I don’t even think he knew who I was,” he says. “But, he gained respect for me and vice versa. He told me that I did well on the show and that they respected how well I did.”

What’s more, is this recent respect has given him another perspective on the idea of Trump running for political office. When asked about his thoughts on the real estate mogul targeting the presidency, Jon said, “While I don’t know his personal life, I got a good vibe and energy. The only thing I would suggest is that he should start as governor first. I mean, Obama is going through hell and he has experience in politics. Imagine if you don’t have any background in it? That’s gonna be nuts.”

What’s next for Lil Jon? He is currently DJing at a residency in Las Vegas nightclub Surrender every month. He’s also on the road three to four times a week Djing at local clubs. “My djing is exploding again,” he says.

Jon also adds while he isn’t a fan of reality television, for the right role and following the success of Celebrity Apprentice, he might consider doing TV again.

“I hate reality shows. I despise them,” he says. “My wife watches them – ‘The Real Housewives,’ ‘Khloe and Lamar’ – all of them. But I didn’t feel ‘Celebrity Apprentice’ was a reality show. That shit was real. It was real reactions and we had something to really do. Those other shows are people’s lives. On ‘Celebrity Apprentice,’ we had a job to do and if not, someone’s ass was going home. I would absolutely do it again.”

Yeeeaaah!

Tags:

  • Terri Rozaieski

    I absolutely fell in love with Lil Jon on Celebrity Apprentice. I didn’t know a thing about him prior, and his music isn’t a genre to which I generally listen, so I’m sure I was one of those people predisposed to think he would fail because, at first, I didn’t look past his “dreaded, sunglass-wearing” appearance. Boy, would it have been a huge mistake had I never moved past that!

    This guy is smart, creative, enthusiastic, hard working, modest, honest and genuine. He may be one of the last remaining true tell-it-like-it-is people. And that’s saying something when, in the celebrity culture, most people tend to sound like a marketing brochure, far too often saying what they think people want–rather than what they need–to hear.

    I so appreciate that he doesn’t waste words; doesn’t just talk to hear himself talk. When he does speak, it’s because he actually has something to say and something worth listening to. Further, his performance on Celebrity Apprentice showed a man who could lead or follow; he was an exceptional team member from either perspective.

    I was so impressed that he didn’t let his ego get in the way at any time. That’s so refreshing to see in a celebrity. Even those of questionable celebrity status (Real Housewives??? Puh-leeze.) often seemed to struggle under the weight of a task, largely due to the fact that they were already carrying a great deal in the form of a giant chip on their shoulders.

    Lastly, what sealed the deal for me is Lil Jon’s insight on his fellow contestants. I have no problem believing that he handled these individuals in the same manner with which he handles those with whom he has personal or professional dealings on a daily basis. That would be with a great deal of respect, patience, and a genuine appreciation for what they bring to the table. I have two little girls–ages seven and nine–and I found myself more and more pointing out Lil Jon as a positive role model–one who treats others as he himself wants to be treated.

    I wish Lil Jon all the success he so richly deserves on all of his future endeavors. I’m so glad for this opportunity to get to “know” him, and I look forward to seeing and hearing what his future holds.

    • Lesley

      I agree totally, I had never heard of him but found him to be relaxed, smart, funny, intelligent and very secure. I don’t know his music, but when ever he got in front of an audience, he really knew how to work them and with great humor, a very engaging guy.

    • fresnogma

      Well said…

  • Marie

    The world learned how uneducated he is, most of the time he just sat there not talking. It was sad to watch.

  • Jonna

    I only knew of Lil Jon from the Cappelle show. I love his laugh and was totally impressed with his kindness, patience and good sense. He was by far the most fun to pull for. I am a fan!!!

  • http://cnn redcatlove

    i’m a fan now that the show has show what kinda guy he really is he’s better than his image being a rapper and that he’s a smart man

  • Dee

    Lil Jon is one brilliant guy who thinks on his feet. I am totally impressed with him week after week. You made people see rappers in a whole new light. Keep on doing it!!

  • Spin

    I’m from the old school, so Lil Jon was part of the new school “garbage” that I hear every 30 seconds. But after watching him on Apprentice, I’ve put that aside and can see the business side and more personal side of Lil Jon. Yes it is a show and most of these shows are out together quickly, but this is outside of the usual element of being on stage in a club with loud music…but being in a bored room making decisions. Although I know he does this anyways with record deals and other music related business, but to see it in actions with challenges that are not music or hip hop related, and to see him defeat the other team with a well executed plan…that’s something anyone anywhere could learn from.

  • AT RIMER

    I think a lot of people think Lil Jon is stupid just based on his music. And I was one of the people. I saw him at a hip hop summit in detroit and that changed my mind though. He is a really smart guy when you actually hear him speak about business. Master P was also someone there I gained a lot of respect for. They might dumb down their music, but they are just playing people with that. They are great businessmen!

  • http://walterbauerphotography.com Walter

    i have watched the Celebrity Apprentice for some time now and
    I must say lil Jon you have a done a great job congrats !

  • tm

    Black people should not support Lil Jon. He is not a role model, he is just as ignorant as the Joker. He did not come out and support the Black community when the Joker made his asinine comments about the President. Shame on you and Star and NeNe. These people are not a reflection of the Black community.

  • Max

    Lil Jon is not uneducated he went to college and got a PHD. His Bussiness smarts are genious and his music is brilliant.

  • Ginger bread

    lil john is a embarassment to hip hop…

  • http://www.pottstreet.com Gusto

    Lil’ Jon was the man before Celebrity Apprentice and he’s the man right now. He rocked that show and was really fun to watch. I think the level of character, humbleness and smarts he displayed on the show should be applauded. Lil’ Jon is not your average celebrity with a big ol’ head and ego to match.

    When’s that Crunk Rock album dropping Jon??

    Peace.

    G

  • sen29

    i like lil john hes done some nice tracks in the past / but DONALD CHUMP IS A IGNORANT RACIST !